The Validation of a Portable Functional NIRS System for Assessing Mental Workload

Portable functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) systems have the potential to image brain in naturalistic settings. Experimental studies are essential validate such fNIRS systems. Working memory (WM) is a short-term active that associated with temporary storage and manipulation of information. The prefrontal cortex (PFC) area involved processing WM. We assessed PFC during n-back WM tasks group 25 college students using our laboratory-developed portable system, WearLight. designed an experimental protocol 32 task blocks four different pseudo-randomized difficulty levels. hemodynamic response was computed from data evaluated responses due these tasks. observed incremental mean activation induced by increasing load. left-PFC more activated compared right-PFC. performance seen be related responses. results proved functioning WearLight system cognitive load imaging. Since wearable operated wirelessly, it possible measure environment, which could also lead development user-friendly brain–computer interface system.