Unity and diversity in working memory load: Evidence for the separability of the executive functions updating and inhibition using machine learning

Abstract Objective According to current theoretical models of working memory (WM), executive functions (EFs) like updating, inhibition and shifting play an important role in WM functioning. The models state that EFs highly correlate with each other but also have some individual variance which makes them separable processes. Since this theory has mostly been substantiated with behavioral data like reaction time and the ability to execute a task correctly, the aim of this paper is to find evidence for diversity (unique properties) of the EFs updating and inhibition in neural correlates of EEG data by means of using brain-computer interface (BCI) methods as a research tool. To highlight the benefit of this approach we compare this new methodology to classical analysis approaches. Methods An existing study has been reinvestigated by applying neurophysiological analysis in combination with support vector machine (SVM) classification on recorded electroenzephalography (EEG) data to determine the separability and variety of the two EFs updating and inhibition on a single trial basis. Results The SVM weights reveal a set of distinct features as well as a set of shared features for the two EFs updating and inhibition in the theta and the alpha band power. Significance In this paper we find evidence that correlates for unity and diversity of EFs can be found in neurophysiological data. Machine learning approaches reveal shared but also distinct properties for the EFs. This study shows that using methods from brain-computer interface (BCI) research, like machine learning, as a tool for the validation of psychological models and theoretical constructs is a new approach that is highly versatile and could lead to many new insights.