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Purpose: Compare tracking groups with cognitive control functions and plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factors concentrations from childhood to adolescence. Methods: This is a prospective study with 3 years of follow-up. At baseline, data from 394 individuals were collected (11.7 y), and data were obtained from 134 adolescents (14.9 y) at the 3-year follow-up. At both time points, anthropometric and maximal oxygen uptake data were collected. Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) groups were classified into high or low CRF. At follow-up, cognitive outcomes were collected via the Stroop and Corsi block test; plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factors concentrations were also analyzed. Results: Comparisons demonstrated that maintaining high CRF over 3 years results in shorter reaction time, better inhibitory control, and higher working memory values. Likewise, the group that moved from low to high CRF over 3 years presented better reaction time. Plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factors concentrations were higher for the group that increased its CRF over the 3 years in relation to the low–low group (90.58 pg·mL−1; P =.004). However, after scaling by an allometric approach, differences were only found for reaction time and working memory between high–high and high–low groups. Conclusion: Maintaining high CRF over 3 years was positively related to reaction time and working memory in relation to adolescents that decreased their levels of CRF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Only 55% of anterior cruciate ligament-reconstructed (ACLR) athletes return to competitive sports. This brings into question the usefulness of current return to sport (RTS) criteria. High cognitive demand of sport environment clarifies the value of incorporating neurocognitive tests when making decisions regarding the time of RTS. This preliminary study aimed to compare the neurocognitive functions between healthy controls and ACLR male athletes who passed or failed RTS criteria. Methods: A total of 45 male football players, including 15 ACLR who passed RTS criteria, 15 ACLR who did not pass, and 15 healthy controls participated in this cross-sectional study. The Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery was used to measure a battery of neurocognitive tasks, including speed of response, sustained attention, working memory, cognitive flexibility, and response inhibition. Results: The results revealed that compared with both the ACLR-passed and healthy groups, the ACLR-failed group showed greater values of 5-choice movement time (P =.02, P =.01, respectively) but lower values of stop signal reaction time (P =.03, P =.001, respectively) and proportion of successful stops variables (P =.02). In addition, compared with the healthy group, both the ACLR-failed and ACLR-passed groups indicated greater values in between errors (P <.001, P =.008, respectively) and reaction latency variables (P =.002, P =.01, respectively) but lower values of A′ (P <.001, P =.007, respectively), probability of hit (P <.001, P =.03, respectively), and percent correct trials variables (P =.006, P =.02, respectively). Conclusions: Our findings indicated deficits in neurocognitive functions in ACLR male athletes. In addition, poor performance in sustained attention, working memory, and cognitive flexibility measures observed in the ACLR-passed group highlighted the necessity for using a multimodal approach via implementation of neurocognitive measures in conjunction with the functional and muscular assessments when making RTS decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe present study aims to develop and present a proof-of-concept for a stop signal task with effector-specificity and higher complexity. Sixteen participants performed a stop signal task developed for lower extremities using Fitlight System™. The effect of four different delays and two sessions on response time, stop signal reaction time and accuracy was assessed using two-way repeated-measures ANOVA. The reliability of outcomes was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients. There was a significant main effect of delay on all outcomes and an interaction of delay and session on accuracy. The reliability of outcomes was substantial with dependency on delays. Our preliminary findings suggest the feasibility of stop signal principles within more complex movements and provide an example for the development of further tests in sports context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stress in surgeons is well-known for its negative impact on neurocognition and surgical performance. Surgeons commonly use music for stress reduction, but its specific effects on neurosurgeons remain unclear. This study aims to investigate how listening to music during microsurgery affects neurocognitive (NC) functions, subjective anxiety, and stress levels in neurosurgeons. Conducted in 2 phases, the pilot phase involved 23 neurosurgeons completing a survey and rating compositions based on ragas of North Indian/Hindustani classical music for suitability during surgery. Five excerpts were selected for the main phase, which involved 3 neurosurgeons performing 16 surgeries, 8 with and 8 without music. Data collection included presurgery assessments of sleep, caffeine intake, subjective stress levels, perceived complexity of the surgery that was to be performed, and NC tasks. Postsurgery subjective stress levels, actual complexity, and surgeon experiences with music were recorded. While there was a trend toward reduced stress and perceived complexity with music, statistical significance was not reached. NC tasks showed nonsignificant improvement with music, with a significant (at P < 0.001) speed-accuracy trade-off noted in response inhibition. Music appears to reduce subjective stress and task complexity, influencing neurocognition, particularly through speed-accuracy trade-offs. Further research is needed to understand its mechanisms and appropriate contexts for use before widespread recommendation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurocognitive deficits have been widely reported in clinical high-risk for psychosis (CHR) populations. Additionally, rates of cannabis use are high among CHR youth and are associated with greater symptom severity. Cannabis use has been sometimes shown to be associated with better neurocognition in more progressed psychosis cohorts, therefore in this study we aimed to determine whether a similar pattern was present in CHR. CHR participants ages 12–30 from the North American Prodromal Longitudinal Study (NAPLS-3) (N = 698) were grouped according to: "minimal to no cannabis use" (n = 406), "occasional use" (n = 127), or "frequent use" (n = 165). At baseline, cannabis use groups were compared on neurocognitive tests, clinical, and functional measures. Follow-up analyses were used to model relationships between cannabis use frequency, neurocognition, premorbid, and social functioning. Occasional cannabis users performed significantly better than other use-groups on measures of IQ, with similar trend-level patterns observed across neurocognitive domains. Occasional cannabis users demonstrated better social, global, and premorbid functioning compared to the other use-groups and less severe symptoms compared to the frequent use group. Follow-up structural equation modeling/path analyses found significant positive associations between premorbid functioning, social functioning, and IQ, which in turn was associated with occasional cannabis use frequency. Better premorbid functioning positively predicts both better social functioning and higher IQ which in turn is associated with a moderate cannabis use pattern in CHR, similar to reports in first-episode and chronic psychosis samples. Better premorbid functioning likely represents a protective factor in the CHR population and predicts a better functional outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prodromal phase of schizophrenia provides an optimal opportunity to mitigate the profound functional disability that is often associated with fully expressed psychosis. Considerable evidence supports the importance of neurocognition in the development of interpersonal (social) and academic (role) skills. Further findings from adolescents and young adults at clinical high risk for developing psychosis (CHR P) suggest that treatment for functioning might be most effective when targeting early and specific neurocognitive deficits. The current study addresses this critical intervention issue by examining the potential of neurocognitive deficits at intake for predicting social and role functioning over time in CHR-P youth. The study included 345 CHR-P participants from the second phase of the North American Prodrome Longitudinal Study (NAPLS2) with baseline neurocognition and 2-year follow-up data on social and role functioning. Slower baseline processing speed consistently predicted poor social functioning over time, while attention deficits predicted poor role functioning at baseline and follow-up. In addition, the impact of processing speed and attention impairments on social and role functioning, respectively, persisted even when adjusting the regression models for attenuated positive, negative, and disorganized symptoms, and transition status. The current study demonstrates for, arguably the first time, that processing speed and attention are strongly predictive of social and role functioning over time, respectively, above and beyond the impact of symptoms and those CHR-P individuals that develop psychosis over the course of the study. These findings imply that early neurocognition is a critical treatment target linked to the developmental trajectory of social and role functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cognitive impairment is recognized as a risk factor for suicide in schizophrenia (SZ) patients. Despite empathy being an important aspect of social cognition, the association between suicidal behavior and empathy has received little attention. We aimed to compare empathy and neurocognition in SZ patients with and without suicide attempts (SAs), and to explore the relationship between empathy, neurocognition, and clinical symptoms in SZ patients with and without SAs. Data on SAs and socio-demographic characteristics were collected from 628 chronic SZ patients. The patients' symptomatology was measured by the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Empathy and neurocognition were assessed with the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI) and Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS), respectively. Patients with SAs performed better on all IRI domains (except for Perspective Taking) and total scores. Regression results showed that negative symptoms, positive symptoms, and duration of illness were independently associated with IRI total score in patients without SAs (adjusted R2 = 0.048). In patients without SAs, negative symptoms, general psychopathology, education, age, and sex were independently associated with RBANS total score (adjusted R2 = 0.265), while in patients with SAs, education, PANSS total score, and age at onset were independently associated with RBANS total score (adjusted R2 = 0.456). Our results show that SZ patients with SAs may have better empathic performance than patients without SAs. In chronic SZ patients, negative and positive symptoms may have different effects on cognition in the SAs and non-SAs groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study proposed and evaluated a theoretical model for exploring the relationships between neurocognition, self-defeatist beliefs, experiential negative symptoms, and social functioning in individuals with chronic schizophrenia. Method: The study recruited 229 individuals given a diagnosis of schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders from outpatient clinics and the day ward of a mental health hospital. After informed consent was obtained, the participants underwent assessments using the backward digit span, the digit symbol, and measures of self-defeatist beliefs, experiential negative symptoms, and social functioning. A structural equation model was applied to assess the fitness of the hypothesized model, with indices such as the goodness-of-fit index, comparative fit index, root mean square error of approximation, and standardized root mean square residual being used for model evaluation. Results: The hypothesized model had an adequate fit. The study findings indicated that neurocognition might indirectly influence self-defeatist beliefs through its effect on experiential negative symptoms. Contrary to expectations, the study did not observe a direct influence of neurocognition, self-defeatist beliefs, or negative symptoms on social functioning. The revised model revealed the role of experiential negative symptoms in mediating the association between neurocognition and social functioning. However, self-defeatist beliefs did not significantly affect social functioning. Discussion: Before modifying negative thoughts, enhancement of self-awareness ability can help improve negative symptoms and thereby improve the performance of social functions. Future research should develop a hierarchical program of negative symptoms, from cognition rehabilitation to enhancement of self-awareness, and end with modifying maladaptive beliefs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brain dynamics associated with design creativity tasks are largely unexplored. Despite significant strides, there is a limited understanding of the brainbehavior during design creation tasks. The objective of this paper is to review the concepts of creativity and design creativity as well as their differences, and to explore the brain dynamics associated with design creativity tasks using electroencephalography (EEG) as a neuroimaging tool. The paper aims to provide essential insights for future researchers in the field of design creativity neurocognition. It seeks to examine fundamental studies, present key findings, and initiate a discussion on associated brain dynamics. The review employs thematic analysis and a forward and backward snowball search methodology with specific inclusion and exclusion criteria to select relevant studies. This search strategy ensured a comprehensive review focused on EEG-based creativity and design creativity experiments. Different components of those experiments such as participants, psychometrics, experiment design, and creativity tasks, are reviewed and then discussed. The review identifies that while some studies have converged on specific findings regarding EEG alpha band activity in creativity experiments, there remain inconsistencies in the literature. The paper underscores the need for further research to unravel the interplays between these cognitive processes. This comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource for readers seeking an understanding of current literature, principal discoveries, and areas where knowledge remains incomplete. It highlights both positive and foundational aspects, identifies gaps, and poses lingering questions to guide future research endeavors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Participation in daily life activities with both the personal and community meaning is an important component of health and well-being. Even though there are mounting reports on the challenges in various aspects of daily-life functioning among individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), to date little research has been conducted on their comprehensive patterns of participation. The study aimed to describe objective and subjective participation dimensions in PTSD compared to healthy controls and investigate the association between personal and environmental factors and participation. Methods: Sixty-one individuals were enrolled in two groups: PTSD (N=31; age: M=34.3; women:77.4%) and healthy controls matched by age and gender. The PTSD group completed standard assessments for symptom severity, general cognition, executive function (EF), sensory processing, self-efficacy, functional capacity, and environmental properties. Both groups completed a participation questionnaire. Results: Individuals with PTSD participated with low intensity and diversity, more occupations were abandoned (-4.73

Introduction: Intraindividual variability across a battery of neuropsychological tests (IIV-dispersion) can reflect normal variation in scores or arise from cognitive impairment. An alternate interpretation is IIV-dispersion reflects reduced engagement/invalid test data, although extant research addressing this interpretation is significantly limited. Method: We used a sample of 97 older adult (mean age: 69.92), predominantly White (57%) or Black/African American (34%), and predominantly cis-gender male (87%) veterans. Examinees completed a comprehensive neuropsychological battery, including measures of reduced engagement/invalid test data (a symptom validity test [SVT], multiple performance validity tests [PVTs]), as part of a clinical evaluation. IIV-dispersion was indexed using the coefficient of variance (CoV). We tested 1) the relationships of raw scores and "failures" on SVT/PVTs with IIV-dispersion, 2) the relationship between IIV-dispersion and validity/neurocognitive disorder status, and 3) whether IIV-dispersion discriminated the validity/neurocognitive disorder groups using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Results: IIV-dispersion was significantly and independently associated with a selection of PVTs, with small to very large effect sizes. Participants with invalid profiles and cognitively impaired participants with valid profiles exhibited medium to large (d =.55–1.09) elevations in IIV-dispersion compared to cognitively unimpaired participants with valid profiles. A non-significant but small to medium (d =.35–.60) elevation in IIV-dispersion was observed for participants with invalid profiles compared to those with a neurocognitive disorder. IIV-dispersion was largely accurate at differentiating participants without a neurocognitive disorder from invalid participants and those with a neurocognitive disorder (areas under the Curve [AUCs]=.69–.83), while accuracy was low for differentiating invalid participants from those with a neurocognitive disorder (AUCs=.58–.65). Conclusions: These preliminary data suggest IIV-dispersion may be sensitive to both neurocognitive disorders and compromised engagement. Clinicians and researchers should exercise due diligence and consider test validity (e.g. PVTs, behavioral signs of engagement) as an alternate explanation prior to interpretation of intraindividual variability as an indicator of cognitive impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Despite antiretroviral therapy (ART), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–associated neurocognitive impairment persists. We investigated the association between serum levels of mature brain-derived neurotrophic factor (mBDNF), precursor brain-derived neurotrophic factor (proBDNF), and neurocognitive changes over time among adults with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa, seeking to elucidate the interplay between neurotrophic factors and neurocognitive outcomes post-ART. Methods Utilizing data from the ACTG 5199 study in Johannesburg and Harare, serum mBDNF and proBDNF levels were measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Neurocognitive performance was assessed at baseline and 24, 48, and 96 weeks using neuropsychological tests. The Friedman test and linear mixed-effects models were used to assess changes in mBDNF, proBDNF, and neurocognitive performance over time, accounting for individual variability and adjusting for multiple comparisons. Results Among 155 participants, there were significant cognitive improvements (P <.001) and a rise in mBDNF levels from baseline to 96 weeks. The proBDNF levels initially remained stable (P =.57) but notably increased by 48 weeks (P =.04). Higher mBDNF levels were positively associated with enhanced neurocognitive performance at 48 weeks (β =.16, P =.01) and 96 weeks (β =.32, P <.001). Similarly, higher proBDNF levels were positively associated with neurocognitive performance at 96 weeks (β =.25, P <.001). Conclusions This study highlights the significant association between serum BDNF levels and neurocognitive improvement post-ART in adults with HIV. However, more research is needed to replicate these findings, establish causal relationships, and explore whether BDNF-enhancing activities can improve neurocognitive outcomes in people with HIV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emotional intelligence (EI) and neurocognition (NC) impairments are common in first-episode psychosis (FEP), yet their evolution over time remains unclear. This study identified patient profiles in EI and NC performance in FEP. 98 adult FEP patients and 128 healthy controls (HCs) were tested on clinical, functional, EI, and NC variables at baseline and two-year follow-up (FUP). A repeated-measures ANOVA compared the effects of group (patients and HCs) and time on EI. Significant EI improvements were observed in both groups. Four groups were created based on NC and EI performance at baseline and FUP in patients: impairment in NC and EI, impairment in NC only, impairment in EI only, and no impairment. At FUP, patients impaired in NC and EI showed less cognitive reserve (CR), greater negative and positive symptoms, and poorer functional outcomes. At FUP, three group trajectories were identified: (I) maintain dual impairment (II) maintain no impairment or improve, (III) maintain sole impairment or worsen. The maintain dual impairment group had the lowest levels of CR. EI and NC impairments progress differently in FEP. Greater CR may protect against comorbid EI/NC impairment. Identifying these patient characteristics could contribute to the development of personalised interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies reported that peripheral inflammation was associated with cognitive performance and brain structure in schizophrenia. However, the moderating effect of inflammation has not been extensively studied. This study investigated whether inflammation markers moderated the association between negative symptoms and neurocognition in schizophrenia. This cross-sectional study included 137 drug-naïve schizophrenia patients (DNS) and 67 healthy controls (HC). We performed the Measurements and Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia (MATRICS) Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB) for cognitive assessment and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) for psychiatric symptoms. Plasma concentrations of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) were measured. The MCCB neurocognition score, social cognition score, and total score; the plasma concentrations of NGAL, IFN-γ, and NF-κB were significantly decreased in DNS than in HC (all P's < 0.001). PANSS negative subscale (PNS), PANSS reduced expressive subdomain (RES) negatively correlated with neurocognition score (P = 0.007; P = 0.011, respectively). Plasma concentrations of IFN-γ and NGAL positively correlated with neurocognition score (P = 0.043; P = 0.008, relatively). The interactions of PNS × NGAL; PNS × IFN-γ; RES × IFN-γ accounted for significant neurocognition variance (P = 0.025; P = 0.029, P = 0.007, respectively). Simple slope analysis showed that all the above moderating effects only occurred in patients with near normal IFN-γ and NGAL levels. Plasma concentrations of IFN-γ and NGAL moderated the relationship between negative symptoms (especially RES) and neurocognition in schizophrenia. Treatment targeting inflammation may contribute to neurocognition improvement in schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanisms of object-based attention (OBA) are commonly associated with the cerebral cortex. However, less is known about the involvement of subcortical visual pathways in these processes. Knowledge of the neural mechanisms subserving OBA can provide insight into the evolutionary trajectory of attentional selection. In the current study, the classic double-rectangle cueing task was implemented using a stereoscope in order to differentiate between the involvement of lower (monocular) and higher (binocular) visual pathways in OBA processes. We found that monocular visual pathways are involved in two main aspects of OBA: exogenous orienting towards a cued object (Experiment 1; N =33) and attentional deployment within a cued object (Experiment 2; N =23); this is evident by the presence of OBA only when both the cue and target were presented to the same eye. Thus, these results indicate that monocular (mostly subcortical) visual regions are not simply passing information to higher cortical areas but have a functional computational role in OBA. These findings emphasize the importance of lower regions in attentional processes and, more specifically, in OBA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of basic neurocognitive function in delusions is unclear despite the association to difficulties in reasoning and decision-making. We investigated 812 individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) using a broad neuropsychological test battery encompassing motor and mental processing speed, working memory, learning and memory, and executive function. Premorbid and current intellectual function was assessed with NART and WASI. Delusion level and other clinical symptoms were measured with the PANSS and GAF. Hierarchical and k-means cluster analysis using standardized scores showed the presence of two separate clusters where the group with the higher delusion level (n = 291) was characterized by more severe neurocognitive deficits (>1.5 standard deviations below the healthy control mean), higher PANSS scores, lower GAF scores, and lower intelligence levels compared to the cluster with mild impairments (n = 521). We conclude that a higher delusion level is related to neurocognitive deficits across domains. Further, the validity of the two separate clusters was indicated by significant differences in clinical symptoms, everyday function, and intellectual ability. Compared to those with mild delusion levels, SSD patients with higher delusion levels seem particularly disadvantaged, with co-occurring general symptoms and lower daily function, underscoring the need for clinical and psychosocial support programs. A limitation of this study is the cross sectional design. Longitudinal studies are needed to determine the causal relationship between delusions and neurocognitive function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Joy is a central theme in Philippians. Joy is also a central emotional habit Paul deploys and encourages as a strategy for building community. In this paper, the examination of Philippians through recent developments in the neurocognitive study of emotions first illuminates how Paul cultivates emotional habits, like joy. Second, a neurocognitive approach to understanding emotions can explain how repeatedly choosing joy functions to alleviate suffering by restoring balance in the nervous system. Finally, shared emotional habits with the Philippian community, like shared somatic practices, build sustaining connections among the members. Intentional deployment of emotional practices, as Paul demonstrates and encourages in the Philippians, is a strategy for building the body of Christ. Such a neurocognitive understanding of emotional habits and bodily practices among community members in the Christ body points to a corporate experience of shared healing and neurocognitive resilience. Might we consider this somatic embodiment of shared emotions, what Paul calls "the same mind that is in Christ Jesus", also a participation in Christ's soteria (healing/salvation)? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaria morbidity has various presentations and the focus now shifts to uncommon signs and symptoms of malaria infection such as cognitive impairment to address the morbidity when the mortality declines. About 50% of children admitted to hospitals due to malaria experience neurological complications due to factors like low blood sugar, inflammation, elevated pressure, decreased oxygen levels, and excitotoxicity. Malaria during pregnancy negatively also impacts children's cognitive, behavioral, and executive function leading to neurodevelopmental delay due to increased susceptibility which can significantly affect maternal and child health, leading to higher rates of underestimated factors like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Despite having the world's second-largest tribal population, India's indigenous and tribal communities and their mental health are less explored and less understood. Western psychological tools and neurocognitive assessment tools are not universally applicable, thus necessitating the development of tailored tools to investigate psychological or neurocognitive impairment. This paper has illuminated the hidden mental health consequences of malaria infection, emphasizing the prevalence, nature, and implications of psychological distress among affected individuals. The findings underscore the importance of recognizing and addressing these psychological consequences in the holistic management and prevention of malaria and its mental health consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanism of ketamine-induced neurotoxicity development remains elusive. Mitochondrial fusion/fission dynamics play a critical role in regulating neurogenesis. Therefore, this study was aimed to evaluate whether mitochondrial dynamics were involved in ketamine-induced impairment of neurogenesis in neonatal rats and long-term synaptic plasticity dysfunction. In the in vivo study, postnatal day 7 (PND-7) rats received intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of 40 mg/kg ketamine for four consecutive times at 1 h intervals. The present findings revealed that ketamine induced mitochondrial fusion dysfunction in hippocampal neural stem cells (NSCs) by downregulating Mitofusin 2 (Mfn2) expression. In the in vitro study, ketamine treatment at 100 μM for 6 h significantly decreased the Mfn2 expression, and increased ROS generation, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP levels in cultured hippocampal NSCs. For the interventional study, lentivirus (LV) overexpressing Mfn2 (LV-Mfn2) or control LV vehicle was microinjected into the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) 4 days before ketamine administration. Targeted Mfn2 overexpression in the DG region could restore mitochondrial fusion in NSCs and reverse the inhibitory effect of ketamine on NSC proliferation and its faciliatory effect on neuronal differentiation. In addition, synaptic plasticity was evaluated by transmission electron microscopy, Golgi-Cox staining and long-term potentiation (LTP) recordings at 24 h after the end of the behavioral test. Preconditioning with LV-Mfn2 improved long-term cognitive dysfunction after repeated neonatal ketamine exposure by reversing the inhibitory effect of ketamine on synaptic plasticity in the hippocampal DG. The present findings demonstrated that Mfn2-mediated mitochondrial fusion dysfunction plays a critical role in the impairment of long-term neurocognitive function and synaptic plasticity caused by repeated neonatal ketamine exposure by interfering with hippocampal neurogenesis. Thus, Mfn2 might be a novel therapeutic target for the prevention of the developmental neurotoxicity of ketamine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many cancer survivors experience cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI), often with significant negative consequences across various life domains. Emerging evidence suggests that allowing additional time to process information before acting may be a useful strategy for those with CRCI to mitigate some of its impacts. The Wisconsin Card Sorting Task (WCST), a measure of general cognition, has shown that for some cancer survivors, longer task completion time facilitates similar task performance outcomes to control populations concerning perseveration errors; a key performance metric of the WCST. However, assessing if this strategy may be useful, as well as determining for whom it may be useful, with regard to strengths and weaknesses among select cognitive domains, is challenging due to factors such as the problem of task impurity. Accordingly, this study provides an initial computational and experimental assessment of whether additional time to process information before acting is a useful strategy for those with CRCI. Methods: We simulated individual cognitive differences observed in humans by varying contributions of executive functioning components (updating, shifting, inhibition) to yield 48 distinct computational models of the WCST. Our main manipulation was then to provide these models with more or less time (at three levels of 20, 40 and 60 cycles) before models executed an action to sort a given card. We compared the number of perseveration errors on the WCST produced by the computational models. Additionally, we determined models that simulated the performance of cancer survivors on the WCST by comparing the number of perseveration errors produced by the models to human data. Results: Additional processing time resulted in the models producing significantly fewer perseveration errors, supporting our hypothesis. In addition, 8 unique models simulated the performance of cancer survivors on the WCST. Additional time appeared to have a positive influence on performance primarily by mitigating the impacts of severe inhibition impairments. For more severe global executive function impairments, a substantial amount of additional time was required to mitigate the impacts of the impairments. For the most severe impairments, additional time was unable to adequately mitigate the impact on performance. Conclusion: Additional processing time may be a useful strategy to rectify perseveration errors among cancer survivors with CRCI. Our findings have implications for the development of practical strategies, such as workload and deadline management in occupational settings, which may mitigate the negative effects of CRCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Survival rates for pediatric cancer are improving, resulting in a rising need to understand and address long-term sequelae. In this narrative review, we summarize the effects of cancer and its treatment on the developing brain, with a focus on neurocognitive function in leukemia and pediatric brain tumor survivors. We then discuss possible mechanisms of brain injury and management considerations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although sociocognitive impairment is linked to failure of occupational reintegration in other clinical populations, less is known on the association of sociocognitive functioning and occupational reintegration in brain tumor patients such as primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL). Twenty PCNSL patients with ongoing complete response to therapy for at least one year were evaluated of whom eight resumed work. The association between occupational status, empathy, alexithymia and social problem solving was analyzed. Employed and non-employed patients were significantly different in their ability to provide appropriate solutions for social situations even when accounting for neurocognition. Decreased quality of life was associated with sociocognitive impairment. Although the results must be replicated in larger, more representative populations, this exploratory analysis tentatively adds facets to the literature on occupational reintegration in brain tumor patients. Forthcoming psychosocial research and clinical practice may target sociocognitive impairment when addressing reintegration after neuro-oncological treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite documented effects linking underlying placental diseases and neurological impairments in children, little is known about the long-term effects of placental pathology on children's neurocognitive outcomes. In addition, maternal responsivity, known to positively influence early postnatal cognitive development, may act to protect children from putative adverse effects of placental pathology. The current study is a follow up of medically healthy, term born, preschool age children, born with placental pathology. A sample of 118 children (45 comparison children with normal placental findings, 73 born with placental pathology) were followed when children were 3–4 years old. In comparison to children born to mothers with normal placentas, placental pathology was associated with poorer performance in the executive function involving cognitive flexibility, but not inhibitory control or receptive language. Maternal responsivity was observed to be marginally protective on the impact of placental pathology risk on cognitive flexibility, but this was not seen for either inhibitory control or receptive language. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: After a concussion, there are unique associations between static balance and landing with cognition. Previous research has explored these unique correlations, but the factor of time, dual-task, and different motor tasks leave gaps within the literature. The purpose of this study was to determine the associations between cognition and tandem gait performance. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that athletes with a concussion history would display stronger associations compared with athletes without a concussion history between cognition and tandem gait. Study Design: Cross-sectional. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Methods: A total of 126 athletes without (56.3% female; age, 18.8 ± 1.3 years; height, 176.7 ± 12.3 cm; mass, 74.8 ± 19.0 kg) and 42 athletes with (40.5% female; age, 18.8 ± 1.3 years; height, 179.3 ± 11.9 cm; mass, 81.0 ± 25.1 kg) concussion history participated. Cognitive performance was assessed with CNS Vital Signs. Tandem gait was performed on a 3-meter walkway. Dual-task tandem gait included a concurrent cognitive task of serial subtraction, reciting months backward, or spelling words backward. Results: Athletes with a concussion history exhibited a larger number of significant correlations compared with athletes without a concussion history for cognition and dual-task gait time (4 significant correlations: rho-range, -0.377 to 0.358 vs 2 significant correlations: rho, -0.233 to 0.179) and dual-task cost gait time (4 correlations: rho range, -0.344 to 0.392 vs 1 correlation: rho, -0.315). The time between concussion and testing did significantly moderate any associations (P = 0.11-0.63). Athletes with a concussion history displayed better dual-task cost response rate (P = 0.01). There were no other group differences for any cognitive (P = 0.13-0.97) or tandem gait (P = 0.20-0.92) outcomes. Conclusion: Athletes with a concussion history display unique correlations between tandem gait and cognition. These correlations are unaffected by the time since concussion. Clinical Relevance: These unique correlations may represent shared neural resources between cognition and movement that are only present for athletes with a concussion history. Time does not influence these outcomes, indicating the moderating effect of concussion on the correlations persists long-term after the initial injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Cortical thickness (CT) alterations, mismatch negativity (MMN) reductions, and cognitive deficits are robust findings in first-episode psychosis (FEP). However, most studies focused on medicated patients, leaving gaps in our understanding of the interrelationships between CT, MMN, neurocognition, and psychosocial functioning in unmedicated FEP. This study aimed to employ multiple mediation analysis to investigate potential pathways among these variables in unmedicated drug-naïve FEP. Methods We enrolled 28 drug-naïve FEP and 34 age and sex-matched healthy controls. Clinical symptoms, neurocognition, psychosocial functioning, auditory duration MMN, and T1 structural magnetic resonance imaging data were collected. We measured CT in the superior temporal gyrus (STG), a primary MMN-generating region. Results We found a significant negative correlation between MMN amplitude and bilateral CT of STG (CT_STG) in FEP (left: r  = −.709, P  < .001; right: r  = −.612, P  = .008). Multiple mediation models revealed that a thinner left STG cortex affected functioning through both direct (24.66%) and indirect effects (75.34%). In contrast, the effects of the right CT_STG on functioning were mainly mediated through MMN and neurocognitive pathways. Conclusions Bilateral CT_STG showed significant association with MMN, and MMN plays a mediating role between CT and cognition. Both MMN alone and its interaction with cognition mediated the effects of structural alterations on psychosocial function. The decline in overall function in FEP may stem from decreased CT_STG, leading to subsequent MMN deficits and neurocognitive dysfunction. These findings underline the crucial role of MMN in elucidating how subtle structural alterations can impact neurocognition and psychosocial function in FEP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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BACKGROUND: Studies that examined sex differences in first-episode patients consistently show that males compared to females have poor premorbid adjustment, earlier age of onset, worse clinical characteristics, and poorer outcomes. However, little is known about potential mediators that could explain these sex differences. METHODS: Our sample consisted of 137 individuals with first episode schizophrenia (males, n = 105; 77%) with a mean age of 22.1(s.d. = 4.1) years and mean education of 12.5(s.d. = 1.7) years. At entry, patients were within 2 years of their first psychotic episode onset. Baseline assessments were conducted for premorbid adjustment, symptoms, cognitive functioning, insight, and at 6-months for role and social functioning. RESULTS: Males as compared to females had poorer premorbid adjustment across several key developmental periods (p < 0.01), an earlier age of onset [M = 20.3(3.3) v. 22.8(5.6), p = 0.002], more negative symptoms (p = 0.044), poorer insight (p = 0.031), and poorer baseline and 6-month role (p = 0.002) and social functioning (p = 0.034). Several of these variables in which males showed impairment were significant predictors of 6-month role and social functioning. Premorbid adjustment and insight mediated the relationship between sex and role and social functioning at 6-months, but not negative symptoms. DISCUSSION: Males compared to females were at lower levels across several key premorbid and clinical domains which are strongly associated with functional outcome supporting the hypothesis that males might have a more disabling form of schizophrenia. The relationship between sex with role and social functioning was mediated through premorbid adjustment and insight suggesting pathways for understanding why females might have a less disabling form of schizophrenia.

Abstract Purpose This study proposed and evaluated a theoretical model for exploring the relationships between neurocognition, self-defeatist beliefs, experiential negative symptoms, and social functioning in individuals with chronic schizophrenia. Method The study recruited 229 individuals given a diagnosis of schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders from outpatient clinics and the day ward of a mental health hospital. After informed consent was obtained, the participants underwent assessments using the backward digit span, the digit symbol, and measures of self-defeatist beliefs, experiential negative symptoms, and social functioning. A structural equation model was applied to assess the fitness of the hypothesized model, with indices such as the goodness-of-fit index, comparative fit index, root mean square error of approximation, and standardized root mean square residual being used for model evaluation. Results The hypothesized model had an adequate fit. The study findings indicated that neurocognition might indirectly influence self-defeatist beliefs through its effect on experiential negative symptoms. Contrary to expectations, the study did not observe a direct influence of neurocognition, self-defeatist beliefs, or negative symptoms on social functioning. The revised model revealed the role of experiential negative symptoms in mediating the association between neurocognition and social functioning. However, self-defeatist beliefs did not significantly affect social functioning. Discussion Before modifying negative thoughts, enhancement of self-awareness ability can help improve negative symptoms and thereby improve the performance of social functions. Future research should develop a hierarchical program of negative symptoms, from cognition rehabilitation to enhancement of self-awareness, and end with modifying maladaptive beliefs.

Abstract Background Many cancer survivors experience cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI), often with significant negative consequences across various life domains. Emerging evidence suggests that allowing additional time to process information before acting may be a useful strategy for those with CRCI to mitigate some of its impacts. The Wisconsin Card Sorting Task (WCST), a measure of general cognition, has shown that for some cancer survivors, longer task completion time facilitates similar task performance outcomes to control populations concerning perseveration errors; a key performance metric of the WCST. However, assessing if this strategy may be useful, as well as determining for whom it may be useful, with regard to strengths and weaknesses among select cognitive domains, is challenging due to factors such as the problem of task impurity. Accordingly, this study provides an initial computational and experimental assessment of whether additional time to process information before acting is a useful strategy for those with CRCI. Methods We simulated individual cognitive differences observed in humans by varying contributions of executive functioning components (updating, shifting, inhibition) to yield 48 distinct computational models of the WCST. Our main manipulation was then to provide these models with more or less time (at three levels of 20, 40 and 60 cycles) before models executed an action to sort a given card. We compared the number of perseveration errors on the WCST produced by the computational models. Additionally, we determined models that simulated the performance of cancer survivors on the WCST by comparing the number of perseveration errors produced by the models to human data. Results Additional processing time resulted in the models producing significantly fewer perseveration errors, supporting our hypothesis. In addition, 8 unique models simulated the performance of cancer survivors on the WCST. Additional time appeared to have a positive influence on performance primarily by mitigating the impacts of severe inhibition impairments. For more severe global executive function impairments, a substantial amount of additional time was required to mitigate the impacts of the impairments. For the most severe impairments, additional time was unable to adequately mitigate the impact on performance. Conclusion Additional processing time may be a useful strategy to rectify perseveration errors among cancer survivors with CRCI. Our findings have implications for the development of practical strategies, such as workload and deadline management in occupational settings, which may mitigate the negative effects of CRCI.

Bipolar disorder (BD)1 implies impairments in executive functions during euthymia that interfere in psychosocial functioning. Virtual reality assessments may confer advantages respect to traditional assessments in terms of efficiency and ecological validity. The aim of this study was to validate a novel Virtual Cooking Task (VCT) for executive functions assessment in euthymic patients with BD. This is a cross-sectional study in which a group of BD patients (n = 42) and healthy controls (n = 42) were assessed with the VCT and a battery of computerized standard tasks (CST). Additionally, the influence on psychosocial functioning of both forms of assessment, measured with the FAST, was investigated to check ecological validity. In BD group significant impairments in interference, working memory and sustained attention were found in CST and VCT respect to controls. However, deficits in planning and problem-solving were also revealed with the VCT. With respect to psychosocial functioning, only VCT variables were able to predict FAST scores at the assessment time. The VCT showed a greater sensitivity than CST to assess executive functions and real-life functioning in BD. This provides evidence about the opportunity to design novel cognitive assessments for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in BD. • Patients with BD may have impairments in executive functions even during euthymia that can affect psychosocial functioning. • The Virtual Cooking Task is an immersive virtual task to assess executive functioning from an ecological perspective. • When compared to traditional assessment, the Virtual Cooking Task was able to detect impairments in planning, problem solving and switching task with a greater sensitivity in euthymic patients with BD respect to controls. • Executive performance in the Virtual Cooking Task predicted psychosocial functioning in patients with BD at the assessment time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Verbal fluency (VF) has been proposed as a putative neurocognitive endophenotype in schizophrenia (SZ) and bipolar disorder (BD). However, this hypothesis has not been examined using a longitudinal family approach. We conducted a five-group, comparative study. The sample comprised 323 adult participants, including 81 BD patients, 47 unaffected relatives of BD BD-Rel), 76 SZ patients, 40 unaffected relatives of SZ (SZ-Rel), and 79 genetically unrelated healthy controls (HC). All subjects were assessed twice with semantic VF (sem-VF) and phonological VF (ph-VF) tests over a 2-year follow-up period. ANCOVAs controlling for age and years of education were used to compare performance across groups. Patients with SZ and BD and their unaffected relatives showed sem-VF and ph-VF deficits at baseline, which persisted over time (all, p < 0.05). Moreover, BD-Rel showed an intermediate performance between SZ and HC. A repeated-measures ANOVA revealed no significant differences in the between-group trajectories comparison (p > 0.05). Our findings support that VF may represent a neurocognitive endophenotype for SZ and BD. Further longitudinal, family studies are warranted to confirm this preliminary evidence. • Verbal fluency is an uncertain endophenotype in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. • Family studies may be a suitable strategy for its identification. • A longitudinal five-group comparison study was performed. • Persistent fluency deficits were identified in patients and relatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction It is unclear whether neurotoxicity due to the antiretroviral drug efavirenz (EFV) results in neurocognitive impairment in people living with HIV (PLWH). Previously, we found that discontinuing EFV was associated with improved processing speed and attention on neuropsychological assessment. In this imaging study, we investigate potential neural mechanisms underlying this cognitive improvement using a BOLD fMRI task assessing cortical and subcortical functioning. Methods Asymptomatic adult PLWH stable on emtricitabine/tenofovirdisoproxil/efavirenz were randomly (1:2) assigned to continue their regimen (n = 12) or to switch to emtricitabine/tenofovirdisoproxil/rilpivirine (n = 28). At baseline and after 12 weeks, both groups performed the Stop-Signal Anticipation Task, which tests reactive and proactive inhibition (indicative of subcortical and cortical functioning, respectively), involving executive functioning, working memory, and attention. Behavior and BOLD fMRI activation levels related to processing speed and attention Z-scores were assessed in 17 pre-defined brain regions. Results Both groups had comparable patient and clinical characteristics. Reactive inhibition behavioral responses improved for both groups on week 12, with other responses unchanged. Between-group activation did not differ significantly. For reactive inhibition, positive Pearson coefficients were observed for the change in BOLD fMRI activation levels and change in processing speed and attention Z-scores in all 17 regions in participants switched to emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil/rilpivirine, whereas in the control group, negative correlation coefficients were observed in 10/17 and 13/17 regions, respectively. No differential pattern was observed for proactive inhibition. Conclusion Potential neural mechanisms underlying cognitive improvement after discontinuing EFV in PLWH were found in subcortical functioning, with our findings suggesting that EFV’s effect on attention and processing speed is, at least partially, mediated by reactive inhibition. Trial Registration Clinicaltrials.gov identifier [NCT02308332].

Abstract Background Few studies have focused on functional impairment in depressed patients during symptomatic remission. The exact relationship between cognitive performance and functional outcomes of patients with Major depressive disorder (MDD) remains unclear. Methods Participants diagnosed with MDD were included and interviewed at both baseline and follow-up. Cognitive function was assessed during acute episodes using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB), which targeted attention (Rapid Visual Processing - RVP), visual memory (Pattern Recognition Memory - PRM), and executive function (Intra-Extra Dimensional Set Shift - IED). The 17-item Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) was used for symptom assessment. Participants were divided into two groups based on their SDSS (Social Disability Screening Schedule) scores, and the differences between their demographic information, HAMD scores, and baseline CANTAB test results were compared. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify cognitive predictors of social function during symptomatic remission. Results According to the SDSS score at follow-up, 103 patients were divided into the normal social function group (n = 81,78.6%) and the poor social function group (n = 22, 21.4%) during clinical remission. Participants with poorer social function performed worse in the visual memory (PRM) and executive function tests (IED) at the baseline. Logistic regression analysis suggested that performance on the PRM (95%CI = 0.31–0.93, p = 0.030) and IED (95%CI = 1.01–1.13, p = 0.014) tests, instead of less severe symptoms, significantly contributed to functional outcomes. Conclusion Better performance in visual memory and executive function during acute episodes may predict better social functional outcomes in individuals with MDD. A potential early intervention to improve social function in individuals with MDD could include the treatments for executive function and visual memory.

IntroductionMethodsOutcome measuresResultsConclusionEarly Exercise Intolerance (EEI) is associated with delayed recovery and longer time to Return To Play (RTP), but this has not been established.Participants; (n = 52, male n = 30) UK university-aged rugby-union student-athletes.Student-athletes completed baseline screening (July–October 2021 and 2022). The test battery was repeated within 48 h, 4, 8 and 14 days after a Sports-Related Concussion (SRC) with the Buffalo Concussion Bike or Treadmill Test to set sub-symptom heart rate threshold. Student-athletes then completed a controlled early exercise protocol in-between reassessment (days 3, 5–7 and 9–13). Those with EEI were compared to those with early-exercise tolerance.Post-Concussion Symptom Scale, Immediate Post-Concussion and Cognitive Test, Vestibular-Ocular Motor Screening Tool and the Revised Perceived Academic Impact Tool.EEI was seen throughout the initial 14-days post-SRC (23.8%, 22.4%, 25.5%. 25.0%). EEI was associated with a slower reaction time within 48 h (−0.01 (−0.030–0.043) Vs 0.06 (0.033–0.24), p = 0.004) and greater VOMS scores within 48 h; (0.00 (0.00–4.00) Vs 5.50 (2.75–9.00), p = 0.016) and 4 days (0.00 (0.00–2.00) Vs 5.00 (0.00–6.00), p = 0.044). RTP was 12.5 days longer in those with EEI at 14-days post-SRC.EEI is prevalent following an SRC in university-aged student-athletes and was associated with delayed recovery and RTP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: For children who are unable to cooperate due to severe dental anxiety (DA), dental treatment of childhood caries under Dental General Anesthesia (DGA) is a safe and high-quality treatment method. This study aims to evaluate the impact on neurocognitive functions and the growth and development of children 2 years after dental procedure based on previous research, and further establish a causal relationship between general anesthesia (GA) and changes in children's neurocognitive functions by incorporating Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis. Methods: Data were collected and analyzed from 340 cases of S-ECC procedures of preschool children conducted in 2019. This involved comparing the neurocognitive outcomes 2 years post-operation of preschool children receiving dental procedures under general anesthesia or local anesthesia. Physical development indicators such as height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) of children were also compared at baseline, half a year post-operation, and 2 years post-operation. We performed a Mendelian randomization analysis on the causal relationship between children's cognitive development and general anesthesia, drawing on a large-scale meta-analysis of GWAS for anesthesia, including multiple general anesthesia datasets. Results: Outcome data were obtained for 111 children in the general anesthesia group and 121 children in the local anesthesia group. The mean FSIQ score for the general anesthesia group was 106.77 (SD 6.96), while the mean score for the local anesthesia group was 106.36 (SD 5.88). FSIQ scores were equivalent between the two groups. The incidence of malnutrition in children in the general anesthesia group was 27.93% (p < 0.001) before surgery and decreased to 15.32% (p > 0.05) after 2 years, which was not different from the general population. The IVW method suggested that the causal estimate (p = 0.99 > 0.05, OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 5.98 10-4--1.82 - 103) was not statistically significant for disease prevalence. This indicates no genetic cause-and-effect relationship between anesthesia and childhood intelligence. Conclusion: There were no adverse outcomes in neurocognitive development in 2 years after severe early childhood caries (S-ECC) procedure under total sevoflurane-inhalation in preschool children. The malnutrition condition in children can be improved after S-ECC procedure under general anesthesia. Limited MR evidence does not support a correlation between genetic susceptibility to anesthesia and an increased risk for intelligence in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Turner syndrome (TS) affects 50 per 100 000 females. TS affects multiple organs through all stages of life, necessitating multidisciplinary care. This guideline extends previous ones and includes important new advances, within diagnostics and genetics, estrogen treatment, fertility, co-morbidities, and neurocognition and neuropsychology. Exploratory meetings were held in 2021 in Europe and United States culminating with a consensus meeting in Aarhus, Denmark in June 2023. Prior to this, eight groups addressed important areas in TS care: (1) diagnosis and genetics, (2) growth, (3) puberty and estrogen treatment, (4) cardiovascular health, (5) transition, (6) fertility assessment, monitoring, and counselling, (7) health surveillance for comorbidities throughout the lifespan, and (8) neurocognition and its implications for mental health and well-being. Each group produced proposals for the present guidelines, which were meticulously discussed by the entire group. Four pertinent questions were submitted for formal GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) evaluation with systematic review of the literature. The guidelines project was initiated by the European Society for Endocrinology and the Pediatric Endocrine Society, in collaboration with members from the European Society for Pediatric Endocrinology, the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology, the European Reference Network on Rare Endocrine Conditions, the Society for Endocrinology, and the European Society of Cardiology, Japanese Society for Pediatric Endocrinology, Australia and New Zealand Society for Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Latin American Society for Pediatric Endocrinology, Arab Society for Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, and the Asia Pacific Pediatric Endocrine Society. Advocacy groups appointed representatives for pre-meeting discussions and the consensus meeting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cognitive models of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) highlight characteristics of trauma memories, such as disorganisation, as key mechanisms in the aetiology of the disorder. However, studies investigating trauma memory in youth have provided inconsistent findings. Research has highlighted that PTSD in youth may be accompanied by difficulties in neurocognitive functioning, potentially impacting ability to recall the trauma memory. The present study sought to investigate both trauma memory characteristics and neurocognitive functioning in youth aged 8–17 years. Youths exposed to single-event trauma, with (N = 29, Mage = 13.6, 21 female) and without (N = 40, Mage = 13.3, 21 female) a diagnosis of PTSD, completed self-report measures of trauma memory, a narrative memory task and a set of neurocognitive tests two to six months post-trauma. A group of non trauma-exposed youths (N = 36, Mage = 13.9, 27 female) were compared on narrative and neurocognitive tasks. Results indicated that trauma memories in youth with, versus without, PTSD were more sensory-laden, temporally disrupted, difficult to verbally access, and formed a more 'central' part of their identity. Greater differences were observed for self-reported memory characteristics compared to narrative characteristics. No between group differences in neurocognitive function were observed. Self-reported trauma memory characteristics highlight an important factor in the aetiology of PTSD. The observed lack of significant differences in neurocognitive ability potentially suggests that cognitive factors represent a more relevant treatment target than neurocognitive factors in single-event PTSD. Further research to understand the cognitive factors represented by self-reported trauma memory characteristics is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Methods Results Conclusion Cognitive disturbances typically precede the onset of overt psychotic symptoms and represent a neurobiological marker for psychosis risk that is also associated with poor functional outcomes. The Measure of Insight into Cognition‐Self Report (MIC‐SR) is a widely used 12‐item questionnaire that assesses the perceived frequency of cognitive impairment in the domains of executing functioning, attention, and memory. However, the MIC‐SR is not available in Spanish, one of the most widely spoken languages worldwide. The present study aimed to provide a Spanish version of the MIC‐SR and examine its psychometric properties in psychosis‐risk and non‐clinical Mexican young adults.The sample comprised 621 participants who completed a battery of self‐report measures via an online survey. Of the participants, 478 were non‐clinical, and 143 met the screening criteria for a clinical high‐risk for psychosis (CHR‐positive).Confirmatory Factor Analyses supported a one‐factor model, consistent with the findings for the original MIC‐SR. The results showed adequate fit indices for the general model and the independent models for both groups, with high Cronbach's alpha coefficients. Furthermore, the CHR‐positive group showed more frequent subjective cognitive problems on each of the 12 items, higher total scores, and higher average frequency than the non‐clinical group.To our knowledge, this is the first translation of the MIC‐SR into Spanish. Using the MIC‐SR at the CHR stage may contribute to our understanding of cognitive processes associated with the onset of a psychotic disorder and provide valuable information in the context of detection and early intervention efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cannabis use disorders are global emerging problem nowadays, with high prevalence and morbidity. Cognitive impairments, and also corresponding genetic vulnerability, has been fairly replicated in individuals with cannabis dependence. However, there are few studies that assess cognitive functioning as an endophenotype or a trait marker for cannabis dependence. While the primary objective of this study was to assess the endophenotype pattern of cognitive dysfunction in cannabis dependence, assessing the association between the degree of cognitive functioning, and their socio‐demographic and clinical variables in the cannabis dependence patients and their first‐degree relatives was the secondary objective. Methodology: We compared cognitive functioning across three groups‐ patients with cannabis dependence syndrome, their 'non‐user' first‐degree relatives and healthy controls, with 30 participants in each group. Five cognitive domains‐ attention and concentration, verbal fluency, memory, visuospatial ability and executive functions were assessed. We assessed for endophenotype pattern of statistical significance in pairwise analyses of Kruskal‐Wallis test, which was corrected for multiple comparisons. Subsequently, correlation analysis to assess association of cognitive impairment with socio‐demographic and clinical variables was conducted. Results: Although impairment in attention and executive functions also was seen in patients with cannabis dependence, endophenotype pattern of statistical significance in pairwise analyses, with impairment in first‐degree relatives too, was seen in all sub‐scores of verbal fluency and verbal memory. None of the correlations were significant. Conclusion: 'Non‐user' first‐degree relatives of patients with cannabis dependence too show significant cognitive impairment. Verbal fluency and verbal memory are possible endophenotypes or trait markers for cannabis dependence syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research acknowledges Sports‐Related Concussion (SRC) is acutely deleterious to academic ability, but no tool has been validated to measure the effect of SRC on academic ability. The sutdy aimed to establish if the Revised Perceived Academic Impact Tool (PAIT2) is reliable and valid for assessing academic impairment following an SRC. Non‐concussed, healthy student‐athletes in higher education were recruited to the control group and completed the PAIT2 at day 0, 2, 4, 8, 14 and 19. The concussed group consisted of higher education student‐athletes participating in rugby union. The concussed group completed the PAIT2 at baseline screening during pre‐season, day 2, 4, 8 and 14 following an SRC and at return‐to‐play. The PAIT2 asks participants to rate their perceived ability on 23 academic tasks on a statement scored on a 0–6 Likert scale. Repeated measurements from the healthy group (n = 25) demonstrated PAIT2 has good internal validity (χ2(25) = 2.128 and p = 0.712) and reliability (0.880 [95% CI: 0.785–0.941]). A change of 4.631 (80% CI) can be used to indicate if academic impairment is present following an SRC. PAIT2 identified 96% of concussed student‐athletes with academic impairment at day 2, 92% at day 4, 85.71% at day 8 and 92% at day 14 and 19. PAIT2 has good reliability and internal validity for detecting those with academic impairment following SRC. The use of this tool may be of assistance to clinicians when managing student‐athletes return to learn. Highlights: No previous studies have used an assessment tool to measure perceived academic ability during the acute phase of a Sports‐Related Concussion (SRC). The Revised Perceived Academic Impairment Tool (PAIT2) may fill this void but has not been validated or its reliability established.The concussed group had significantly worse self‐perceived academic performance at day 2, but not by day 4, indicating perceived academic ability recovers by 4 days following an SRC.The PAIT2 had good validity and reliability and was able to detect 96.00%, 92.00% and 85.71% of concussed student‐athletes with academic impairment at day 2, 4, 8 and 14 days post‐SRC.Other measures, such as academic time loss or the Immediate Post Concussion Test, were not superior for detecting academic impairment, but the use of this with PAIT2 was superior for ruling out academic impairment rather than just the PAIT2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatments for anorexia nervosa (AN) remain ineffective for many patients. Processes that can account for differential treatment outcomes remain mostly unknown. We propose that the field test the role of associative learning in current psychological treatments. We hold that this line of research could yield actionable information for understanding non‐response and improving long‐term outcomes. To make this argument, we define associative learning and outline its proposed role in understanding psychiatric disorders and their treatment. We then briefly review data exploring associative learning in AN. We argue that associative learning processes are implicitly implicated in existing treatments; by this rationale, baseline differences in learning may interfere with treatment response. Finally, we outline future research to test our hypotheses. Altogether, future research aimed at better understanding how associative learning may contribute to AN symptom persistence has the potential to inform novel directions in intervention research. Public Significance: There is a pressing need to improve outcomes in treatments for anorexia nervosa (AN). We propose that individual differences in associative learning—the ability to form and update associations between cues, contexts, behaviors, and outcomes—may account for differential response to existing treatments. Undertaking this research could provide an understanding of how current treatments work and inform new approaches for those who may be at risk of poor outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The developmental origins of health and disease hypothesis suggest early-life environment impacts health outcomes throughout the life course. In particular, epigenetic marks, including DNA methylation, are thought to be key mechanisms through which environmental exposures programme later-life health. Adequate maternal folate status before and during pregnancy is essential in the protection against neural tube defects, but data are emerging that suggest early-life folate exposures may also influence neurocognitive outcomes in childhood and, potentially, thereafter. Since folate is key to the supply of methyl donors for DNA methylation, we hypothesize that DNA methylation may be a mediating mechanism through which maternal folate influences neurocognitive outcomes. Using bisulphite sequencing, we measured DNA methylation of five genes (Art3, Rsp16, Tspo, Wnt16, and Pcdhb6) in the brain tissue of adult offspring of dams who were depleted of folate (n  = 5, 0.4 mg folic acid/kg diet) during pregnancy (~19–21 days) and lactation (mean 22 days) compared with controls (n  = 6, 2 mg folic acid/kg diet). Genes were selected as methylation of their promoters had previously been found to be altered by maternal folate intake in mice and humans across the life course, and because they have potential associations with neurocognitive outcomes. Maternal folate depletion was significantly associated with Art3 gene hypomethylation in subcortical brain tissue of adult mice at 28 weeks of age (mean decrease 6.2%, P  = .03). For the other genes, no statistically significant differences were found between folate depleted and control groups. Given its association with neurocognitive outcomes, we suggest Art3 warrants further study in the context of lifecourse brain health. We have uncovered a potential biomarker that, once validated in accessible biospecimens and human context, may be useful to track the impact of early-life folate exposure on later-life neurocognitive health, and potentially be used to develop and monitor the effects of interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Previous studies have suggested that the suicide rate of patients with schizophrenia is high. This study investigates factors influencing suicidal ideation in first‐episode schizophrenia patients, focusing on cognitive function, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), triglyceride (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) in patients with first‐episode schizophrenia. Methods: A total of 123 patients with first‐episode schizophrenia and 38 healthy controls were included in the study. The patients were divided into suicidal and nonsuicidal ideation groups based on the Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation, and they were assessed with Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Cognitive function was assessed using the Chinese version of the MATRICS consensus cognitive battery (MCCB) and the serum BDNF, TG, and TC were detected. The main statistical methods include t‐test, χ2 test, multivariate logistic regression analysis, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, and the DeLong test. Results: 26.02% of patients exhibited suicidal ideation. Higher PANSS and TC levels were risk factors, while higher MCCB scores and BDNF levels were protective factors. ROC analysis indicated AUCs of 0.630, 0.724, and 0.762 for serum BDNF, PANSS, and MCCB, respectively, with a combined AUC of 0.870. Conclusion: Serum BDNF level, PANSS score, and MCCB score can be used as auxiliary predictors of suicidal ideation in schizophrenic patients. Combining these three indicators can effectively predict suicidal ideation in schizophrenic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: It is unclear whether neurotoxicity due to the antiretroviral drug efavirenz (EFV) results in neurocognitive impairment in people living with HIV (PLWH). Previously, we found that discontinuing EFV was associated with improved processing speed and attention on neuropsychological assessment. In this imaging study, we investigate potential neural mechanisms underlying this cognitive improvement using a BOLD fMRI task assessing cortical and subcortical functioning. Methods: Asymptomatic adult PLWH stable on emtricitabine/tenofovirdisoproxil/efavirenz were randomly (1:2) assigned to continue their regimen (n = 12) or to switch to emtricitabine/tenofovirdisoproxil/rilpivirine (n = 28). At baseline and after 12 weeks, both groups performed the Stop-Signal Anticipation Task, which tests reactive and proactive inhibition (indicative of subcortical and cortical functioning, respectively), involving executive functioning, working memory, and attention. Behavior and BOLD fMRI activation levels related to processing speed and attention Z-scores were assessed in 17 pre-defined brain regions. Results: Both groups had comparable patient and clinical characteristics. Reactive inhibition behavioral responses improved for both groups on week 12, with other responses unchanged. Between-group activation did not differ significantly. For reactive inhibition, positive Pearson coefficients were observed for the change in BOLD fMRI activation levels and change in processing speed and attention Z-scores in all 17 regions in participants switched to emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil/rilpivirine, whereas in the control group, negative correlation coefficients were observed in 10/17 and 13/17 regions, respectively. No differential pattern was observed for proactive inhibition. Conclusion: Potential neural mechanisms underlying cognitive improvement after discontinuing EFV in PLWH were found in subcortical functioning, with our findings suggesting that EFV's effect on attention and processing speed is, at least partially, mediated by reactive inhibition. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov identifier [NCT02308332]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Few studies have focused on functional impairment in depressed patients during symptomatic remission. The exact relationship between cognitive performance and functional outcomes of patients with Major depressive disorder (MDD) remains unclear. Methods: Participants diagnosed with MDD were included and interviewed at both baseline and follow-up. Cognitive function was assessed during acute episodes using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB), which targeted attention (Rapid Visual Processing - RVP), visual memory (Pattern Recognition Memory - PRM), and executive function (Intra-Extra Dimensional Set Shift - IED). The 17-item Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) was used for symptom assessment. Participants were divided into two groups based on their SDSS (Social Disability Screening Schedule) scores, and the differences between their demographic information, HAMD scores, and baseline CANTAB test results were compared. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify cognitive predictors of social function during symptomatic remission. Results: According to the SDSS score at follow-up, 103 patients were divided into the normal social function group (n = 81,78.6%) and the poor social function group (n = 22, 21.4%) during clinical remission. Participants with poorer social function performed worse in the visual memory (PRM) and executive function tests (IED) at the baseline. Logistic regression analysis suggested that performance on the PRM (95%CI = 0.31–0.93, p = 0.030) and IED (95%CI = 1.01–1.13, p = 0.014) tests, instead of less severe symptoms, significantly contributed to functional outcomes. Conclusion: Better performance in visual memory and executive function during acute episodes may predict better social functional outcomes in individuals with MDD. A potential early intervention to improve social function in individuals with MDD could include the treatments for executive function and visual memory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are associated with neurocognitive and social-cognitive impairments. To date very few studies investigated social cognition in first-episode bipolar disorder (FEBD). Our main aim was to investigate the differences in social cognition and neurocognition between FEBD and first-episode psychosis (FEP). Another aim was to investigate neurocognitive correlates of negative symptoms and attenuated psychotic symptoms in FEBD. This study included 55 FEBD, 64 FEP and 43 healthy controls. A comprehensive neuropsychological battery assessing social cognition, processing speed, verbal and visual memory, working memory, sustained attention, and executive functions was administered to all participants. Both FEBD and FEP were associated with widespread deficits in all neurocognitive domains and social cognition. Both FEP (d = −1.19) and FEBP (d = −0.88) were also impaired in social cognition. In FEP, effect sizes (Cohen's d) of neurocognitive deficits ranged from −0.71 to −1.56. FEBD was also associated with relatively milder but similar neurocognitive deficits (d = −0.61 to-1.17). FEBD group performed significantly better than FEP group in verbal and visual memory, processing speed, and executive function domains (d = −0.40 to-0.52). Negative symptoms and social functioning were associated with neuropsychological impairment in both groups. The severity of attenuated psychotic symptoms was associated with poorer verbal memory in FEBD (r = −0.39, p < 0.01). The cross-sectional nature of the current study is the main limitation. Neurocognitive and social-cognitive deficits are evident in both FEBD and FEP. In FEBD, more severe memory deficits might be markers of clinical overlap and shared neurobiological vulnerability with psychotic disorders. • Both FEBD and FEP groups had significant cognitive deficits • FEBD group performed better than FEP group in verbal and visual memory, processing speed, and executive functions. • There were no significant differences between FEP and FEBD in social cognition, working memory and sustained attention. • In FEBD cognitive, the severity of negative and attenuated psychotic symptoms are related to more severe cognitive deficits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The online proliferation of COVID-19 misinformation led to adverse health and societal consequences. This study investigated possible differences in COVID-19 headline accuracy discernment and online sharing of COVID-19 misinformation between older and younger adults, as well as the role of individual differences in global cognition, health literacy and verbal IQ. Fifty-two younger (18–35 years old) and fifty older adults (age 50 and older) completed a neurocognitive battery, health literacy and numeracy measures, and self-report questionnaires via telephone. Participants also completed a social media headline-sharing experiment (Pennycook et al., Psychological science, 31(7), 770–780, 2020) in which they were presented with true and false COVID-19 headlines about which they indicated: 1) the likelihood that they would share the story on social media; and 2) the factual accuracy of the story. A repeated measures multivariate analysis of variance controlling for gender and race/ethnicity showed no effects of age (p =.099) but a significant interaction between actual COVID-19 headline accuracy and the likelihood of sharing (p <.001), such that accuracy was more strongly related to sharing false headlines (r = −.64) versus true headlines (r = −.43). Moreover, a higher likelihood of sharing false COVID-19 headlines was associated with lower verbal IQ and numeracy skills in older adults (rs = −.51--.40) and with lower verbal IQ, numeracy, and global cognition in younger adults (rs = −.66--.60). Findings indicate that headline accuracy judgements, numeracy, and verbal IQ are important contributors to sharing COVID-19 misinformation in both older and younger adults. Future work might examine the benefits of psychoeducation for improving health and science literacy for COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]