Luk Chup Augmented Reality Task as a Neurocognitive Biomarker of Executive Function in Schizophrenia

Background Executive function deficits are core cognitive impairments in schizophrenia and are strongly linked to poor functional outcomes. Culturally adapted, task-based assessments may enhance the ecological validity of executive function measurement. This study introduces the Luk Chup Augmented Reality (LCAR) tool, delivered via optical see-through display, which integrates video-guided, real-world task execution. Methods Thirty participants with schizophrenia (mean age = 38.9 ± 7.15 years) completed a fruit-shaped clay modeling task while wearing an optical display device. Simultaneous quantitative EEG (QEEG) recordings focused on theta relative power across frontal and temporal brain regions. Task durations and QEEG indices were compared between two executive stages: procedural clay crafting and color-shape memorization. Results Completion times varied by task stage, ranging from 45.26 ± 26.30 s to 142.09 ± 115.25 s, with longer durations during color-shape memorization. QEEG analysis revealed increased theta power at Fz, Cz, and F4 during memory tasks, accompanied by elevated beta activity at frontal sites. These findings reflect distinct neurocognitive load profiles across stages of executive processing. Conclusion LCAR demonstrates potential as a dual-mode neurobehavioral biomarker for executive dysfunction in schizophrenia. The integration of performance metrics with real-time neurophysiology offers a promising framework for personalized, culturally grounded cognitive assessments.