Technology

Neurophysiology

In our resilience prediction technology we make use of two neurophysiological facts related to the arousal system, that we have conducted extensive research on.

  1. The level of arousal, i.e.: the firing of the Locus coeruleus noradrenaline system, is correlated with the pupil dilation. This provides a direct non-invasive window into the activity of the arousal system.
  2. The responsivity of the arousal system is associated with stress related disorders such as anxiety and depression.

We combined these insights to create a bio-marker for stress-resilience.

Computerized Testing

Our assessments are based on short non-invasive tests that cannot be cheated or prepared for, and are not biased by elements like gender or ethnicity. They help insure equal opportunity and a healthier and more diverse workforce and society.  

Behavioral and computational analysis

We design unique customized behavioral quantitative assessment tools to measure stress resilience and decision making patterns in stressful situations. To that end we use Bayesian hierarchical models, signal detection, efficient coding and econometrics to combine behavior and neurophysiology. All our methods are robustly validated using an out-of-sample forecasting approach.

EyeQ Assessment Product Factsheet

Frequently Asked Questions

We use a scientifically validated predictive biomarker of the brains stress response that is much more accurate than self-report surveys, providing you with critical information before it is too late. We also use state of the art technology to identify which specific elements in the environment will lead each individual to experience stress and cause stress related errors in decision-making. Based on these precise assessments we offer catered personalized training programs for each individual to reduce stress and stress related errors as well as monitor current stress levels and danger signals if needed.

The stress response is driven to a large extent by a neurotransmitter called Noradrenalin, which is produced in a structure in the brainstem called the Locus Coeruleus (LC). Pupil dilation reflects the firing rate of neurons in the LC and thereby provides a convenient window into this brain system. By testing the reactivity of this neural system to controlled experimental stimuli we can tell, how it is functioning on an individual basis. Like any other biological system (imagine your doctor checking your reflex by hitting your knee with a hammer), knowing its basic properties and functions is very informative regarding how it will function later under pressure.

We developed a suite of validated computerized tests in which individuals make decisions under a variety of changing environmental circumstances that are known to cause stress related errors in decision making. For instance, this can include situations when you need to take calculated risks, make choices with large negative consequences or make choices fast or without sufficient information. Our tests and algorithms identify which environmental factors will cause you to make stress related errors in a precise and quantifiable way.

The training is based on cognitive-behavioral therapy together with other approaches. Critically, it is personalized for each individual based specifically on the elements in the environment that cause them to make stress related errors and their individual stress resilience capacity.  

We started with validating our technology at the highest academic standards in scientific journals which require substantial robustness checks. At the next stage, we validated our approach further in the industry working with organizations such as the Swiss airforce, medical personnel and other high stress occupations. To name just one example, our technology can predict 300-400% better than the current gold standard if doctors who enter stressful ER environments will develop stress related symptoms months in advance of the stressful events.

The prolonged stress present in the modern workplace can cause individuals extreme hardship and long-lasting damage. Stress can also lead to loss-of-work, burnout and poor decision-making and cost a company substantially. Our mission is to minimize these harmful effects at the individual and company level and help the organization create a healthier and more productive workforce.

Using our stress-resilience technology, you will get a number indicating your stress resilience level based on your neurophysiology vs. a relevant reference population. You will also get precise numerical values indicating which elements in the environment are most likely to cause you stress and stress related decision-making errors as well as the best training procedures to alleviate these issues. We can also continuously monitor the stress levels and training progress.

The tests are all computerized, gamified (e.g. a roulette or plane landing choice game) and most can be done on your laptop or phone. The duration very much depends on what services you require. For example, the stress resilience biomarker test takes 15 minutes, as does the identification of stress related errors in decision making.

We take privacy and data security very seriously. First, we do not collect any identifiable data that can be linked back to the individual. Measuring pupil dilation is just like measuring your pulse or temperature. Our technology can only obtain information about the contraction of the muscles in the eye and it is not possible to collect any personal information (such as iris images). Nonetheless, we completely anonymize the data which means we don’t receive any personal information unless the individual requests this. Each individual is the owner of their data and explicit personal consent is required. Our mission is to improve individual mental health and combat the devastating effects of work-related stress, which is substantially on the rise in the modern work environment. We provide each individual with a better understanding of their personal stress related response and how to improve it. We will only work with individuals who are explicitly interested in this information for their personal benefit.

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