Characteristics of cortical activation in older adults under cognition-balance dual tasks / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo explore the characteristics of balance and cortical activation in older adults when performing cognition-balance dual tasks. MethodsFrom January to April, 2023, 20 healthy older adults were non-targeted recruited. They completed six tasks of close eyes & fixed platform (CF), close eyes & fixed platform & cognitive task (CFc), open eyes & sway-referenced platform (OS), open eyes & sway-referenced platform & cognitive task (OSc), close eyes & sway-referenced platform (CS), and close eyes & sway-referenced platform & cognitive task (CSc) on the Balance SD, wearing functional near-infrared spectroscopy caps. The overal stability index (OSI) was measured with Balance SD. The premotor cortex (PMC), sensorimotor cortex (SMC) and prefrontal cortex (PFC) were as regions of interest (ROIs), and the β values were calculated. ResultsThe OSI was more as CFc than as CF (Z = -2.014, P < 0.05), and was less as CSc than as CS (Z = -2.063, P < 0.05). The β values of bilateral ROIs were all more as CFc than as CF (|Z| > 2.464, |t| > 3.733, P < 0.05), and as OSc than as OS (|t| > 2.308, P < 0.05); the β value of the right SMC was more as CSc than as CS (t = -2.912, P < 0.05). The number of correct counts was less as CSc than as CFc and OSc (|Z| > 3.643, P < 0.001). ConclusionBalance has been impaired under dual tasks for older adults, while activation of cerebral cortex increases. However, for more difficult balance task, older adults would preferentially maintain postural balance under dual tasks, while cognitive performance decreases, which may be the results from no more activation of cerebral cortex under dual tasks.

Effect of dual task walking on spatiotemporal gait in patients with cerebral small vessel disease / 中华神经科杂志

Objective:To compare the gait characteristics of cognitive and motor dual task walking (DTW) in patients with cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD), and determine the best gait parameters to diagnose CSVD and judge the severity of the disease.Methods:A total of 106 patients with CSVD and 21 healthy individuals were included from September 1, 2020 to July 1, 2021 in the Seventh Medical Center of Chinese People′s Liberation Army General Hospital. According to the Fazekas scores, the subjects were divided into mild ( n=34, 1 point), moderate ( n=34, 2 points), severe ( n=38,3 points) groups and control group ( n=21). Participants were recorded parameters under single task walking (STW) and DTW conditions, and calculated dual task effect (DTC) through the difference between single task and dual task. The differences in gait variances and their DTC were shown by generalized estimation equations when performed in STW and DTW and 4 groups of the severity of disease. Post-hoc comparisons were corrected using Bonferroni′s method. Spearman analyses were applied to explore the correlations between gait parameters and their DTC during STW or DTW and severity of disease. Based on the Logistic model, combining predictors or probabilities were gained and applied to establish receiver operating characteristic curve in order to calculate sensitivity, specificity, and the area under the curve. Results:In the control group, there was no statistically significant difference in gait parameters between STW and DTW. In the CSVD group, the gait parameters of STW were significantly better than cognitive or motor DTW (all P<0.05). In the control group, there was no statistically significant difference in basic gait parameters under different tasks (all P>0.05). In cognitive DTW, temporal gait parameters (stride frequency and stride time) deteriorated significantly only in moderate and severe groups [stride frequency:moderate group 100.220±1.795/min,severe group 94.525±2.139/min;stride time:moderate group (1.227±0.024) s, severe group (1.299±0.031) s], but spatial parameters [stride length: control group (1.050±0.021) m, mild group (0.974±0.022) m, moderate group (0.903±0.025) m, severe group (0.793±0.026) m; stride speed: control group (0.944±0.028) m/s, mild group (0.866±0.030) m/s, moderate group (0.751±0.027) m/s, severe group (0.606±0.022) m/s] were significantly different among all groups (except the control group and mild group;all P<0.05). The DTC of all gait parameters during cognitive DTW was higher than that during motor DTW (all P<0.05) for CSVD patients. While no any difference was found between cognitive DTW and motor DTW in the control group (all P>0.05). Similarly, the temporal parameters′ DTC of cognitive DTW was abnormal only in the late stage of disease, while the spatial parameters′ DTC showed statistically significant difference among all the groups (including the control group and the mild group;all P<0.05). Correlation coefficients of the spatial parameters and their DTC in condition of cognitive DTW were significantly higher than temporal parameters and their DTC (0.50< r<0.64 vs 0.15< r<0.39). The area under curve of the combined predictor was significantly higher than that of any single index. Conclusions:Cognitive DTW can better reflect the abnormal gait of CSVD patients. The spatial parameters and DTC of cognitive DTW could effectively diagnose CSVD and distinguish the disease of severity. And DTC might be better indicators. For diagnosis of CSVD, there was no significant discrepancy between the spatial parameters and DTC, but the combined predictor could significantly improve the sensitivity and reduce the false negative rate.

The influence of cognitive tasks on sensory organization test performance / A influência das tarefas cognitivas no desempenho do teste de organização sensorial

Abstract Introduction: Many static postural tasks requiring vestibular contributions are completed while dual- tasking. Objective: We investigated the influence of dual-tasks on sensory integration for postural control and cognitive performance during the sensory organization test and examined the relationship between cognitive function and dual-task cost during the sensory organization test. Methods: Twenty adults completed single and dual-task versions of the six conditions of the sensory organization test were completed during two visits separated by one week. A subset of 13 participants completed three National Institute of Health (NIH)-toolbox cognitive tests including the Flanker inhibitory control and attention test, dimensional change card sort test and pattern comparison processing speed test. Wilcoxon signed rank tests were used to compare postural sway during single and dual-task sensory organization test. Friedman's test, with pairwise comparison post-hoc tests, was used to compare single task serial subtraction performance to the 6 dual-task sensory organization test conditions. Spearman's correlation coefficients were used to assess the relationship between cognitive performance on NIH-toolbox test and postural and cognitive dual-task cost during the sensory organization test. Results: Performing a cognitive dual-task during the sensory organization test resulted in a significant increase in postural sway during condition 1 (Z = −3.26, p = 0.001, ES = 0.73), condition 3 (Z = −2.53, p = 0.012, ES = 0.56), and condition 6 (Z = −2.02, p = 0.044, ES = 0.45). Subtraction performance significantly decreased in during condition 6 (Z = −2.479, p = 0.011, ES = 0.55) compared to single-task. The dimensional change card sort test demonstrated moderate correlations with dual-task cost of serial subtraction performance in condition 5 (dimensional change card sort test: r = −0.62, p = 0.02) and condition 6 (dimensional change card sort test: r= −0.56, p = 0.04). Pattern comparison processing speed test scores were significantly correlated with dual-task cost of postural control during condition 2. Conclusion: Performing a cognitive task during the sensory organization test resulted in significantly increased postural sway during three conditions, particularly during visual environment manipulation oppose to vestibular and somatosensory manipulation. Cognitive performance decreased during the most complex sensory organization test condition. Additionally, we found participants with poorer executive function had greater dual-task cost during more complex sensory integration demands.

Resumo Introdução: Muitas tarefas posturais estáticas que requerem contribuições vestibulares são feitas durante a dupla tarefa. Objetivo: Investigamos a influência da dupla tarefa na integração sensorial para o controle postural e desempenho cognitivo durante o teste de organização sensorial e examinamos a relação entre a função cognitiva e o custo da dupla tarefa durante o teste de organização sensorial. Método: Vinte adultos completaram versões da tarefa única e dupla tarefa das seis condições do teste de organização sensorial, que foram concluídas em duas consultas com um intervalo de uma semana. Um subgrupo de 13 participantes completou três testes cognitivos do NIH-toolbox, inclusive o flanker inhibitory control and attention test, dimensional change card sort test e o pattern comparison processing speed test .O teste de postos sinalizados de Wilcoxon foi usado para comparar a oscilação postural durante o teste de organização sensorial de tarefa única e dupla. O teste de Friedman, com testes post hoc de comparação pareada, foi usado para comparar o desempenho da subtração em série de tarefa única para as 6 condições do teste de organização sensorial de dupla tarefa. Os coeficientes de correlação de Spearman foram usados para avaliar a relação entre o desempenho cognitivo no teste NIH-toolbox e o custo da dupla tarefa postural e cognitivo durante o teste de organização sensorial. Resultados: A feitura de uma dupla tarefa cognitiva durante o teste de organização sensorial resultou em um aumento significativo na oscilação postural durante a condição 1 (Z = -3,26, p = 0,001, TE = 0,73), condição 3 (Z = -2,53, p = 0,012, TE = 0,56) e condição 6 (Z = -2,02, p = 0,044, TE = 0,45). O desempenho de subtração diminuiu significativamente durante a condição 6 (Z =-2,479, p = 0,011, TE = 0,55) em comparação com a tarefa única. O dimensional change card sort test demonstrou correlações moderadas com o custo da dupla tarefa de desempenho de subtração em série na condição 5 (dimensional change card sort test: r=-0,62, p = 0,02) e condição 6 (dimensional change card sort test: r = -0,56, p = 0,04). Os escores do pattern comparison processing speed test foram significativamente correlacionados com o custo da dupla tarefa do controle postural durante a condição 2. Conclusão: A feitura de uma tarefa cognitiva durante o teste de organização sensorial resultou em um aumento significativo na oscilação postural em três condições, principalmente durante a manipulação do ambiente visual em oposição à manipulação vestibular e somatossensorial. O desempenho cognitivo diminuiu durante a condição de teste de organização sensorial mais complexa. Além disso, observamos que os participantes com função executiva pior apresentaram maior custo da dupla tarefa durante demandas de integração sensorial mais complexas.

Effects of dual-task treadmill training on motor function of children with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

Objective:To investigate the influence of dual-task treadmill training on the motor function of children with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy(CP).Methods:A prospective study was carried out on 36 children with spastic hemiplegic CP admitted to the Department of Rehabilitation, Qingdao Women and Children′s Hospital from March 2020 to August 2021.The subjects were divided into the control group (18 cases) and the experimental group (18 cases) by the random number sequence method.During the intervention, 2 cases in the control group dropped out of the study due to cough and fever.Finally, there were 16 cases left in the control group and 18 cases in the experimental group.Both groups received the same routine rehabilitation training.Additionally, the control group were given single-task treadmill training, while the experimental group were treated dual-task treadmill training.Before training and after 4 weeks of training, the children in the two groups were evaluated and compared by using Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88), Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), Maximum Walking Speed test(MWST), single-task modified Timed Up and Go test (mTUG) and dual-task mTUG.Gender and Gross Motor Function Classification System(GMFCS) classification in general data were compared by using the Chi-square test or Fisher′ s exact test.Age and indices of rehabilitation assessment were compared by using the paired-samples t-test within groups and indepen-dent-samples t-test between the two groups. Results:There was no significant difference in the evaluation data of the GMFM-88 D score [(34.25±1.61) points vs.(34.56±1.76) points], GMFM-88 E score [(50.53±7.20) points vs. (50.61±6.75) points], PBS score [(39.06±4.34) points vs. (38.89±4.44) points], MWST time [(12.69±3.07) s vs. (13.56±2.97) s], single-task mTUG time [(11.38±2.58) s vs. (11.94±2.51) s], and dual-task mTUG time [(30.06±8.08) s vs. (31.50±8.56) s]between the control group and the experimental group before training (all P>0.05). After 4 weeks of training, the GMFM-88 score of the control group was (35.88±1.82) points in the D dimension and (51.20±6.64) points in the E dimension.Besides, the PBS score of the control group was (40.75±4.14) points, the MWST time was (10.81±2.95) s, and the single-task mTUG time was (10.06±2.52) s. As for the experimental group, the GMFM-88 score was (36.28±1.99) points in the D dimension and (53.94±6.98) points in the E dimension, the PBS score was (43.06±4.94) points, the MWST time was (10.44±2.83) s, and the single-task mTUG time was (10.56±2.73) s. The evaluation indexes of the two groups after training for 4 weeks were significantly better than those before training ( t=-3.058, -2.197, -7.132, 1.235, 2.952 in the control group, and t=-5.953, -12.432, -8.333, 3.149, 7.578 in the experimental group, all P<0.05). There was no significant difference in GMFM-88 scores in D and E dimensions, PBS scores, MWST time and single-task mTUG time between the two groups ( P>0.05). The dual-task mTUG time of the control group was (29.10±8.28) s after 4 weeks of training, which was not statistically different from that before training ( t=1.578, P>0.05). The dual-task mTUG time of the experimental group was (23.06±7.30) s after 4 weeks of training, which was significantly better than that before training ( t=13.930, P<0.05) and that of the control group ( t=2.296, P<0.05). Conclusions:Both single-task and dual-task treadmill training can remarkably improve the motor function of children with spastic hemiplegic CP.Single-task training cannot improve the motor function of children with spastic hemiplegic CP in the dual-task condition, while dual-task training can effectively improve the motor function with spastic hemiplegic CP in the dual-task condition.

Effects of Cognitive-Motor Dual Task Training on Vascular Mild Cognitive Impairment for Old Patients / 中国康复理论与实践

Objective:To explore the effect of cognitive-motor dual task training on vascular mild cognitive impairment (VaMCI) in old patients. Methods:From March to September, 2019, 76 old patients with VaMCI in three general hospitals were divided into control group (n = 38) and intervention group (n = 38). All the patients accepted health education, while the intervention group accepted cognitive-motor dual task training in addition, for three months. They were assessed with Montreal Cognitive Assessment-Beijing Version (MoCA-BJ) and Trail Making Test (TMT-A) before and after intervention, and the one-year incidence of fall before and after intervention was investigated in the intervention group. Results:Two cases in the control group and three cases in the intervention group dropped down. The total score and dimension scores of MoCA-BJ were more significantly in the intervention group than in the control group after intervention (|Z| > 2.002, P < 0.05), except the dimension of naming, while the time for TMT-A was significantly less (Z = -5.949, P < 0.001). The one-year incidence of fall decreased significantly during the year after intervention (χ2 = 10.080, P < 0.01). Conclusion:Cognitive-motor dual task training can improve the cognitive function of older VaMCI patients, especially for attention and executive function, and reduce the risk of fall.

Reflexiones sobre rehabilitación vestibular a propósito de un caso con uso de paradigma de tareas dobles / Insights on vestibular rehabilitation concerning one case with the use of dual task paradigm

Resumen Se presenta una reflexión producto de la introducción del paradigma de tareas dobles en el abordaje terapéutico en un caso de vestibulopatía unilateral periférica. Se aplicaron pautas de autovaloración de la discapacidad y riesgo de caídas, complementándose con una completa evaluación del equilibrio funcional y la marcha. Se planificó una terapia personalizada, jerarquizándose objetivos con un criterio funcional. Se incorporó el paradigma de tareas dobles, incluyéndose tareas cognitivas simples a la terapia tradicional de rehabilitación vestibular, con el fin de reducir la influencia cortical sobre la ejecución motora, potenciar la ganancia y funcionalidad de los reflejos remanentes, estimular funciones cognitivas superiores y potenciar procesos atencionales subyacentes, necesarios para lograr la compensación. Los resultados de la reevaluación mostraron una evolución favorable, con remisión de la sintomatología, disminución significativa de los puntajes obtenidos en las diferentes pautas empleadas y una mejoría subjetiva en el equilibrio y marcha funcional después de la terapia. Lo anterior se asoció a la recuperación de la autonomía e independencia para la ejecución de actividades diarias, incidiendo favorablemente en la calidad de vida de la paciente. Los hallazgos confirman los beneficios del programa de rehabilitación vestibular diseñado. Se requieren estudios adicionales, orientados a evidenciar y corroborar el impacto específico de la incorporación del paradigma de tareas dobles en la rehabilitación de los trastornos del equilibrio y especialmente, en procesos de estimulación o rehabilitación vestibular en adultos mayores.

Abstract This article presents the analysis and reflections evoked from an experience in vestibular rehabilitation with the introduction of the paradigm of dual task in a unilateral peripheral vestibulopathy case. First, disability self-assessment guidelines, risk of falls scales and assessment tools of functional balance and gait were applied in order to determine the main symptoms and the main difficulties observed. Afterwards, a personalized therapy was planned, in which work objectives were hierarchized based on a functional criterion, introducing "dual-task" strategies as tools for diminish cortical influence on motor performances, allowing the automation of the required task; enhance the gain and functionality of the remaining reflexes, especially vestibulo ocular and vestibulospinal reflex and stimulate superior cognitive functions and underlying attentional processes, necessary to achieve central compensation. The final assessment showed a favorable evolution, with a significant decrease in the after-therapy scores obtained in fear of falling and disability self-perception protocols, before and after therapy and, finally, an improvement in functional balance and gait, through the pre and post therapy performance in the timed up and go and assessment of unipedal stand tests. This allowed the patient to regain her autonomy and independence in daily life activities improving her quality of life, confirming the benefits of the designed vestibular rehabilitation program. However, more studies are needed to corroborate the specific contribution of the dual-task paradigm in vestibular rehabilitation and specially, in vestibular stimulation or rehabilitation processes in older adults.

Interferência da dupla tarefa no desempenho da marcha em indivíduos com doença de Parkinson / Dual task interference on gait performance in individuals with Parkinson Disease

A realização de duas tarefas de forma simultânea exige a capacidade de concentrar atenção e executar duas tarefas ao mesmo tempo. Em indivíduos com Doença de Parkinson as interferências podem ser ainda maiores, visto que esses indivíduos necessitam de um grau maior de atenção apenas para executar uma tarefa única, como no caso, a marcha. OBJETIVO: Analisar a interferência da dupla tarefa na marcha de pacientes com DP. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Estudo observacional de caráter transversal, de natureza quantitativa. Cinco indivíduos com Doença de Parkinson, de ambos os sexos, participaram do grupo experimental; e cinco indivíduos saudáveis fizeram parte do grupo controle. Os participantes tiveram a marcha avaliada com e sem interferência cognitiva, utilizando: Escala de Equilíbrio de Berg; Índice Dinâmico da Marcha; teste de mobilidade funcional (Time Up and Go Test), Esteira Ergométrica e o Stroop Test adaptado para analfabetos. RESULTADOS: Quando comparados Grupo Experimental e Grupo Controle foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significantes nas condições de marcha com interferência de dupla tarefa (Dupla Tarefa Número e Dupla Tarefa Cor) nas variáveis de quantidade de acertos e amplitude de movimento. CONCLUSÃO: A dupla tarefa em pacientes com DP, interfere principalmente na função cognitiva, enquanto a função motora da marcha permanece parcialmente preservada.

Performing dual tasks simultaneously requires the ability to focus attention and perform two activities at the same time. In individuals with Parkinson's disease, the interferences may be greater, as these individuals require a major degree of attention just to perform a single task, as in this case, walking. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the interference of dual task in the gait of PD individuals. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Observational cross-sectional study with a prospective structure of a quantitative nature. Five individuals with Parkinson Disease, of both gender, participated in the experimental group; five healthy individuals were part of the control group. The participants had their gait assessed with and without cognitive interference, using: Berg's Balance Scale; Dynamic Gait Index; functional mobility test (Time Up and Go Test), Treadmill gait and Stroop Test adapted for illiterates. RESULTS: When comparing the Experimental Group and the Control Group, statistically significant differences were found in the gait conditions with dual task interference (Dual Task Number and Dual Task Color) in the variables of number of correct answers and range of motion. CONCLUSION: The dual task in PD patients mainly interferes with cognitive function, while the motor function of gait remains partially preserved.

Efeitos da atenção dividida no priming de repetição / Effects of divided attention in repetition priming

O presente artigo tem por objetivo investigar possíveis efeitos da atenção dividida no priming de repetição a partir de uma revisão seletiva da literatura. Foram selecionados estudos realizados com testes de priming perceptual e/ou conceitual, nos quais a divisão da atenção foi realizada na fase de codificação ou de recuperação. Em geral, as evidências indicaram que o priming, tanto o perceptual quanto o conceitual, foi afetado pela atenção dividida na codificação quando a tarefa secundária (ou distratora) foi mais demandante de atenção, exigindo resposta frequente e apresentada sincrônica ao estímulo alvo. Poucos estudos foram realizados na recuperação e eles indicaram imunidade do priming perceptual e conceitual à atenção dividida. Conclui-se que os processos de memória implícita podem exigir recursos atencionais na codificação. Implicações teóricas dos resultados são discutidas.

This article aims to investigate possible effects of divided attention on repetition priming from a selective review of the literature. Studies were included if they utilized perceptual and/or conceptual priming tasks, in which the division of attention was performed during encoding or retrieval. In general, the results suggested that perceptual and conceptual priming were affected by divided attention during encoding. This effect occurred when the secondary task (or distractor task) demanded higher levels of attention, requiring frequent task responses and it was presented simultaneously to the memory target stimulus. The few studies investigating retrieval showed that perceptual and conceptual priming are not sensitive to divided attention. Therefore, implicit memory processes may require attentional resources in the encoding. Theoretical implications of the results are discussed.

Influência da escolaridade de idosas nos ganhos de função executiva após treino de dupla tarefa / Influence of the level of education in older women on gains in executive function after dual task training

Resumo Objetivo Investigar a influência da escolaridade nos ganhos de função executiva após o treinamento com dupla tarefa (DT). Método Estudo exploratório realizado com 31 idosas, com escolaridade ≥3 anos e sem alterações das funções cognitivas rastreadas pelo Miniexame do Estado Mental (MEEM). As participantes foram distribuídas em dois grupos a partir do critério escolaridade, sendo o Grupo 1 com escolaridade de três a sete anos (n=17) e o Grupo 2 com escolaridade igual e superior a oito anos (n=14). Foram avaliadas as funções executivas antes e após o treinamento através dos testes Stroop, Exame Cognitivo de Addenbrooke - Revisado (ACE-R) e Trilhas B. O protocolo de intervenção consistiu em três sessões semanais, duração de 50 minutos cada, com a realização de atividades de DT cognitiva e motora, associadas à caminhada, por 12 semanas. Resultados A ANOVA indicou que o treinamento de DT melhorou significativamente o desempenho nos testes Stroop (F=5,95; p=0,02) e ACE-R (F=18,33; p<0,0001), independentemente da escolaridade. Foi verificado efeito do grupo nos testes ACE-R (F=14,65; p<0,001) e Trilhas B (F=18,74; p<0,001). Em nenhum dos testes analisados, foi observado efeito da interação grupo x tempo (0,04<F<2,14; 0,15<p<0,95). Conclusão O treinamento de DT pode melhorar significativamente a função executiva de idosas, independente do nível de escolaridade, podendo ser utilizado na prática clínica como uma proposta de intervenção, visando o ganho de função executiva.

Abstract Objective Investigate the influence of education levels on gains in executive function after dual-task (DT) training. Method Exploratory study carried-out with 31 old women, who had ≥3 years of education and without cognitive deficits, as screened by the Mini-Mental State (MMS). The participants were distributed in two groups: group 1: 3 to 7 years of education (n=17) and group 2: ≥8 years of education (n=14). Measures of executive function (Stroop, Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination - Revised (ACE-R), and Trail Making Test - B (B-Trails)) were obtained before and after training. The intervention protocol consisted of three weekly sessions of 50 minutes each and included cognitive and motor DT training, associated with walking, over 12 weeks. Results ANOVA indicates that DT training improved the performance of Stroop (F=5.95; p=0.02) and ACE-R (F=18.33; p<0.0001) tests, regardless of the education level. The effect of the ACE-R test group (F=14.65; p<0.001) and B-Trails (F=18.74; p<0.001) was verified. In none of the investigated tests, the interaction effects between groups and time (0.04<F<2.14; 0.15<p<0.95) was observed. Conclusion DT training has the potential to generate effects and can positively improve the executive function of older women, regardless of educational level and may be used within clinical practice, aiming at improving executive function.

Comparison of gait characteristics between young and elderly people under dual tasks using three-dimensional gait analysis / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: Dual-task walking is more common in daily life, and more challenging than single-task walking. It is more conducive to find potential gait abnormalities in daily life activities. It is widely used to evaluate the changes in motor performance and gait control when attention is distracted. OBJECTIVE: The three-dimensional gait analysis system was applied to compare the difference of gait characteristics under dual-task walking between healthy young people and elderly people so as to provide reference for preventing the elderly people from falling. METHODS: In the youth group, there were 21 cases aged (24.57±2.27) years old and with the height of (1.64±0.08) m. In the elderly group, there were 25 cases aged (62.72±2.39) years old and with the height of (1.60±0.07) m. The two groups of subjects performed the calculation task of “minus 1 (reciprocal) starting from any number within 100” during level walking. Motion Analysis system and Visual 3D software were applied to collect and analyze the gait data. The differences of gait spatiotemporal and kinetic parameters between the two groups were compared when performing dual-task walking. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Spatiotemporal parameters: Compared with youth group, both stride length [(1.14±0.09) m vs. (1.20±0.07) m, P < 0.05] and right step length [(0.57±0.04) m vs. (0.60±0.04) m, P < 0.01] were smaller in the elderly group. (2) Kinetic parameters: Compared with the youth group, the left second peak hip abduction moment was higher [(0.94±0.1) Nm/kg vs. (0.86±0.16) Nm/kg, P < 0.01]; the left ankle plantar flexor moment was lower [(1.27±0.11) Nm/kg vs. (1.35±0.15) Nm/kg, P < 0.05]; and bilateral ankle valgus muscle moments were lower [(0.31±0.14) Nm/kg vs. (0.45±0.16) Nm/kg, P < 0.01; (0.38±0.15) Nm/kg vs. (0.51±0.14) Nm/kg, P < 0.01] in the elderly group. (3) These results suggest that the walking automation ability of the elderly group was lower than youth group during dual-task walking. Dual-task walking mainly affects the hip and ankle joints of the elderly, which may be related to the challenge of dual-task walking to the elderly so that they could adapt the corresponding compensatory mode to maintain stability. The characteristics of gait changes in the elderly under dual tasks can be considered as a reference for the prevention of falls.

Gait Characteristics under Dual-task Condition and Their Relationship with Fall among Old Patients with Vascular Mild Cognitive Impairment / 中国康复理论与实践

Objective:To investigate the relationship between gait parameters under dual-task condition and falls in old patients with vascular mild cognitive impairment (VaMCI). Methods:From March to September, 2019, convenience sampling method was adopted to select 103 old patients with VaMCI. They were divided into falling group (n = 45) and non-falling group (n = 58), according to the situation of falling in the past one year. Both groups were surveyed general data, assessed with modified Barthel Index (MBI) and Timed “Up and Go” Test (TUGT), and collected gait parameters under dual-task condition. Results:MBI score was significantly higher (t = 35.688, P < 0.001), and the time of TUGT was shorter (t = 2.428, P < 0.05) in the non-falling group than in the falling group. The speed, length, frequency, swing phase and ground impact were higher (t > 2.536, |Z| > 1.986, P < 0.05), and single step time and the stance phase were lower (|Z| > 2.440, P < 0.05) in the non-falling group than in the falling group. Speed, length, frequency and single step time were risk factors for falling (P < 0.05). Conclusion:The characteristics of gait parameters under dual-task condition could reflect the walking ability of the old patients with VaMCI, suggesting the risk of fall, especially speed, length, frequency and single step time, which need to be measured and intervened in time.

Dual task in healthy elderly, depressive and Alzheimer's disease patients / Dupla tarefa em idosos saudáveis, depressivos e pacientes com doença de Alzheimer

ABSTRACT Objective To investigate whether the DT performance can be affected by the diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods Cross-sectional data with 108 individuals [Healthy (HE) = 56, MDD =19, AD = 33] aged 60 and older of both sexes diagnosis with AD, MDD, and HE without a clinical diagnosis of mental disorders, residents of the city of Rio de Janeiro. DT performance, was measured by mean velocity (m/s), DT cost and the number of evoked words (DTanimals). One-way ANOVA was used to compare groups. In addition, a logistic regression was used to verify the association between the performance in the DT variables and the risk of MD and AD, controlled by age and scholarity. Results There was a significant difference between the HE and AD groups in the DT variables. The worst performance in the DTC and DTanimals variables increased risk of AD, regardless of age and scholarity (DTC, OR = 5.6, 95% CI = 1.4-22.2, p = 0.01 and DTanimals, OR = 3.6, 95% CI = 0.97-14.0, p = 0.05). Conclusion The ability to perform two tasks simultaneously appears to be impaired in patients with Alzheimer's disease, and unaffected by the major depressive disorder.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar o quanto o desempenho em dupla tarefa pode ser afetado pelo diagnóstico do transtorno depressivo maior (TDM) e pela doença de Alzheimer (DA). Métodos Estudo de corte transversal com 108 indivíduos [Saudáveis (IS) = 56, TDM = 19, DA = 33] com 60 anos ou mais, de ambos os sexos, diagnosticados com doença de Alzheimer, transtorno depressivo maior e sem diagnóstico de doenças mentais, residentes na cidade do Rio de Janeiro. O desempenho em DT foi avaliado pela velocidade média (m/s), custo da dupla tarefa (CDT) e número de animais evocados por segundo (DTanimais). ANOVA one-way foi feita para a comparação dos grupos. Além disso, foi utilizada uma regressão logística para verificar a associação entre o desempenho nas variáveis em DT e o risco de TDM e DA, controlado pela idade e escolaridade. Resultados Houve diferença significativa entre os grupos IS e DA nas variáveis em DT. O pior desempenho no CDT e no número de animais evocados em DT aumentou o risco de DA, independentemente da idade e escolaridade (CDT, OR = 5,6, IC de 95% = 1,4-22,2, p = 0,01 e DTanimals, OR = 3,6, IC de 95% = 0,97-14,0, p = 0,05). Conclusão A capacidade de realizar duas tarefas de forma simultânea parece ser prejudicada em pacientes com doença de Alzheimer e não afetada em pacientes com TDM.

Effect of dual-task and visual manipulation on the balance of older physical exercise practitioners and sedentary older and young adults / Efeito da dupla-tarefa e da manipulação visual no equilíbrio de idosos praticantes de exercícios físicos, idosos e adultos jovens não praticantes

The objective was to compare the effect of dual-task and visual manipulation on postural balance of older physical activity practitioners and older and young adult non-practitioners. Fifty-one subjects were divided into four groups: Older Practitioners of Karate (OPK), Older Practitioners of Func-tional Gymnastics (OPG), Non-practicing Older Adult Group (ONP), and Non-practicing Young Adult Group (YNP). The task was to remain in an upright, static position on a force platform, for 40 seconds, with and without a cognitive dual-task, by means of an arithmetic sum, and visual manipulation, with and without a blindfold. The analyzed variables of the Center of Pressure (COP) were: area of oscillation and mean amplitude of oscillation, in the mediolateral and anteroposterior directions. The results showed similar performances among the physical exercise groups (OPK and OPG) and the young adults (YNP), while the ONP presented greater postural oscillation in all conditions. In the visual condition, blindfolded, in the condition with the dual-task, the OPK, OPG, and YNP groups oscillated less, when compared to the condition without dual-task. Thus, it can be inferred that the practice of physical exercises, regardless of the modality, is effective in improving the postural control of older adults, with similar performances to the group of young adults, even in conditions with dual-task and sensory manipulation of vision

O objetivo do estudo foi comparar o efeito da dupla-tarefa e da manipulação visual no equilíbrio postural em idosos praticantes de diferentes modalidades de exercícios físicos, idosos e adultos jovens não praticantes. Participaram do estudo 51 indivíduos, subdivididos em quatro grupos: grupo de idosos praticantes de karatê (GPK), grupo de idosos praticantes de ginástica funcional (GPF), grupo de idosos não praticantes (GNP) e grupo de adultos jovens (GNP). A tarefa consistiu em permanecer, na posição ereta, sob plataforma de força, por 40 segundos, sem e com dupla-tarefa, por meio de soma aritmética e com manipulação visual, com e sem visão. As variáveis analisadas do Centro de Pressão (COP) foram: área de oscilação e amplitude média de oscilação, nos sentidos médio-lateral e ântero-posterior. Os resultados foram desempenhos semelhantes entre os grupos que praticavam exercícios físicos (OPK e OPG) e o de adultos jovens ( YNP), enquanto o ONP apresentou maior oscilação postural, nas variáveis área e amplitude de oscilação. Na condição visual, com vi-são e com a dupla-tarefa, os grupos OPK, OPG e YNP oscilaram menos, quando comparados a condição sem dupla-tarefa. Dessa forma, pode-se inferir que a prática de exercícios físicos, independente da modalidade, é eficaz no equilíbrio postural de idosos, com desempenho semelhante no grupo de adultos jovens, mesmo em condições com dupla-tarefa e manipulação sensorial da visão

Influência da visão e da dupla tarefa no controle postural de idosas com perdas urinárias / Influence of vision and dual task on postural control of elderly women with urinary losses

Introdução: A incontinência urinária (IU) é um processo natural do envelhecimento, afetando 25 a 45% das mulheres brasileiras. Portadores de IU podem apresentar alterações no controle postural, pois a musculatura do assoalho pélvico é responsável pela estabilização das estruturas da pelve, possuindo íntima relação com o controle postural estático. Objetivo: Comparar o controle postural de mulheres idosas com perdas urinárias e continentes, nas condições de olhos abertos, supressão da visão e teste de dupla tarefa. Métodos: Estudo observacional de caráter transversal com 46 idosas, 26 com IU com 68,31 ± 5,79 anos e 20 continentes com 69,3 ± 6,87 anos. Realizou-se anamnese para identificar aspectos de saúde das idosas, onde incluía autorrelato de perda urinária. Para análise do controle postural utilizou-se uma plataforma de força para a obtenção dos dados referentes ao centro de pressão (COP). A normalidade dos dados foi verificada através do teste de Shapiro-Wilk e teste t de Student. O nível de significância adotado foi de 5%. Resultados: Não foram observadas diferenças significativas em todas as variáveis do COP na situação de olhos abertos, nem nas variáveis COPap e COPml de olhos fechados, bem como no COPap, COPml e COPvel na dupla tarefa. As variáveis COPvel e COPelp de olhos fechados e COPelp na dupla tarefa, apresentaram diferenças estatisticamente significativas (p < 0,05). Conclusão: As mulheres idosas com relato de IU apresentaram um pior desempenho do controle postural estático no que se refere a velocidade média de oscilação e a área de oscilação, quando comparadas às idosas continentes. (AU)

Introduction: Urinary incontinence (UI) is a natural process of aging, affecting 25 to 45% of Brazilian women. UI patients may present changes in postural control, since the pelvic floor musculature is responsible for the stabilization of the pelvic structures, having an intimate relationship with the static postural control. Objective: To compare the postural control of elderly women with urinary losses and continents, in conditions of open eyes, suppression of vision and double task test. Methods: Observational cross-sectional study with 46 elderly women, 26 with UI, 68.31 ± 5.79 years and 20 continents, with 69.3 ± 6.87 years. Anamnesis was performed to identify aspects of the elderly women's health, including self-report of urinary loss. For analysis of the postural control, a force platform was used to obtain the data related to the pressure center (COP). The normality of the data was verified through the Shapiro-Wilk test and Student's t-test. The level of significance was 5%. Results: There were no significant differences in all COP variables in the open-eyes situation, nor in the COPap and COPml variables with eyes closed, as well as in COPap, COPml and COPvel in the double task. The COPelp and COPelp variables with closed eyes and COPelp in the double task presented statistically significant differences (p <0.05). Conclusion: Older women with UI reported worse performance of static postural control in relation to mean oscillation velocity and oscillation area, when compared to the elderly women. (AU)

Non-pharmacological motor-cognitive treatment to improve the mental health of elderly adults

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: To propose a program of physical-cognitive dual task and to measure its impact in Chilean institutionalized elderly adults. METHOD: Experimental design study with pre and post-intervention evaluations, measuring the cognitive and depressive levels by means of the Pfeiffer test and the Yesavage scale, respectively. The program was applied for 12 weeks to adults between 68 and 90 years old. The statistical analysis was based on the nonparametric Wilcoxon test for paired samples and was contrasted with its parametric version. The statistical software R was used. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were obtained in the cognitive level (p-value < 0.05) and highly significant (p-value < 0.001) in the level of depression with both tests (parametric and nonparametric). CONCLUSION: Due to the almost null evidence of scientific interventions of programs that integrate physical activity and cognitive tasks together in Chilean elderly adults, a program of physical-cognitive dual task was proposed as a non-pharmacological treatment, easy to apply and of low cost to benefit their integral health, which improves significantly the cognitive and depressive levels of institutionalized elderly adults.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Propor um programa físico-cognitivo e medir seu impacto em idosos institucionalizados chilenos. MÉTODO: Estudo de planejamento experimental com avaliações pré e pós-intervenção, medindo os níveis cognitivo e depressivo por meio do teste de Pfeiffer e da escala de Yesavage, respectivamente. O programa foi aplicado por 12 semanas a idosos entre 68 e 90 anos de idade. A análise estatística foi baseada no teste não paramétrico de Wilcoxon para amostras pareadas e foi contrastada com sua versão paramétrica. O software estatístico R foi utilizado. RESULTADOS: Diferenças estatisticamente significantes foram obtidas no nível cognitivo (p < 0,05) e altamente significante (p < 0,001) no nível de depressão com ambos os testes (paramétrico e não paramétrico). CONCLUSÃO: Porque quase não existe evidência científica de programas de intervenções que integram a atividade física e tarefas cognitivas em chilenos idosos, um programa físico-cognitivo foi proposto como tratamento não farmacológico, fácil de implementar e de baixo custo, para beneficiar a sua saúde integral, melhorando significativamente os níveis cognitivos e depressivos de idosos institucionalizados.

Dual-task demands in various motor skills through Parkinson's disease progression

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of adding a cognitive task on the performance of three different motor tasks with different demands, discrete skills, serial skills and continuous skills, by individuals with mild, moderate, and severe idiopathic Parkinson' disease (PD). We also investigate the effect of the cognitive task in the secondary task and the cost of the dual-task. Method: This is a cross-sectional study. Individuals with idiopathic PD were divided in three groups with respect to motor severity (mild, moderate and severe groups). Participants' performances were assessed in single and DT conditions including Sit-to-Stand test (SST), Timed Up and Go (TUG), and 10-meter Walk test (T10W). Cognitive task used was verbal fluency Results: The results show that dual task impact the performance of all primary tasks. DT negatively affects the performance of the motor tasks. And there is a different impact according the severity of the disease, severe ones are more affected than mild and moderate. Conclusion: In conclusion, adding a concurrent cognitive task negatively affected the performance of discrete, serial and continuous motor tasks, and this effect is more noticeable in severe than in mild patients. Under dual-task conditions, patients improved their cognitive task performance for gait and TUG, suggesting a prioritization of the secondary task for these tasks. There was no difference between the costs of the three tasks.Abstract Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of adding a cognitive task on the performance of three different motor tasks with different demands, discrete skills, serial skills and continuous skills, by individuals with mild, moderate, and severe idiopathic Parkinson' disease (PD). We also investigate the effect of the cognitive task in the secondary task and the cost of the dual-task. Method: This is a cross-sectional study. Individuals with idiopathic PD were divided in three groups with respect to motor severity (mild, moderate and severe groups). Participants' performances were assessed in single and DT conditions including Sit-to-Stand test (SST), Timed Up and Go (TUG), and 10-meter Walk test (T10W). Cognitive task used was verbal fluency Results: The results show that dual task impact the performance of all primary tasks. DT negatively affects the performance of the motor tasks. And there is a different impact according the severity of the disease, severe ones are more affected than mild and moderate. Conclusion: In conclusion, adding a concurrent cognitive task negatively affected the performance of discrete, serial and continuous motor tasks, and this effect is more noticeable in severe than in mild patients. Under dual-task conditions, patients improved their cognitive task performance for gait and TUG, suggesting a prioritization of the secondary task for these tasks. There was no difference between the costs of the three tasks.(AU)

Application of dual task walking in patients with neurodegenerative diseases / 中华行为医学与脑科学杂志

Dual task walking ( DTW) refers to the task of performing another attentional demand while walking naturally. It is quite common in our daily life,such as having a conversation while walking,or taking a call while crossing the street. People can simultaneously perform dual tasks normally. However,the performance of dual tasks will decline when the gait is impaired or cognitive dysfunction occurs. Neurodegen-erative disease (NDD) is mainly characterized by motor and cognitive dysfunction,which seriously affects patients' ability of daily living activities. In recent years,studies on DTW in patients with NDD have found that decreased performance of DTW may be a feature of NDD patients,which may have important clinical val-ue for early identification of NDD and predict disease progression. In the future,effective DTW training may improve the patients' ability of daily living activities,and it is important for the rehabilitation of NDD pa-tients. This article mainly reviews the definition,common methods and mechanisms of DTW,as well as the clinical research findings and applications of DTW in patients with NDD,and provides theoretical basis for further clinical research.

Application of dual task walking in patients with neurodegenerative diseases / 中华行为医学与脑科学杂志

Dual task walking (DTW) refers to the task of performing another attentional demand while walking naturally. It is quite common in our daily life, such as having a conversation while walking, or taking a call while crossing the street. People can simultaneously perform dual tasks normally. However, the performance of dual tasks will decline when the gait is impaired or cognitive dysfunction occurs.Neurodegenerative disease (NDD) is mainly characterized by motor and cognitive dysfunction, which seriously affects patients' ability of daily living activities. In recent years, studies on DTW in patients with NDD have found that decreased performance of DTW may be a feature of NDD patients, which may have important clinical value for early identification of NDD and predict disease progression. In the future, effective DTW training may improve the patients' ability of daily living activities, and it is important for the rehabilitation of NDD patients. This article mainly reviews the definition, common methods and mechanisms of DTW, as well as the clinical research findings and applications of DTW in patients with NDD, and provides theoretical basis for further clinical research.

Gait analysis during dual-task walking predicts cognitive impairment after a transient ischemic attack / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

Objective To find a simple, sensitive and effective method to predict the occurrence of cogni-tive impairment in patients after a transient ischemic attack ( TIA) . Methods Thirty-six persons who had survived a first TIA and could walk independently were selected into a TIA group, with another 36 healthy counterparts chosen to form a control group. Those in both groups were given a gait analysis during dual-task walking at the outset and then assessed using the MoCA scale 12 months later. Statistical analyses were conducted to assess the reliability of gait pa-rameters in predicting cognitive dysfunction, and the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve was calcu-lated. Results On the day after enrollment the variation in step length among the TIA patients with an abnormal step length was compared with variation among the normal controls and among the TIA patients with non-abnormal step-size. The differences were significant. The average walking speed of the TIA patients with an abnormal average walking speed was significantly different from that of the control group and that of the TIA patients with non-abnormal average speed. On the day after enrolling, the accuracy rate of the control group in the dual-task walking test was sig-nificantly better than that of any of the TIA patients, and the accuracy rate of the TIA patients with an abnormal gait in the dual-task walking test was significantly lower than that of the patients with a non-abnormal gait. Twelve months later the number of patients whose MoCA scores were less than 26 in the abnormal gait group was compared with that in the normal gait group, and the difference was statistically significant. The area under the receiver operating charac-teristics curve suggests that both the incidence of step length variation and the average stepping speed could signifi-cantly predict the occurrence of cognitive dysfunction 12 months later. Conclusion Quantitative analysis of gait while dual-task walking can effectively predict the occurrence of cognitive impairment in patients with TIA, and can detect abnormalities earlier than the MoCA scale test.

The Interaction of Cognitive Interference, Standing Surface, and Fatigue on Lower Extremity Muscle Activity

BACKGROUND: Performing cognitive tasks and muscular fatigue have been shown to increase muscle activity of the lower extremity during quiet standing. A common intervention to reduce muscular fatigue is to provide a softer shoe-surface interface. However, little is known regarding how muscle activity is affected by softer shoe-surface interfaces during static standing. The purpose of this study was to assess lower extremity muscular activity during erect standing on three different standing surfaces, before and after an acute workload and during cognitive tasks. METHODS: Surface electromyography was collected on ankle dorsiflexors and plantarflexors, and knee flexors and extensors of fifteen male participants. Dependent electromyography variables of mean, peak, root mean square, and cocontraction index were calculated and analyzed with a 2 × 2 × 3 within-subject repeated measures analysis of variance. RESULTS: Pre-workload muscle activity did not differ between surfaces and cognitive task conditions. However, greater muscle activity during post-workload balance assessment was found, specifically during the cognitive task. Cognitive task errors did not differ between surface and workload. CONCLUSIONS: The cognitive task after workload increased lower extremity muscular activity compared to quite standing, irrespective of the surface condition, suggesting an increased demand was placed on the postural control system as the result of both fatigue and cognitive task.