Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026
07:42
Dual-Task Stroop Paradigm for Detecting Cognitive Deficits in High-Functioning Stroke Patients
Published on: December 16, 2022
Executive Function Assessment Through Wireless EEG and Gait Monitoring During Cognitive-Motor Dual Tasks
Ludovica Gargiulo1, Allegra Fullin2, Pasquale Arpaia3
1Institute of Industrial Technologies and Automation, National Research Council of Italy (STIIMA-CNR), Lecco, Italy.
Annals of Biomedical Engineering
|August 7, 2026
Summary
Dual-tasking impairs gait, with inhibition significantly affecting spatial-temporal parameters and working memory impacting gait under higher demands. EEG biomarkers, particularly relative alpha power at F3, show promise for monitoring cognitive-gait interactions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomechanics
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Dual-tasking, performing cognitive and motor tasks simultaneously, can lead to gait disturbances.
- Understanding the specific cognitive processes, such as working memory and inhibition, involved in gait during dual-tasking is crucial for addressing mobility impairments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distinct roles of working memory and inhibition in gait during dual-tasking using 3D motion analysis and wireless electroencephalography (EEG).
- To address limitations in previous research concerning EEG artifact removal and generalizability of findings.
Main Methods:
- 30 healthy participants completed inhibition (Go-NoGo) and working memory (N-Back) tasks during gait.
- Simultaneous data acquisition using a 19-channel wireless EEG device and a 3D optoelectronic system.
- Analysis of 51 EEG features, spatiotemporal gait parameters, and kinematic data, employing Riemannian geometry for artifact removal and generalizability enhancement.
Main Results:
- Gait analysis revealed predominant involvement of inhibition in most spatial-temporal and kinematic parameters.
- Working memory engagement was primarily observed under higher cognitive load conditions.
- Relative alpha desynchronization at F4 and F3 served as candidate EEG biomarkers for working memory and inhibitory processes, respectively.
- Relative alpha power at F3 during the Go-NoGo task correlated significantly with stride length, indicating its potential as a marker for inhibitory control and gait adaptation.
Conclusions:
- EEG can be utilized for monitoring cognitive processes during walking.
- Findings support the development of targeted cognitive rehabilitation strategies for individuals with motor impairments.
