Non-linear EEG synchronization during observation and execution of simple and complex sequential finger movements

Claire Calmels (1) , Magaly Hars (2) , Paul Holmes (3) , Gilbert Jarry (4) , Cornelis J Stam (5)

1 SEP (EA7370) - French Institute of Sport (INSEP), Laboratory Sport, Expertise and Performance (EA7370)
2 URCA - Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne
3 Research Institute for Health and Social Change
4 Hôpital Henri Mondor
5 Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, VU Univerity Medical Center

The main aim of this study was to examine the temporal aspects of neuronal changes during the observation and execution of simple and complex tasks to gain a greater understanding of the mirror neuron system's involvement in complex motor tasks. Eleven right-handed subjects observed simple and complex Wnger movement sequences. Electroencephalograms were recorded from 19 electrodes. Activity was considered in four frequency bands (8–10, 10–13, 13–20, and 20–30 Hz) using a new measure, synchronization likelihood. The results show that motor tasks of diVerent levels of complexity did not have a signiW-cant inXuence on cortical synchronization. The results also provide additional indirect evidence for mirror neuron activity associated with intransitive tasks. Data are discussed in the light of recent Wndings from the cognitive and behavioral neuroscience literature.

Mots clés: Synchronization; Action observation; Movement complexity; Mirror neurons; Electroencephalography

Domaines: Sport; Sciences cognitives du sport; Neurosciences [q-bio.NC]

Claire Calmels, Magaly Hars, Paul Holmes, Gilbert Jarry, Cornelis J Stam. Non-linear EEG synchronization during observation and execution of simple and complex sequential finger movements. Experimental Brain Research, 2008, 190 (4), pp.389-400. ⟨10.1007/s00221-008-1480-z⟩. ⟨hal-01575539⟩