Characteristics of Event-related Potentials during a Target Selection Task with Fingerspelling Images

Abstract

We have been developing a cognitive assessment system based on an electroencephalography (EEG)-based brain-machine interface (BMI) that uses event-related potentials (ERPs) as a virtual “Mind Switch.” ERPs reflect temporal changes in attention and are also known as potential biomarkers for assessing cognitive function. We recorded EEG data from 10 healthy subjects who performed target-selection tasks based upon the visual discrimination of fingerspelling images with or without motor responses (key release). We found differential responses between target and non-target images, which were quantitatively evaluated by the decoding accuracy of the target. We also found that ERPs were enhanced when accompanied by key releases, which might indicate that a more attentive state was involved. These results suggest that fingerspelling images are a feasible tool for cognitive assessment. Future studies should be conducted to demonstrate the applicability of our system in preventing frailty in older people.