Executive Functions Assessment Based on Wireless EEG and 3D Gait
Analysis During Dual-Task
Abstract
In this study, an EEG-based investigation of different levels of
executive function activation (e.g., inhibition and working memory)
during walking is performed in order to understand the executive
funcions specifically involved during walking. Subjects were asked to
perform the cognitive tasks by holding a wireless controller with their
right hand. The wireless controller was chosen over the voice response
to minimise muscle artefacts. The experimental protocol was composed by
two part. In the first part, the subjects were required to execute the
cognitive tasks by sitting on a chair; in the second part, the tasks
were executed during walking. EEG data were collected with the wireless
device ab medica Helmate composed by 10 dry electrodes positioned
according to the international notation 10-20: AFz (ref), Fpz (ground),
Fp1, Fp2, Fz, Cz, O1, O2, C5, and Cz. Quantitative gait assessment was
performed with a 3D optoelectronic system consisting of eight Smart-D
cameras at frequency of 100 Hz (BTS Bioengineering, Milan, Italy), for
the calculation of spatial-temporal and kinematic parameters. 3D-
stereophotogrammetric analysis was conducted using Helen Hayes M.M.
markers set protocol, including 22 markers placed on the following body
landmarks: spinous processes of C7 and S2, acromioclavicular joint,
anterior superior iliac spine, greater trochanter, medial and lateral
epicondylus femoris, fibular head, medial and lateral malleoli, I
metatarsal heads and heel bilaterally.