bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A-087 Socioeconomic Status Moderates the Neurocognitive Implications of Major Depressive Disorder Among People Living with HIV
Authors: K Fidaleo , D Byrd , M Rivera Mindt , M Aghvinian , M Savin , A Summers
Published: August 2020

Objective

While low socioeconomic status (SES) and major depression are highly co-occurring among people living with HIV (PLWH), there is a paucity of literature examining how these factors may influence neurocognition. Thus, this study aimed to identify the interactive effects of SES and lifetime major depressive disorder (MDD) within a diverse sample of PLWH.

Method

A sample of 119 PLWH (47 with lifetime MDD, 72 without MDD) underwent a comprehensive neurocognitive battery, neuromedical examination, psychiatric/substance use evaluations, and urine toxicology. The Hollingshead Four Factor Index of Social Status served as a proxy for SES. A lifetime MDD diagnosis was determined using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview. After adjusting for covariates (i.e., illicit opiate positive urine toxicology), a series of least squares regression analyses tested the interactive effects of SES and MDD upon seven demographically-adjusted neurocognitive domain T-scores.

Results

The interactive effects of SES and MDD were significantly associated with the domain of attention/working memory (F(4, 109) = 4.34, p = .003, R2 = .14), such that PLWH and lifetime MDD performed better as SES increased (β = .38, SE = .12, p = .002). SES did not influence performance in attention/working memory among those without MDD. Significant interactive effects were not observed in other domains.

Conclusions

Those with higher SES and lifetime MDD performed better across tests of attention/working memory, suggesting heightened access to various resources associated with higher SES could be providing neurocognitive benefits to PLWH and MDD. Future directions should examine this interaction longitudinally and evaluate differences in the severity/duration of MDD.
A-090 Response Time on Cognitive Measures is Associated with Motor-Based Strategy Use in a Trichotillomania Treatment Sample
Authors: E Carlson , E Malloy , D Haaga
Published: August 2020

Objective

This study used follow-up data from a randomized controlled trial of a cognitive-behavioral therapy intervention for trichotillomania. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between strategy use and two cognitive measures.

Method

Thirty participants met diagnostic criteria at the start of the study and completed a follow-up assessment 3- or 6-months post-treatment. The sample was 80% female and the mean age was 34.Participants completed a trichotillomania strategy use form which presents a list of strategies that are organized into 5 categories: sensory (e.g., using a scalp massager), cognitive (e.g., cognitive restructuring), affective (e.g., engaging in pleasurable activities), motor (e.g., using fidget toys), and place (e.g., putting sticky notes on mirrors). Participants were asked to circle any strategies they currently use, and the number of strategies used in each domain was counted. Participants also completed cognitive measures including a stop-signal task and a gambling task. Correlational analyses were conducted comparing the primary outcome variables on the cognitive measures to the number of strategies used in each of the 5 domains.

Results

Pearson correlations revealed significant negative correlations between the use of motor pulling strategies and mean decision-making time on the gambling task r (28) = −.619, p < .001 and stop signal reaction time r (28) = −.418, p = .022. Spearman rank-order correlations confirmed these results.

Conclusion

The use of motor coping strategies is associated with faster responses to task relevant stimuli. The current findings indicate that fast motor-based response time may make motor-based strategies more accessible to these individuals.
A-091 Neuropsychological findings in a Pediatric Case of Rhombencephalosynapsis
Authors: M Engelmann , C Austin , A Benjaminov , A Okoro
Published: August 2020

Objective

Rhombencephalosynapsis (RES) is a rare cerebellar malformation resulting in agenisis/hypogenesis of the vermis. The main clinical features include truncal and/or limb ataxia, neuro-ophthalmological abnormalities, hydrocephalus, and dysmorphic signs, as well as difficulties with attention and emotional/behavioral regulation. This case contributes to the RES literature by providing a pediatric neuropsychological profile of RES with features of Gomez-Lopez-Hernandez syndrome (GLHS) alongside imaging and comparison with related syndromes (e.g. GLHS, Autism, Cerebellar Cognitive Affective Syndrome (CCAS), ADHD).

Method

The patient is a 12-year-old male with a complex medical history including hydrocephalus, strabismus, gross/fine motor delays, and bilateral alopecia. Psychiatric history includes anxiety, depression, mood lability, and social difficulties. Incidental imaging findings of rhombencephalosynapsis were found during Neurology consult. Imaging showed stable ventriculomegaly, aqueductal stenosis, and low lying cerebellar tonsils. A comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation was completed to assist with treatment recommendations.

Results

Neuropsychological testing demonstrated above average intellectual/reasoning abilities, with relative weaknesses (base rate difference < 5%) in attention, working memory, and processing speed. Primary deficits in shifting/flexibility within executive functioning tasks and social/emotional functioning, including rigidity of expectations, poor perspective taking, and all-or-nothing characterization of people and events. Fine motor deficits were also observed.

Conclusions

The RES literature is sparse, particularly for pediatric cases with average or better intellectual functioning. This case study provides concurrent neurological and neuropsychological findings which have been implicated in related conditions with cerebellar abnormalities, particularly the a) absence of the vermis and associated emotional lability and b) executive deficits of shifting/flexibility affecting cognitive, social, and emotional functioning.
A-093 Neuropsychological Functioning in an 8-year-old female with Friedreich’s Ataxia
Authors: E Marston , L Katz , N Cruz
Published: August 2020

Objective

An 8-year old female in the 3rd grade was referred for an evaluation due to concerns surrounding attention, academics, and motor skills in the context of Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA). FA is the most common genetically inherited ataxia (Delatycki et al., 2000). Neurocognitively, deficits in processing and motor speed, visuospatial reasoning, and executive function have been documented in FA (Nieto et al., 2012; Mantovan et al., 2006; Schmahmann et al., 1998). This case study expands on the limited literature on the neuropsychological profile of children with FA.

Methods

Patient was diagnosed with FA in 2014 following genetic testing significant for over 1,000 repeats of the Frataxin gene. She has experienced a steady decline in her gross-, fine-, and oral-motor skills. Patient requires a personal aide at school to ensure safety ambulating and manage her attention and learning challenges.

Results

Intellectual ability was estimated as average (WISC-V: GAI = 92). She exhibited significant deficits in reading, writing, and mathematics, clustering around an early 1st grade level (WIAT-III). She presented with attention and executive function impairments (CPT-3, TEA-Ch, NEPSY-II). Motor coordination difficulties were characteristic of FA (WRAVMA, Finger Tapper).

Conclusion

Patient demonstrated deficits in motor coordination, processing speed, attention, and executive function typical of FA, given its cerebellar pathology and impacted corticocerebellar pathways. The etiology of her learning challenges is unknown, as these domains are not typically impacted in FA. Future investigation of the relationship between FA and other neurocognitive domains is warranted.
A-098 Regional Cerebral Blood Flow in Adults with Autism
Authors: B Mcdonald , C Golden , K Willeumier , D Amen
Published: August 2020

Objective

To identify regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) differences between individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and healthy controls.

Method

Healthy controls [n = 81, Mage = 41.9, 53.0% female] and persons diagnosed by psychiatric examination with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) [n = 62, Mage = 29.8, 75.8% male] were selected from a deidentified adult clinical outpatient database. Those with comorbid diagnoses were included. Significant differences (alpha = .001) were found for gender [χ(2) = 13.4] and age [t(141) = −4.8] between groups. Multiple ANCOVA controlled for gender and age on outcomes of rCBF across 17 brain regions from Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) were analyzed.

Results

Significant rCBF differences were noted in the cerebellum [left:F(1,143) = 9.43, p = .003; right: F(1,143) = 14.2, p < .001] and basal ganglia [left:F(1,143) = 8.2,p = .005; right:F(1,143) = 10.3, p = .002]. Group means comparisons indicated higher perfusion in the cerebellum and lower perfusion in the basal ganglia in the group with ASD. No significant differences were found bilaterally in limbic system, motor sensory strip, vermis, or occipital, parietal, frontal, or temporal lobes.

Conclusion

Results indicated that individuals diagnosed with ASD have diminished rCBF in the basal ganglia and increased rCBF in the cerebellum. Previous research supports these conclusions, as the basal ganglia is linked with repetitive and/or restricted motor behaviors, and the cerebellum aids in understanding gross motor and coordination in ASD, as well as social interactions, and language and communication. By understanding the underlying mechanisms of ASD, interventions focused on sensory-motor abilities, such as sensory enrichment (Woo and Leon, 2013), can show a decrease in motor behaviors and improve cognition. Future studies should control for potential comorbidities, the severity of ASD, and medication usage.
A-102 The Relationship Between Retinal and Cognitive Functioning in Schizophrenia
Authors: D Demmin , S Klein , S Silverstein
Published: August 2020

Objective

The retina may provide a unique window into brain structure and function as an accessible part of the central nervous system. Abnormalities in retinal cell structure and function have been associated with brain pathology (e.g., brain volume loss, cognitive impairment) in several neuropsychiatric disorders (e.g., MS, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease). A number of prior studies using flash electroretinography (fERG) have reported reduced retinal cell activity in schizophrenia (SZ). Impairments in cognitive functioning are a core feature of SZ and deficits in executive control processes involving prefrontal cortex (PFC) activity are strong predictors of functional capacity. This study examined whether retinal cell functioning is related to brain function, as indexed by cognitive function, in SZ, and if these relationships were stronger in particular domains (e.g., PFC dependent functions vs. less PFC dependent functions).

Method

Twenty-six SZ participants and 24 healthy controls (HC) completed fERG and cognitive testing. fERG measurements included a-wave (photoreceptor cells), b-wave (bipolar-Müller cells), and oscillatory potential (OP; amacrine cells) amplitudes and implicit times. Cognitive tests assessed executive control processes (i.e., attention/processing speed, behavior initiation, response inhibition, working memory), and non-executive control processes (i.e., emotion recognition/discrimination).

Results

In the HC group, a-wave amplitude was correlated with cognitive test scores and OP amplitude was related to cognitive performance in the SZ group. However, overall, retinal cell activity did not appear to be strongly related to scores on cognitive tasks, regardless of whether or not they involved frontal brain regions.

Conclusion

Impairments in retinal and cognitive functioning may reflect distinct disease mechanisms in schizophrenia.
A-103 Normative Reference Values and Item-Level Symptom Endorsement for the PROMIS® v2.0 Cognitive Function-8-Item Short Form in Adults with Mental Health Problems
Authors: J Marsh , G Iverson , E Connors , D Terry
Published: August 2020

Objective

The purpose of the study is to present normative data and reliability statistics for the PROMIS® v2.0 Cognitive Function-8-Item Short Form for the total normative sample and subgroups with mental health problems.

Method

The PROMIS® v2.0 Cognitive Function 8-Item Short Form measures subjective cognitive difficulties (raw score range = 8–40). We stratified the normative sample from the US general population (n = 1,009; 51.1% women) by gender, self-reported history of a depression or anxiety diagnosis, and recent mental health symptoms (i.e., endorsed frequent anxiety or depression symptoms in the last week) and examined cognitive symptom reporting.

Results

Those with past or present mental health difficulties obtained lower raw scores on the measure, reflecting greater cognitive symptom reporting. This was apparent in men (all men, M = 31.06, SD = 7.68; depression group, M = 26.74, SD = 8.09; anxiety group, M = 26.95, SD = 7.54; mental health group M = 24.73, SD = 7.79) and women (all women M = 33.23, SD = 7.32; depression group, M = 29.78, SD = 8.57; anxiety group, M = 30.19, SD = 7.81; mental health group, M = 28.60, SD = 8.61). The base rates for endorsing three or more cognitive symptoms was greater in those with mental health problems (men: full sample = 19.7%; depression group = 37.1%; anxiety group = 32.8%; mental health group = 45.7%; women: full sample = 10.1%; depression group = 22.8%; anxiety group = 19.4%; mental health group = 24.8%). Internal consistency, as measured by Cronbach’s alpha, ranged from 0.92 to 0.95.

Conclusions

The PROMIS® v2.0 Cognitive Function-8-Item Short Form is a reliable measure of subjective cognitive functioning across genders and mental health status. Those with past or present mental health difficulties report a greater number of cognitive symptoms. It may be important to address these difficulties in clinical practice.
A-109 Anxiety Influences Traumatic Brain Injury Survivors and Healthy Comparison Adult Bilinguals Stroop Color Word Test Performance
Authors: E Torres , D Lopez-Hernandez , P Litvin , R Cervantes , R Rugh-Fraser , A Bueno , J Knight , F Martinez , W Olmos , F Zakarian , M Lee , D Budding , P Vespa , D Hovda , D Mcarthur , D Plurad , J Fuster , D Hardy , E Woo , M Wright
Published: August 2020

Objective

We evaluated symptoms of anxiety (via the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale; HADS, HADS-A) on Stroop Color Word Test (SCWT) performances in traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivors, as compared to healthy comparison participants (HC).

Method

The sample consisted of 40 acute TBI survivors [ATBI; 30 normal symptoms of anxiety (NSA); 10 abnormal symptoms of anxiety (ASA)], 30 chronic TBI survivors (CTBI; 16 NSA; 14 ASA), and 50 HC’s (28 NSA; 22 ASA). All participants passed performance validity testing. The SCWT included the word (SCWT-W), color (SCWT-C), and color-word (SCWT-CW) conditions. A series of ANOVAs were used to evaluate SCWT performances.

Results

ANOVA revealed a main effect group on the SCWT-C, p = .011, and SCWT-CW, p = .018, with HC’s outperforming the ATBI group. Furthermore, HC outperformed both TBI groups on the SCWT-W, p = .004. We also found that the ASA outperformed the NSA group on the SCWT-W, p = .036. No interactions emerged between group and anxiety.

Conclusion

The HC group outperformed both TBI groups on the SCWT-W, but only the ATBI group on SCWT-C and SCWT-CW. Furthermore, we found that there were only differences between the anxiety groups on the SCWT-W. Our findings highlight that anxiety impacts HC and TBI groups differently on the SCWT.
A-112 Validity of In-Person Assessment of Traumatic Brain Injury Inpatients Using the Brief Test of Adult Cognition by Telephone
Authors: C Diblasio , T Novack , E Cook , R Kennedy
Published: August 2020

Objective

Examine the correlation of the Brief Test of Adult Cognition by Telephone (BTACT) with established neuropsychological tests in an inpatient traumatic brain injury (TBI) population.

Method

Participants were 55 patients aged 18–76 years (M age = 37 years; 69% male) receiving inpatient rehabilitation for new-onset TBI at a level I trauma center, acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital. The BTACT is a brief cognitive test battery consisting of the following subtests: Word List Immediate and Delayed Recall (episodic verbal memory), Digits Backward (working memory), Number Series (inductive reasoning), Animal Fluency (verbal fluency), and Backward Counting (processing speed). With the intention of mirroring cognitive functions measured by the BTACT, the neuropsychological battery was comprised of the California Verbal Learning Test-2 (CVLT-2), Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-IV (WAIS-IV) Digit Span, Trail Making Test (TMT), semantic fluency, phonemic fluency, Symbol Digit Modalities Test, and Wisconsin Card Sorting Test.

Results

The BTACT was related to established neuropsychological tests across composite scores of overall cognition (r = .64, p < .001), episodic verbal memory (r = .66, p < .001), and executive function (r = .56, p < .001). For BTACT subtests, Word List Immediate Recall and Word List Delayed Recall were correlated with CVLT-2 learning trials total (r = .57, p < .01) and long delay free recall (r = .60, p < .001), respectively. BTACT Digits Backward correlated with WAIS-IV Digit Span (r = .51, p < .01). BTACT Animal Fluency was related to semantic fluency (r = .65, p < .01), phonemic fluency (r = .60, p < .01), and TMT-B (r = .39, p < .01).

Conclusion

BTACT composite scores of overall cognition, verbal memory, and executive function are valid measures in a TBI inpatient population.
A-117 Sleep Disruption has a Stronger Influence on Self-reported Neurobehavioral Status than Traumatic Brain Injury in U.S. Military Service Members and Veterans
Authors: R Lange , L French , J Bailie , L Hungerford , S Lippa , T Brickell
Published: August 2020

Objective

To examine the relation between sleep disruption and neurobehavioral outcome following mild, moderate, and severe traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods

Participants were 509 U.S. military service members/veterans divided into four groups: uncomplicated mild TBI (n = 183; MTBI); complicated mild TBI and moderate–severe TBI (n = 96; STBI); injured controls (n = 138; IC); and non-injured controls (n = 92; NIC). Participants completed a 2-hour neurobehavioral test battery 12 or more months post-injury that included the PTSD Checklist and 13 scales from the TBI-Quality of Life (TBI-QOL). Using the TBI-QOL Sleep Disturbance scale, participants were classified into two ‘Sleep’ subgroups: Poor Sleep (55 T or higher) or Good Sleep (50 T or lower).

Results

A higher proportion of the MTBI group was classified as having Poor Sleep (79.2%) compared to the IC (64.5%) and STBI (58.3%) groups; and all were higher than the NIC group (40.2%). In each group separately, participants with Poor Sleep had significantly worse scores on all TBI-QOL scales compared to those with Good Sleep (all p’s < .001, d = .68 to d = 1.98). Participants with Poor Sleep consistently had worse TBI-QOL scores regardless of TBI severity or the presence/absence of TBI (all p’s < .05). Additionally, there was a significant interaction between Sleep and PTSD. Both factors combined resulted in worse outcome than either factor alone (p’s < .05).

Conclusions

Poor Sleep had a very strong influence on self-reported neurobehavioral outcome, and a greater influence on outcome than TBI severity or the presence/absence of TBI. Poor Sleep may be a useful ‘risk factor’ that can be used clinically to identify individuals in need of early intervention.
A-126 Clinical Utility of Risk Factors to Predict Self-reported Neurobehavioral Outcome Following Traumatic Brain Injury: PTSD, Sleep, Resilience, and Lifetime Blast Exposure
Authors: R Lange , S Lippa , L Hungerford , J Bailie , L French , T Brickell
Published: August 2020

Objective

To examine the clinical utility of PTSD, Sleep, Resilience, and Lifetime Blast Exposure as ‘Risk Factors’ for predicting poor neurobehavioral outcome following traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods

Participants were 993 service members/veterans evaluated following an uncomplicated mild TBI (MTBI), moderate–severe TBI (ModSevTBI), or injury without TBI (Injured Controls; IC); divided into three cohorts: (1) < 12 months post-injury, n = 237 [107 MTBI, 71 ModSevTBI, 59 IC]; (2) 3-years post-injury, n = 370 [162 MTBI, 80 ModSevTBI, 128 IC]; and (3) 10-years post-injury, n = 386 [182 MTBI, 85 ModSevTBI, 119 IC]. Participants completed a 2-hour neurobehavioral test battery. Odds Ratios (OR) were calculated to determine whether the ‘Risk Factors’ could predict ‘Poor Outcome’ in each cohort separately. Sixteen Risk Factors were examined using all possible combinations of the four risk factor variables. Poor Outcome was defined as three or more low scores (< 1SD) on five TBI-QOL scales (e.g., Fatigue, Depression).

Results

In all cohorts, the vast majority of risk factor combinations resulted in ORs that were ‘clinically meaningful’ (ORs > 3.00; range = 3.15 to 32.63, all p’s < .001). Risk factor combinations with the highest ORs in each cohort were PTSD (Cohort 1 & 2, ORs = 17.76 and 25.31), PTSD+Sleep (Cohort 1 & 2, ORs = 18.44 and 21.18), PTSD+Sleep+Resilience (Cohort 1, 2, & 3, ORs = 13.56, 14.04, and 20.08), Resilience (Cohort 3, OR = 32.63), and PTSD+Resilience (Cohort 3, OR = 24.74).

Conclusions

Singularly, or in combination, PTSD, Poor Sleep, and Low Resilience were strong predictors of poor outcome following TBI of all severities and injury without TBI. These variables may be valuable risk factors for targeted early interventions following injury.
A-127 Changes in Frequency of ImPACT Assessments Over Time
Authors: H Kuwabara , S Moore , K Grant , J Maietta , T Kinsora , S Ross , D Allen
Published: August 2020

Objective

Assessment, management, and rates of sport concussion have changed significantly over the past decade. The present cross-sectional study investigated rates of ImPACT baseline and post-concussion assessments and self-reported concussion history (CH) to gain insight on patterns of change between 2008, 2012, and 2016.

Methods

Participants included 14,129 high-school athletes (Mage = 15.11; 42.9% male) in Nevada who completed ImPACT baseline and post-concussion assessments in 2008 (n = 677), 2012 (n = 8315), and 2016 (n = 5137). Chi-square analyses were conducted to examine frequencies of ImPACT tests by year (i.e., baseline, initial post-concussion test, and post-concussion follow-up). Further analyses investigated gender differences and changes in self-reported CH.

Results

There were significant differences in rates of all ImPACT tests (p < .01) with baselines, post-concussion assessments, and post-concussion follow-ups increasing over time. Female athletes accounted for less than 35% of post-concussion assessments in 2008 and 2012 but increased to 41.5% in 2016 (p < .05). There were no gender differences over time in baselines or post-concussion follow-ups. There were no significant differences in self-reported CH between years (p > .05).

Conclusions

The present study found an increase in the rate of post-concussion assessments; however, no increase in self-reported CH were evident. It is possible that an increase in awareness and preventative efforts could account for the increased utilization of post-concussion assessments. Results also indicated that female athletes took more post-concussion assessments over time suggesting an increase in concussions or prevention efforts for females. Future research should continue exploring possible risk factors to ensure proper intervention and implementation of prevention protocols where applicable.
A-128 Age of First Exposure to Football is not Associated with Midlife Brain Health Problems
Authors: G Iverson , D Terry , J Caccese , F Büttner , Z Merz
Published: August 2020

Objective

This study examined if earlier age of first exposure (AFE) to football is associated with worse brain health in middle-aged men who played high school football.

Method

Using an online crowdsourcing platform, we recruited 123 men ages 35–55 who played high school football. Participants completed self-report measures that assessed (i) demographic information; (ii) medical history, sport participation, and concussion history; (iii) current depression symptomatology (i.e., Patient Health Questionnaire-8; PHQ-8); and (iv) current concussion-like symptoms (i.e., the British Columbia Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory; BC-PSI). Approximately half (n = 62; 50.4%) reported football participation starting before the age of 12 (AFE12 years). The two groups were compared using chi-squared and Mann–Whitney U-Tests.

Results

Former high school football players who began playing football before age 12 did not differ in the rates at which they had been prescribed medications for psychological problems or in the rates at which they had recently experienced symptoms of anxiety, depression, memory loss, chronic pain, or headaches compared with former high school football players who began playing football at or after age 12. Additionally, there were no group differences in lifetime history of treatment by a mental health professional (χ2 = 0.20, p = .66) or regarding the PHQ-8 (U = 1,839.0, p = .791) or BC-PSI total scores (U = 1828.5, p = .751).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that earlier AFE to football is not associated with worse brain health in middle-aged men in this sample who played high school football.
A-130 An Exploratory Analysis of the Impact PTSD Related Sleep Disturbance has on Language Generativity in Veterans with mTBI
Authors: N Walker , T Scott , J Spellman , J Rivera , D Waltzman , M Mcnerney , M Madore
Published: August 2020

Objective

Reviewed literature suggests that individuals with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) demonstrate cognitive deficits in attention, learning/memory, and executive functions. Less is known regarding the relationship between sleep disturbance and language abilities among individuals with PTSD. We hypothesized that subjective perceptions of PTSD-related sleep disturbance would impact language generativity in Veterans with PTSD.

Methods

38 individuals (mean age = 46.58, SD = 13.55; 10% female) were administered a brief neurocognitive battery including measures of verbal generativity [i.e., Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System: Verbal fluency subtest], PTSD symptoms (i.e., clinically significant PTSD = > 35 on the PTSD Checklist for DSM-IV), self-report measures of sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Inventory; PSQI), and PTSD-related sleep disturbances (PSQI – Addendum for PTSD). All participants had a history of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). An analysis of covariance was used to assess the contribution of PTSD-related sleep disturbance on verbal fluency in Veterans with PTSD. Post-hoc analyses were conducted.

Results

Those without PTSD performed better on letter fluency than those with PTSD (p=.019). There was no significant effect of PTSD (presence or absence) on letter fluency performance after controlling for subjective sleep quality, F(1, 35) = 1.43, p = .239. Follow up analyses failed to show any associations between PTSD and other cognitive measures.

Conclusions

PTSD related sleep disturbance accounts for a significant portion of the variance in the relationship between PTSD and verbal generativity. Individuals with a history of mTBI and current PTSD symptoms, may have worse verbal generativity but is partially accounted for by PTSD related sleep disturbance.
A-135 The Interceding Effects of Social Cognition and “Cold” Cognition in Emotional Functioning Post-TBI.
Authors: D Ream , V Suarez , I Tourgeman
Published: August 2020

Objective

This review examines studies that have identified both social and “cold” cognition in moderating emotional functioning as an outcome in individuals post-traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Data Selection

A systematic search of the literature was conducted using the keywords: social cognition, hot cognition, cognitive processes, emotions, emotional functioning, TBI, ABI, brain injury. The search included five databases: (1) EBSCOhost, (2) Google Scholar, (3) ScienceDaily, (4) PubMed, (5) World Health Organization. Inclusion criteria consisted of peer-reviewed articles published in English between 2013–2019 that utilized measures examining aspects of “cold cognition,” measures that investigated social cognition, and, outcome measures of emotional functioning in individuals who sustained a TBI.

Data Synthesis

A total number of 27 studies were identified through database searching with 16 papers selected. Three studies explained the function and implication of social cognition in individuals post-TBI. Additionally, 4 articles integrated statistical and demographic analyzes on individuals who suffered a TBI, and 9 studies exposed the relationship between “hot” and “cold” cognitions after sustaining a TBI.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that individuals with a TBI often exhibit difficulties in social cognition that is linked to changes in emotional functioning. Several studies pointed to the limbic system as an area influenced by both social and “cold” cognition regarding emotional output and experiences. Conversely, this system is often impacted in TBI. Other studies emphasized the relationship between attention and perception regarding one’s ability to adequately engage in empathy, emotional resonance, and sensitivity. Additionally, these studies outlined how impaired executive functioning influences empathy, attention, decision-making, and Theory of Mind.
A-146 A Comparison of Neuropsychological Assessment Results and Self-Reported Cognitive Deficits in Traumatic Brain Injury Patients with Variable Neurocognitive Impairment Severity
Authors: K Coddaire , L Peyton , J Powell , T Virden
Published: August 2020

Objective

This study aimed to determine the relationship between symptom self-report accuracy and objective cognitive functioning in multiple cognitive domains for varying neurocognitive impairment (NCI) subsequent to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Specifically, the discrepancy between self-report and objective findings among participants with mild, moderate, and severe NCI was examined within the cognitive domains of Attention, Executive Functioning, Learning/Memory, and Speech/Language.

Method

The sample included archival data consisting of neuropsychological scores and self-reported Ruff Neurobehavioral Inventory (RNBI) results of 135 adult TBI patients with mild, moderate, or severe NCI who received neuropsychological assessment at a private practice. Patients were grouped based on level of impairment using Halstead Impairment Index criteria.

Results

No main effect was found for Attention. Patients with severe NCI had greater discrepancies in Executive Functioning (p = 0.015), Learning/Memory (p = 0.015), and Speech/Language (p < 0.001) function, when compared to those with mild NCI. Additionally, patients with severe NCI demonstrated greater discrepancies in Speech/Language (p < 0.001) function when compared to those with moderate NCI.

Conclusion

These findings indicate as severity of neurocognitive impairment increases for TBI patients, self-reported cognitive symptomatology—specifically executive functioning, learning/memory, and speech/language—will become less accurate. Clinically, these findings suggest that when working with patients who have severe neurocognitive deficits subsequent to TBI, it is important to consider objective testing as self-reporting may not be accurate. Understanding patient’s genuine deficits will foster patient awareness and acceptance of TBI-related cognitive deficits with increased investment in treatment and improved neurorehabilitation outcomes.
A-154 Children with Hyperactive–Impulsive Disorder Benefit from Yoga Training
Authors: E Mirzajonova , S Kiselev
Published: August 2020

Objective

It is known that children with hyperactive–impulsive disorder have deficit in executive abilities. The gaol of this study was to reveal effect of yoga training on executive abilities in 8–9 years of age children with hyperactive–impulsive disorder. We compared the efficacy of two methods of training (yoga training vs. conventional motor exercises) in a randomized controlled pilot study.

Methods

18 children with hyperactive–impulsive disorder at the age of 8–9 years were included and randomly assigned to treatment conditions according to a 2 × 2 crossover design. Children from intervention group participated in 12 weeks of yoga training that included body-oriented activity and breathing exercises. To assess the executive functions we used 3 subtests from NEPSY (Auditory Attention and Response Set, Visual Attention, Statue). Effects of training were analyzed by means of an ANOVA for repeated measurements.

Results

The ANOVA has revealed (p < .05) that for all used subtests (Auditory Attention and Response Set, Visual Attention, Statue) the yoga training was superior to the conventional motor training, with effect sizes in the medium-to-high range (0.43–0.88).

Conclusions

The findings from this pilot study suggest that yoga training have positive effect on executive abilities in children with hyperactive–impulsive disorder. It influences predominantly the selective and sustained attention, inhibition, monitoring, and self-regulation. However, it is necessary to do further research into the impact of yoga exercises on the prevention and treatment of hyperactive–impulsive disorder in children.
A-157 How Important Is Sustained Attention in Reversal Learning and Visual Task Shifting Abilities: A Canonical Correlation Analysis in Adults
Authors: E Gracian , A Mathew , T Jimenez , S Oleson , D Kaufman , D Ghahremani , R Bilder
Published: August 2020

Objective

We used canonical correlation analysis (CCA) to examine the relationship between performance on cognitive neuroscience measures of sustained attention, deterministic reversal learning (DRLT), and visual task-shifting (VTS). We evaluated whether DRLT and VTS predicted performance on the Continuous Performance Test-II (CPT-II).

Method

Participants were 1011 adults from the Consortium for Neuropsychiatric Phenomics. The first CCA was conducted between four VST variables (set 1) and three CPT-II variables (set 2). The second CCA was conducted using eight Reversal Learning variables (set 1) and three CPT-II variables (set 2).

Results

Our first CCA suggests that accuracy of performance in VTS predicts CPT-II measures, Rc = 0.33, Wilks’s λ = 0.86, F(12, 2646) = 1.92, p < .001. The analysis revealed a positive relationship with Hits (=0.87) and a negative relationship with FA (= − 0.76), consistent with sustained attention. The second CCA revealed that acquisition trials and RT on reversal trials significantly predicted less FA and more hits on the CPT-II, Rc = 0.23, Wilks’s λ = 0.90, F(24, 1273) = 1.92, p = .005.

Conclusion

Our multivariate findings confirm that attention is significantly involved in executive and mnemonic processes. To our knowledge, we are the first neuroscientific group to report multivariate evidence from a large data set that confirms sustained attention plays a significant role in reversal learning and task-shifting. Our results show that the CPT-II FA and mean RT variables specifically are important predictors of reversal learning and task-shifting, strengthening the concurrent validity of our experimental measures.
A-159 Effects of Sleep and Mood on Attentional Functioning in Pediatric Cancer Survivors
Authors: G Lozano , M Camper , A Holland
Published: August 2020

Objective

Sleep-related problems have been shown to adversely affect pediatric cancer survivors’ mood, behavior, and quality of life (Litsenburg et al., 2011). Depressed mood also contributes to decreased quality of life in pediatric leukemia survivors (Jankowska-Polańska et al., 2019). However, minimal research has considered how sleep and mood affect cognitive outcomes in pediatric cancer survivors. The present study utilized both direct assessment and parent report to investigate how sleep and mood affect attentional functioning in this population.

Method

Parents of 54 pediatric cancer survivors (59% Caucasian, 44% female, mean age at testing = 11.27 years) referred for clinical evaluation completed the Behavior Assessment System for Children-3 (BASC-3) and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS). A subset of survivors also completed the Conners Continuous Performance Test-3 (CPT-3). Variables selected for analysis were BASC-3 Depression, Hyperactivity, Attention Problems; PROMIS Sleep Impairment, Fatigue; CPT-3 Omissions.

Results

Multiple linear regressions found that patients whose parents rated them higher on Depression and Sleep Impairment demonstrated more Omission errors (ΔR2 = .265, ΔF[4,42] = 3.785, p = .01). Similarly, multiple linear regressions found that parents who rated their children higher on Depression, Fatigue, and Sleep Impairment were more likely to rate their children high on Hyperactivity (ΔR2 = .182, ΔF[4,49] = 2.725, p < .05). Higher Depression ratings also predicted ratings of worse Attention Problems (r[53] = .330, p = .007).

Conclusions

Findings suggest that both depressive symptoms and sleep impairment may adversely affect attention functioning following pediatric cancer treatment. This highlights the importance of addressing mood and sleep in interventions to address attention difficulties in pediatric oncology survivors. Future directions for research are discussed.
A-167 The Relationship Between Judgement/Reasoning and Global Mental Status
Authors: J Keener , C Ramsay , J Caron
Published: August 2020

Objective

The purpose of this study was to gather information on the relationship between judgement/reasoning and global mental status (HC = healthy controls, MCI = Mild Cognitive Impairment, and MND = Major Neurocognitive Disorder) by examining the relationship between performance on the Test of Practical Judgment (TOP-J) and mental status screening in a Veteran population.

Method

The retrospective data sample consisted of 218 Veterans, aged 28–96 (M = 69.67, SD = 12.9434), 95.87% male, 98.62% Caucasian, with a mean education of 12.55 years (SD = 2.32). Mental status screening consisted of the raw scores of Mini-Mental Status Examination-2nd edition (MMSE-2) and the Mini-Mental State Examination (3MS, using MMSE equivalent scores). Participants were placed into three categories based on mental status scores: HC (n = 79), MCI (n = 75), and MND (n = 64). TOP-J scores consisted of raw score across 9 items.

Results

TOPJ and mental status were mildly correlated for HC (r = .27) and MND (r = 0.34); however, there was minimal correlation for Veterans identified as MCI (r = 0.18).

Conclusion

A relationship between judgement/reasoning and global mental status was remarkable for HC and MNC but not for MCI. This may be related to the fact that deficits in judgement/reasoning, by definition, tend to be subtle or non-existent for individuals with MCI. Additionally, studies have revealed the MMSE-2 and TOP-J both have limited specificity in accurately identifying MCI patients.
A-185 Are Undergraduate Students Able to Effectively Utilize Learning Strategies?
Authors: J Henry , J Romano-Morris , M Lazar
Published: August 2020

Objective

Professors generally use less structured and organized methods of teaching than high school teachers, even though undergraduate brains are still developing, making the transition more difficult. The purpose of this study was to see whether undergraduate students could use explicitly taught methods of organization to remember more words on free recall trials of the CVLT-II.

Method

Inclusion criteria: undergraduate students enrolled at Widener University, between the ages of 18–24. Participants included 34 undergraduate students recruited via mass email. The groups had 18 women and 16 men aged 18–22 (M = 20.32, SD = 1.15). They were randomized evenly in two groups: a control group (standardized instructions) and an experimental group (explicit semantic clustering instruction). Variables used were semantic clustering, immediate and delayed free recall.

Results

There were strong positive correlations between semantic clustering and number of words recalled at the immediate (r = .76, p < .0005) and delayed free recall trials (r = .7, p < .0005) for both groups. The experimental group (M = 3.94, SD = 3.21) used more semantic clustering than the control group (M = 2.13, SD = 2.35); t(32) = −1.87, p = .04 (one-tailed) (Cohen’s d = .64). However, the experimental group did not freely recall significantly more words than the control group at either of the free recalls (immediate = t(32) = −.636, p = .26; delay = t(32) = −1.086, p = .14).

Conclusion

This may indicate that although undergraduate students can learn helpful strategies, they may not necessarily be able to implement taught strategies effectively.
A-189 Exploring the Effects of EEG Neurofeedback Training on Verbal Episodic Memory in a TBI Sample
Authors: A Kaser , E Gordon , G May , S Dolan , L Zambrano-Vazquez
Published: August 2020

Objective

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are commonly characterized by neural changes that impair physical, behavioral, and cognitive functioning across diverse ages and demographics. Cognitive complaints frequently include memory difficulties, with deficits in episodic memory greatly impairing daily functioning and future planning. Although various interventions and rehabilitation techniques have been implemented for TBI, limited treatment options are available for TBI-driven memory complaints. Recent research has explored the use of neurofeedback training (NFT) to improve cognitive functioning in TBI patients, yet it remains unclear whether this intervention may be successful in improving these memory deficits.

Method

In this double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, the use of EEG neurofeedback training (NFT) on verbal episodic memory was explored in 12 veterans with TBI. Participants were randomized to active treatment or sham treatment, and they completed 20 sessions of NFT. Clinical assessments and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data were collected pre and post treatment to measure any changes in resting-state functional connectivity or cognitive functioning.

Results

Findings suggest that immediate recall scores improved following active NFT, as measured by the California Verbal Learning Task-II. We also observed increased resting-state functional connectivity between the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and the inferior temporal lobe following NFT (Fig. 1), which may represent an underlying mechanism of memory improvement.

Conclusions

These exploratory findings may hold promise for future research on the use of NFT for memory enhancement in various populations.
A-198 Major Errors on BVRT Determine Specific Cognitive Deficit in a Veteran Sample
Authors: A Boese , J Moses , A Vickery , J Lyu , R Maciel
Published: August 2020

Objective

The goal of the study is to examine the underlying conceptual factors that account for major performance errors of the Benton Visual Retention Test (BVRT) using indices of the Weschler Adult Intelligence Scale, 3rd Edition (WAIS-III) as gold-standard comparison variables.

Method

One hundred thirty participants with mixed cognitive and psychiatric diagnoses who were referred to the neuropsychological assessment clinic at the VA Palo Alto Health Care System and completed the BVRT and WAIS-III measures were included in the analysis of the data. Factor Analysis of BVRT major memory and copy errors (rotations, distortions, and perseverations) and WAIS-III indices were conducted using SPSS 25.

Results

BVRT major memory and copy errors factored onto WAIS-III index variables using Principal Components Analysis with Equamax rotation yielded a four-factor model explaining 79% of total variance. Major errors on the immediate recall trial of the BVRT were found to be specifically and inversely related to performance on the WAIS-III Perceptual Organization and Processing Speed Indices. Major errors on the copy trial of the BVRT showed an inverse relationship with performance on the WAIS-III Verbal Comprehension and Working Memory Indices.

Conclusions

BVRT recall errors are related to failures in visual perceptual processing. Conversely, copy errors on the BVRT are potentially attributable to deficits in auditory-verbal-attentional information processing. The results of the study provide evidence for the BVRT as a viable measurement tool to determine domain-specific cognitive impairment when considering error types on recall and copy trials.
A-199 Executive Functioning and Memory Outcomes of Children with Low-Grade Gliomas
Authors: J Sutcliff , S Vitale , G Fong , L Ingerski
Published: August 2020

Objective

The current study used standardized performance-based measures to examine specific executive functioning and memory outcomes of children with low-grade gliomas (LGGs). Historically, this population has excellent survival and does not receive extensive neuropsychological follow-up; however, recent literature suggested the presence of late-effects following treatment completion, specifically executive functioning and memory difficulties. Additional research is needed to identify what late-effects children with LGGs experience and what degree of neuropsychological follow-up is required for optimal survivorship care.

Method

A systematic retrospective chart review was conducted to evaluate outcomes. Inclusion criteria required that youth were previously diagnosed with a pediatric LGG, followed in a single pediatric cancer center, and completed outpatient neuropsychological testing. Comprehensive neuropsychological testing assessed: executive (Conners’ Continuous Performance Test, Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function) and memory functioning (California Verbal Learning Test, Wechsler Memory Scale).

Results

Preliminary data from 10 participants who completed neuropsychological testing at 12.0 (SD = 4.1) years of age has been analyzed. Seventy additional participants will be included in analyses. All participants underwent surgical resection and 40% completed additional chemotherapy. Descriptive statistics identified those youth experiencing deficits (< 1SD) using standard scores in executive and memory functioning domains. In summary, 66% received ≥3 atypical scores on a measure of attention, and 80% experienced memory deficits. In total, 50% of participants were diagnosed with Mild Neurocognitive Disorder following testing.

Conclusions

This pilot study provided evidence of executive functioning and memory deficits experienced by children previously treated for LGG. Standardized neuropsychological assessment may enhance survivorship care for youth previously diagnosed with an LGG.