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AbstractWith cognitive plasticity being a “sluggish” process, regular long-term engagement in interventions like cognitive training is required to realize the potential that such interventions may confer for cognitive enhancement. A significant challenge associated with extended cognitive training studies is poor adherence and attrition. The current qualitative investigation therefore explored 66 older adult participants’ experiences of, and motivations during, a gamified cognitive training program to understand reasons for (non)adherence. Preferences regarding cognitive training were also explored to provide insight into how such programs might be designed and implemented to maximize motivation and long-term engagement. Using a qualitative description design drawing upon thematic analysis, findings revealed that participants were generally motivated by challenge, novelty, and opportunity to focus. In contrast, repetition, external factors, and negative mindsets detracted from the motivation of participants. Suggestions to improve cognitive training programs to promote long-term engagement included the addition of a large selection of games, an incentive system, mini daily challenges, reminder notifications, and social features. These findings may inform the design of cognitive training programs that accommodate the preferences and needs of older adults, which in turn, may promote adherence and improve intervention effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Background Methods Results Conclusions Clinical high risk (CHR) youth are known to exhibit cognitive deficits at similar levels to their more severally ill counter parts. Cognitive training (CT) programs offer a promising method for early intervention and the prevention of further cognitive decline in this vulnerable population. However, there are few structured CT intervention programs addressing the needs of CHR youth in LMICs of the Middle East.We conducted a study in the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department of Razi University Hospital. Patients were assessed by trained raters with the “Comprehensive Assessment of At‐Risk Mental States” to confirm their CHR status. Cognitive Training (CT) was combined with the Neuropsychological Educational Approach to Remediation (CT‐NEAR) as part of a social rehabilitation program. We enrolled 25 CHR patients and examined several domains of cognitive functioning and evaluated daily functioning prior to starting the intervention and after completion.There were 20 patients who completed the study. The CT‐NEAR group (n = 10) completed an average number 28.33 sessions over 12 weeks, which were matched for therapist time with the TAU group (n = 10). We found statistically significant improvements in CT‐NEAR versus TAU in several cognitive domains; such as cognitive flexibility, memory‐short and long‐term, and verbal fluency. Also, CT‐NEAR versus TAU patients improved in global functioning.Our findings indicate that cognitive remediation versus TAU for Tunisian CHR youth is feasible and effective especially in improving cognitive functioning when delivered in a social rehabilitation context (Bridging Group) and extends to global level of functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With the increasing global aging population, the health and welfare of elderly individuals, especially individuals with prevalent mild cognitive impairment (MCI) living in nursing homes, have become critical concerns. These concerns highlight the urgency of developing effective interventions to address the cognitive and psychological needs of elderly individuals, ensuring their well-being and alleviating the burden on their caregivers. Objective: This study investigates the impact of wooden toy training on mitigating cognitive decline in elderly individuals with cognitive impairment. It evaluates how this training influences cognitive functions and psychological well-being, exploring whether it can slow or reverse the progression of cognitive decline. This outcome will be assessed in a randomized controlled trial, in which changes in cognitive ability and psychological health indicators among the participants will be measured. Design: A two-arm, open-label, cluster-randomized controlled trial. Setting(s): The study was conducted in two nursing homes, which served as both the recruitment sites for participants and the intervention locations. These nursing homes were selected for their ability to facilitate the intervention and for their representative demographic characteristics of the elderly population. The settings provided a controlled environment that was conducive to implementing the wooden toy training program and observing its effects on the participants. Participants: A total of 76 elderly participants with mild cognitive impairment but functional independence were recruited. Methods: Participants were randomized into an intervention group and a control group. The intervention group engaged in an 8-week wooden toy training program, whereas those in the control cohort received customary nursing care. Standardized cognitive and psychological well-being measures were used to assess improvements in cognitive performance and mental health. Results: Significant improvements were observed in the cognitive functions of the intervention group from a baseline score of M = 13.11 to M = 16.29 postintervention (95% CI [-4.44, -1.93]), along with reductions in depressive symptoms from a baseline score of M = 8.63 to M = 7.18 (95% CI [0.38, 2.51]). Additionally, engagement in activities with wooden toys significantly satisfied their need for competence, increasing from a baseline of M = 16.29 to M = 20 postintervention (95% CI [-5.92, -1.51]), and relatedness, which improved from a baseline of M = 20.32 to M = 22.95 (95% CI [-4.73, -0.53]). Conclusions: This study underscores the potential of a wooden toy intervention in nursing homes that combines cognitive challenges with traditional cultural elements to improve cognitive functions in elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment. Our findings suggest a novel method of promoting the cognitive and psychological health of nursing home residents through emotional comfort and social interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In systems and network neuroscience, many common practices in brain connectomic analysis are often not properly scrutinized. One such practice is mapping a predetermined set of sub-circuits, like functional networks (FNs), onto subjects' functional connectomes (FCs) without adequately assessing the information-theoretic appropriateness of the partition. Another practice that goes unchallenged is thresholding weighted FCs to remove spurious connections without justifying the chosen threshold. This paper leverages recent theoretical advances in Stochastic Block Models (SBMs) to formally define and quantify the information-theoretic fitness (e.g., prominence) of a predetermined set of FNs when mapped to individual FCs under different fMRI task conditions. Our framework allows for evaluating any combination of FC granularity, FN partition, and thresholding strategy, thereby optimizing these choices to preserve the important topological features of the human brain connectomes. By applying to the Human Connectome Project with Schaefer parcellations at multiple levels of granularity, the framework showed that the common thresholding value of 0.25 was indeed information-theoretically valid for group-average FCs, despite its previous lack of justification. Our results pave the way for the proper use of FNs and thresholding methods, and provide insights for future research in individualized parcellations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents an interview with Marie Darrieussecq, exploring themes of transformation and plasticity in her literary work. Topics include her perspective on material transformation beyond psychological evolution, the influence of philosophical ideas like neuroplasticity, and how her narratives address the dynamic nature of bodies and worlds.

Background and objectives: This study aims to develop a machine learning-based approach to predict adherence to gamified cognitive training using a variety of baseline measures (demographic, attitudinal, and cognitive abilities) as well as game performance data. We aimed to: (1) identify the cognitive games with the strongest adherence prediction and their key performance indicators; (2) compare baseline characteristics and game performance indicators for adherence prediction, and (3) test ensemble models that use baseline characteristics and game performance data to predict adherence over ten weeks. Research design and method: Using machine learning algorithms including logistic regression, ridge regression, support vector machines, classification trees, and random forests, we predicted adherence from weeks 3 to 12. Predictors included game performance metrics in the first two weeks and baseline measures. These models' robustness and generalizability were tested through five-fold cross-validation. Results: The findings indicated that game performance measures were superior to baseline characteristics in predicting adherence. Notably, the games "Supply Run," "Ante Up," and "Sentry Duty" emerged as significant adherence predictors. Key performance indicators included the highest level achieved, total game sessions played, and overall gameplay proportion. A notable finding was the negative correlation between initial high achievement levels and sustained adherence, suggesting that maintaining a balanced difficulty level is crucial for long-term engagement. Conversely, a positive correlation between the number of sessions played and adherence highlighted the importance of early active involvement. Discussion and implications: The insights from this research inform just-in-time strategies to promote adherence to cognitive training programs, catering to the needs and abilities of the aging population. It also underscores the potential of tailored, gamified interventions to foster long-term adherence to cognitive training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Absrtact: Objective: To evaluate the effects of various non-pharmacological interventions on patients with cognitive impairment by systematic search and network meta-analysis, and to rank the effects of the included non-pharmacological interventions. Methods: The databases of PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMbase, Web of Science, CNKI, VIP, WANFANG, and SinoMed were searched by computer. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of non-pharmacological interventions for people with cognitive frailty were collected. The search was conducted from 2000 to February 2024. Two reviewers independently screened the studies, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias of the included studies, and then used Stata15 and R4.3.1 software to conduct network meta-analysis, with physical function and cognitive function as the main outcome indicators. Results: A total of 19 randomized controlled trials involving 1738 patients were included. The results of network meta-analysis showed that among the non-pharmacological interventions, nutritional support had the best effect on improving frailty scores and cognitive function scores in patients with cognitive frailty. Aerobic training combined with resistance training is best for improving grip strength. For improving the patient's motor status, cognitive training had the best effect on improving TUG test scores. High-speed resistance training is best for improving walking speed. Conclusion: This review analyses the current study of non-pharmacological interventions to improve physical performance in patients with cognitive frailty. Current evidence suggests that nutritional support is most effective at improving physical frailty and cognitive decline in patients with cognitive frailty, and that exercise and cognitive training interventions significantly improve grip strength and motor ability. Trial registration: This meta-analysis was prospectively registered with PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42023486881). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objectives Methods Results and Conclusions With the increasing availability of immersive technologies such as 360° videos for educational purposes, research needs to shift from media comparison studies to value‐added studies in order to identify conditions for effective learning with such technologies. For the educational use of history‐related virtual reality media, which are characterized by immersion and emotionalization, instructional approaches that promote cognitive and critical rather than emotional processing of the content are required.Drawing on research on self‐regulated learning, emotion regulation, and collaborative learning, the present value‐added study examines whether (1) strategy training in cognitive and emotion regulation strategies and (2) collaboration can enhance students' cognitive processing of history‐related 360° videos.In a quasi‐experimental study with school students (N = 157), we compared the effects of training addressing cognitive and emotion regulation strategies with training focusing on cognitive strategies alone. Before and during each of the two types of training, students were asked to either collaboratively or individually analyse a history‐related 360° video.Training in cognitive strategies alone promotes cognitive processing of 360° videos, while combined training leads to more emotional processing. Collaboration helps students to analyse a history‐related 360° video in a cognitive and reflective way before training and to acquire the cognitive strategies during the training. After training, however, students who had previously collaborated processed the video more emotionally than students who had previously worked alone. This study highlights the importance of tailored instructional approaches to maximize the educational potential of immersive technologies in history education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Racial disparities in diagnosis, treatment, and outcome have been well-established for people with schizophrenia. While cognitive remediation treatments have been shown to produce mild to moderate improvements in cognition for people with schizophrenia, few studies have examined racial/ethnic differences in treatment response. This study employed a secondary analysis of data from two randomized, single-blind controlled trials (N = 119) investigating the efficacy of two forms of cognitive training, to explore potential racial/ethnic differences in targeted outcomes. Given the extant literature, we predicted that racial/ethnic minorities would (1) drop out of the study at higher rates, (2) display greater levels of functional and cognitive impairment prior to treatment, and (3) display lower levels of improvement in cognitive and functioning outcomes following treatment. Our study revealed largely negative findings: white vs. non-white groups showed similar treatment drop-out rates, similar levels of cognitive impairment and symptom severity at study baseline and showed similar responses to cognitive training, with the exception of working memory in which participants' racial/ethnic minority status predicted significantly greater improvement in response to cognitive training. These findings suggest that cognitive remediation treatments are effective at addressing cognitive deficits in racial/ethnic minorities and supports cognitive remediation as a treatment which may help address racial/ethnic disparities in cognition. Given the scant research literature, future analyses should look at race as a potential mediator of treatment in a variety of evidence-based psychosocial treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cognitive diagnosis is a crucial element of intelligent education that aims to assess the proficiency of specific skills or traits in students at a refined level and provide insights into their strengths and weaknesses for personalized learning. Researchers have developed numerous cognitive diagnostic models. However, previous studies indicate that diagnostic accuracy can be significantly influenced by the appropriateness of the model and the sample size. Thus, designing a general model that can adapt to different assumptions and sample sizes remains a considerable challenge. Artificial neural networks have been proposed as a promising approach in some studies. In this paper, we propose a cognitive diagnosis model of a neural network constrained by a Q-matrix and named QNN. Specifically, we employ the Q-matrix to determine the connections between neurons and the width and depth of the neural network. Moreover, to reduce the human effort in the training algorithm, we designed a self-organizing map-based cognitive diagnosis training framework called SOM-NN, which enables the QNN to be trained unsupervised. Extensive experimental results on simulated and real datasets demonstrate that our approaches are effective in both accuracy and interpretability. Notably, under unsupervised conditions, our approach has significant advantages on small sample datasets with high levels of guessing and slipping, especially on the pattern-wise agreement rates. This work bridges the gap between psychometrics and machine learning and provides a realistic and implementable reference solution for classroom instructional assessment and the cold start of personalized and adaptive assessment systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Higher cardiorespiratory fitness has been associated with improved cognitive control in preadolescent children, with various studies highlighting related brain health benefits. This cross-sectional study aimed to provide novel insights into the fitness-cognition relationship by investigating task-related changes in effective connectivity within two brain networks involved in cognitive control: the cingulo-opercular and fronto-parietal networks. Twenty-four higher-fit and twenty-four lower-fit preadolescent children completed a modified flanker task that modulated inhibitory control demand while their EEG and task performance were concurrently recorded. Effective connectivity for correct trials in the theta band was estimated using directed transfer function. The results indicate that children with higher fitness levels demonstrated greater connectivity in specific directions within the cingulo-opercular network (average effect size, d = 0.72). Brain-behavior correlations demonstrated a positive association between the majority of these connections and general task accuracy, which was also higher in higher fit children (average correlation coefficient, ρ = 0.34). The findings further support a positive relationship between fitness and cognitive performance in children. EEG findings offer novel insights into the potential brain mechanisms underlying the fitness-cognition relationship. The study suggests that increased task-related connectivity within the cingulo-opercular network may mediate the cognitive benefits associated with higher fitness levels in preadolescent children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Working memory (WM) impairment is a common phenomenon after stroke; however, its management in rehabilitation is less researched. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to provide a quantitative synthesis of the impact of computerised cognitive training (CCT) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on WM span in post-stroke individuals. Methods: The literature search in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library focused on randomized controlled trials testing the effect of CCT and tDCS on treated stroke patients as compared to untreated controls. Neuropsychological instruments such as Digit Span Forward/Backward and Visual Span Forward Tests defined the outcome of WM span. After extracting study characteristics and quality assessment using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool, we conducted a meta-analysis and meta-regression using standardised mean differences. Results: The search yielded 4142 articles, nine of which (N = 461) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. In the case of CCT, we found significant improvement in Digit Span Backward Test (Z = 2.65, P = 0.008; 95% CI [0.10, 0.67]) and Visual Span Forward Test performance (Z = 3.05, P = 0.002; 95% CI [0.15, 0.69]), while for tDCS, we could not find a sufficient number of studies for the analysis. Furthermore, no significant moderating factor was found in the meta-regression. Conclusions: In conclusion, CCT appears to be a suitable choice to enhance WM span performance after stroke. However, further research is needed to investigate the effect of tDCS due to the limited number of studies. Trial registration: The meta-analysis was conducted according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) standards with a PROSPERO registration protocol (ID: CRD42023387182). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cognitive training has gained popularity as a means to aid older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a transitional phase between normal ageing and Alzheimer's disease (AD). MCI represents a critical and potentially reversible state that can either improve or progress to full‐blown dementia. This study aims to evaluate the impact of cognitive training on cognitive function in aged patients with MCI. PubMed, Embase, Medline, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang databases were systematically retrieved from inception until May 2024. We rigorously applied the risk‐of‐bias methodology recommended by the Cochrane Handbook to assess the quality of the included studies. After two rounds of screening and removing duplicates, a total of 2685 articles were initially identified, from which 28 met the inclusion criteria. The meta‐analysis included 28 randomised controlled trials with 1960 participants. In this meta‐analysis, Review Manager 5.4 was used for statistical analysis. Findings revealed that cognitive training significantly improved the global cognitive function in aged MCI patients, as evidenced by the results of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (standard mean difference (SMD) = 3.26; 95% CI, 2.69–3.82; P < 0.00001) and Mini‐Mental State Examination (SMD = 2.27; 95% CI, 1.52–3.01; P < 0.00001). The beneficial effects of cognitive training interventions were consistent regardless of duration, including periods of 2 months or less (SMD = 1.94; 95% CI, 1.25–2.63; P < 0.00001), 2 to 6 months (SMD = 2.53; 95% CI, 1.52–3.53; P < 0.00001), and over 6 months (SMD = 4.12; 95% CI, 0.97–7.27; P = 0.01). The analysis indicates that cognitive training significantly benefits overall cognitive function, delayed memory, orientation, attention, and language skills in aged patients with MCI. Furthermore, cognitive training interventions are effective in enhancing cognitive function, irrespective of their duration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction The Control Network Neuromodulation to Enhance Cognitive Training in Complex Traumatic Brain Injury (CONNECT-TBI) study is an ongoing randomized, double-blinded, sham-controlled multisite clinical trial to determine the enhancing effects of noninvasive neuromodulation when paired with cognitive training in military participants (Veterans and active duty) with mild TBI. Attention Process Training-III (APT-III) was selected for its strong evidence base, manualized procedures, and computerized program. However, many aspects of APT-III that make it ideal for personalization make it less ideal for reliable implementation across participants, clinicians/technicians, and sites. The purpose of this feature article is to highlight APT-III procedures that require additional standardization for reliable administration across participants and sites. Materials and Methods Ten studies using APT-III were reviewed for methodology of APT-III administration. The manual was also scrutinized; aspects of administration that involved clinical decision-making, subjectivity, flexibility, and/or that were identified by the APT-III developers as areas in need of "empirical evaluation" were flagged by clinicians. Literature and manual review findings were presented to the team for discussion and solution-finding. The authors created and refined a standardized process that would allow participants to move through APT-III training, including task movement algorithms and new materials drafts. Refining of algorithms and drafts continued until there was a consensus from team members. Results Many gray areas were identified, but we will limit our reporting to focus on (1) dosage, (2) adaptation, (3) metacognitive strategy instruction, and (4) goal attainment scaling. We present APT-III manual details, literature review findings, and CONNECT-TBI decisions and materials for each of these areas of focus. Conclusions We have highlighted some of the major gray areas of APT-III administration so that fellow researchers can understand the need to take similar steps in clinical trials using APT-III. We provide examples of our standardization process and resultant rules and materials. Our algorithm, based on prior studies using the APT-III and our own iterative adjustments, allows for adjustment of the difficulty and speed of the training tasks (but within certain parameters) in order to achieve the best balance between individualization and consistency across participants and sites. We provide an example of a workflow and reporting process for future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To characterize Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD) in Parkinson's disease (PD) and its progression, as well as to assess the impact of rehabilitation training programs on cognitive function in PD patients. Patients and Methods: The study involved 42 patients diagnosed with PD. Participants underwent evaluation using a neuropsychological protocol and were subsequently classified into two groups: those with SCD (PD-SCD+, n= 22) or those without (PD-SCD−, n= 20). After an average follow-up period of 3.0 years (2.7– 4.6 years), cognitive assessments were reiterated with the same group of subjects. Following the re-assessment, all 42 patients participated in a six-month rehabilitation training program, concluding with the reevaluation of cognitive performance. Results: In the follow-up assessment, it was observed that PD-SCD+ experienced a more pronounced annual decline in cognitive function, as measured by the Chinese-Beijing version of Montreal Cognitive Assessment (BJ-MoCA) test and semantic fluency, compared to PD-SCD−. A stepwise logistic regression analysis identified low MMSE scores (P< 0.001), elevated HAMD scores (P= 0.008), male gender (P= 0.026), and the presence of SCD (P= 0.022) associated with diminished language skills in PD patients. Both groups of PD patients exhibited improvements in BJ-MoCA scores after participating a six-month rehabilitation training program. Particularly notable is the statistically significant improvement in language skills observed in patients with PD-SCD+ compared to PD-SCD− patients following rehabilitation training. Conclusion: As PD progresses, individuals with PD-SCD+ tend to experience more pronounced cognitive decline compared to those with PD-SCD−. Semantic fluency emerges as a crucial component for assessing the cognitive subset of PD, potentially serving as an indicator of cognitive decline in individuals with PD. Evidence suggests that rehabilitation training is a viable intervention for individuals diagnosed with PD. This intervention not only improves various cognitive domains but also leads to more substantial enhancements in language skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effects of math training on math and cognitive performance among 8–9 year-old students with low attention. Fifty-six students with low attention were randomly assigned to a training group (n = 24) and a passive control group (n = 32). They completed math problem-solving, calculation fluency and PASS cognitive processing tests both before and after training. The children in the training group received 3 days of training per week for a total of 21 days using the math modules of The Children's Mathematics and Cognition Training Manual in Chinese. The results showed that the training group's math problem-solving performance improved significantly. Moreover, the cognitive performance on the CAS-2 in the planning and simultaneous processing tests for the training group was enhanced. The implications of these findings are discussed with consideration of the interpretability being constrained by the fact that no active control condition was applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation method that has been suggested as a possible treatment method for cognitive impairment in patients with Alzheimer's Disease (pwAD), similar to multidomain cognitive training (CT). The effectiveness, however, of combining these techniques for pwAD remains controversial due to the variability in rTMS parameters, differences in CT protocol designs—many of which neglect the language domain—and the inclusion of patients at various stages of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and with different types of dementia. The current review aims to evaluate the cognitive benefits of combining rTMS with CT, including language training, for individuals with mild to moderate AD. An extensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library with relevant terms, resulting in nine studies with a total of 290 participants [190 in the Active Group (AG) and 100 in the Control Group (CG)]. The comprehensive review of the articles revealed that the combined treatment improved global cognitive function, as well as neurocognitive, neuropsychiatric, and quality of life in the AG. Nevertheless, these results should be interpreted cautiously, given the relatively small number of existing studies on this specific combination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cognitive impairment is a common complication following spinal cord injury (SCI) and imposes a significant negative impact on adjustment, functional independence, physical and mental health, and quality of life. It is unclear whether interventions for cognitive impairment following SCI are effective. A systematic review of controlled trials was performed to evaluate the effect of interventions on cognitive functions in adults with SCI using search engines: Embase, The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL, and Web of Science up to December 2023. Two reviewers independently screened the articles, and study findings were synthesized and summarized. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool. Eight moderate-quality studies were found that investigated the effects of physical exercise/activity-based therapy plus cognitive training or intermittent hypoxia, diet modification and dietary supplements, tibial nerve or cortical stimulation, and drug therapy on cognitive function in SCI. Physical exercise/activity–based therapy plus cognitive training showed most promise for improving cognitive functions, while drug therapy, diet modification, and dietary supplements showed potential for improving cognitive function. However, about half of the participants experienced heightened instability in blood pressure following the administration of midodrine, and one participant reported gastrointestinal side effects after taking omega-3 fatty acids. There was no evidence of improvement in cognitive function for stimulation techniques. The current review highlights the scarcity of research investigating the effectiveness of interventions that target cognitive function after SCI. Further, the effects of these eight studies are uncertain due to concerns about the quality of designs and small sample sizes utilized in the trials, as well as the employment of insensitive neurocognitive tests when applied to adults with SCI. This review highlights a significant gap in knowledge related to SCI cognitive rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the storage capacity is limited, accumulating studies have indicated that working memory (WM) can be improved by cognitive training. However, understanding how exactly the brain copes with limited WM capacity and how cognitive training optimizes the brain remains inconclusive. Given the hierarchical functional organization of WM, we hypothesized that the activation profiles along the posterior-anterior gradient of the frontal and parietal cortices characterize WM load and training effects. To test this hypothesis, we recruited 51 healthy volunteers and adopted a parametric WM paradigm and training method. In contrast to exclusively strengthening the activation of posterior areas, a broader range of activation concurrently occurred in the anterior areas to cope with increased memory load for all subjects at baseline. Moreover, there was an imbalance in the responses of the posterior and anterior areas to the same increment of 1 item at different load levels. Although a general decrease in activation after adaptive training, the changes in the posterior and anterior areas were distinct at different memory loads. Particularly, we found that the activation gradient between the posterior and anterior areas was significantly increased at load 4-back after adaptive training, and the changes were correlated with improvement in WM performance. Together, our results demonstrate a shift in the predominant role of posterior and anterior areas in the frontal and parietal cortices when approaching WM capacity limits. Additionally, the training-induced performance improvement likely benefits from the elevated neural efficiency reflected in the increased activation gradient between the posterior and anterior areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Skilful arthroscopy requires an aboveaverage level of manual dexterity. It is evident that particular motor skills can be learned and trained before arthroscopic training. The aim of this prospective cohort study was to investigate the impact of movement‐related cognitive training on the learning curve during arthroscopic basic training. Methods: Fifty right‐handed participants without arthroscopic experience were matched to an intervention group (n = 25) and a control group (n = 25). Prior to basic arthroscopic skill training with a simulator, the intervention group underwent 12 weeks of movement‐related cognitive training. Cognitive and motor skills were assessed in both groups by using standardised tests (CogniFit test, angle reproduction test, two‐arm coordination test) as a pretest and, for the intervention group, again before arthroscopic training as a posttest. For arthroscopic simulator training, three tasks ('Telescoping', 'Periscoping', 'Triangulation') from the Fundamentals of Arthroscopic Surgery Training module were selected and practiced 10 times with the camera in the right and left hands. The learning progress was quantified by exercise time, camera path length and hook path length. Results: No significant differences in sex distribution, age distribution or the results of the pretests between the intervention group (n = 21) and the control group (n = 25) were found (n.s.). The intervention group improved significantly from the pretest to the posttest in the CogniFit (p = 0.003) and two‐arm coordination test in terms of time (p < 0.001) and errors (p = 0.002) but not in the angle reproduction test. No significant differences were found between the groups for the three arthroscopic tasks. Conclusion: The hypothesis that movement‐related cognitive training shortens the learning curve for acquiring arthroscopic basic skills cannot be confirmed. Other factors influencing the learning curve such as talent, teaching method and motivation have a greater impact on the acquisition of complex motor skills. Level of Evidence: Level II. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The study aimed at examining the effectiveness of cognitive-motor dual-task and single-task cognitive training on executive and attention functions in participants over 65 years of age. Methods: The study comprised 68 participants. They were randomly assigned to dual-task cognitive-motor training (DTT), single-task cognitive training (STT) or a control group (C). The training program in all groups encompassed 4 weeks and consisted of three, 30-min meetings a week. Specialized software was designed for the purposes of the study. Both before and after the training, the cognitive functioning was assessed using: Color Trials Test, Ruff Figural Fluency Test, Wisconsin Sorting Card Test, Digit Span, Verbal Fluency Test, Stroop Color-Word Test. Results: After the cognitive-motor training, improvement was achieved in the control and inhibition of reactions. Moreover, after the cognitive training, improvements in abstract thinking and categorization were reported. Conclusion: Despite the small sample limitation, the preliminary result shows each form of the training supports a different aspect of executive functions but does not contribute to the improvement in attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alterations in vestibular sensory processing following G-transitions lead to head movement sensitivity and motion sickness upon return to Earth's gravity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether a non-pharmaceutical tool using dual, opposing-phase galvanic vestibular stimulation (oGVS) could suppress disorienting illusions and mitigate motion sickness. Using a repeated measures counter-balanced design, motion sickness and perception were obtained in 27 subjects during Coriolis cross-coupling stimuli on a rotating chair across three oGVS interventions: throughout stimulus testing (prevention), following symptom onset (rescue), and without stimulation (control). The oGVS peak current was ±2.25 mA during prevention and rescue sessions. During pitch head movements, subjects were asked to use a joystick to record the magnitude of their perceived rotation along three axes. The motion sickness symptom scoring was obtained using the Pensacola Diagnostic Index and Subjective Discomfort Rating. Performance on a sensorimotor and cognitive test battery was measured during an initial session to map changes in oGVS level with functional performance. The symptom onset was delayed during the Prevention session. Initiating oGVS following symptom onset did not appear to alter the symptom progression. Based on the joystick measures, oGVS reduced the perceived roll and pitch sensation during head movements. The comparable levels of oGVS did not impair performance on the functional test battery including mobility, balance and oculometric tasks. Our findings suggest oGVS may be useful in reducing disorienting roll and pitch illusions and delaying the onset of motion sickness. • Dual opposing-phase galvanic vestibular stimulation delays the onset of motion sickness. • Dual opposing-phase galvanic vestibular stimulation suppresses vestibular sensitivity by modifying disorienting illusions. • Dual opposing-phase galvanic vestibular stimulation does not affect functional fitness tasks and cognitive performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia (TRS) represents a main clinical issue, associated with worse psychopathological outcomes, a more disrupted neurobiological substrate, and poorer neurocognitive performance across several domains, especially in verbal abilities. If cognitive impairment is a major determinant of patients' functional outcomes and quality of life, targeting cognitive dysfunction becomes even more crucial in TRS patients in order to minimize cognitive and functional deterioration. However, although Cognitive Remediation Therapy (CRT) represents the best available tool to treat cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia, specific evidence of its efficacy in TRS is lacking. Based on these premises, our study aimed at investigating possible differences in CRT outcomes in a sample of 150 patients with schizophrenia, stratified according to antipsychotic response (TRS vs. non-TRS). Subjects were assessed for neurocognition through Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS) and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) at baseline and after CRT. As expected, we observed greater baseline impairment among TRS patients in BACS-Verbal Memory and WCST-Executive Functions. Repeated measures ANCOVAs showed significant within-group pre-/post-CRT differences in the above-mentioned domains, both among non-TRS and TRS subjects. However, after CRT, no differences were observed between groups. This is the first study to indicate that CRT represents a highly valuable resource for TRS patients, since it may be able to fill the cognitive gap between treatment response groups. Our finding further highlights the importance of early implementation of CRT in addition to pharmacotherapy to reduce the cognitive and functional burden associated with the disease, especially for TRS patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Participants from an outpatient treatment program for cognitive disorders have been offered bridging measures because of limited access to the outpatient clinic during a Covid-19-caused lock-down. The aim of this study was to assess perceived stress, acceptance, and appreciation of the measures among patients and their caregivers compared to the previous bridging measure. Forty participants were offered treatment in person or online depending on their cognitive performance level. To evaluate acceptance, data collected from clinical routine was incorporated into a treatment observation. The evaluation of bridging measures by 25 participants was positive. Perceived stress was moderate to high among participants and has increased significantly compared to previous special treatment. Perceived stress in older patients had increased over the course of the pandemic. Bridging measures represented a treatment alternative and may offer previously untapped potential for location-independent psychosocial treatments in order to ameliorate both the patients' and their caregivers' convenience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advancement of digital technology has spurred the proliferation of data, creating a pressing need for efficient storage solutions. In this regard, memristors have emerged as promising contenders as next‐generation non‐volatile memory, offering superior electrical capabilities. Among memristor materials, lead halide perovskites have garnered significant interest due to their tuneable properties, facile synthesis methods, and remarkable resistive switching (RS) performance. However, concerns over environmental toxicity and stability remain. This issue has been addressed by switching to copper (Cu) based perovskites that exhibit wide bandgap semiconducting properties with zero toxicity and long‐term stability. In this manuscript, a novel approach is investigated to achieve iodine‐enriched Cs–Cu–I perovskite thin films for memristor applications. Through strategic functionalization of synthesis processes, superior optoelectronic properties are achieved in the thin films. This modified Cs–Cu–I based memristor (CCI device) exhibits excellent RS behavior at a low operating voltage of 0.7 V, with a long retention period of 4 × 103 s and very low power consumption of 2 × 10−9 W. The experimental realization of the synaptic behavior from the modified CCI device is demonstrated through its spike‐rate‐dependent plasticity (SRDP) behavior. The device response to short‐ and long‐term pulses experimentally verifies the Atkinson and Shiffrin psychological model for training the human brain. This work not only highlights the potential of the modified CCI devices for RRAM but also paves the way for improved lead‐free perovskite‐based neuromorphic devices for biological applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Public perception of dementia has emerged as a key factor in the 2024 United States presidential election. The first televised presidential debate (27 June 2024) evoked a groundswell of concern about the neuropsychological health and political viability of President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. A rapid erosion of public support ensued, culminating in the collapse of the reelection campaign the following month. Political attacks on the cognitive fitness of world leaders create dissonance for clinical neuroscientists. We are ethically prohibited from remotely diagnosing public figures. Yet, we are also citizens with the right to feel and express personal concerns. In this commentary, I will address an often‐uneasy relationship between politics and neuropsychology with a focus on the history and rationale for ethical guidelines such as the Goldwater Rule. I will also discuss lessons learned from recent events in the 2024 US election cycle about neurological health literacy (e.g. How is dementia diagnosed?) and broader impacts of age‐based political attacks on global public health initiatives that target stigma reduction and improved early detection of dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Design Methods Results Conclusion Clinical Relevance Building resilience among nurses has been postulated as one of the key strategies to support nurses and retain them in the profession. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness, of spaced education pedagogy in enhancing Nurses' knowledge on emotional resilience. Secondary objectives include evaluation of the usability and acceptability of delivery of the training via a mobile application in one's own mobile device.A quasi‐experimental study with single group pre‐test and post‐test trial was conducted.Full‐time registered nurses working in an acute care hospital were invited to participate from June 2021 to June 2022. The group used the mobile application daily for 1 month. Pre‐test measurement includes socio‐demographic data and baseline resilience level before the intervention. Post‐test measurement includes resilience level, usability and acceptability of mobile‐assisted cognitive‐behavioral therapy measured upon completion of the training. The mobile application enabled the delivery of resilience educational content in small quantities through a repeating manner, with a concurrent evaluation of learner's understanding.When compared to their baseline (mean = 24.38, SD = 5.50), participants reported significant increase in the Connor‐Davison Resilience Scale score (mean = 26.33, SD = 5.57) (t = −4.40, p < 0.001). Upon 1 month usage of the mobile application, a higher percentage of the participants reported intermediate to high level of resilience (57.4%), as compared to prior usage (54.7%). Respondents reported knowledge of most useful strategies for their daily lives including: (i) managing negative emotions (54.1%); (ii) psychoeducation about mental health and the risks of burnout (44.7%); (iii) achieving work and life balance (43.5%); and (iv) depiction of workplace scenarios to demonstrate what can be and cannot be controlled during times of change (43.5%). Participants reported usability of the mobile application with a mean SUS score 70.5 (SD = 13.0), which was considered “acceptable.” Overall, 82.3% of the participants found the mobile application appealing, 64.7% reported they were likely to use the mobile application in the future and 72.9% would recommend it to other nurses.The mobile application provided nurses with the availability and convenience to access resilience building learning content integrated with the spaced education pedagogy.The use of mobile‐assisted cognitive behavioral training can aid in increasing nurses' resilience level. Nurses provided acceptable usability ratings and satisfactory acceptance of receiving training via the mobile application, showing promising opportunities in the improvement of overall well‐being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims Sample Methods Results Conclusion This study examined the effects of working memory training (WMT) on WM and fluid intelligence. A novel four‐pronged model of mediated learning, cognitive functions, task characteristics and metacognition is presented as a conceptual basis for the Modifiability of a Working Memory Program (MWMP). Our basic assumption is that increasing WM depends on a synchronized combination of the four components.A group of typically developed preschool children (n = 62) participated in the experimental group, receiving the MWMP. They were compared with a control group (n = 56) of preschool children who engaged in a substitute program. This comparison allowed us to discern the specific effects of the MWMP.All participants received tests of WM, self‐regulation and analogical reasoning before and after the intervention. The MWMP was administered to children in the experimental group for 10 weekly sessions, each lasting 40 minutes, in small groups of two children. The children in the control group engaged in didactic activities that were part of a school curriculum routine for kindergartners for the same length of time.We used ANCOVA analysis to compare the Treatment x Time with age and socioeconomic status as covariates. The findings revealed a higher improvement in some WM and self‐regulation tests among children in the experimental group compared to those in the control group. However, no significant transfer effects were observed in analogical thinking.The findings confirm the effectiveness of a non‐computerized WMT among kindergartners and support our four‐pronged theoretical model. We also discuss earlier findings on far‐transfer effects and educational implications. We suggest that future WM studies adopt the following: (1) the development of training methods that are theoretically anchored; (2) training procedures should not rely heavily on computerized exercises but can be adapted to group characteristics, educational settings and cost‐effectiveness aspects; (3) varying the task characteristics and training strategies to stimulate task‐intrinsic motivation; (4) identifying training strategies to produce cognitive improvements underlying WM; (5) intervention should target individuals in early development as much as possible; (6) development of training procedures that facilitate motivation; and (7) providing empirical evidence of far‐transfer effects for WM training. The empirical evidence should link gains in WM capacity and achievements in academic and other life domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundMethodsResultsDiscussionCBT for psychosis (CBTp) is a care standard for people with psychosis in the United States (US). However, CBTp access is poor. The context differs from the UK, where CBTp was primarily developed. This US-based service evaluation addresses a knowledge gap and forms a pilot study: a broad goal was to learn about CBTp training’s impact on therapists. Specific aims were to: 1) describe the challenges and opportunities of CBTp training by interviewing therapists competent in formulation-driven CBTp; 2) make recommendations for practice and research.Therapists’ experiences of a 3-day CBTp workshop and 12-month consultation period in a US outpatient service were evaluated via focus groups. Participants were eight of ten therapists achieving CBTp competency.Thematic analysis of focus group content yielded four themes: 1) Before CBTp: Support and medication; 2) Hope and possibility; 3) A reality check; 4) The future: Ongoing development or “flavor of the week”.Therapist perspectives help elucidate barriers and facilitators for US CBTp implementation, from the challenge for therapist-case managers of accommodating CBTp, to the potential of shared therapeutic models for team cohesion. Recommendations include clarifying how best to use CBTp within large caseloads, and mixed method longitudinal studies of training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To observe the effects of scalp acupuncture combined with speech auditory feedback cognitive training on cognitive function, cerebral blood flow, and serum neurocytokines in patients with cognitive impairment after brain injury. Methods: 102patients with cognitive impairment after brain injury admitted to our hospital from August 2021 to February 2023 were divided into control group (n=51, received speech auditory feedback cognitive training) and experimental group (n=51, received scalp acupuncture intervention on the basis of the control group) by random number table method. Compared Montreal cognitive assessment scale (MoCA),cerebral blood flow indicators [mean blood flow velocity (Vm), local cerebral blood flow (r CBF), local cerebral blood volume (r CBV) ],and serum neurocytokines [S100β, Neuron specific enolase (NSE), brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nerve growth factor (NGF) ]between two groups before and after intervention, and the occurrence of adverse reactions during the intervention period were observed in both groups. Results: After intervention, the scores and total scores of visual space and executive function, naming, attention, language,abstraction, delayed recall, and orientation in both groups increased, and the experimental group was higher than the control group (P＜0.05). After intervention, Vm, r CBF, and r CBV increased in both groups, and the experimental group was higher than the control group (P＜0.05). After intervention, S100 β, NSE and NGF groups in both decreased, and the experimental group was lower than the control group; BDNF increased, and the experimental group was higher than the control group (P＜0.05). During the intervention period, there was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups (P＞0.05). Conclusion: The combination of scalp acupuncture and verbal auditory feedback cognitive training can effectively improve cognitive function in patients with cognitive impairment after brain injury, and the safety is good, which may be related to improving cerebral blood flow and serum neurocytokine levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of music in cognitive interventions represents a possibility with potential worthy of further investigation in the field of aging, both in terms of prevention from dementia, in the phase of mild cognitive impairment, and in the treatment of overt dementia. Objectives: Currently, the types of music-based interventions proposed in the literature are characterized by wide heterogeneity, which is why it is necessary to clarify which interventions present more evidence of effectiveness in stimulating different cognitive domains. Method: The study was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews. By searching two different databases, PubMed and the Web of Science, all studies evaluating the cognitive effects of music-based interventions on people at early stages of cognitive decline (MCI or mild-to-moderate dementia) were selected. Results: The study selection included a total of 28 studies involving n = 1612 participants (mean age ranged from 69.45 to 85.3 years old). Most of the studies analyzed agree with the observation of an improvement, or at least maintenance, of global cognitive conditions (mainly represented by the results of the MMSE test) following music-based interventions, together with a series of other positive effects on verbal fluency, memory, and executive processes. Conclusions: The results of this review suggest the introduction of music-based interventions as complementary approaches to usual cognitive treatments. Also, the use of standardized and well-defined protocols, in addition to strong methodological research approaches, is suggested. Music-based interventions are recommended in the early stages of dementia, in MCI, and in a preventive sense in healthy older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The one unifying and distinguishing feature of all neuropsychiatric illnesses is the co-occurrence of cognitive dysfunction. Cognitive training (CT) was developed to enhance neural connectivity and cognition and improve day-to-day functioning. However, the benefits of CT are still debated. This current systematic review aimed to examine the efficacy of CT and to identify diagnostic and CT characteristics associated with superior outcomes across a range of psychiatric disorders. Method: Studies investigating CT in psychiatric illnesses were extracted from Embase, PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and PsycARTICLES up to 17 August 2023. Inclusion criteria were randomised control trials (RCT) and English language. The primary search strategy included terms relating to cognitive training, cognitive remediation, cognitive enhancement, or cognitive rehabilitation and randomised control trials, clinical trials, or experiments. Risk of bias was assessed using RevMan Web version 8.1.1. Narrative synthesis was used to analyse findings. Due to the heterogeneity of participant demographics, diagnoses, and interventions, meta-analyses were considered inappropriate. Results: Fifteen studies, including a total of 1075 participants, were identified. Approximately 67% of studies reported significant improvements in at least one trained domain of cognitive function after CT, and 47% observed improvements in psychiatric symptoms or function. Cognitive transfer effects were not observed. Sample sizes for studies were generally small, and most CT durations were 6 weeks or less. Conclusions: Findings suggest that CT can improve cognitive function in trained domains, though little evidence of cognitive transfer effects was observed. Due to the lack of standardisation in CT format and delivery, and inadequate measures of psychiatric symptoms or daily function, there is insufficient evidence to conclude whether or not this technique may benefit cognitive impairment in psychiatric disorders, or lead to subsequent improvement in disease symptomatology. Further studies of longer duration and using consistent methodologies must be conducted to identify the benefits of CT in psychiatric disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The current application effects of computerized cognitive intervention are inconsistent and limited to hospital rehabilitation settings. Objective: To investigate the effect of mobile intelligent cognitive training (MICT) on patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI). Methods: This study was a multicenter, prospective, open-label, blinded endpoint, cluster-randomized controlled trial (RCT). 518 PSCI patients were stratified and assigned to four rehabilitation settings, and then patients were randomized into experimental and control groups in each rehabilitation setting through cluster randomization. All patients received comprehensive management for PSCI, while the experimental group additionally received MICT intervention. Treatment was 30 minutes daily, 5 days per week, for 12 weeks. Cognitive function, activities of daily living (ADL), and quality of life (QOL) were assessed before the treatment, at weeks 6 and 12 post-treatment, and a 16-week follow-up. Results: Linear Mixed Effects Models showed patients with PSCI were better off than pre-treatment patients on each outcome measure (p < 0.05). Additionally, the improvement of these outcomes in the experimental group was significantly better than in the control group at week 6 post-treatment and 16-week follow-up (p < 0.05). The rehabilitation setting also affected the cognitive efficacy of MICT intervention in improving PSCI patients, and the degree of improvement in each outcome was found to be highest in hospital, followed by community, nursing home, and home settings. Conclusions: Long-term MICT intervention can improve cognition, ADL, and QOL in patients with PSCI, with sustained effects for at least one month. Notably, different rehabilitation settings affect the cognitive intervention efficacy of MICT on PSCI patients. However, this still needs to be further determined in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Core constructs such as working memory, task switching, and processing speed in cognitive psychology research have prominent predictive roles in K12 students' academic performance. Specifically, considerable empirical work shows that variability in such capabilities is linked to differences in numerous academic outcomes. Moreover, there is an increasing awareness and acceptance of the malleability of cognitive abilities. Thus, an emerging strand of research focuses on the use of computerized cognitive training to improve cognitive skills. This project addresses this issue with high-risk students attending community day schools. An in-school cognitive training program implemented (for 30 min per day) at each school site resulted in improvements for working memory, task switching, and processing speed after six total hours of participation. The current results provide evidence for the changeability of what were once thought to be static skills. Equally important, this study highlights the effectiveness of computerized cognitive training and critically extends intervention-based work to a student group that has received little attention. Implications of this work for cognitive research and educational support programs are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that severely affects cognitive functions and social behaviors, leading to a significant decline in an individual's quality of life. Auditory processing deficits often precede the clinical symptoms of AD, prompting interest in auditory-based interventions as potential treatments. This scoping review aimed to compile the existing evidence on active and passive auditory-based interventions for individuals with AD and its prodromal stages. Method and results: This scoping review followed Arksey and O'Malley's five-step framework to identify the existing evidence on auditory-based interventions for AD. Four databases (PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Embase) were used to search for studies on auditory stimulation techniques to treat cognitive decline in AD patients. In total, 14 studies were included in the analysis. Seven studies explored active auditory stimulation techniques, such as the Brain Fitness Program (BrainHQ), aiming to improve cognitive function in individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). The other seven studies focused on passive auditory stimulation, often combined with other sensory stimuli such as light or tactile inputs. Passive stimulation studies have focused mainly on Gamma Entrainment Using Sensory Stimulation (GENUS). The intervention frequency and duration varied across studies, ranging from one session lasting 8 h to a year. Both active and passive auditory stimulation showed potential for enhancing cognitive function in individuals with AD. Conclusion: The literature suggests that auditory stimulation may positively influence cortical wiring and enhance cognitive abilities. Multimodal interventions that combine auditory stimulation with other sensory or behavioural approaches could yield more substantial effects on global cognition. However, the study design, intervention characteristics and outcome measures varied across studies, underscoring the necessity for standardised reporting. Well-designed studies using standard cognitive assessment protocols are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a crucial tool for clinical evaluation of the brain and neuroscience research. Obtaining successful non-sedated MRI in children who live in resource-limited settings may be an additional challenge. Objective: To present a feasibility study of a novel, low-cost MRI training protocol used in a clinical research study in a rural/semi-rural region of Colombia and to examine neurodevelopmental factors associated with successful scans. Materials and methods: Fifty-seven typically developing Colombian children underwent a training protocol and non-sedated brain MRI at age 7. Group training utilized a customized booklet, an MRI toy set, and a simple mock scanner. Children attended MRI visits in small groups of two to three. Resting-state functional and structural images were acquired on a 1.5-Tesla scanner with a protocol duration of 30-40 minutes. MRI success was defined as the completion of all sequences and no more than mild motion artifact. Associations between the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence (WPPSI), Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC), Behavioral Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF), Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), and Adaptive Behavior Assessment System (ABAS) scores and MRI success were analyzed. Results: Mean (SD) age at first MRI attempt was 7.2 (0.2) years (median 7.2 years, interquartile range 7.1-7.3 years). Twenty-six (45.6%) participants were male. Fifty-one (89.5%) children were successful across two attempts; 44 (77.2%) were successful on their first attempt. Six (10.5%) were unsuccessful due to refusal or excessive motion. Age, sex, and scores across all neurodevelopmental assessments (MABC, TVIP, ABAS, BRIEF, CBCL, NIH Toolbox Flanker, NIH Toolbox Pattern Comparison, WPPSI) were not associated with likelihood of MRI success (P=0.18, 0.19, 0.38, 0.92, 0.84, 0.80, 1.00, 0.16, 0.75, 0.86, respectively). Conclusion: This cohort of children from a rural/semi-rural region of Colombia demonstrated comparable MRI success rates to other published cohorts after completing a low-cost MRI familiarization training protocol suitable for low-resource settings. Achieving non-sedated MRI success in children in low-resource and international settings is important for the continuing diversification of pediatric research studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of a dual task protocol in people with episodic migraine with respect to both active exercises only and cognitive task only treatments, concerning some neurophysiological and clinical outcomes. A randomized control trial was adopted in people with episodic migraine without aura. Some neurophysiological and clinical outcomes were collected (t0): resting motor threshold (rMT), short intracortical inhibition (SICI) and facilitation (ICF), pressure pain threshold (PPT), trail making test (TMT), frontal assessment battery (FAB), headache-related disability (MIDAS) and headache parameters. Then, participants were randomized into three groups: active exercise only (n = 10), cognitive task only (n = 10) and dual task protocol (n = 10). After 3 months of each treatment and after 1-month follow-up the same neurophysiological and clinical outcomes were revaluated. A significant time x group effect was only found for the trapezius muscle (p = 0.012, pη2 = 0.210), suggesting that PPT increased significantly only in active exercise and dual task protocol groups. A significant time effect was found for rMT (p < 0.001, pη2 = 0.473), MIDAS (p < 0.001, pη2 = 0.426), TMT (p < 0.001, pη2 = 0.338) and FAB (p < 0.001, pη2 = 0.462). A repeated measures ANOVA for SICI at 3 ms highlighted a statistically significant time effect for the dual task group (p < 0.001, pη2 = 0.629), but not for the active exercises group (p = 0.565, pη2 = 0.061), and for the cognitive training (p = 0.357, pη2 = 0.108). The dual task protocol seems to have a more evident effect on both habituation and sensitization outcomes than the two monotherapies taken alone in people with migraine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heart failure can lead to cognitive impairment that is estimated to be present in over a quarter of patients. It is important to intervene at a cognitive level to promote brain plasticity through cognitive training programs. Interventions transformed by technology offer the promise of improved cognitive health for heart failure patients. This review was conducted on studies evaluating the role of cognitive rehabilitation in patients with heart failure. We examined clinical trials involving patients with heart failure. Our search was performed on Pubmed, Web of Science and Cochrane library databases. Of the initial 256 studies, 10 studies met the inclusion criteria. Cognitive rehabilitation training has important implications for the treatment and prevention of cognitive decline in heart failure patients with significant recovery for delayed recall memory and a significant time effect for total recall memory and delayed, psychomotor speed and IADL performance. It is important to include the assessment of cognitive functioning in the routine clinical examinations of patients with heart failure, discover the relationship between cognitive function and heart failure, and target cognitive rehabilitation programs that promote brain plasticity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-traumatic brain injury cognitive disorder(PTBICD) is one of the common symptoms of TBI survivors, severely limiting their life and rehabilitation progress. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been shown to modulate cognition in a non-invasive manner while there are inconsistencies in previous studies. A comprehensive systematic review of rTMS treatment in patients with PTBICD is warranted. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of rTMS + cognitive training(CT) in enhancing cognitive function among PTBICD patients. A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, WOS, CNKI, Wan Fang, VIP and CBM, to identify relevant randomized controlled trials(RCTs) published before December 20, 2023. The primary outcomes measured changes in global cognitive scales, while the secondary outcomes focused on improvements in attention, memory, event-related potentials, and activities of daily living. Meta-analysis of data was carried out using Stata 14.0. Fourteen studies including 820 PTBICD patients were included. The results showed that rTMS + CT significantly improved MoCA[WMD = 3.47, 95%CI (2.56, 4.38)], MMSE[WMD = 3.79, 95%CI (2.23, 5.35)], RBMT[WMD = 1.53, 95%CI (0.19, 2.87)], LOTCA[WMD = 5.68, 95%CI (3.11, 8.24)], and promoted MBI[WMD = 7.41, 95%CI (5.90, 8.92)] as well as reduced correlated potential P300 latency[WMD = -20.77, 95%CI (-38.08, -3.45)] and amplitude[WMD = 0.81, 95%CI (0.57, 1.06)] in PTBICD compared to sham rTMS or CT, while adverse reaction ratio was higher than that of control group [RR = 1.67, 95%CI (1.00, 2.77)]. The results demonstrated that rTMS + CT can improve the cognitive function, mental state and daily activity ability of PTBICD patients. Systematic Review Registration: [PROSPERO], identifier [No. CRD42024520596]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this systematic review was to examine randomized clinical trial (RCT) studies that evaluate nonpharmacological interventions to improve executive functions in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) without comorbidity. A systematic search of the literature was conducted using PubMed, ERIC, Web of Science, PyscINFO, Dialnet and Cochrane. A total of 948 published studies were identified and 15 of them were included in the review. All executive training programs for this population were examined and the most effective interventions were found to be based on cognitive training programs. Interventions based on physical exercise and neurofeedback were also found. These programs can improve not only executive components, but also other variables related to daily functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Adolescents with ADHD are poorer than adolescents with no-ADHD in driving skills. • The ADHD group drive at speed and stop less at red lights and crosswalks. • Computerized cognitive training improves executive functioning in adolescents with ADHD. • Driving skills of both ADHD and non-ADHD adolescents were enhanced after training. • Computerized cognitive training may improve driving skills in the pre-driving stage. Youth with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) face challenges with road safety. While executive functions are developing in all young drivers, those diagnosed with ADHD have deficits in executive functions that are known to be important in driving. The aims of this study were to compare the executive functions and driving skills of adolescents identified with and without ADHD, and to evaluate whether a computerized cognitive training program is associated with improvement in executive functions (i.e., attention, working memory, inhibition) and driving skills. The hypotheses were: a) compared to a group of adolescents without ADHD, executive functions and driving skills of adolescents with ADHD will be poorer at pre-training; and b) while both groups will improve their executive function and driving skills after receiving the computerized cognitive training, the improvement will be greater in the ADHD group. This study used a quasi-experimental pre- and post-training control group design. Thirty adolescents aged 16 to 18 years with no prior driving experience participated in the study. Half (50 %) were diagnosed with ADHD and groups were matched by age. The Integrated Visual and Auditory (IVA-2) functional test was administered to insure proper inclusion in both groups. Twelve 45-minute sessions aimed at improving executive functioning were provided to both groups with the Captain's Log cognitive training software. Executive functioning was measured with cognitive tasks: attention with the Continuous Performance Task (CPT), working memory with the N-Back task, and inhibition with a Go/No Go task. Driving skills were appraised with a virtual reality driving task measuring speed management (mean, variability, percentage over the speed limit) and stopping (deceleration, and frequency of stopping at red traffic lights and pedestrian crosswalks). Executive functioning and driving skills were measured at pre- and post-training. Two repeated measures MANOVA were used to test the research hypotheses. Results from the IVA-2 confirmed group membership. At pre-training, the analyses showed that the ADHD group performed more poorly than the non-ADHD group on the CPT, N-Back, Go/No Go, and driving task (higher average driving speed, higher speed standard deviation and stopping less at red lights and crosswalks). At post-training, there was a significant improvement in executive functions and driving skills in both groups. Compared to the non-ADHD group, the cognitive training program was associated with stronger improvement in executive functions for the ADHD group. However, improvement in driving skills did not differ between groups. Results confirmed previous findings that computerized cognitive training is associated with greater improvement in executive functioning in adolescents diagnosed with ADHD than in non-ADHD individuals. Results also suggest that the training may have some potential to improve driving skills of both adolescents with and without ADHD in the pre-driving stage. Future research is recommended to examine computerized cognitive training aiming more directly to improve on-road driving performance of young ADHD individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cognitive impairments are prevalent across mood disorders and psychosis spectrum disorders, but there is a lack of real-life-like cognitive training programmes. Fully immersive virtual reality has the potential to ensure motivating and engaging cognitive training directly relevant to patients' daily lives. We will examine the effect of a 4-week, intensive virtual reality-based cognitive remediation programme involving daily life challenges on cognition and daily life functioning in patients with mood disorders or psychosis spectrum disorders and explore the neuronal underpinnings of potential treatment efficacy. Methods: The trial has a randomized, controlled, double-blinded, parallel-group design. We will include 66 symptomatically stable outpatients with mood disorders or psychosis spectrum disorders aged 18–55 years with objective and subjective cognitive impairment. Assessments encompassing a virtual reality test of daily life cognitive skills, neuropsychological testing, measures of daily life functioning, symptom ratings, questionnaires on subjective cognitive complaints, and quality of life are carried out at baseline, after the end of 4 weeks of treatment and at a 3-month follow-up after treatment completion. Functional magnetic resonance imaging scans are performed at baseline and at the end of treatment. The primary outcome is a broad cognitive composite score comprising five subtasks on a novel ecologically valid virtual reality test of daily life cognitive functions. Two complete data sets for 54 patients will provide a power of 80% to detect a clinically relevant between-group difference in the primary outcome. Behavioural data will be analysed using linear mixed models in SPSS, while MRI data will be analysed with the FMRIB Expert Analysis Tool (FEAT). Treatment-related changes in neural activity from baseline to end of treatment will be investigated for the dorsal prefrontal cortex and hippocampus as the regions of interest. Discussion: The results will provide insight into whether virtual reality-based cognitive remediation has beneficial effects on cognition and functioning in symptomatically stable patients with mood disorders or psychosis spectrum disorders, which can aid future treatment development. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06038955. Registered on September 15, 2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the impact of language learning in comparison to other complex learning activities on cognitive functioning and psychosocial well-being in cognitively healthy, community-dwelling older adults. In a randomized controlled trial, 43 Dutch functionally monolinguals aged 65–78 completed a three-month English course (n = 15), music training (n = 13), or a lecture series (n = 15). Cognitive functioning (global cognition, cognitive flexibility, episodic memory, working memory, verbal fluency, and attention) and psychosocial well-being were assessed before and immediately after the intervention, and at a four-month follow-up. The language learners significantly improved on episodic memory and cognitive flexibility. However, the magnitude of cognitive change did not significantly differ between the language learning and music training conditions, except for a larger positive change in cognitive flexibility for the language learners from pretest to follow-up. Our results suggest that language learning in later life can improve some cognitive functions and fluency in the additional language, but that its unique effects seem limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) is a promising technique for enhancing cognitive performance and skill acquisition. Yet, its efficacy for enhancing learning rate and long-term retention in an ecologically valid learning environment has not been demonstrated. We conducted two double-blind sham-controlled experiments examining the efficacy of auricular tVNS (taVNS: Experiment (1) and cervical tVNS (tcVNS: Experiment (2), on a 5 day second-language vocabulary acquisition protocol among highly selected career linguists at the US Department of Defense's premier language school. tcVNS produced accelerated recall performance during training (Day 2–4), benefits of which were maintained across a 24 h retention interval with no stimulation at the final test. Consistent with prior work, tcVNS also produced fatigue-mitigating and focus-promoting effects as measured by the Air Force Research Laboratory Mood Questionnaire. Based on the current and the previous findings supporting tVNS' efficacy on performance, training enhancement, and fatigue mitigation, we believe tcVNS to be an effective learning acceleration tool that can be utilized at language-teaching and other institutions focused on intensive training of cognitive skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPurposeMethodResultsConclusions\nIMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONCognitive training in parallel with functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS)-derived neurofeedback has been identified to be beneficial in enhancing cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). However, effects of virtual reality (VR)-based cognitive training ensuring ecological validity in parallel with fNIRS-derived neurofeedback on neural efficiency has received little attention. This study investigated effects of VR-based cognitive training in parallel with fNIRS-derived neurofeedback on cognitive function and neural efficiency in patients with MCI.Ninety participants were randomly assigned into the active group (AG) receiving VR-based cognitive training in parallel with fNIRS-derived neurofeedback, the sham group (SG), or wait-list group (CG). The AG and SG group performed each intervention for fifteen minutes a session, for eight sessions. The Trail Making Test Part B and Backward Digit Span Test were used for outcomes. In addition, activity in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) during cognitive testing using fNIRS was measured.After the eight sessions, the AG achieved greater improvements in all outcomes than the other groups. In addition, the AG showed a lower DLPFC activity during cognitive testing than the other groups.VR-based cognitive training in parallel with fNIRS-derived neurofeedback is superior to enhancing cognitive function and neural efficiency.Virtual reality-based cognitive training in parallel with functional near-infrared spectroscopy-derived neurofeedback might improve cognitive function and neural efficiency in patients with mild cognitive impairmentFunctional near-infrared spectroscopy-derived neurofeedback would be considered as an effective tool for understanding neural efficiency underlying improved cognitive function.Rehabilitation professionals need to integrate virtual reality-based cognitive training and functional near-infrared spectroscopy-derived neurofeedback into their practice to enhance cognitive rehabilitation outcomes for patients with mild cognitive impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aging is associated with cognitive changes, even in the absence of brain pathology. This study aimed to determine if meditation training, by comparison to active and passive control groups, is linked to changes in the perception of cognitive functioning in older adults. One hundred thirty-four healthy older participants from the Age-Well Randomized Clinical Trial were included: 45 followed a meditation training, 45 a non-native language training and 44 had no intervention. Subjective cognition was assessed at baseline and following the 18-month intervention period. Perception of attentional efficiency was assessed using internal and external Attentional Style Questionnaire (ASQ) subscale scores. Perception of global cognitive capacities was measured via the total score of Cognitive Difficulties Scale (CDS). Deltas ([posttest minus pretest scores]/standard deviation at pretest) were calculated for the analyses. Generalized mixed effects models controlling for age, sex, education and baseline scores revealed that meditation training decreased the vulnerability score toward external distractors measured by the ASQ compared to non-native language training. However, no between-groups differences on ASQ internal or CDS total scores were observed. Results suggest a beneficial effect of meditation practice on perceived management of external distracting information in daily life. Meditation training may cultivate the ability to focus on specific information (e.g., breath) and ignore stimulation from other kinds of stimuli (e.g., noise). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) affects 30–50% of women with a history of previous depression or bipolar disorder and 8% of women with no history of depression. Negative cognitive biases in the perception of infant cues and difficulties with emotion regulation are replicated risk factors. Current interventions focus on detecting and treating rather than preventing PPD. The aim of this randomized controlled intervention trial is therefore to investigate the potential prophylactic effects of prenatal affective cognitive training for pregnant women at heightened risk of PPD. Methods: The study will enrol a total of 292 pregnant women: 146 at high risk and 146 at low risk of PPD. Participants undergo comprehensive assessments of affective cognitive processing, clinical depressive symptoms, and complete questionnaires at baseline. Based on the responses, pregnant women will be categorized as either at high or low risk of PPD. High-risk participants will be randomized to either prenatal affective cognitive training (PACT) or care as usual (CAU) immediately after the baseline testing. The PACT intervention is based on emerging evidence for efficacy of affective cognitive training approaches in depression, including cognitive bias modification, attention bias modification, mindfulness-inspired emotion regulation exercises, and working memory training. Participants randomised to PACT will complete five individual computerised and virtual reality-based training sessions over 5 weeks. The primary outcome is the difference between intervention arms in the incidence of PPD, assessed with an interview 6 months after birth. We will also assess the severity of depressive symptoms, rated weekly online during the first 6 weeks postpartum. Discussion: The results will have implications for future early prophylactic interventions for pregnant women at heightened risk of PPD. If the PACT intervention reduces the incidence of PPD, it can become a feasible, non-invasive prophylactic strategy during pregnancy, with positive mental health implications for these women and their children. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06046456 registered 21-09-2023, updated 08-07-2024. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The increase in population aging highlights the growing prevalence of mild cognitive impairment, prompting the adoption of interventions that combine physical exercise and cognitive training to improve health and cognitive performance in older adults. The aim of this study was to analyze the efficacy of a combined program on physical and cognitive health in older people with cognitive impairment. Methods: A 12-week randomized controlled clinical trial involving 95 participants (aged 72.12 ± 4.25 years), 47 individuals participated in a control group (CG) that only underwent cognitive stimulation, while 48 individuals were in an experimental group (EG) that participated in a combined program. Balance was measured using the Tinetti scale, upper body strength was assessed with the arm curl test, lower body strength was evaluated with the 30-s chair stand test, flexibility was tested using the back scratch test and chair sit-and-reach test, physical function was measured with the Timed Up and Go test, cognitive function was assessed using the Mini Mental State Examination, cognitive impairment was evaluated with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, verbal fluency was tested with the Isaac test, and executive functions were assessed using the Trail Making Test. Results: The results of the study show significant improvements in both physical and cognitive aspects, such as balance, gait, upper and lower body strength, flexibility, physical function, cognitive function, cognitive impairment, verbal fluency, and executive functions in the group that carried out the intervention compared to the control group. Conclusion: A combined program for older individuals with mild cognitive impairment leads to enhancements in physical and cognitive health. These improvements underscore the importance of integrating physical exercise with cognitive training as an effective strategy for enhancing overall health and quality of life in older adults. Trial registration: NCT05503641. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe integration of virtual, mixed, and augmented reality technologies in cognitive neuroscience and neuropsychology represents a transformative frontier. In this Commentary, we conducted a meta-analysis of studies that explored the impact of Virtual Reality (VR), Mixed Reality (MR), and Augmented Reality (AR) on cognitive neuroscience and neuropsychology. Our review highlights the versatile applications of VR, ranging from spatial cognition assessments to rehabilitation for Traumatic Brain Injury. We found that MR and AR offer innovative avenues for cognitive training, particularly in memory-related disorders. The applications extend to addressing social cognition disorders and serving as therapeutic interventions for mental health issues. Collaborative efforts between neuroscientists and technology developers are crucial, with reinforcement learning and neuroimaging studies enhancing the potential for improved outcomes. Ethical considerations, including informed consent, privacy, and accessibility, demand careful attention. Our review identified common aspects of the meta-analysis, including the potential of VR technologies in cognitive neuroscience and neuropsychology, the use of MR and AR in memory research, and the role of VR in neurorehabilitation and therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) involves cognitive decline beyond typical age-related changes, but without significant daily activity disruption. It can encompass various cognitive domains as the causes of MCI are diverse. MCI as well as frequent comorbid neuropsychiatric conditions like depression and anxiety affect individuals' quality of life. Early interventions are essential, and computerized cognitive training (cCT) is an established treatment method. This paper presents the protocol for the NeuroNation MED Effectiveness Study, evaluating the self-administered mobile cCT intervention ("NeuroNation MED") in individuals with MCI to assess training effects on cognitive domains, health competence, neuropsychiatric symptoms, psychological well-being, and the general application usability. Methods: This study protocol presents a single-blinded multicenter randomized controlled trial that will be carried out in six study centers in Germany and Luxembourg. We included adults with MCI (existing F06.7 ICD-10-GM diagnosis and TICS ≥ 21 and ≤ 32). The intervention group will use a mobile, multi-domain cCT ("NeuroNation MED") for 12 weeks. Meanwhile, the wait list control group will receive standard medical care or no care. The eligibility of volunteers will be determined through a telephone screening. After completion of the baseline examination, patients will be randomly assigned to one of the experimental conditions in a 2:1 ratio. In total, 286 participants will be included in this study. The primary outcome is the change of cognitive performance measured by the index score of the screening module of the Neuropsychological Assessment Battery. Secondary outcomes are changes in the Cognitive Failures Questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Health-49, Health Literacy Questionnaire, among others. All of the primary and secondary outcomes will be assessed at baseline and after the 12-week post-allocation period. Furthermore, the intervention group will undergo an assessment of the System Usability Scale, and the training data of the NeuroNation MED application will be analyzed. Discussion: This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a mobile self-administered cCT in enhancing cognitive abilities among individuals diagnosed with MCI. Should the findings confirm the effectiveness of the NeuroNation MED app, it may confer possible benefits for the care management of patients with MCI, owing to the accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and home-based setting it provides. Specifically, the cCT program could provide patients with personalized cognitive training, educational resources, and relaxation techniques, enabling participants to independently engage in cognitive training sessions at home without further supervision. Trial registration: German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00025133. Registered on November 5, 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]