A MEG compatible, interactive IR game paradigm for the study of visuomotor reach-to-target movements in young children and clinical populations: The Target-Touch Motor Task.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The conventional focus on discrete finger movements (i.e., index finger flexion or button-box key presses) has been an effective method to study neuromotor control using magnetoencephalography (MEG). However, this approach is challenging for young children and not possible for some people with physical disability. NEW METHOD: We have developed a novel, interactive MEG compatible reach-to-target task to investigate neuromotor function, specifically for use with young children. We used an infrared touch-screen frame to detect responses to targets presented using custom software. The game can be played using a conventional computer monitor or during MEG recordings via projector. We termed this game the Target-Touch Motor Task (TTMT). RESULTS: We demonstrate that the TTMT is a feasible motor task for use with young children including children with physical impairments. TTMT response-to-target trial counts are also comparable to conventional methods. Artifacts from the touch screen, while present > 100 Hz, did not affect MEG source analysis in the beta band (14-30 Hz). MEG responses during TTMT game play reveal robust cortical activity from expected areas of motor cortex as typically observed following movements of the upper limb. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHOD(S) The TTMT paradigm allows participation by individuals with a broad range of motor abilities on a reach-to-target' functional task rather than conventional tasks focusing on discrete finger movements. CONCLUSIONS: The TTMT is well suited for young children and successfully activates expected motor cortical areas. The TTMT opens-up new opportunities for the assessment of motor function across the lifespan, including for children with physical limitations.