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Applied Neuropsychology. Adult Dec 2023There appears to be a lack of consensus regarding how best to interpret cognitive test findings when there is a failure on only one Performance Validity Test (PVT). The...
There appears to be a lack of consensus regarding how best to interpret cognitive test findings when there is a failure on only one Performance Validity Test (PVT). The current study examined the impact of failing one freestanding, forced-choice, memory-based (Fr-FC-MB) PVT across two memory measures in a large sample of veterans ( = 1,353). The impact of failing zero, one, or two Fr-FC-MB PVTs (Test of Memory Malingering Trial 1 or the Medical Symptom Validity Test) on subsequent memory measures was examined (California Verbal Learning Test-II [CVLT-II], Brief Visuospatial Memory Test-R [BVMT-R]). Compared to those failing zero PVTs, those failing one PVT showed significant declines across all memory indices with large average effect sizes (BVMT-R, = -0.9, CVLT-II, = -1.0). Those failing one PVT had memory scores more similar to those failing two PVTs. There is a need for greater nuance and flexibility when determining invalid test performance. The current findings, along with a brief review of the literature, find that failing even one Fr-FC-MB PVT dramatically (negatively) impacts memory performance. Results suggest that including individuals failing one Fr-FC-MB PVT into a credible group should be more closely scrutinized.
PubMed: 38065580
DOI: 10.1080/23279095.2023.2285503 -
European Neuropsychopharmacology : the... Sep 2023Psilocybin is investigated as a fast-acting antidepressant used in conjunction with psychotherapy. Intact cognitive functions, including memory, are one of the basic... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
Psilocybin is investigated as a fast-acting antidepressant used in conjunction with psychotherapy. Intact cognitive functions, including memory, are one of the basic conditions of effective psychedelic-assisted therapy. While cognitive and memory processing is attenuated on various domains during psilocybin intoxication, the effect of psilocybin on the consolidation of memories learned outside of acute intoxication is not known. Thus the main aim of the current study was to test the effects of psilocybin on (A) memory consolidation of previously learned material just after the psilocybin session and (B) on overnight memory consolidation the night just after the psilocybin session. 20 healthy volunteers (10 M/10F) were enrolled in a placebo-controlled, double-blind, cross-over design. Effects on declarative memory consolidation in condition (A) The Groton Maze Learning Task and Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test were used, and for (B) the Pair Associative Learning Test was used. We did not find psilocybin to improve memory consolidation. At the same time, we did not find psilocybin to negatively affect memory consolidation in any of the tests used. This evidence adds to the safety profile for the use of psilocybin.
Topics: Humans; Hallucinogens; Memory; Memory Consolidation; Psilocybin; Sleep; Cross-Over Studies
PubMed: 37336163
DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2023.04.019 -
European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Sep 2023Previous studies demonstrated neurocognitive impairments in early-onset schizophrenia (EOS) and other psychotic spectrum disorders (PSD). This study aimed to compare...
Previous studies demonstrated neurocognitive impairments in early-onset schizophrenia (EOS) and other psychotic spectrum disorders (PSD). This study aimed to compare remitted and symptomatic cases in terms of neurocognition and theory of mind (ToM). 50 healthy controls (HC) and 106 patients diagnosed schizophrenia in remission (EOS-R, n = 38), symptomatic schizophrenia (EOS-S, n = 34), and other PSD (n = 34) were included in our study. The Positive and Negative Symptom Scale, Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale, Reactive and Proactive Aggression Questionnaire were used to evaluate psychopathology. A cognitive battery was conducted to measure verbal learning/memory, visual learning/memory, executive functions (EF), inhibition, processing speed (PS), verbal fluency skills. Reading Mind in Eyes Test (RMET) and Faux-Pas tests were implemented to assess ToM. Principal Component Analysis was used to identify cognitive domain scores. Patient groups had poorer performance in cognitive domains than the HC group. The cognitive impairment and psychopathology levels of EOS-R and the PSD groups were comparable for all cognitive domains. The EOS-S group also had poorer scores in Rey verbal learning score (d = 0.87), RMET (d = 0.72), verbal fluency (d = 0.66), PS/EF (d = 0.82) and visual learning/memory (d = 0.83) test scores than the PSD group. Only RMET (d = 0.72) and executive function/processing speed domain (d = 0.63) were significantly impaired in the EOS-S group than the EOS-R group Cognitive impairments seen in remitted psychotic disorders were on the same continuum. Impaired EF/PS and ToM skills could be a cognitive marker for symptomatic illness in youth.
Topics: Adolescent; Humans; Schizophrenia; Neuropsychological Tests; Psychotic Disorders; Cognitive Dysfunction; Cognition
PubMed: 35316416
DOI: 10.1007/s00787-022-01977-w -
Psychiatry Research. Neuroimaging Oct 2023We investigate the role of neuropsychological tests, including the learning potential, in predicting amyloid-beta positron emission tomography (Aβ-PET) status in...
We investigate the role of neuropsychological tests, including the learning potential, in predicting amyloid-beta positron emission tomography (Aβ-PET) status in amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). This cross-sectional study included 64 patients with aMCI (31 Aβ-PET (-) and 33 (+)) who visited a memory impairment clinic at Pusan National University Hospital between 2014 and 2019. Patients underwent Aβ-PET scans using 18F-florbetaben and the Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery. Learning potential was determined based on the difference in scores between the first and third trials of the Seoul Verbal Learning test (SVLT). Binary logistic regression was used to demonstrate the association between Aβ-PET status and cognitive tests. Predictive ability of cognitive tests for Aβ deposition was investigated using receiver operating characteristic curves analysis. From logistic regression models, the SVLT learning potential and Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (RCFT) delayed recall were found to predict Aβ-PET positivity. The areas under the curve (AUC) of the SVLT learning potential and RCFT delayed recall were significantly different from 0.5. Our findings of an association between Aβ deposition status and learning potential and visuospatial memory suggest that these cognitive tests could be used to screen patients with aMCI for Aβ deposition status.
Topics: Humans; Cross-Sectional Studies; Amyloid beta-Peptides; Positron-Emission Tomography; Cognitive Dysfunction; Neuropsychological Tests
PubMed: 37659242
DOI: 10.1016/j.pscychresns.2023.111705 -
Surface-based correlates of cognition along the Alzheimer's continuum in a memory clinic population.Frontiers in Neurology 2023Composite cognitive measures in large-scale studies with biomarker data for amyloid and tau have been widely used to characterize Alzheimer's disease (AD). However,...
Composite cognitive measures in large-scale studies with biomarker data for amyloid and tau have been widely used to characterize Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, little is known about how the findings from these studies translate to memory clinic populations without biomarker data, using single measures of cognition. Additionally, most studies have utilized voxel-based morphometry or limited surface-based morphometry such as cortical thickness, to measure the neurodegeneration associated with cognitive deficits. In this study, we aimed to replicate and extend the biomarker, composite study relationships using expanded surface-based morphometry and single measures of cognition in a memory clinic population. We examined 271 clinically diagnosed symptomatic individuals with mild cognitive impairment ( = 93) and Alzheimer's disease dementia ( = 178), as well as healthy controls ( = 29). Surface-based morphometry measures included cortical thickness, sulcal depth, and gyrification index within the "signature areas" of Alzheimer's disease. The cognitive variables pertained to hallmark features of Alzheimer's disease including verbal learning, verbal memory retention, and language, as well as executive function. The results demonstrated that verbal learning, language, and executive function correlated with the cortical thickness of the temporal, frontal, and parietal areas. Verbal memory retention was correlated to the thickness of temporal regions and gyrification of the inferior temporal gyrus. Language was related to the temporal regions and the supramarginal gyrus' sulcal depth and gyrification index. Executive function was correlated with the medial temporal gyrus and supramarginal gyrus sulcal depth, and the gyrification index of temporal regions and supramarginal gyrus, but not with the frontal areas. Predictions of each of these cognitive measures were dependent on a combination of structures and each of the morphometry measurements, and often included medial temporal gyrus thickness and sulcal depth. Overall, the results demonstrated that the relationships between cortical thinning and cognition are widespread and can be observed using single measures of cognition in a clinically diagnosed AD population. The utility of sulcal depth and gyrification index measures may be more focal to certain brain areas and cognitive measures. The relative importance of temporal, frontal, and parietal regions in verbal learning, language, and executive function, but not verbal memory retention, was replicated in this clinic cohort.
PubMed: 37731852
DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1214083 -
Frontiers in Neuroscience 2024, a uniquely human fusion gene, has been associated with neuropsychiatric disorders including Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, anxiety, and attention deficit...
INTRODUCTION
, a uniquely human fusion gene, has been associated with neuropsychiatric disorders including Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, anxiety, and attention deficit disorder. Understanding the physiological function of in the human brain is the first step to uncovering its role in disease. CHRFAM7A was identified as a potent modulator of intracellular calcium and an upstream regulator of Rac1 leading to actin cytoskeleton reorganization and a switch from filopodia to lamellipodia implicating a more efficient neuronal structure. We performed a neurocognitive-MRI correlation exploratory study on 46 normal human subjects to explore the effect of on human brain.
METHODS
Dual locus specific genotyping of was performed on genomic DNA to determine copy number (TaqMan assay) and orientation (capillary sequencing) of the alleles. As only the direct allele is expressed at the protein level and affects α7 nAChR function, direct allele carriers and non-carriers are compared for neuropsychological and MRI measures. Subjects underwent neuropsychological testing to measure motor (Timed 25-foot walk test, 9-hole peg test), cognitive processing speed (Symbol Digit Modalities Test), Learning and memory (California Verbal Learning Test immediate and delayed recall, Brief Visuospatial Memory Test-Revised immediate and delayed recall) and Beck Depression Inventory-Fast Screen, Fatigue Severity Scale. All subjects underwent MRI scanning on the same 3 T GE scanner using the same protocol. Global and tissue-specific volumes were determined using validated cross-sectional algorithms including FSL's Structural Image Evaluation, using Normalization, of Atrophy (SIENAX) and FSL's Integrated Registration and Segmentation Tool (FIRST) on lesion-inpainted images. The cognitive tests were age and years of education-adjusted using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Age-adjusted analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was performed on the MRI data.
RESULTS
direct allele carrier and non-carrier groups included 33 and 13 individuals, respectively. Demographic variables (age and years of education) were comparable. direct allele carriers demonstrated an upward shift in cognitive performance including cognitive processing speed, learning and memory, reaching statistical significance in visual immediate recall (FDR corrected = 0.018). The shift in cognitive performance was associated with smaller whole brain volume (uncorrected = 0.046) and lower connectivity by resting state functional MRI in the visual network (FDR corrected = 0.027) accentuating the cognitive findings.
CONCLUSION
These data suggest that direct allele carriers harbor a more efficient brain consistent with the cellular biology of actin cytoskeleton and synaptic gain of function. Further larger human studies of cognitive measures correlated with MRI and functional imaging are needed to decipher the impact of on brain function.
PubMed: 38711941
DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1359028 -
Asia-Pacific Journal of Oncology Nursing Nov 2023This narrative review aims to (1) identify neuropsychological tests for assessing cognitive function impairment in patients with cancer, specifically in the domains of... (Review)
Review
OBJECTIVE
This narrative review aims to (1) identify neuropsychological tests for assessing cognitive function impairment in patients with cancer, specifically in the domains of attention and memory, (2) summarize the characteristics of these tests, including cognitive function domains, test content, readability, and psychometric quality, and (3) evaluate the feasibility of each test in cancer care.
METHODS
Data sources include published test manuals, documents from official web pages, and published journal articles.
RESULTS
Our study identified eight neuropsychological tests that are most frequently used to assess the attention and memory domains of objective cognitive function in patients with breast cancer. These tests include the California Verbal Learning Test, Hopkins Verbal Learning Test, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure, CNS Vital Signs, Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, Wechsler Memory Scale, and Trail Making Test. They demonstrate acceptable evidence of psychometric quality and varying degrees of feasibility. Test feasibility is influenced by factors such as short testing time, brevity and comprehensiveness, clear cognitive domain distinctions, availability of normative data, minimal practice effects, ease of administration, and limited attention-span requirements. These attributes determine a test's feasibility for use in cancer care. Among the evaluated measures, the California Verbal Learning Test for memory, the Trail Making Test for attention, and the CNS Vital Signs for comprehensive assessment emerge as the most practical choices for cancer care.
CONCLUSIONS
The assessment and management of cognitive function impairment are crucial for enhancing the quality of life in cancer survivors. Nurses should possess knowledge of assessment tools for early detection and the ongoing monitoring of this symptom's progression.
PubMed: 37928414
DOI: 10.1016/j.apjon.2023.100309 -
BMC Geriatrics Nov 2023Food insecurity (FI) remains a global public health problem. FI is more prevalent in low-and middle-income countries than high-income countries. FI is related with worse...
BACKGROUND
Food insecurity (FI) remains a global public health problem. FI is more prevalent in low-and middle-income countries than high-income countries. FI is related with worse cognitive outcomes including cognitive function, cognitive decline, and cognitive impairment. Few studies have sought to identify how patterns of FI relate with cognitive function in old age and the potential mechanisms underlying this association.
METHODS
Data from the 2015 and 2018 waves of the Mexican Health and Aging Study (n = 9,654, age 50+) were used in this study. Reports of FI in 2015 and 2018 were combined to create four patterns of FI groups: "persistently food secure", "became food secure", "became food insecure", and "persistently food insecure". Linear regression was used to estimate associations between patterns of FI and cognitive task performance. The mediating roles of depressive symptoms, body mass index, and chronic conditions were tested using Karlson, Holm, and Breen methodology.
RESULTS
Approximately half of the sample were persistently food secure, 17% became food secure, 14% became FI, and 15% experienced persistent FI. When adjusting for demographic/socioeconomic confounders, persistent FI related with worse Verbal Learning, Verbal Recall, Visual Scanning, and Verbal Fluency performance compared to the persistently food secure. Becoming FI related with worse Verbal Learning, Visual Scanning, and Verbal Fluency. Mediation analyses provided support for depressive symptoms mediating associations between FI and poorer cognition, where 48% of the association between persistent FI and worse Verbal Recall performance was attributed to higher depressive symptoms. Becoming food secure was not associated with cognitive performance compared to the persistently food secure.
CONCLUSIONS
FI may represent an important modifiable risk factor for poorer cognitive outcomes among older adults. Public health efforts should focus on providing stable food access to older adults, especially those living in poverty.
Topics: Humans; Aged; Food Supply; Cognition; Poverty; Risk Factors; Food Insecurity
PubMed: 38036962
DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04497-7 -
Child Neuropsychology : a Journal on... Aug 2023Associations between children's early language processing efficiency and later verbal and non-verbal outcomes shed light on the extent to which early information...
Associations between children's early language processing efficiency and later verbal and non-verbal outcomes shed light on the extent to which early information processing skills support later learning across different domains of function. Examining whether the strengths of associations are similar in typically developing and at-risk populations provides an additional lens into the varying routes to learning that children may take across development. In this follow-up study, children born full-term (FT, = 49) and preterm (PT, = 45, ≤32 weeks gestational age, birth weight <1800 g) were assessed in the Looking While Listening (LWL) task at 18 months (corrected for degree of prematurity in PT group). This eye-tracking task assesses efficiency of real-time spoken language comprehension as accuracy and speed (RT) of processing. At 4 ½ years, children were assessed on standardized tests of receptive vocabulary, expressive language, and non-verbal IQ. Language processing efficiency was associated with both language outcomes (-change: 7.0-19.7%, < 0.01), after covariates. Birth group did not moderate these effects, suggesting similar mechanisms of learning in these domains for PT and FT children. However, birth group moderated the association between speed and non-verbal IQ (-change: 4.5%, < 0.05), such that an association was found in the PT but not the FT group. This finding suggests that information processing skills reflected in efficiency of real-time language processing may be recruited to support learning in a broader range of verbal and non-verbal domains in the PT compared to the FT group.
Topics: Infant, Newborn; Humans; Child; Follow-Up Studies; Language; Infant, Premature; Vocabulary; Language Development; Cognition; Language Tests
PubMed: 36324057
DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2022.2138304 -
Applied Neuropsychology. Adult 2024SARS-CoV-2 infection has a wide range of both acute and long-term symptoms. Memory alterations have been frequently reported in studies that explore cognition. The main...
SARS-CoV-2 infection has a wide range of both acute and long-term symptoms. Memory alterations have been frequently reported in studies that explore cognition. The main objective of the systematic review is to update and further analyze the existing evidence of objective memory impairments in long-COVID-19 considering sample and study design characteristics, as well as to explore associations between memory performance and their epidemiological, clinical, and pathological features. A total of 13 studies were identified by searching in PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycInfo databases up to May 6, 2022. Most studies evaluated verbal component of memory in the short-term and long-term recall up to 30 min and mainly performed a single assessment completed at 4-6 months after the infection. The samples mainly consisted of middle-aged adults that required hospitalization. Samples were not stratified by sex, age, and severity. Poor verbal learning was reported in most cases (6-58%), followed by deficits in long-term (4-58%) and short-term (4-37%) verbal memory. Visuospatial component of memory was studied less than verbal component, showing impairment of long-term retention of visual items (10-49%). COVID-19 severity in the acute stage was not systematically associated with poor memory performance. Verbal memory deficits were associated with anxiety and depression. The existing literature on objective memory assessment in long-COVID suggests further research is warranted to confirm memory dysfunction in association with epidemiological, pathological, and clinical factors, using both verbal and visuospatial tests, and exploring in deep long-term memory deficits.
Topics: Adult; Middle Aged; Humans; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome; COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; Memory; Mental Disorders; Memory Disorders
PubMed: 36108666
DOI: 10.1080/23279095.2022.2123739