Characterizing age-related cognitive-motor interactions in individuals with and without autism spectrum disorder using mobile brain-body imaging (MoBI)

Cognitive-motor (C-M) interference is a phenomenon during which demands from concurrent cognitive and motor tasks create competition for available neural resources. Research introduces this competition using dual-task designs to compare performance on single-task situations to dual-tasks, which require both motor and cognitive engagement. However, while some individuals experience C-M interference, others have a more integrative effect, presenting as better adaptation to multi-modal demands. Little is known about how this C-M relationship develops, nor what factors play a role in the integration observed in some. Further, individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are understudied in paradigms like this. To examine this, we use Mobile Brain-Body Imaging, “MoBI”, which permits synchronous recording of neurophysiologic (electroencephalography/EEG), kinematic (motion-tracking), and behavioral (task performance) data. This is the first study to use this method in minors. or those with ASD. Participants completed a Go/NoGo task while sitting and walking on a treadmill. Preliminary data shows differences in N200 and P300 ERPs based on motion state within both groups. Behaviorally, walking strengthens a positive correlation between speed and accuracy in neurotypical adults, but strengthens a negative correlation in the ASD group. In both groups, gait kinematics are less variable when dual-tasking. Data collection is ongoing. Recruitment of more individuals with ASD is needed to appropriately power comparisons. This work hopes to reveal how components of C-M interactions develop and elucidate markers of those who are able to access mechanisms that lead to improvement when dual-tasking.