bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A-1 Comparison of Consensus and Actuarial Diagnosis of MCI in Hispanic and non-Hispanic Samples
Authors: Carlew Anne R , Goette William , Schaffert Jeff , Rossetti Heidi , Lacritz Laura
Published: August 2022

Objective: The Jak/Bondi actuarial method has been found to be superior to consensus diagnosis in identifying MCI in some but not all populations and may not perform as well in diverse samples. In this study, diagnostic agreement between actuarial and clinical consensus methods was examined by ethnic group in the heavily Hispanic/Latinx Texas Alzheimer’s Research and Care Consortium (TARCC) cohort.

Method: TARCC participants with consensus diagnoses of NC and MCI at baseline (n = 1011; 66.47% female; 49.75% Hispanic; Mage = 67.28; Medu = 13.21) were reclassified via actuarial criteria of two failed tests (>1 SD below normative [MOANS in TARCC] mean) in one cognitive domain OR one failed test in 3+ cognitive domains. Chi square analyses investigated diagnostic agreement and test fail rates by ethnicity.

Results: Diagnostic agreement significantly differed between ethnic groups (Cramer’s V = 0.42). 57% of the Hispanic consensus-NC group were relabeled as actuarial-MCI while just 12% of the consensus-NC non-Hispanic sample were classified as actuarial-MCI. The non-Hispanic consensus-MCI sample was more likely to be reclassified as actuarial-NC (47% reclassified). Failure rates were significantly higher for the Hispanic group on 8 of 10 neuropsychological tests (Cramer’s V = 0.106–0.542).

Conclusions: The Jak/Bondi MCI actuarial method could be prone to false-positive errors in Hispanic/Latinx samples, based on these findings in a significantly more diverse cohort than previously studied. Because the actuarial method relies on normed scores, its application may be more difficult in populations for which adequate norms are still being developed. Further research exploring use of “robust” norms or updated Hispanic/Latinx norms (e.g., NP-NUMBRS) when applying the Jak/Bondi method is needed.
A-5 Accelerated Parietal Cortex Thinning in Middle Aged Adults at Genetic Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Hayes Jasmeet P
Published: August 2022

Objective: The objective of this study was to identify biomarkers of progressive cortical decline during early middle-age, a time when early intervention could target preclinical ad neurodegeneration. We hypothesized that genetic risk for ad would be associated with cortical thinning in areas of the brain that are the first to reflect ad pathology, including the medial temporal lobes and parietal cortex. In addition, we hypothesized that tau and Aβ would be associated with cortical thinning in ad-vulnerable brain regions.

Method: Participants were 155 post-9/11 Veterans from the Translational Research Center for TBI and Stress Disorders prospective longitudinal cohort, an ongoing study at the VA Boston Healthcare System. Longitudinal change in cortical thickness was calculated as an annualized measure of the symmetrized percent change. Moderation models examined the interaction between ad PRS and plasma-based biomarker (t-tau or Aβ 42/40 ratio) on annual percent brain change.

Results: Higher ad PRS was associated with cortical thinning in a right-hemisphere inferior parietal cortex cluster that included the supramarginal gyrus (peak voxel 59.73, −37.81, 22.74) and angular gyrus. Moderation analyses revealed a significant genetic by t-tau interaction (β = −0.266, p = 0.006).

Conclusion: The current study revealed that genetic risk for ad and concentration of tau are associated with accelerated change in the parietal cortex, an area that has long been associated with early changes due to ad. The results underscore the importance of the parietal cortex in the identification of higher risk for neurodegeneration, decades prior to the onset of ad.
A-6 Pediatric Cerebral Cavernous Malformation, Type 1 (CCM1): Cognitive and Psychosocial Functioning, The Role of Neuropsychology, and Emerging Clinical Care Guidelines
Authors: Petranovich Christine , Campbell Richard , Gill Darbi , Hart Blaine , Morrison Leslie , Wilson Kevin
Published: August 2022

Objective: CCM1 is a rare condition that confers risk for negative neurological sequelae, including hemorrhage, seizures, and chronic headache. This study examines cognitive and psychosocial functioning in pediatric patients with CCM1 and describes emerging clinical care guidelines.

Method: Twenty-two children and adolescents with CCM-1 and 7 non-affected relatives participated in this cross-sectional pilot study. Cognitive testing and behavior and emotion questionnaires were completed. A subset of participants with CCM1 (n = 11) had repeat brain MRI (average 4.89 years between scans).

Results: Patients with CCM1 and their non-affected relatives did not differ on the NIH Toolbox Fluid and Crystallized composites (p > 0.05). Processing speed also did not significantly differ, although both group means were below average normatively (NIH Toolbox Pattern Comparison T-score; CCM1 = 31.50 [12.02], non-affected relatives = 37.57 [14.58]). In the subgroup with repeat imaging, slower processing speed was associated with an increase in large lesions (p = 0.03) and with younger age at CCM1 diagnosis (p = 0.04). Self- and parent-reported internalizing problems and parent-reported externalizing problems did not differ between groups (p > 05). In the CCM1 group, patient-reported disengaged coping was associated with more internalizing problems (p = 0.03).

Conclusions: Neuropsychological evaluation is an important component of long-term, multi-disciplinary care for pediatric patients with CCM1, particularly if lesions are progressive. The pilot sample was overall well-adjusted behaviorally and emotionally. The use of disengaged coping strategies was associated with more internalizing symptoms and coping may be a key modifiable risk factor in this population. Psychosocial monitoring may therefore be warranted.
A-8 Neurocognitive Inhibition Predicts Cortisol Reactivity to a Stressful Speech Task
Authors: Stout Madison , Hawkins Misty
Published: August 2022

Objective: Increased stress and cortisol are important risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, including cerebrovascular disease. The present study used an experimental speech task to determine the relationship between inhibitory control and cortisol response to social stress. We hypothesized that poorer inhibitory control would predict larger cortisol response to the stressor.

Method: Participants were 42 women with overweight/obesity recruited for larger project examining the impacts of weight stigma on inflammation. The computerized Stroop Color-Word and Go/No-Go assessed baseline inhibitory control and other neurocognitive factors. Higher scores indicate better performance. After a baseline blood sample, participants were randomized and asked to give a speech (1 = stigma, 0 = neutral). Subsequent blood draws were taken at 30-, 60-, and 90-minutes post-speech. Area under the curve was calculated to represent total cortisol increase.

Results: Analyses, controlling for speech condition and BMI, revealed that cortisol reactivity to the speech task was predicted by both Stroop Color-Word (β = −0.42, p = 0.007) and Interference (β = −0.35, p = 0.022) scores, as well as Go/No-Go Hits (β = −0.33, p = 0.04) and Omissions (β = −0.34, p = 0.03), but not Commissions (β = −0.038; p = 0.81).

Conclusions: The pattern of results suggests that individuals with lower inhibitory control experienced a greater cortisol output after the stressor. In this context, individuals who were better able to ignore irrelevant social aspects of the speech experienced a smaller cortisol reaction than the individuals who could not ignore them. To reduce risk for cerebrovascular disease, clinical interventions should focus on the practice of ignoring irrelevant stressors to promote more adaptive biological responses to stress.
A-13 Characterizing the Network Structure of Post-Concussion Symptoms
Authors: Goodwin Grace J , Salva Christine , Woodyatt Jessica J , Maietta Julia E , Kuwabara Hana C , Ross Staci , Kinsora Thomas F , Allen Daniel N
Published: August 2022

Objective: Assessment of post-concussion symptoms (PCS) has become a standard part of athletics at secondary, post-secondary, and professional levels. Network theory suggests that disorders can be viewed as a set of interacting symptoms that amplify, reinforce, and maintain one another. Examining the network structure of PCS may provide new insights into symptom comorbidity to inform targeted treatment and rehabilitation. We used network analysis to examine the topology of the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS) in high school athletes with recent sport-related concussion (SRC).

Method: High school athletes (n = 3292) with suspected SRC completed the PCSS. PCSS items were entered into network analysis, where nodes represented symptoms and edges represented association between symptoms. Centrality indices were calculated to determine relative importance of each symptom in the network.

Results: Edge weights, node strength, and expected influence were stable and interpretable. The network consisted of positive and negative edges. The strongest edges linked nodes within symptom domain (e.g., strong positive associations among affective symptoms). “Difficulty concentrating” was the most central and influential symptom in the network.

Conclusions: The present study examined the architecture of PCS using network analysis. While strong connections were found among symptoms within similar domains, all symptoms appeared to be interconnected. “Difficulty concentrating” emerged as an influential symptom in the network. Thus, this symptom is expected to affect the activation, persistence, and remission of other PCS. Interventions targeting difficulties with concentration may help alleviate other symptoms. Future research should examine the trajectory of PCS to advance clinical understanding of persisting symptoms after concussion.
A-116 Impact of Cognitive Stimulation Therapy on Cognitive Functioning and Quality of Life in a Veteran Population
Authors: Peak Ashley M , Marceaux Janice C , Shoji Kristy D , Valencia Julianna P
Published: August 2022

Objective: Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) is a non-pharmacological intervention for dementia. The CST program developed by Spector and colleagues has proven effective in improving quality of life (QoL) and cognition in older adults with dementia. The purpose of the present study was to examine the effectiveness of CST in a veteran population.

Method: A clinic-referred sample of veterans who completed a 7-week CST and pre/post-group assessments were selected for this study. This resulted in a sample of 25 male veterans, a majority of whom were diagnosed with a progressive dementia (Mean age = 74.44; Mean education = 13.7; 44% White, 44% Hispanic/Latinx, 8% Black). Paired-samples t-test were used to determine if group participation was associated with improvements in QoL or cognitive functioning.

Results: Veterans who participated in the CST group did not demonstrate a significant change in MoCA scores from pre-test (M = 16.63, SD = 3.28) to post-test (M = 17.42, SD = 4.23), (t[23] = −1.44, p = 0.16, Cohen’s d = 0.296) or RBANS total scores from pre-test (M = 61.73, SD = 10.13) to post-test (M = 64.55, SD = 11.28), (t[21] = −1.89, p = 0.07, Cohen’s d = 0.263). Similarly, there was no significant change in QoL as measured by participants from pre-test (M = 35, SD = 7.60) to post-test (M = 36.22, SD = 7.16), (t[22] = −1.30, p = 0.21, Cohen’s d = 0.165) or as measured by a caregiver from pre-test (M = 30, SD = 7.37) to post-test (M = 28.75, SD = 7.46), (t[19] = 0.69, p = 0.50, Cohen’s d = 0.169).

Conclusion: While CST did not significantly improve cognition or QoL in a diverse veteran sample, there was a small effect observed on cognitive functioning. Given that dementia is often a progressive disease, even stability of baseline cognition is suggestive of the protective effect of CST.
A-117 Posterior Cortical Atrophy Case Study: Neuropsychological Assessment Remains Gold Standard Diagnostic Tool of Choice
Authors: Woodhouse Jonathan , Corbett John
Published: August 2022

Objective: Posterior cortical atrophy (PCA) is a rare, early onset, neurodegenerative syndrome that is characterized by impaired visuospatial/visual-constructional skills. Patients describe vague visual symptoms; however, ocular assessments are usually normal. Alzheimer's disease is the most common underlying cause of PCA; however, brain MRI is often unrevealing early in the disease. As a result, accurate diagnosis is often delayed.

Method: The patient was initially referred in 2016 for a concussion evaluation following a work-related head injury when she was 54. Initial MRI of the brain was unremarkable. Neuropsychological testing was repeated in 2019, which was the first diagnostic test to establish a diagnosis of PCA. Subsequently, MRI of the brain with volumetric analysis showed total hippocampal volume to be at the 99th percentile and no pattern of cerebral volume loss to suggest a specific diagnosis. However, CSF biomarker assays were consistent with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.

Results: The patient’s initial cognitive profile in 2016 reflected mild cognitive impairment, multidomain type with severely impaired visual-constructional skills, which were unrelated to her concussion. Neuropsychological testing was repeated in 2019, which showed interval progressive cognitive and functional decline. Profound visual-constructional impairments were again noted (see image), and she met criteria for PCA. Neuropsychological testing was repeated in 2021 and showed progression to moderate dementia with features of Gerstmann's syndrome.

Conclusions: In spite of sophisticated neuroimaging techniques and increasing access to CSF biomarker analysis, neuropsychological assessment remains the gold standard diagnostic tool of choice for neurologists faced with rare dementia syndromes, such as PCA. See patient video at: https://youtu.be/9HdAKSL5alg
A-118 Psychedelic Interventions for Neuropsychological Conditions
Authors: Peacock Brian
Published: August 2022

Objective: Psychedelic-assisted therapies are emerging as safe and effective treatments for some psychological conditions including depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, and substance use disorders. As ketamine therapy is already available in general medicine and 3,4 Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and psilocybin are in late-stage clinical trials, neuropsychologists should be aware of these therapy options. The goal of this study was to identify new targets for psychedelic intervention and to evaluate the applicability and contraindications of psychedelic therapies in those with neuropsychological conditions.

Data Selection: A systematic literature search was performed using 128 topic keywords covering topics related to psychedelic pharmacology, risk, neuroscience, neuropsychology, psychological change, and clinical applications. These keywords were searched in combination with names of eight major psychedelics for a total of 1024 separate Google Scholar searches. This yielded 4319 papers with over eight hundred included based on translational relevance.

Data Synthesis: Data were synthesized using a translational approach, with findings building from basic research to clinical application. Literature was summarized into tables comparing sample, technique, statistical confidence, and effect size (computed when not available). Critical analysis was performed to evaluate the literature and generate new clinical insights.

Conclusion: Emerging opportunities for psychedelic therapies to treat neuropsychological conditions, including traumatic brain injury, cerebrovascular accident, autism spectrum disorder, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder were identified. Some contraindications were also found to psychedelic treatment of psychological disorders that co-occur with neuropsychological conditions. These findings are contextualized with the current state of psychedelic medicine to support practitioners in providing actionable clinical recommendations.
A-123 Problem Solving and Mental Workload in Binge and Non-Binge Drinking College Students
Authors: Hardy David J , Hatch Oliver J , Agbaroji Hannah A , Valencia Estefania , Wright Matthew J
Published: August 2022

Objective: Chronic sustained alcohol abuse is known to impact cognitive functioning. We examined potential differences in problem solving ability and mental workload in a more short-term population, binge-drinking college students.

Method: Binge-drinking (BD) (n = 129) and non-binge-drinking (NBD) (n = 163) college students completed a computerized test of problem solving, a 3-disk and 4-disk version of the Tower of Hanoi (TOH). After each TOH session, they also completed an assessment of mental workload via the NASA-Task Load Index (NASA-TLX). Mental workload was defined as the Mental Demand subscale of the NASA-TLX.

Results: No significant group difference was found in mean number of moves to complete the TOH in either the 3-disk version or 4-disk version. For mental workload, no difference was evident for the 3-disk TOH (BD M = 28.81, SD = 21.05 vs NBD M = 27.09, SD = 21.59, p = 0.497), but there was a difference for the 4-disk TOH condition (BD M = 47.22, SD = 21.86 vs NBD M = 41.84, SD = 22.94, p = 0.044).

Conclusion(s): While no group differences in test performance were evident, there was a difference in mental workload on the more difficult TOH condition. We propose that mental workload, which is not normally considered in neuropsychology, might be a valuable tool in assessment of cognitive status, especially when there are subtle cognitive differences. In this case, even with similar test performance, cognitive status might not necessarily be the same between the two groups, with the BD group showing greater mental workload.
A-133 Assessing Cognitive Performance in Bilingual Children with Refractory Temporal Lobe Epilepsy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Smith Cassandra , Soomro Amal , Li Jessie , Norman Madison , Rose Abigail , Schwartz Eliezer
Published: August 2022

Objective: The effects of bilingualism on cognitive profiles in children with pre-surgical temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) have not been well-addressed. The goal of this systematic review was to assess the state of knowledge on cognitive performance in bilingual children with refractory TLE.

Data Selection: An extensive literature search using PubMed, Wiley, and ScienceDirect/Elsevier research databases yielded 326 articles on cognitive performance of children with TLE using the following search terms: temporal lobe epilepsy in bilingual children, temporal lobe epilepsy, bilingualism, bilingual, children. Of these, only 3 met inclusion/exclusion criteria set prior to initiating the literature search.

Data Synthesis: Findings from the systematic review were mixed. Although some studies found that bilingual children with refractory TLE perform similarly to healthy controls and monolingual TLE children on measures of executive functioning and working memory. Other studies found that bilingualism no longer served as a protective factor for cognitive performance, specifically executive functioning, after accounting for the presence of TLE.

Conclusion: Neuropsychology is an integral part of TLE rehabilitation programs to provide comprehensive evaluations of patients with epilepsy and increase quality of life outcomes. Bilingualism may be a protective factor due to reorganization of executive functioning networks that promote cognitive reserve. However, the current review highlights the need for further study of cognitive profiles of bilingual children with TLE, as executive functioning may be uniquely impacted.
A-144 A Cross-Validation Study of Memory and Non-Memory Neuropsychology Measures with Spanish-Speaking Older Adults
Authors: Beaulieu Ashleigh , Nahmias Leeron , Hincapie Diana , Ortega Alexandra , Kitaigorodsky Marcela , Curiel Rosie , Loewenstein David
Published: August 2022

Objective: To evaluate the clinical utility of the Spanish versions of memory vs. non-memory instruments in a Spanish-speaking sample; specifically, the comparative performance for the English versions in amnestic MCI (aMCI) and cognitively unimpaired (CU) elders.

Method: 255 Non-Hispanic English speakers (NH-ES; 157 CU; 98 aMCI) and 201 Hispanic Spanish speakers (H-SS; 103 CU; 98 aMCI) were classified using the Clinical Dementia Rating Scale and a validated culturally fair test. ANCOVA procedures were used to test for differences between four groups across languages adjusting for age, sex, and education for memory (e.g., Hopkins Verbal Learning Test-HVLT-R; NACC Logical Memory) and non-memory measures (e.g., Trail-Making Test A-B, Category and Phonemic Fluency).

Results: For memory measures, CU older adults were statistically differentiated from aMCI counterparts regardless of language. No significant differences between H-SS aMCI and NH-ES aMCI groups’ on HVLT-R and NACC story passages immediate/delayed conditions. No significant differences found between H-SS CU and NH-ES CU on memory indices. Conversely, Bonferroni corrected means (p<.05) revealed that even after adjustment for demographic covariates, ES CU outperformed H-SS CU counterparts on Trails A-B, and Category/Phonemic Fluencies. NH-ES aMCI groups scored better than H-SS aMCI on Trails B.

Conclusions: Results indicate that memory measures experience less bias when employed among different linguistic/cultural groups regardless of cognitive status. In contrast, CU H-SS groups scored lower on all non-memory measures. Factors that lead to potential bias, particularly among CU are discussed. Trails-B evidenced bias for both Hispanic CU and MCI, making this a measure that requires the judicious use of appropriate norms.
A-156 Development of an Online Intervention to Reduce Internalized Stigma in Epilepsy
Authors: Goldstein Allyson S , Kiriakopoulos Elaine T , Tremont Geoffrey , Mankodiya Kunal , Ummie Sabah , Margolis Seth
Published: August 2022

Objective: Stigma is common in people with epilepsy (PWE), detracting from quality of life. Yet, no effective anti-stigma self-management programs exist for PWE. Here, we showcase a multidisciplinary team’s effort to create a telehealth-accessible anti-stigma intervention.

Method: Systematic review of empirical and theoretical research on epilepsy stigma was leveraged to create an online anti-stigma program for PWE. Drawing on experience in epilepsy care, intervention development, and digital health solutions, two neuropsychologists, a neurologist, and a computer engineer engaged in iterative biweekly meetings for one-year to determine critical intervention components.

Results: Four critical intervention components were identified: 1) stress management to combat negative affect caused by stigma, 2) stigma education around PWE’s self-limiting internalized experience of discrimination (i.e., “stigma thoughts”), 3) cognitive restructuring of “stigma thoughts”, and 4) problem solving to overcome stigma challenges. A self-administered, modular, online platform with built-in demonstration and interactive practice exercises was developed accordingly. Module one emphasizes deep breathing, relaxation, mindfulness, and visualization techniques. Module two presents vignettes derived from the lives of real PWE and teaches users to recognize stigma thoughts in others and themselves. Module three teaches users to apply cognitive reframing skills to unbalanced stigma-related thoughts. Module four guides users to apply problem-solving skills to everyday stigma challenges experienced by PWE.

Conclusion: Drawing on research, theory, and collaborative multidisciplinary interaction, psychoeducational content employing a cognitive-behavioral framework was adapted to a self-administered, modular, online platform to mitigate the stigma felt by PWE. Future research will elicit feedback on the intervention’s concept, features, and content from community stakeholders with epilepsy.
A-161 Neuropsychological Findings and Atypical Motoric Features Associated with Hashimoto Encephalopathy in a 52-year-old Male
Authors: Bailey-Bila Maggie , Phillips Matthew S , Yang Jessica , Fink Joseph W
Published: August 2022

Objective: Hashimoto encephalopathy (HE) is a rare neurological condition with pathophysiology associated with elevated autoimmune anti-thyroid antibodies. The condition, associated with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, is found more commonly in women. Clinical presentations of HE vary significantly, with cognitive deficit and generalized seizures as the most prominent manifestations. While there is robust literature illustrating HE in female populations, literature on HE in male patients, particularly with dominant motoric features, remains limited.

Methods: A 52-year-old, right-handed, Caucasian male presented for evaluation reporting difficulties with short-term memory, word-finding, disorientation, and motor deficits. The patient exhibited significant motor symptoms including myotonia, micrographia, fasciculations and paresthesias, phantosmia, and myoclonic jerking, beginning in 2017 with progressive decline. Relevant medical history includes Hashimoto thyroiditis (2021), focal temporal EEG abnormalities (2021), dystonia (2021), and migraines. Prior to presenting concerns, the patient was otherwise generally healthy. Neuroimaging (MRI) revealed increased signal intensity in the subcortical white matter of the right frontal lobe. He was dependent in several instrumental activities of daily living.

Results: His premorbid baseline was estimated to be in the average range. His neurocognitive profile was marked by mild impairments in immediate and delayed verbal memory and recognition paradigms, whereas he demonstrated moderate impairments in processing speed and motor functioning.

Conculsion: Taken together, his neurocognitive profile, clinical history, and functional independence are consistent with the clinical presentation of HE. His cognitive deficits and epileptiform activity are consistent with prominent manifestations of HE, whereas his pronounced motoric features are seemingly aberrant in HE. Furthermore, post-steroidal treatment revealed increased cognitive proficiency on a single mental status examination.
A-168 The Role of Executive Functioning, Processing Speed, and Working Memory on the TMT-B in ADHD Populations
Authors: Wenzel Benjamin , Frick Lauren A , Kern Jennie R , Van Winkle Baylee , Bailey-Bila Maggie C , Balloun Bailey A , Fawcett Madelyn K , Pyykkonen Benjamin
Published: August 2022

Objective: Trail-Making Test B (TMT-B) is a measure of attention and processing speed (PS), with sensitivity to executive functioning (EF; Reimers, 2019). The impacts of these domains on TMT-B are not well-understood, especially in those with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, who experience deficits in EF, PS, and attention (Kramer et al., 2020, Theiling & Petermann, 2016). We examined the contributions of EF, PS, and attention on TMT-B performance.

Method: This study included archival data of 64 adults diagnosed with ADHD at a midwestern multidisciplinary behavioral health clinic. Commonality analyses were used to identify the predictive capacity of performance on measures of EF, attention, and PS on TMT-B. EF was measured using perseverative errors of Wisconsin Card Sort Test (WCST). Weschler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) index scores of working memory (WMI), and processing speed (PSI) were used to examine attention and PS.

Results: Data was analyzed using a series of block-wise hierarchical regression analyses, with each predictor variable entered in alternating sequence. Results indicated that the processing speed domain accounted for 10.8% (R2 change = .108, F(1, 60) = 8.407, p < .01) of the variance in TMT-B performance after controlling for variability accounted for by other domains. EF was a significant predictor after accounting for variability in other domains, but accounted for only 5% (R2 change = .05, F(1, 60) = 4.179, p < .045) of the variance. WMI was not a significant predictor in this clinical sample.

Conclusion: TMT-B is affected by both PS and EF. Implications and limitations of this study will be discussed.
A-171 Dissociable Dimensions of Multiple Sclerosis-Related Depression
Authors: Kaden Sarah J , Light Sharee , Martinez-Camblor Pablo , Wishart Heather
Published: August 2022

Objective: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is associated with increased risk of depression and suicide. Preliminary literature suggests that sadness and anhedonic aspects of depression may dissociate in MS. Based on this, we hypothesized that there would be three subtypes of depression experienced by individuals with MS: primarily sad, primarily anhedonic, and mixed (i.e., elevated anhedonia and sadness), and that certain dimensions would be associated with higher degrees of suicidal ideation.

Method: Participants included 117 patients with MS [Mean (Standard Deviation): age = 47.48 (10.21) years; 78.9% female; 97.3% White non-Hispanic; disease duration = 7.86 (8.30) years; Expanded Disability Status Scale: Median = 3, Range = 0 to 8.0]. Depression was measured using the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Patients’ level of mood symptoms ranged from non-depressed to severely depressed [10.26 (9.35)].

Results: Principle components analysis of BDI-II item-level responses indicated that symptoms in patients with MS dissociated into three dimensions accounting for 59% of variance in total. Dimension 1 included eight items related to negative cognitions, including pessimism, loss of hope and suicidal thoughts. Dimension 2 consisted of eight items characterized by vegetative symptoms and anhedonia. Dimension 3 was comprised of five items pertaining to sadness and emotion regulation issues.

Conclusion(s): There appear to be three dimensions of depression experienced by adults with MS, and the negative cognitions dimension is most strongly related to suicidality, highlighting the importance of screening for this aspect of depression in individuals with MS.
A-194 Sustained Attention Differences Between Electrical Injury Patients and Combat Exposed Veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Fellin Timothy J , Obolsky Max A , Paxton Jessica L , Resch Zachary J , Soble Jason R , Fink Joseph W , Pliskin Neil H
Published: August 2022

Objective: Electrical injury (EI) patients demonstrate heterogenous neuropsychological performance (NP), yet sustained attention (SA) has not been investigated. This study aimed to characterize differences in SA on the Conners’ Continuous Performance Test II (CPT-II) between patients with past EI and veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Method: Participants included EI patients and veterans with PTSD receiving neuropsychological evaluations at affiliated academic medical centers. Inclusion criteria for veterans involved meeting criteria for PTSD per the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-IV. EI and PTSD participants were included if they completed the CPT-II and failed < 1 performance validity tests. The 50 EI participants were 80% male, ages 19-64 (M=42, SD=10.67), and 94% White. The 35 PTSD participants were 94% male, ages 25-49 (M=33, SD=5.55), and 31% White, 45% Black, 20% Hispanic, and 3% biracial.

Results: Percentage of participants showing at least three atypical scores on the CPT-II was higher for EI (52%) compared with PTSD (20%) participants [χ^2 (1, N = 85) = 8.876, p < .003]. EI participants showed significantly greater SA difficulties on CPT-II overall standard error [F(1,84)=22.18, p< 0.001, ηp2=.21], variability of standard error [F(1,84)=7.70, p=0.028, ηp2=.09], reaction time by inter-stimulus interval (ISI) [F(1,84)=9.19, p=0.018, ηp2=.10], and standard error by ISI [F(1,84)=6.48, p=0.039, ηp2=.07]. All p-values were false discovery rate corrected.

Conclusions: EI participants demonstrated overall greater inconsistency in response speed with slower and inconsistent reaction times during different ISIs. EI patients display a unique pattern of SA performance compared to veterans with PTSD, which may relate to the variability in EI NP.
A-210 The Effects of Language on Arithmetic and Problem-Solving Abilities in Hispanics
Authors: Rifai Lara , Kotalik Kayla , Kajani Nisha , Golden Charles J
Published: August 2022

Objective: To identify differences between Hispanics and Caucasians in mathematics and problem-solving abilities using the KeyMath-3.

Methods: The data for this study was derived from a large de-identified database. The sample contained two groups: the Hispanic group, (n=38; 64.4% female; mean age=29.9, SD=10.46; mean education=12.89, SD=10.46) and the Caucasian group (n=72; 65.8% female; mean age=31, SD=13.27; mean education=13.25, SD=1.38). The mean scaled scores for the KeyMath-3 subtests were calculated using independent sample t-tests.

Results: Results showed no significant differences between Hispanics and Caucasians on Numeration, Algebra, Geometry, Measurement, Data Analysis, Basic Concepts, Mental Computation, Addition and Subtraction, or Multiplication and Division subtests. However, significant differences were found between the two groups on Foundations of Problem Solving [Caucasian M=9.92, SD=6.32; Hispanics M=7.23, SD=2.39; t(108)=6.913, p=.010] and Applied Problem Solving [Caucasian M=12.28, SD=12.8; Hispanics M=7.71, SD=3.09; t(108)=8.73, p=.004].

Conclusion: Results indicate Hispanics underperform compared to Caucasians on subtests requiring verbal comprehension, suggesting problem-solving performance is affected by a disadvantage in language and not mathematical ability. Hispanics may underperform on verbal comprehension related tasks due to less exposure to English. This finding demonstrates Hispanics are at a disadvantage under circumstances requiring the application of math concepts in the context verbal comprehension problems (i.e., Graduate Record Examination). No differentiation could be made between Hispanics who have immigrated and those born in the United States to Hispanic parents. Therefore, future research should identify these differences.
A-218 Development of an American Sign Language Cognitive Screening Measure for Deaf Adults
Authors: Timperlake Erin , Pick Lawrence , Morere Donna , Dean Pamela
Published: August 2022

Objective: The Deaf community in the United States is recognized as a unique linguistic and cultural minority group. However, there are almost no American Sign Language (ASL) cognitive screening measures for this population (Dean et al., 2009; Atkinson et al., 2015). This study approached the development of a valid and conceptually equivalent measure of cognitive functioning with the involvement of Deaf community support and feedback.

Method: Measure development was conducted by a team of neuropsychologists and clinical psychology PhD students with expertise in ASL linguistics and Deaf culture. The formal linguistic development included two native Deaf signers, one Deaf Interpreter, and one Certified Deaf Interpreter. The measure was then administered to a pilot sample of 20, cognitively intact, Deaf adults (Age: M=40.10, SD=5.50) fluent in ASL.

Results: The measure showed good internal reliability for preliminary analyses (α= .72, λ-2 = .77, KR20 = .75) and it positively correlated with ASL fluency as determined by the ASL-Comprehension Test (r(18)= .54, p=.01; Hauser et al., 2016). There were no significant correlations with self-reported educational attainment (r(18)=-.21, p= .39) or race/ethnicity (r(18)=-.11, p= .64).

Conclusion: Preliminary analysis of an ASL cognitive screening measures developed for use with culturally Deaf signers shows promise. This is one of the first attempts to create such a measure in the United States and next requires further development and piloting with a sample of cognitively intact older adult Deaf signers.
A-221 Multivariate Base Rates for the NIH Toolbox Emotion Battery
Authors: Ingram Eric , Karr Justin
Published: August 2022

Objective: Neuropsychologists commonly administer multiple measures of emotional functioning; however, no prior research has examined whether examinees will normally obtain one or more clinically significant emotional scores if multiple questionnaires are administered and interpreted. This study prepared multivariate base rates for the NIH Toolbox Emotion Battery (NIHTB-EB), examining the frequency at which participants in the normative sample obtained ‘abnormal’ scores on the 17 individual scales (e.g., sadness, loneliness, life satisfaction) and 3 summary scores (i.e., negative affect, social satisfaction, and psychological well-being).

Method: Participants were 2,879 English-speaking community members recruited for the NIHTB norming study (M=46.26 years-old, SD = 17.14; 46.7% men; 80.6% White). The frequency at which participants obtained one or more ‘abnormal’ emotion scores (i.e., either T60 depending on the scale) was calculated.

Results: When interpreting all 17 individual NIHTB-EB scores, 66.3% of participants were elevated on one or more individual scales. When interpreting the 3 NIHTB-CB summary scores, 26.0% of participants were elevated on one or more of the summary scores.

Conclusions: Similar to findings on performance-based neuropsychological tests, these base rates indicate that obtaining one or more abnormal scores is normal on questionnaires of emotional functioning. When administering multiple questionnaires, one or more low or elevated score(s) may correspond to normal variation in emotional functioning rather than significant distress or a disorder.
A-223 Preliminary Investigation of Convergent Validity and Utility of the Texas Postconcussion Symptom Inventory
Authors: Conley Michael A , Lacritz Megan , Bunt Stephen C , Longoria Anthony , LoBue Christian
Published: August 2022

Objective: The Texas Postconcussion Symptom Inventory (TPSI) is a novel, 66-item, self-report instrument with empirically-derived indices that provides a summed total score to assess recovery following concussion. This study evaluated convergent validity of the TPSI with the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS), and examined differences in symptom scores between recovered and non-recovered adults to assess its utility in measuring post-concussion symptoms.

Method: Adults (N=37; Mage=41.6; Female=59.5%; White=89.2%) diagnosed with concussion were recruited from a larger concussion study (ConTex) to complete the TPSI and PCSS three months after initial clinical evaluation. Convergent validity was assessed using nonparametric correlation analyses between total symptom severity scores on the PCSS and TPSI for all subjects. Independent sample t-tests examined whether the TPSI total symptom score differed between the adults reporting lingering symptoms (N=19) and those who had recovered (N=18).

Results: Total TPSI symptom score strongly correlated with the PCSS total symptom score (ρ = .867; p<.001). Non-recovered adults (MTPSI = 55.61; SDTPSI = 26.38) reported significantly higher symptom scores than recovered adults (MTPSI = 34.64; SDTPSI = 22.69) on the TPSI t(35) = 2.59, p = .014, d = 0.85, 95% CI, [4.53, 37.32].

Conclusion(s): The TPSI demonstrated strong convergent validity with a common clinical postconcussion symptom instrument and identified significant differences in symptom reporting between recovered and non-recovered adults after a concussion. Future research will build upon these preliminary results and determine the utility of the TPSI in the acute stage following concussion as well as in tracking recovery.
A-234 Psychopathology as a Factor in Failed Performance Validity Testing
Authors: Gass Carlton , Patten Brooke , O’Maille Alanna
Published: August 2022

Objective: Evidence of incomplete effort is sometimes attributed to common symptoms of depression, anxiety, or somatic preoccupations. The objective of this study was to examine the role of mood disturbance severity in failed performance validity testing (PVT) in referrals to a memory disorders clinic.

Participants and Method: 164 non-compensation-seeking referrals, 66% women, 84% white non-Hispanic, were divided into two groups (n = 82) based on passed or failed PVT results. Participants had an average age 60.4 ± 15.7 and education 14.9 ± 2.9 years. However, 51% of participants had diagnoses of depression and anxiety. Protocols were screened for performance invalidity using Reliable Digit Span and Digit Span SS.

Results: MMPI-2 content scales were factor analyzed (PCA/varimax) yielding three factors: Internalizing, Externalizing, and Thought Dysfunction. Mean scores on the three MMPI-2 factors were contrasted across the failed PVT and passed PVT samples. No significant differences emerged (all ps >.13). Mean scores on the MMPI-2 validity scales (F, Fb, Fp, and FBS) were also compared. No significant differences emerged (all ps > .29).

Conclusions: Although it is often believed that psychological symptoms such as motivational inertia, apathy and indifference, emotional withdrawal and isolation, preoccupations and distractibility, and acting out tendencies contribute to incomplete effort and failed PVT, these results failed to support such a perspective. They are consistent with other published results that suggest that self-report validity on SVTs can be largely independent of performance validity. This proposition might be setting-specific. In this memory disorders clinic setting, psychopathology showed no measurable impact on effort or performance validity.
A-235 The Degree to which Age, Education and Race predict TOMM Performance in a Retired NFL Cohort
Authors: Tchienga Ines , Golden Charles
Published: August 2022

Objective: The study aimed to evaluate how performance on the TOMM was related to age, race, and level of education. Methods, 160 NFL former players (Mage= 48.9, 71% African American, 29% Caucasian) were evaluated for possible CTE. The sample consisted of 124 African American (Mage= 46.3, SD= 7.94) and 36 Whites (Mage= 43.3, SD= 8.66).

Results: Age (b = .143, p = .033) and ethnicity (b = -3.740, p = .036) were significant predictor of the TOMM trial 1, F(2, 153) = 2.587, p = .079, R2 = .033 but were not significant predictors for TOMM trial 2 and 3. Independent-sample t-tests were conducted to compare participants performance on all TOMM trials between both ethnic groups. There was a significant difference in mean scores for T1 t(155) = 2.81, p = .006, d=.540, T2 t(158) = 1.762, p= .04, d= .33 and T3 t(158) = 2.187, p .015, d= .41 with African Americans performing relatively lower than Whites.

Discussion: Ethnicity and age were significant predictor of performance only on TOMM trial 1. The TOMM was not resistant to the effect of ethnicity thus supporting evidence from previous studies. Differences may be due to cultural influences such as lack of prior exposure to some TOMM pictures. Moreover, consistent with the literature, there is a negative correlation between test outcome and age. Though the TOMM is a reputable measure for suboptimal effort, its content may not be appropriate for various ethnic background. Therefore, it is essential to employ culturally appropriate measures to detect insufficient effort.
A-236 The Role of Socio-Demographics on the Test of Memory Malingering (TOMM) Performance Using a Large Military Sample.
Authors: Malik Hinza B , Burneo-Garcés Carlos , López-Vallejo Sofía , Miller Kayla , Puente Antonio E
Published: August 2022

Objective: The current study aims to assess the relationship among scores on the test of memory malingering (TOMM) and general demographics (age, education, ethnicity, and gender) as well as military-specific variables (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), number of deployments, and blasts) using a large military sample.

Method: An archival dataset (https://osf.io/rv9cj/), representative of the military personnel according to the Marine Corps Demographics Update (2015) consisting of 875 participants between 18-62 years, predominately male and caucasian was analyzed. Participants were referred by their medical provider for psychological and/or neurological complaints and completed a neuropsychological evaluation comprised of a clinical interview and a neuropsychological blast battery consisting of demographics and 15 tests, including the TOMM. Pre-morbid information was gathered using the ASVAB which has the following subscales: armed forces qualification test, general technical, mechanical maintenance, clerical, and electronics.

Results: A decrease in TOMM Trial 2 scores was significantly associated with an increase in age r(732) = -.09, p = .014, education r(717) = -.10, p = .008, mechanical maintenance, r(330) = .12, p =.04; clerical, r(313) = .11, p =.04; and electronics r(328) = .13, p =.02. TOMM Trail 2 scores were not significantly associated with other variables.

Conclusions: The findings show a weak relationship between TOMM Trial 2 and age, education, and a few subscales of ASVAB. This suggests that both demographic and vocational abilities appear to be potential mediating variables in understanding the role of effort in interpreting neuropsychological performance.
A-253 Does Wearing a Watch Influence Performance on the Clock Drawing Test?
Authors: Yousif Mairy , Szemko Julianne , Gorres Kaci , Sohoni Ruta , LoGalbo Anthony
Published: August 2022

Objective: The present study examines whether individuals who regularly wear a watch will perform better than those who do not on The Clock Drawing Test (CDT) within a memory disorder clinic population.

Method: Data from 69 memory disorder clinic patients was utilized, ages 59-94 (M = 80.45, SD = 7.231; 52% female). Participants were included in this study if they had a diagnosis of cognition within normal limits, mild cognitive impairment, or unspecified neurocognitive disorder. Dementia diagnoses were excluded due to the potential impact of more severe cognitive dysfunction on task performance. Patients’ scores on the CDT and responses to questions regarding watch wearing were obtained as part of a brief neuropsychological evaluation. Regular watch wearing was defined by those who responded affirmatively to the question “do you regularly wear a watch?”; individuals reported wearing a watch at least 2 times per week, with the majority (N=30) reporting wearing a watch 5 or more times per week.

Results: The 38 participants who wear a watch regularly (M=9.13, SD=.811) performed significantly better on the CDT compared to the 29 participants who do not (M=8.83, SD=1.1441), t(65) = 4.210, p=.044. Similarly, those who wear a watch regularly (M=.85, SD=.812) made significantly fewer errors on the CDT compared to those who do not (M=1.17, SD=1.17), t(65)=4.101, p=.047.

Conclusion: Results indicate that individuals who regularly wear a watch perform better on the CDT, making fewer errors than those who do not. This finding might suggest increased planning and organization skills in those who wear watches regularly.