bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PGR – 2 More than Just an EEG; The Role of Neuropsychological Evaluation in Pediatric Seizure Diagnosis with Complex Comorbidities
Authors: Cassill Carolyn 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
Despite the prevalence of epilepsy, diagnosis remains limited by both subjective and objective examination (Urbańska et al., 2024). This is especially true of time-limited Electroencephalogram (EEG) (Baud et al., 2021). Ability to predict who will develop epilepsy after first time seizure is also limited (Drenthen et al., 2021). Neuropsychological changes inform clinical diagnosis and provides deeper understanding of functional limitations in daily life (Tolchin et al., 2020).

Method
Patient is a 12-year-old left-handed boy with history of in utero drug exposure and neglect prior to adoption at 3-years-old. Evaluation was sought for developmental delays concerning for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Additional concerns included frequent falls, severe migraines, reduced attention and memory, fatigue, and tremor. He had two clinical seizures around 9 years old, though subsequent EEG was normal. Given this and prophylactic treatment with Keppra, likelihood of seizures was thought to be low.

Results
Cognitive and adaptive skills were in the low range. Results were concerning for atypical developmental progress and a lateralizing profile. Specifically, skills associated with the left hemisphere (verbal abilities) were developing steadily, while skills associated with the right hemisphere (spatial and pattern recognition skills) were weaker. Difficulties with processing speed and higher order executive function were also present. No unifying diagnosis was identified, but addition of Keppra and Topamax resulted in marked improvement in energy, motor functioning, and cognitive functioning.

Conclusion
Neuropsychological evaluation was able to identify previously undetected seizure activity resulting in significant clinical impairment. Neuropsychological evaluation is invaluable in diagnosing and monitoring epilepsy (Kishk et al., 2022).
A - 11 Organizational Strategies and Delayed Recall in Older Adults: Insights from the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test
Authors: Cho Jin , Poreh Amir 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
The objective of this study was to investigate the factors that influence older adults’ ability to recall complex figure in the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure (ROCF) test.

Method
172 participants (50% female; M = 74.64) between the ages of 60 and 100 were recruited through the Israel Interior Ministry. Participants were asked to complete the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (ROCF), which involved two tasks: A) participants were first instructed to replicate the complex figure exactly as shown (copy task). Subsequently, they were asked to B) recall and redraw the figure after a 30-minute delay (delayed recall task). The evaluations were conducted at the participants’ homes. The participants were evaluated on three criteria: accuracy, continuation, and the symmetry. To analyze the relationship between participants’ scores on the accuracy, continuation, and symmetry, a linear regression analysis was performed.

Results
A linear regression model predicting delayed recall score was significant F(3,48) = 9.61, p &lt; 0.001. Among the predictors, continuation (b = 0.75, p = 0.01) and copy scores (b = 0.39, p 0.02) displayed a significant positive relationship with delayed recall score.

Conclusion(s)
The ROCF test serves as a comprehensive measure of cognitive functions, such as visuospatial memory, executive and organizational abilities, and retrieval. The significant influence of organizational score underscores the important link between planning abilities and declarative memory. This supports previous findings that organizing ROCF into meaningful clusters of units during the copy task improves performance in delayed recall task.
A - 12 Neuropsychological Test Best Fit for Identifying on-the-Road Driving Behaviors in Normal and Abnormal Aging Populations: a Systematic Review
Authors: Velez Kyara Y , Rosselli Monica 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
This systematic review’s purpose is to identify neuropsychological assessments that are accurate at predicting driving behaviors in geriatric populations. The population included normal aging, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia.

Data Selection
PubMed and APA PsycNet databases were searched using two separate keyword searches: cognitive evaluation and driving behaviors and aging; neuropsychological test and driving behaviors and aging. The databases were searched March 10, 2024, and again on April 26, 2024. This yielded 278 articles. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method was used to identify articles. Articles were excluded if they did not have on-road driving behaviors or simulated driving behaviors, neuropsychological test, if the average participant age was not geriatric, or if it was a non-peer reviewed article.

Data Synthesis
After following PRISMA selections, eight articles were included, creating a combined sample size of 927 (Mean age = 74.16, SD = 2.38; mean years of education = 14.17, SD = 1.09; female percentage = 40.78). The test deemed most correlated were Neuropsychological Assessment Battery: Driving Scene Test, Clock Drawing, Useful Field of View, Trail making task, Mini-Mental State Exam, verbal and visual memory components from the Wechsler Memory Scale, Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure, and Maze Navigation Task.

Conclusion
General cognitive screening tests as well as visuomotor, visual–spatial, visual attention and verbal and non-verbal memory tests highly correlate with real driving behaviors and accurately predict on-the-road driving behaviors. This indicates the cognitive and behavioral complexity of driving. Though these tests accurately predict driving behaviors, their abilities to do so may differ depending on cultural groups.
A - 16 A Proof-of-Concept for the Construct Validity of Cognitive Dispersion: Longitudinal Relationship between Cognitive Dispersion and Preclinical Alzheimer’s Cognitive Composite Scores
Authors: Fatima Hudaisa , Burger Carly , Thakkar Vishal , Schaffert Jeff , Rossetti Heidi , Lacritz Laura , Zhang Rong , Cullum C Munro 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
To examine the construct validity of cognitive dispersion (CD) by examining its relationship with the Preclinical Alzheimer’s Cognitive Composite (PACC) scores across multiple visits among cognitively healthy individuals with hypertension and memory concerns/significant family history of dementia.

Methods
435 participants (Mage = 68.90, Meducation = 16.29 years) from the rrAD study with neurocognitive data from five visits over 24 months were included. PACC total scores were derived as per literature from the MMSE, Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test, Digit Symbol Substitution Test, and Logical Memory delayed recall. Raw scores were converted to z-scores using the baseline sample mean and standard deviation (SD) and calculating the mean of these z-scores to form the PACC score. CD was calculated as the intraindividual SD of the z-scores of all tests within the PACC battery. Linear regression, with time representing the five time points as a predictor, examined the relationship between cognitive dispersion and PACC scores.

Results
The model significantly predicted PACC scores (F[2, 2278] = 65.83, p &lt; 0.001, R^2 = 0.05). Time alone did not significantly predict PACC scores (p = 0.41), but CD was a significant predictor when controlling for time (b = −0.51, SE = 0.04, t = −11.47, p &lt; 0.001), such that greater CD was related to lower PACC composite scores.

Conclusion
The findings suggest an inverse relationship between CD and PACC scores over time, supporting CD as a potential marker of preclinical cognitive change in this sample. Future research may explore how lifestyle interventions influence this relationship while considering demographic factors such as age, sex, and race/ethnicity.
A - 24 Treatment Response to Internet-Delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Bradson Megan , Thomas Garrett A , Sakamoto McKenna S , Gold Stefan M , Friede Tim , Wieditz Johannes , Meyer Björn , Heesen Christoph , Paul Friedemann , Moss-Morris Rona , Sicotte Nancy L , Bruce Jared M , Arnett Peter 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
A recent randomized-controlled (phase III) clinical trial examined the efficacy of an internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) intervention designed to treat depressive symptoms in persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Significant mean reductions in depressive symptoms were found in the stand-alone iCBT and guided-iCBT conditions compared to the control group. The purpose of the current study was to identify the proportion of PwMS who responded to iCBT (stand-alone and guided) for depression compared to a waitlist control group.

Method
224 PwMS completed the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) to measure depression severity at baseline and post-intervention. Reliable change index (RCI) scores for depressive symptoms were calculated for each participant. Clinical significance was determined using the 95th percentile cutoff (RCI = ± 1.96).

Results
Combining the stand-alone and guided-iCBT (n = 147) groups, 89 PwMS (61%) demonstrated a reliable decrease in BDI-II scores, whereas 58 PwMS (39%) did not show a reliable decrease. For waitlist controls (n = 77), 19 PwMS (25%) showed a reliable decrease in BDI-II scores, χ2(2, N = 224) = 33.82, p &lt; 0.001, φ = 0.39.

Conclusions
We found that the iCBT treatment was highly effective, with 61% of PwMS showing a reliable decline in depressive symptoms compared with only 25% of waitlist controls. Still, generally consistent with previous research, almost 40% of PwMS did not respond to iCBT for depression. Future work will investigate baseline cognitive, psychosocial, and disease-related predictors of response to iCBT to better understand treatment outcomes and possible targets to optimize interventions for depression in MS.
A - 25 Without Words: Relational Neuropsychology and Creative Arts Therapies with People Managing Aphasia
Authors: Chilcote Autumn Marie 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
Common approaches to functional rehabilitation with persons managing aphasia after stroke highlight conversation and semantic retrieval, with a lack of evidence considering the diversity of physiological, social–emotional, and psychiatric symptoms and responses. Further, evidence shows high dropout rates and limited engagement for post-stroke therapies. This research considered: How does participating in a neuropsychologically-informed creative arts therapy program influence cognitive and clinical therapeutic outcomes for a person with aphasia?

Method
A 64-year-old White man presented mixed conduction aphasia following left middle cerebral artery stroke in the temporal parietal region. Burden of Stroke Scales, Western Aphasia Battery, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and Rey Complex Figure Tasks indicated moderate aphasia, diffuse cognitive impairment with severe memory impairment, and functional difficulties with communication, social relationships, and mood. The patient participated in six 1-¼ hour creative arts therapies with a clinical neuropsychology doctoral candidate co-located in a speech-language-hearing clinic.

Results
The patient actively participated in all individualized arts-based directives with complete adherence to specific session goals. Outcomes evidenced clinically significant improvements in tasks evaluating perceptual-motor, executive function, and memory domains of function. Linguistic inquiry and analysis software indicated reduction in nonfluencies and increased use of affective language. Clinical therapeutic outcomes included improved mood, engagement, and relational experiences assessed at session- and program- levels.

Conclusions
Multi-modal, low-verbal approaches for assessment and rehabilitation after stroke improve individualized approaches to treatment beyond semantic retrieval. Clinical neuropsychologists are well-placed to inform psychotherapies for this unique symptom-clustered condition, and creative arts therapies show promise in improvements in cognitive and social–emotional domains of function.
A - 27 Case Study Approach to Initial Exploration of Adaptations of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Non-Epileptic Seizures (NES) in the Context of Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Messerly Johanna , Werry Amy 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
The following case study seeks to review implementation of CBT for NES, discuss psychotherapeutic adaptations and outcomes while balancing treatment fidelity, and offer preliminary recommendations for expansion of psychotherapeutic modalities for individuals with cognitive impairment.

Methods
49-year-old Hispanic male with a history of mixed epileptic (non-lesional frontal lobe medically refractory) and non-epileptic events. Neurological workup included video EEG, which captured seven events without EEG correlate and an unremarkable brain MRI. Neuropsychological evaluation indicated mild cognitive impairment due to epilepsy with deficits in processing speed, executive functioning, and confrontation naming with borderline to low average core visual and verbal abilities. The patient participated in manualized CBT for PNES.

Results
Treatment adaptations included extending treatment sessions from 12–19 sessions and including the patient’s sister. They read the chapters together and practiced strategies outside of session. She participated in helping him notice patterns of manifestations of fear and anger and their influence on somatic symptoms. Omission of treatment elements with higher cognitive demand (i.e., thought chart). Outcomes included increased awareness of emotions, triggers, and warnings but not episode reduction in the context of increased epileptic seizures.

Conclusions
Feasibility of treatment may be limited for individuals with mixed epileptic and NES episodes, particularly if there is cognitive impairment and difficulty differentiating between the two. Psychotherapeutic techniques that are concrete and behaviorally based will = be beneficial for individuals with cognitive impairment. Episode reduction in isolation is likely reductionistic when considering treatment effectiveness. Ability to self-manage episodes, quality of life, functional status, and self-efficacy are valuable markers of improvement.
A - 30 Chiari Malformation Type I: the Powerful Impact of Participation in Computerized Working Memory Training on Mood and Self-Perception
Authors: Sacks-Zimmerman Amanda , Bender Heidi A , Katsman Kseniya , Boorstin Rebecca , Kallman Samantha 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
Chiari Malformation type I (CM-I), a disorder characterized by displaced cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum, is neuropsychologically complex and underrecognized. While decompressive neurosurgical intervention relieves physiological symptoms, cognitive and neuropsychiatric challenges may persist. Given the importance of attentional abilities and emotional functioning for post-operative quality of life for CM-I patients, exploring the effects of CogMed Computerized Working Memory Training (CCWMT) on aforementioned elements, specifically self-perception, is essential to the neurological surgery survivorship mission.

Method
Three CM-I patients diagnosed in adulthood were enrolled in CCWMT approximately three years post-operatively; each with self-reported decrements in attentional functioning following neurosurgical intervention with neurocognitive measures within normal limits and moderate levels of self-reported mood dysfunction and decline in self-perceived pre-surgical functional status. Comprehensive neuropsychological testing was completed pre and post CCWMT treatment, consisting of 25 sessions of progressively challenging working memory exercises completed within 5–12 weeks.

Results
There were no significant decrements in objective attentional-based measures pre-CCWMT treatment relative to baseline estimates and no significant changes pre to post CCWMT treatment. However, there were clinically significant decreases in self-reported depression. Further, post-treatment improvement in self-perception of functioning aligned with degree of improvement index within the CCWMT program.

Conclusions
Given the positive prognosis of post-surgical CM-I patients, clinical neuropsychological investigation can maximize a patient’s quality of life by extrapolating cognitive and emotional elements that interact as barriers to optimal outcomes. This case series underscores that effortful participation in intensive cognitive remediation may enhance mood and self-perception beyond objective cognitive enhancement, thereby supporting holistic aspects of a patient’s recovery.
A - 35 Effects of Childhood Trauma Exposure on Psychological Symptom Endorsement among Adult ADHD Referrals
Authors: Rubright Colin , Shapiro Greg , Shoemaker Bonnie E , Soble Jason R 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
Adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely to have childhood trauma exposure. Trauma exposure evaluations are not always standard practice for adult ADHD evaluations, but personality inventories like the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2-Restructured Form (MMPI-2-RF) are more commonly used to differentiate neurodevelopmental symptoms from psychiatric disorders. This study assessed the impact of childhood trauma exposure on MMPI-2-RF profiles among adults referred for ADHD evaluation.

Method
Cross-sectional data from 222 patients referred for neuropsychological evaluation for attention concerns and administered the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Checklist and MMPI-2RF were examined. Patients were racially diverse with a Mage 29.15 (SD = 7.63) and Meducation 16.15 years (SD = 2.13). Patients were divided into low (0–3 ACEs) and high (&gt;3 ACEs) ACE groups. ACEs groups’ MMPI-2RF Restructured Clinical (RC) scale scores were compared via multivariate analyses of variance (MANOVAs) for the overall sample and subsample of those who ultimately received an ADHD diagnosis.

Results
The sample had 52% low ACEs/48% high ACEs, and 65% ADHD diagnosis/35% non-ADHD diagnosis. Overall, there was a significant multivariate effect (Wilks Λ =0.812; F(9,212) = 5.45, p &lt; 0.001; np2 = 0.188); those with high ACE scores had significantly higher RC1, RC4, RC6, RC7, and RC8 scores. Significant MANOVA effects remained when the sample with subdivided. Across ADHD and non-ADHD subgroups, significantly higher RC4 and RC6 scores were consistent.

Conclusions
Exposure to childhood trauma had a significant impact on the MMPI-2-RF profile of adults being evaluated for ADHD. Screening for trauma exposure should be incorporated into standard neuropsychological batteries to inform the interpretation of personality inventories used to differentiate psychopathology.
A - 45 Duchenne and Becker Muscular Dystrophy: Sibling Case Studies
Authors: Zhang Luyu , Kiefel Jacqueline , Mattox Sarah , Verma Sumit , Logan Rachel 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked recessive neuromuscular condition primarily affecting males. Progressive proximal muscle wasting and weakness is seen and a shortened life span can occur due to cardiac involvement. Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD) is a milder form of DMD. Non-progressive cognitive impairment (e.g., lower IQ) in DMD has been well established, while the cognitive profile in BMD is less known. DMD/BMD are caused by mutations in the dystrophin protein. Research suggests that mutations downstream of exon 63 in the DMD gene are associated with poorer cognitive outcomes compared to upstream 1–30. Our cases explore the association between genetic/medical factors upon cognitive and behavioral outcomes, and neuropsychological similarities/differences between DMD and BMD.

Method
The current sibling case studies include one BMD set (mutations at exon 45–49) and two DMD sets (exon 61–74, and 13, respectively). They are part of a larger IRB-approved research dataset. Notably in DMD set two, the siblings have different biological fathers.

Results
The BMD siblings have comparable neuropsychological profiles (e.g., below average IQ, academic challenges, attention/executive problems). In DMD set one, one sibling has average intelligence with no academic challenges, while the other sibling has a low average IQ with challenges in math and spelling. In DMD set two, one sibling has intact cognitive functioning, while the other sibling performs well below average across neurocognitive domains.

Conclusions
Our results indicate variabilities in DMD/BMD, highlighting the contributing role of established factors (e.g., mutation location) and additional non-DMD influences (e.g., genetic contributions from biological father) to understand neuropsychological profiles.
A - 47 The Relationship between Cognitive Abilities and Illness Self-Perception in Pediatric Cancer Patients
Authors: Johnson Andrea , Donner Miriam , Hull Michelle 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
The present study aims to examine the relationship between cognitive scores and illness identity in pediatric cancer patients. Youth with cancer confront unique challenges as their illness interacts with their cognitive development and maturing identity. Previous studies with typically developing youth suggest that high verbal ability may facilitate processing stressors in a way that impacts sense of self. However, this interaction remains largely unstudied in pediatric cancer populations.

Methods
This study analyzed data from 23 participants ages 9–20 years (M = 15.09, SD = 3.190) who completed the Illness Identity Questionnaire (IIQ) and the Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence (WASI-II). “Illness Identity” is measured by 25 statements categorized into four domains. The “Engulfment” domain, the degree to which an individual defines themselves by their illness, is considered maladaptive to individuals’ psychological adjustment to illness.

Results
Pearson correlation analyses revealed a nonsignificant relationship between WASI-II composite scores and broad IIQ domains. However, an examination of individual IIQ domains revealed a significant, positive correlation between Verbal Comprehension Index and Full Scale IQ scores with a specific item endorsed in the Engulfment domain. Higher FSIQ and VCI composite scores were significantly positively correlated to the statement: “My cancer has a strong impact on how I see myself” (r = 0.435, p = 0.038; r = 0.422, p = 0.045).

Conclusion
Results suggest a possible relationship between verbal comprehension ability and general cognitive ability with illness self-perception. This study elucidates the impact of cognitive processes on the psychological experience of illness in pediatric cancer patients. Future research should expand upon these findings with larger and more diverse samples.