bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
B - 03 Inhibitory Control and Saccadic Eye Movement in Adults with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: an Eye-Tracking Analysis
Authors: Conrad Alexis , Brunt Jason , Williams John
Published: October 2023

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate oculomotor differences between adults with and without attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) during a computerized response inhibition task, utilizing eye-tracking technology.

Method

Twenty-nine adults with ADHD and 35 controls (ages 18–32) were recruited from Sona Systems and the Learning Center at a university. Participants completed 120 randomized trials of the flanker task while their eye movements were monitored. Saccadic eye movement was investigated, while reaction time and performance errors were recorded from the flanker task. Participants with ADHD were required to refrain from taking stimulant medication the day of the experiment.

Results

A linear mixed-effects regression model was fitted. Having ADHD resulted in significantly slower response times, t(57) = 2.73, p < 0.005, 95% CI [0.04, 0.27], but not significantly more errors than control participants on the flanker task. There were no significant differences in the number of saccades between groups. Further analysis demonstrated that adults with ADHD had a significantly higher number of saccades as the number of trials increased, t(7019) = 3.69, p < 0.001, 95% CI [0.00105, 0.00314].

Conclusions

Slower reaction time in adults with ADHD during the flanker task indicates slower processing, but this did not affect their accuracy. While no differences were found in the number of saccades between groups, higher saccades as trial number increased in adults with ADHD suggests possible fatigue contributing to oculomotor differences. Further research is necessary to investigate potential gaze differences during a task that necessitates increased saccadic eye movement.
B - 04 Evaluating the Efficacy of a Virtual Reality Neuropsychological Assessment in Detecting ADHD Subtypes
Authors: Stuart Elizabeth M , Torres Samantha , Gutierrez Brian
Published: October 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of using a virtual reality (VR) continuous performance test (CPT) (i.e., Nesplora Aula) to evaluate various aspects of attention and executive functioning, compared to current assessment tools and diagnostic criteria. The study assessed the validity and reliability of the VR CPT in measuring attentional abilities, and examined whether VR CPT can provide complementary/supplementary information to existing assessment methods.

Method

Data was collected from children aged 6–16 with a known or suspected diagnosis of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). In addition to the VR CPT, the battery included standard measures of attention and executive functioning, general cognitive function, and comprehensive corroborating reports completed by their families. Domain correlations were then conducted to determine the convergent and construct validity. Data was also correlated with general functioning domains to attempt to replicate past studies.

Results

The study found that results demonstrated moderate-to-strong convergent validity, suggesting acceptable construct validity for VR CPT. Overall, the results were consistent enough to support the concept. Furthermore, post-hoc tests explored convergent and construct validity for each subtype of ADHD, including combined, primarily inattentive, and primarily hyperactive–impulsive.

Conclusions

In conclusion, VR CPT (Nesplora Aula) remains a viable tool for assessing ADHD symptoms, particularly in the hyperactive–impulsive subtype. Our findings support the use of VR technology in neuropsychological assessment, as it shows moderate to strong convergent validity with established assessment tools. However, further research is needed to fully evaluate the practicality of using VR CPT as a stand-alone diagnostic tool.
B - 05 Intervention Resistant Dyslexia: a Neuropsychological Profile
Authors: McCarthy Hannah , Culotta Vincent P , Culotta Stephanie O
Published: October 2023

Objective

Dyslexia is a brain based neurodevelopmental disorder marked by deficits in phonemic awareness and fluency. Brain structures implicated include the left superior temporal gyrus, planum temporal, and frontal regions. Convergent research supports the efficacy of multisensory, systematic, hierarchically organized, phonics-based instruction This study examines a bright, severely dyslexic youngster who, despite seven years of intensive intervention, has made little appreciable progress. Co-morbid neuropsychological weaknesses are implicated in his failure to respond to intervention.

Method

The subject is a 13-year-old, 8th grade boy who presented for neuropsychological evaluation subsequent to a history of dyslexia. He attends a specialized school employing evidence-based reading interventions in a small classroom. Despite intellectual functions in the high average range and seven years of consistent intervention, he continues to read at a first to second grade level.

Results

Findings from a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment revealed a complex profile characteristic of dyslexia with multiple unexpected deficits in several neurocognitive processes. Data revealed weaknesses in processing speed, verbal working memory, retention, and executive functions.

Conclusion

There is little empirical research examining response to intervention in severely dyslexic children. In this case study, the cumulative impact of underlying cognitive weaknesses in speed, working memory, verbal retention, and executive functions are thought to have negatively impacted progress. This youngster is among a small population of individuals with severe dyslexia who do not respond well to intervention. There is a need for awareness of such youngsters and both neuropsychological assessment and research to determine the impact of co-occurring neurocognitive deficits contributing to poor progress.
B - 06 Exploring Educator Readiness to Identify, Interpret, and Support Memory Functioning in Youth with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities
Authors: Samuels Jody , Perazzo Donna C , Worley Tiffany
Published: October 2023

Objective

Though over 3 million students receive special education services under eligibility categories related to neuropsychological functioning, educators report feeling unprepared to identify student needs or interpret assessment data related to specific neurocognitive functions including memory (Barrio & Combes, 2015; Vollmer, Gettinger & Begeny, 2019). To best support students, it is critical for educators working with students with neurodevelopmental disabilities to understand the underlying neurocognitive functions that contribute to academic skills (Pohlman, 2008).

Method

The present study examined how educators define, identify, and support students’ working memory, short term memory, and long-term memory using a semi-structured qualitative approach guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Interviews were conducted with educators (N = 16; 93.75% Female; 100% White; 1–23 years of experience) and focused on interpretation of memory-related constructs, how deficits impact classroom performance, and specific strategies related to memory needs. An inductive approach to coding and constant comparative analysis allowed themes to emerge and reduce potential confirmatory bias (Strauss & Corbin, 1998; Maxwell, 2013).

Results

All educators recognized the terms working memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory. Long-term memory was correctly defined by all educators, with fewer accurate definitions related to critical temporal aspects of short-term memory (50%) and working memory (37.5%). Relatedly, educators reported fewer specific, evidence-based strategies for aiding short-term and working memory than long-term memory.

Conclusions

Despite wanting to differentiate instruction for students, educators were unclear on critical aspects of short-term and working memory functioning, leading to less confidence in identifying and supporting students with neurodevelopmental disabilities in need.
B - 08 Differences in Memory Performance between Adjustment Disorder and ADHD among Children
Authors: Abinader Melodie L , Molina Karla , Golden Charles J
Published: October 2023

Objective

To measure the differences in cognitive performance between a sample of children diagnosed with adjustment disorder (ad) and ADHD.

Methods

Participants were selected from a de-identified child outpatient clinical database. The ad group (n = 257; Mage = 8.75, SD =2.03; Med = 3.07, SD = 1.86) had 61.5% male, 47% White, 19.2% Black, 26.3% Hispanic, and 7.2% other race. The ADHD group (n = 149; Mage = 7.85, SD = 1.84; Med = 2.23, SD = 1.74) had 75.3% male, 54.1% White, 17.6% Black, 18.8% Hispanic, and 9.4% other race. Groups differed on age and education. ANCOVAs were used to test differences between groups controlling for significant covariates.

Results

At the group level, individuals with ad performed significantly better than those with ADHD on the WISC-IV working memory index [F(1, 127) = 8.10, p = 0.01], WRAML-2 verbal memory index [F(1, 163) = 11.81, p < 0.001], visual memory index [F(1, 161) = 4.48, p = 0.04], attention and concentration index [F(1, 153) = 13.27, p < 0.001], general memory index [F(1, 161) = 12.89, p < 0.001], screening memory index [F(1, 141) = 9.35, p = 0.003], and general recognition index [F(1, 152) = 8.57, p = 0.004].

Conclusion

Individuals with ADHD tend to have deficits in encoding and digesting information, which can create memory-retrieval difficulties. Meanwhile, individuals with ad may experience intrusive memories that gradually fade away and do not interfere with short- or long-term memory retrieval, and may partially explain their better performance in memory tasks. Limitations of the study include the lack of premorbid measures of memory ability and lack of information about comorbidity. Future research could explore the impact of different ADHD presentations on memory ability.
B - 12 fMRI Investigation of Socio-Moral Agency in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Eslinger Paul , Poger Jennifer
Published: October 2023

Objective

This study investigated the neural substrate of agency in social judgments of children and adolescents. The main hypothesis was that a network of proposed “social brain” structures (the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), medial precuneus (mPc), temporal pole (TP), and temporoparietal junction (TPJ) would be recruited when comparing self vs. other agents in socio-moral situations. We suspected that such judgments would incur self/other referential and social cognitive processing and lead to overlapping but also distinctive neural activations in the social brain network.

Method

The developmental sample was 9–17-year-old participants (11 male, 8 female) with no medical, neurological or psychiatric history, learning disability, or medication usage. Neuropsychological functions, academic achievement, and social–emotional development were normal. Participants read brief scripts in a high field magnet and provided judgments of whether the social actions were right or wrong. Scripts were balanced for right vs. wrong behaviors, comparing the participant’s own actions vs the actions of others as well as a non-social baseline condition. Data were analyzed in Matlab.

Results

Results revealed recruitment of mPFC, mPc, TP, and TPJ throughout development, linking agency to other mentalizing processes. There was overlapping recruitment of mPFC, mPc and left TPJ across the 2 conditions. Right TPJ activated only during the self-agency condition; left TP activated only during the other-agency condition.

Conclusions

Findings support a specific network of mPFC, mPc, TP and TPJ regions associated with mediation of social agency, similar to adults, which is likely an important neural substrate for maturation of self-regulation and social cognition.
B - 14 Facial Affect Recognition among Individuals with Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) Compared to Individuals without ASC
Authors: Abdallah Salayna , Seeling Ashley , Poreh Amir
Published: October 2023

Objective

This study aims to assess whether individuals with autism spectrum conditions (ASC) are less effective in recognizing facial affect (emotions) when compared to other individuals.

Methods

1675 adult volunteers (ages 18+) were recruited via Research Match. All participants were asked to indicate their mental health history and were placed into one of two groups: (1) individuals with ASC (n = 586) and (2) individuals without ASC (n = 1089). Both groups took the Ekman Friesen Picture of Facial Affect scale (POFA). The POFA scale consists of 110 grayscale photos who posed with seven facial expressions: happy, sad, angry, fearful, surprise, disgust, and neutral. Participants were instructed to choose which emotion the photos best represented. Using the scoring manual, we recoded the participant’s responses to represent whether they accurately determined the emotion presented in each photo. Next, we computed a total score for each emotion. Finally, we conducted an Independent Samples T-test for each of the emotions to compare the mean of each group’s accuracy in determining the correct emotions.

Results

For all emotions, the ASD group was significantly less accurate in determining facial affect compared to the control group. Happy: t(1673) = 3.50, p = <0.001. Sad: t(1673) = 3.10, p = 0.002. Angry: t(1673) = 3.57, p = <0.001. Fearful: t(1673) = 3.55, p = <0.001. Surprised: t(1673) = 3.48, p = <0.001. Neutral: t(1673) = 5.60, p = <0.001.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that individuals with ASC may be less accurate in determining facial affect when compared to individuals without ASC.
B - 16 Prevalence of Comorbid Diagnoses among Individuals with a Clinical Vs. Self-Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC)
Authors: Abdallah Salayna , Seeling Ashley , Poreh Amir
Published: October 2023

Objective

The evolution of ASC has changed drastically since its initial conceptualization. Therefore, it is possible that numerous individuals remain undiagnosed and untreated based on lack of knowledge about this condition. Diagnoses of ASC often include multiple other detrimental comorbid disorders. To elucidate whether the issue of underdiagnosis is relevant, it is important to determine if there are individuals who believe they qualify for a diagnosis of ASC, who remain undiagnosed. This study aims to compare the prevalence of comorbid diagnoses between individuals diagnosed by a clinician with those who self-report having ASC.

Methods

391 adults who self-reported have ASC (ages 18+) were recruited via Research Match. The call for subjects stated that the study was looking for individuals with a diagnosis of ASC to participate. Volunteers were asked to indicate if they were diagnosed with ASC, and if so, from whom they were diagnosed. One of the options for who gave the diagnosis was “self”. Finally, participants were asked to indicate any comorbid diagnoses they had.

Results

Of the 391 participants, 180 self-reported having ASC, and 211 participants indicated that they were diagnosed by a clinician. A one-way ANOVA was significant, indicating significant differences among groups, F(5,389) = 2.84, p = 0.016. Specifically, those who were diagnosed by a psychiatrist (M = 4.41) had significantly more comorbid diagnoses when compared with those who were self-diagnosed (M = 3.62).

Conclusion

As 180 participants who claimed to have ASC were not clinically diagnosed, the results suggest that under-diagnoses of this condition may be prevalent.
B - 18 Identifying Cognitive Deficits in Perinatally HIV-Infected Children
Authors: Rios Guevara Linda V , Alcina Jorge , Duarte Andres , Perez-Haddock Yanelee , Gonzalez Dayron , Villafana Mei-Ling
Published: October 2023

Objective

The systematic review aimed to explore areas of cognitive deficits in children diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) through vertical infection.

Method

A systematic review of current literature pertaining to cognitive deficits among children with HIV through vertical infection was conducted from 2011 to 2023. Peer-reviewed empirical studies in English were obtained through Google Scholar, PsychInfo, PubMed, and PsychARTICLES using keywords vertical infection, HIV, and children born with HIV. Initial search yielded 50 articles, of which 8 were retained.

Results

Across studies, it was found that HIV-infected children present substantial impairments in domains of attention, language, verbal learning and memory, visuomotor functions, fine motor skills, and executive functions. In one study, a cohort of 35 perinatally HIV-infected children was compared to 37 healthy children. Results highlighted that HIV-infected children scored lower than healthy controls on all cognitive domains, with cognitive impairment found in 6 HIV-infected children. Finally, another study found that mean baseline cognitive performance was generally subnormal, and between 33% and 81% of the children possessed subnormal intelligence quotients.

Conclusions

While HIV can be treated with immunosuppressive therapy, interventions for cognitive deficits experienced by patients are not very well known. The literature conveyed that the prevalence and extent of deficits when compared to healthy children, is increasingly significant. Although HIV-infected children can have an average intelligence, neurological and neurocognitive performance, and deficits are often prevalent. Limitations of the present review include limited literature focused on this area of study.
B - 20 Neuropsychological Functioning of Pediatric CAR T-Cell Therapy Patients
Authors: Schofield Hannah-Lise , Srsich Alannah
Published: October 2023

Objective

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is a promising treatment for relapsed/refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in pediatric oncology. However, little is known about the cognitive functioning of these patients. This study examines the neuropsychological functioning of pediatric patients referred for CAR T-cell therapy.

Method

Data was obtained from a longitudinal observational study of CAR T-cell therapy patients (ages 1–30 years) at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Neuropsychological data and neurotoxicity ratings were collected before and after CAR T-cell infusion, with brief cognitive testing at 28 days and 180 days post-infusion to assess acute changes. Cognitive testing included pencil-and-paper measures of intellectual functioning, attention, processing speed, and psychological functioning, as well as NIH Toolbox subtests.

Results

Of 13 patients completing pre-infusion cognitive testing, 44% of patients scored below average (1 SD below the mean) on a timed visual-motor processing speed test. 20–25% of the sample scored below average on measures of executive functioning, attention/working memory, and expre0111111ssive vocabulary, exceeding what would be expected in a normal distribution. Fewer patients completed post-infusion assessments (n = 8, 28 days; n = 5, 6 months; n = 3, 1 year), with up to 50% scoring below average on the timed visual-motor processing speed test and 33% scoring below average on a measure of inhibitory control and selective attention after 1 year.

Conclusions

Pediatric CAR T-cell therapy patients have high rates of cognitive dysfunction prior to receiving infusions, with evidence for increasing problems with timed visual-motor and executive functioning. Findings highlight the need to monitor pediatric CAR T-cell therapy patients throughout treatment.
B - 21 What Does BASC-3 Tell us about ASD in Females
Authors: Shamji Jabeen , Erickson Cheryl S
Published: October 2023

Objective

This study explored parent endorsements on Behavior Assessment System for Children, Third Edition (BASC-3) for females diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and how they differ by age group.

Method

Data for 121 females (mean age 9.94) was collected between 2022 and 2023 for ages 2–5 (N = 21), 6–11 (N = 55), and 12–21(N = 45). Participants (White = 66%, Hispanic = 12%, Black = 5%, Biracial = 10%, and other = 5.8%) at a private group practice serving suburban and rural counties completed a standard neuropsychological evaluation for ASD. Seven subscales from the BASC-3 were analyzed; four subscales with strong theoretical relationships with ASD and three exploratory scales.

Results

A between-subjects ANOVA was conducted to compare the effect of age on BASC-3 for selected subscales. There was a significant effect of age on Externalizing Problems [F(2, 118) = 9.01, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.13], Internalizing Problems [F(2, 118) = 6.63, p = 0.002, η2 = 0.10], Atypicality [F(2, 118) = 15.07, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.20], and Adaptive Skills [F(2, 118) = 4.39, p = 0.015, η2 = 0.07]. Post hoc comparisons indicated significant differences across age groups on most scales, but especially for 6–11 ages. However, no significant differences were noted for Withdrawal, Developmental Social Disorder, and ASD probability.

Conclusion

Age plays a significant role in the symptomatic presentation of ASD. Parents endorse more problematic behaviors for ages 6 to 11 than other age groups. Moreover, atypicality was the only subscale that showed differential elevations, but all theoretically relevant subscales were at risk. Females with ASD are equally as likely to demonstrate internalizing and externalizing behaviors.
B - 23 The Effects of Family Functioning on Medication Adherence in Pediatric Cancer Patients
Authors: Tuinstra Kaitlin , Kuwabara Hana
Published: October 2023

Objective

Despite life-threatening consequences of pediatric cancer, treatment non-adherence rates range from 10–75%. Given the neurocognitive effects of chemotherapy it is important to study medication adherence to prevent disease relapse. The current study examined potential predictors of medication adherence among pediatric cancer patients.

Methods

Survey data was collected from 104 parents of pediatric cancer patients through online and social media portals, family support groups, pediatric cancer websites, and foundations. Informed by the McMaster Model of Family Functioning, it was hypothesized that poor medication adherence would be predicted by multiple factors using multiple regression analysis.

Results

Results indicated poor communication (p = 0.049), behavioral control (p < 0.001), and affective responsiveness (p = 0.005) are predictors of poor medication adherence. Poor problem solving (p = 0.016) and higher degree of effort (p < 0.001) predict higher medication adherence. Post-hoc analysis indicated that when controlling for problem solving, child’s sex had a significant effect on medication adherence. There was a significant effect of time since diagnosis on medication adherence after controlling for the effect of problem solving, communication, behavior control, and condition management effort. There was a significant effect of family’s income on medication adherence after controlling for the effect of problem solving, communication, affective responsiveness, and condition management effort.

Conclusion

In the current study, several predictors of adherence were identified. This knowledge helps medical and psychological professionals to work collaboratively to promote adherence. Future research is needed to further understand multicultural factors that may predict poor adherence and how specific pediatric cancer diagnoses impact family functioning.
B - 26 Examining Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) Performance by Primary and Testing Language
Authors: Roop Samantha , Rolin Summe , Davis Jeremy
Published: October 2023

Objective

The MoCA has been translated into almost 100 languages including a Spanish version used in multiple validation studies. Research considering primary language and language of test administration is limited. We compared MoCA scores of primary Spanish speakers tested in English (S-E) with those of primary Spanish speakers tested in Spanish (S-S).

Method

This project involved secondary analysis of deidentified National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center data. Cases with first visit MoCA data, demographics, and primary language of Spanish were included resulting in a final sample (N = 395) of S-S (n = 265) and S-E (n = 130) participants. Coarsened exact matching was used to derive a sample subset matched on age, education, and Clinical Dementia Rating global score (n = 160). Participants were compared on demographics and MoCA.

Results

In the final sample, S-S and S-E participants were not different in age, but educational level was lower in S-S (M = 10.0; SD = 5.3) than S-E (M = 14.6; SD = 3.9; p < 0.001) participants. MoCA scores were lower in S-S (M = 19.1, SD = 6.2) than S-E participants (M = 21.2, SD = 6.1; p = 0.002). A larger proportion of the S-S group (79%) had an abnormal MoCA compared to the S-E group (67%; p = 0.021). In the matched sample, MoCA scores were not significantly different between S-S (M = 21.2; SD = 4.8) and S-E (M = 21.2; SD = 5.3; p = 0.95) participants; rates of abnormal MoCA scores were not significantly different between S-S (73%) and S-E (66%; p = 0.39) participants.

Conclusions

Relationships between primary language, test administration language, and MoCA score were reduced in groups matched on education. Future research should explore additional education and language interactions among bilingual older adults.
B - 27 Philadelphia Neuropsychology Society’s Equity Forum: Efforts to Address Local Level Needs for Equity in Neuropsychology
Authors: Erani Fareshte , Split Molly , Tassoni Molly , Greth Zach , Tinker Jennifer , Mechanic-Hamilton Dawn , Black Chelsea , Gallo Jennifer , Glenn Megan , Minniti Nancy , Irani Farzin
Published: October 2023

Objective

While there are growing national advocacy efforts to advance equity in neuropsychology, fewer initiatives exist at local and regional levels. The Philadelphia Neuropsychology Society’s (PNS) Equity Forum was created to provide diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)-related support, advocacy, and resources to local trainees, professionals, and communities. We describe the Forum’s efforts to promote policies, educate, and offer support at a local level.

Method

We conducted an archival review of activities of the PNS Equity Forum from January 2021 to April 2023, including a PNS needs assessment survey (NAS), the southeastern PA Regional Community Health Needs Assessment (rCHNA), electronic correspondence, and website traffic.

Results

Results identified the need to increase access to resources for 1) culturally responsive research, 2) bilingual providers, 3) low-cost care, and 4) brain health education for the local public. In response, the Forum implemented the following initiatives: monthly ce seminars and journal club, quarterly newsletter, and a resource repository for culturally, linguistically, and socioeconomically diverse communities in the Philadelphia region. The Forum provided DEI-related education to monthly PNS speakers and created safe discussion spaces after national tragedies. The PNS Forum website page saw a 114% increase in views, the list of bilingual and culturally-aware providers received 25% more views, and the quarterly newsletter saw a 100% increase in views in the last month.

Conclusions

Neuropsychologists can serve as social change agents in local and regional neuropsychology organizations, and create transformational spaces for accessible, equitable, and sustainable neuropsychology practices and training environments.
B - 31 Association of Hippocampal Volume with Subjective and Objective Cognitive Functioning in a Diverse Sample
Authors: Kaser Alyssa N , Longoria Anthony J , Winiarski Holly R , Schaffert Jeffrey , Denney David A , Lacritz Laura H
Published: October 2023

Objective

Individuals with subjective cognitive complaints (SCCs) and reduced hippocampal volumes (HV) may be at increased risk of future cognitive decline, though findings regarding the relationship between SCCs and HV have been mixed. The current study explores the association of HV with SCCs and objective cognitive performance in a diverse sample.

Method

Participants in a population-based cardiovascular risk study (N = 1754; MAge = 58.8, 59% Female, 50% Black, 10% Hispanic) responded to three subjective cognitive functioning questions prior to completing the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA): 1) Do you have consistent memory problems, 2) If YES, do they interfere with everyday activities, and 3) do you have trouble figuring things out/solving problems. HV were derived from a 3-tesla MRI and normalized using total intracranial volume. Partial correlations examined associations between HV, MoCA scores, and SCCs, while one-way ANCOVA compared HV by SCC endorsement pattern, controlling for demographics.

Results

Findings revealed smaller HV in those who endorsed all SCC questions (n = 27; MHV =0.34) compared to those without any SCC (n = 631, MHV = 0.36, p = 0.001), though effect size was small (η2 = 0.015). HV were not correlated with SCCs (r = −0.06, p = 0.10) or cognitive performance (r = 0.01, p = 0.75), and SCCs had a small correlation with MoCA scores (r = −0.18, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Subjective cognitive functioning was minimally associated with HV and cognitive performance in this sample, and as a result the clinical significance of these findings is unclear. Further research is needed to understand the possible neuroanatomical correlates of SCC, along with the predictive utility of SCCs in the early identification of cognitive decline.
B - 32 Grief in Neuropsychological Assessment among Culturally Diverse Middle-Old Older Adults
Authors: Katsman Kseniya , Bender Heidi A
Published: October 2023

Objective

Bereavement, exacerbated by losses stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, contributes to high rates of grief and associated mood disturbances among older adults, potentially impacting neurocognition. Middle-old cohorts (ages 75–84) are particularly vulnerable, due to elevated levels of baseline depression, complicated grief, and perceived lower quality of life. The contributory role of grief and culturally-relevant manifestations of bereavement should be carefully considered as potential confounds or performance contributors.

Method

Four cases seen for neuropsychological assessment in the Department of Neurological Surgery: A 75-year-old bilingual (Russian, English) patient with a meningioma who noticed cognitive changes following spouse’s death from COVID-19; A 77-year-old monolingual (English) patient with Parkinson’s disease undergoing a pre-surgical work-up prior to Deep Brain Stimulator insertion. Mood reportedly worsened sharply since spouse’s recent death; An 81-year-old monolingual (Cantonese) patient undergoing a pre-surgical work-up prior to DBS insertion. Shared grieving the recent death of younger sibling from COVID-19; An 84-year-old, monolingual (English) patient who was evaluated due to longstanding cognitive challenges in the context of cerebrovascular disease (monitored by Neurological Surgery). Cognitive deficits reportedly precipitously worsened following spouse’s death.

Results

While levels of neurocognitive and adaptive dysfunction varied, mood disturbance and affective distress likely reduced engagement in the testing process. Reluctance to disclose depressive and anxious symptomatology on questionnaires as a function of culture was noted. Thorough, culturally-sensitive, clinical interviewing and metrics are needed to elicit nuanced information.

Conclusions

Grief and associated mood disturbances are to be prioritized and carefully considered in the evaluation and treatment plan with middle-old older adults.
B - 34 Depression and Cognition in a Mexican Adolescent Population
Authors: Lopez Hernandez Daniel W , Curiel Mariam Gomez , Munoz Isabel
Published: October 2023

Objective

We evaluated the influence of depression on cognition in a healthy Mexican Spanish speaking population.

Methods

The sample consisted of 41 Mexican adolescents all residing in Mexico with a mean age of 18.59 (SD = 0.50). They were divided into two depression groups: normal symptoms of depression (NSD; n = 26) and abnormal symptoms of depression (ASD; n = 15). Participants completed the Word Accentuation Test, all the subtests of the Stroop Color Word Test (SCWT), Boston Naming Test, Phonemic Fluency Test (i.e., FAS), Semantic Fluency Test, Rey–Osterrieth Complex Figure, and all the subtests of the Digit Span in Spanish. Additionally, participants completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale in Spanish to report their current level of depression. Independent Sample T-tests were used to examine cognition performance. We used a threshold of p < 0.05 for statistical significance.

Results

Results revealed the NSD group outperformed the ASD group on the SCWT-Color, Phonemic Fluency Test, Semantic Fluency Test, Boston Naming Test, and Digit Span backwards tasks, p’s < 0.05.

Conclusions

As expected, the NSD group demonstrated better cognitive abilities compared to the ASD group. Our data suggests that the current level of depression had a significant influence on cognitive abilities in an adolescent Spanish speaking population. Future studies with larger sample size should evaluate if current symptoms of depression influence non-verbal cognitive abilities in a Spanish speaking Mexican population. More research that evaluates both verbal and non-verbal abilities will help researchers and clinicians determine if current level of depression influences Spanish speaking adolescents’ cognition.
B - 37 Cognitive Aging in Rural Communities: Preliminary Characterization of Memory in a Community Cohort from Southern Nevada
Authors: Miller Justin , Wong Christina , Rodrigues Jessica , Pudumjee Shehroo , Caldwell Jessica K
Published: October 2023

Objective

Rural-dwelling older adults face unique health challenges that may increase risk for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias; however, they are severely underrepresented in aging research. Here we present an initial characterization of memory functioning in a prospectively followed rural community cohort, with comparisons to an urban cohort from the same region.

Methods

Community-dwelling adults over age 50 currently living in a non-metropolitan area are eligible for enrollment. Clinical characterization includes the NACC Uniform Data Set supplemented with additional verbal list learning and nonverbal memory measures. Primary comparisons explored group differences between urban and rural-dwellers, stratified by cognitive diagnosis. The influence of neighborhood disadvantage on memory was also assessed.

Results

There were no differences in demographics or overall clinical status between the rural (n = 81) and urban samples (n = 129). Approximately half of each sample was cognitively normal. Differences in verbal memory were found for learning (d = 0.45), recall (d = 0.48), and recognition such that rural-dwelling older adults demonstrated a memory advantage relative to urban-dwelling adults; however, the magnitude of impairment within each cohort was larger among rural-dwelling older adults (d = 1.65–2.06) compared to urban-dwelling adults (d = 0.8–1.45). No differences in nonverbal memory were found, and there were no effects of neighborhood disadvantage on any memory measure.

Conclusions

Although rural living may increase risk for dementia, we found a small to moderate memory advantage for rural-dwellers. Taken together, our findings suggest that late-life rural living in this geographical region is not necessarily associated with an increased burden of memory impairment, and could actually be protective for some individuals.
B - 38 Cognitive and Motor Functioning of Black and Asian Stroke Patients Admitted to Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities across the United States
Authors: Nakayama Kayla K , Garcia Stephanie , Landazuri Tommy , Meninno Rachael , García James J
Published: October 2023

Objective

To examine racial and ethnic differences in cognition and motor skills post-stroke in Asian and Black patients at admission and discharge.

Method

Participants were Asian (N = 5659), Black (N = 51,909), and non-Asian/non-Black stroke patients (N = 174,679) admitted to inpatient rehabilitation facilities across the United States. Patient functionality was assessed via the Functional Independence Measure (FIM). Age at admission, admission year, sex, marital status, insurance type, and length of stay were included as covariates.

Results

Hierarchical linear regression analyses showed that at admission, Asian and African American stroke patients were associated with reduced cognitive and motor functioning compared to non-Asian/non-Black stroke patients (β’s ranged from = −0.020 to −0.032 for both groups; all p’s < 0.001). Upon discharge, Asian and Black stroke patients were associated with lower cognitive and motor functioning compared to non-Asian/non-Black stroke patients (β’s ranged from = −0.012 to −0.052) for both groups; all p’s < 0.001).

Conclusion

In an inpatient sample of stroke patients, findings showed race/ethnicity was associated with lower cognitive and motor functioning across at admission and discharge. These data may provide evidence on the role of social determinants of stroke health (Skolarus, 2020) for Asian and Black patients in the inpatient rehabilitation context. Implications for the assessment and practice of Clinical Neuropsychologists working in these settings with Asian and Black stroke patients are discussed.
B - 39 Normative Data for a Waranka Indigenous Population of Ecuador: the Importance of Using Data Culturally Appropriate
Authors: Olabarrieta-Landa Laiene , Bosquez María José Fierro , Carlos E , Zapata B , Arango-Lasprilla Juan Carlos , Rivera Diego
Published: October 2023

Objective

To generate normative data for Waranka indigenous population in a comprehensive neuropsychological battery.

Method

400 healthy children from Guaranda-Ecuador were evaluated. Inclusion criteria were: IQ ≥ 80 on the Test of Non-Verbal Intelligence-2, & a score of <19 on the Children’s Depression Inventory. 54.5% were girls with an average age of 11.1 ± 3.2 years and mean parental education (MPE) of 8.1 ± 3.3. The battery was composed of 19-test-scores and were normed (subsample = 306) using multiple linear regressions (MLR) and standard deviation of residual values. Age, age2, sex, MPE and interactions were included as predictors. Best model method was used for variable selection, where 2^p combinations of p covariates were potentially related with each test-score. Four step analyses were used to generate norms: 1-the predictive value was obtained, 2-the residual value was obtained, 3-the residual value was standardized, and 4-percentiles were calculated. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare norms differences using indigenous vs non-indigenous norms, and to determine the low-scores (subsample = 94).

Results

The MLR models showed main effects for age linear or quadratic effect in all test-scores. MPE effect was found for Peabody-test and Fruits verbal fluency, while sex effect for Peabody-test and Symbol Digit Modality-Test. Wilcoxon signed-rank test showed significant differences in all test-scores, except for trail making test and Stroop word-color. Compared to non-indigenous norms, indigenous children achieved higher scores and lower number of low-scores when using indigenous norms.

Conclusions

This study highlights the great need to use culturally appropriate normative data for the indigenous population in order to avoid possible diagnostic mistakes.
B - 40 Mending the Trainee-to-Workforce Pipeline: Recruitment and Retention Strategies on Black Trainee Enrollment and Matriculation within Neuropsychology Programs
Authors: Powdrill Karen , Fedio Alison , Moore-Lobban Shavonne , Scherer Michael
Published: October 2023

Objective

This study intended to understand how Black trainees view the use and effectiveness of recruitment and retention strategies used by clinical psychology programs with a emphasis in neuropsychology.

Method

This pilot study included participants (N = 14) who were current trainees or early career neuropsychologists who identified as Black/African American. A computer-based survey was used to collect demographic, student, and early career neuropsychologist data wherein participants completed a 7-point Likert scale to rate the effectiveness of their program’s use of 10 recruitment strategies and nine retention strategies. The strategies are based on research conducted by Rogers and Molina (2006) regarding recruitment and retention of students of color in clinical psychology graduate programs. Participants were contacted through APA listservs, particularly Division 40 and Division 45, within the American Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology, and the Society for Black Neuropsychology.

Results

Results were descriptive due to a lack of power and were often variable. Over half indicated that their programs do not use recruitment materials geared toward minoritized applicants, and their programs did not use marketing materials designed to attract Black trainees. Regarding the effect that the presence of minoritized faculty mentors and their support of research in diversity-related issues have on retention, 28.6% of respondents reported that they are extremely effective retention strategies.

Conclusions

As the U.S. continues to grow increasingly diverse, neuropsychology must be ready to meet this shift. The overwhelming majority of active neuropsychologists identify as Caucasian (Sweet et al., 2021). There is a responsibility to actively work toward the mending of the trainee-to-workforce pipeline.
B - 41 Development of Norms for Verbal Fluency Test in Bilinguals Sample: a Generalized Linear Mixed Model with Poisson Distribution Approach
Authors: Rivera Diego , Arango-Lasprilla Juan Carlos , Olabarrieta-Landa Laiene
Published: October 2023

Objective

To generate norms for monolinguals (MO) Spanish speakers, Basque bilinguals (BI) and Catalan BIs on verbal fluency tests (VFT).

Method

89 MOs, 139 Basque BIs, and 132 Catalan BIs completed phonological and semantic VFT in Spanish and Basque or Catalan. Majority of the sample was women (62.2%) with age of 48.5 ± 18.2 and education 13.1 ± 3.8. The participants completed the task in two languages. Two generalized linear mixed models with Poisson distribution (GLMM) were used to evaluate the logarithm of the expected value using fixed effects (region, language, age, age2, education, and sex) and random effects (type of letter/categories, and participant). GLMM was conducted using a long data format with the total number of words as outcome variable.

Results

A GLMM Poisson for phonological VFT showed a quadratic age, logarithmic of education, region and language effects (ps < 0.001). The random intercepts for type of letter were significant (variance = 0.00875, p-value<0.001), indicating significant differences in total words through letters. Model fit was good (AIC = 24,521, BIC = 24,578). A second GLMM Poisson for semantic VFT showed a quadratic age, logarithmic of education (ps < 0.001) and sex effect (p < 0.01) on the total number of words. The random intercepts for type of category were also significant (variance = 0.02583, p-value<0.001), indicating significant differences in total words through categories. Model fit was good (AIC = 12,128, BIC = 12,185).

Conclusions

GLMM Poisson assumes that the response variable follows a Poisson distribution, as in VFT case, and it controls random effects, such as participant and range of letters in a given language. This approach could be adequate for generating norms in neuropsychological tests.
B - 42 The Effects of Bilingualism on a Visual Confrontational Naming Task
Authors: Samuel Ananya Ruth
Published: October 2023

Objective

This preliminary study examines the effects of bilingualism on a modified confrontational naming task (CNT) in native and non-native English speakers. The broad objective was to explore specific aspects of bilingualism that affected performance, to better inform good clinical practice in neuropsychology for linguistically diverse populations. A-priori hypotheses included: 1) Age of English acquisition (AOA) predicts CNT performance; 2) There would be a significant group diff between native and non-native English speakers; and 3) There would be significant group differences between multilingual and bilinguals on CNT performance.

Methods

The Boston Naming Test (BNT) and the Language Experience and Proficiency Questionnaire (LEAP-Q) were modified and administered via Qualtrix. A total of 30 adults participated in the study, including 15 men and 15 women (Mage = 28.83, SDage = 1.71), 17 Asian Americans/Asians, 5 White/Caucasian Americans, 4 Black or African Americans, 2 Latino/a/x, and 2 Native Americans, 13 participants who were native English-speakers, and 17 who were non-native English-speakers. All participants were bilingual and denied any history of neurological conditions. Regression analysis and Analysis of Variance were conducted to test a-priori hypotheses.

Results

Findings supported H1, as AOA significantly predicted confrontational naming performance on the modified version of BNT, b = −0.480, t = −3.097, p = 0.005. H2 and H3 were not supported as there were no significant group differences.

Conclusion

This suggests that AOA should be considered when administering and interpreting CNT performance in bilinguals. Given the small sample size, bigger-scale replication might be beneficial to examine specific aspects of bilingualism affecting CNT performance.
B - 44 Social Capital and Aging across Cultures: Examining the Mediating Effects on the Cognitive Functioning-Functional Ability Relationship in Baltimore and Mumbai
Authors: Wadia Lyla , Futterman Andrew , Higginson Christopher , Prenoveau Jason
Published: October 2023

Objective

Examine social capital (social support, social network) as a mediator of the cognitive functioning and functional ability relationship in older adult populations. Examine this relationship cross-culturally, with culture as a moderator of the mediation model.

Method

75 community dwelling participants recruited across India and the United States. Cognitive function was measured using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Functional ability was evaluated using the Duke OARS Multidimensional Functional Abilities Questionnaire and the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS). Social network and social support were evaluated using the Lubben Social Network Scale and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. Process Macro (Hayes & Rockwood, 2017) was used to examine the mediation and moderated mediation models.

Results

The internal consistency of the MoCA and OARS were below acceptable ranges in the Indian sample. Indian participants reported more social support than U.S participants, however, there were no differences in social network. Social support predicted functional ability as measured by the WHODAS, F(1, 63) = 4.34, p = 0.04, but not the OARS. Social network predicted functional ability as measured by both the WHODAS, F(1, 57) = 8.33, p = 0.006, and the OARS, F(1, 62) = 4.98, p = 0.03. Results suggested that social capital was not a significant mediator of the relationship, and that culture was not a significant moderator.

Conclusions

Limitations due to small sample size indicate need for further exploration of the potential benefits of social capital on cognitive and functional ability across cultures. Important to consider appropriateness of measures when working with non-normative groups.