Social cognition across bipolar disorder and behavioral-variant frontotemporal dementia: an exploratory study

Objectives: Bipolar disorder type 1 (BD1) and behavioral-variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) share similar behavioral and cognitive symptoms, rendering the differential diagnosis between them a clinical challenge. We investigated the accuracy of social cognition (SC) measures to differentiate bvFTD from BD. Methods: We included three groups of participants: early-onset BD1 (in remission, n=20), bvFTD (n=18), and cognitively healthy controls (HC) (n=40), matched for age, schooling, and sex. All participants underwent cognitive assessment, including the Facial Emotion Recognition (FER) and Modified Faux-Pas (mFP) tests, which assess mentalizing. Results: Compared to HC, BD1 and bvFTD patients underperformed on both SC measures. BD1 and bvFTD did not differ regarding FER or mFP total scores, although patients with bvFTD had significantly higher difficulties than those in the BD1 group to detect social faux-pas (p < 0.001, d = 1.35). Conclusion: BD1 and bvFTD share deficits in the core SC functions. These findings should be considered in the development of tasks aiming to improve clinical differentiation between the two disorders.

Relación entre funciones ejecutivas y la competencia social, en menores que se desvinculan del conflicto armado en Colombia / Relationship between executive functions and social competence, in minors who disassociate themselves from the armed conflict in Colombia

Resumen. El presente estudio tuvo por objetivo determinar el perfil del funcionamiento ejecutivo (Dorsal y orbital) y el tipo de relación con la competencia social que tiene que ver con lo que es socialmente correcto, en una población de menores que se desvinculan del conflicto armado en Colombia. El alcance de la propuesta fue descriptivo-correlacional. El diseno cuasi experimental, de orden longitudinal para la recolección de los datos relacionados con la evaluación neuropsicológica y la evaluación de la competencia social. De carácter cuantitativo, se evaluaron las variables a través de instrumentos estandarizados y sus puntuaciones son de tipo numérico. Se encontró un coeficiente de correlación mùltiple de R=0.759, entre las FE, y la criterio (competencia social) por lo tanto el 57.6% de la variabilidad de lo que se considera Socialmente Correcto, puede explicarse por las variables predictoras contempladas en el modelo. El ajuste del modelo puede considerarse alto. Así mismo, el valor de significancia permite comprobar que la regresión entre las variables independientes y la variable dependiente es significativa. Con ello se rechaza la hipótesis nula (p=0,001). Y se acepta la existencia de relaciones directas/inversas entre el funcionamiento ejecutivo y la competencia social que hace referencia a lo que es socialmente correcto.

Abstract. The objective of the present study was to establish the relationship between the profile of executive functioning and social competence that has to do with what is socially correct, in a population of 70 minors who disassociate themselves from the armed conflict in Colombia. The scope of the proposal was descriptive-correlational. The design we used was quasi-experimental, longitudinal in order to collect the data related to the neuropsychological evaluation and the evaluation of social competence. It is quantitative in nature; the variables were evaluated through standardized and valid instruments. We find positive and negative relationships between executive functions and social competence; that is, the alternative hypothesis of the research is accepted, in which we propose the existence of direct relationships between executive functioning and social competence.

Working memory training improves the executive function and ability in the activities of daily living of stroke survivors / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

Objective:To explore any effect of working memory training on executive functioning and ability in the activities of daily living after a stroke.Methods:Forty-six stroke survivors were randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group, each of 23. Both groups received conventional cognitive rehabilitation (including computer-assisted cognition training and virtual reality training using upper limb rehabilitation robots), while the experimental group also received working memory training. Before, as well as after 4 and 8 weeks of the treatment, both groups′ executive functioning was evaluated using the Trail Making test, the Frontal Assessment Battery and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test-64. Ability in the activities of daily living was quantified using the functional independence measures (FIMs).Results:There were no significant differences between the two groups in any of the measurements before the training. After 4 weeks the average scores of the experimental group on all four instruments were significantly higher than the control group′s averages. After 8 weeks the average scores had improved significantly more. The treatment group performed significantly better than the control group throughout.Conclusions:Working memory training can improve executive functioning and the daily life of stroke survivors.

Low-frequency transcranial magnetic stimulation can improve the executive functioning and core symptoms of preschool children on the autism spectrum / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

Objective:To explore the effect of low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on the executive functioning and core symptoms of preschool children on the autism spectrum.Methods:Forty-three preschool children showing signs of autism were randomly divided into an rTMS group of 21 and a control group of 22. In addition to routine rehabilitation and training in basic living skills, the rTMS group was additionally provided with 1Hz rTMS for 8 weeks. Before and after the treatment, both groups were evaluated using the preschool version of the Behavior Rating Inventory for Executive Function (BRIEF-P), the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), the revised version of the Repetitive Behavior Scale (RBS-R) and the Child Autism Rating Scale (CARS).Results:After the 8 weeks of treatment, the average BRIEF-P, SRS, RBS-R and CARS scores of both groups had improved significantly, but the rTMS group′s averages where then significantly better than those of the control group.Conclusions:Low-frequency rTMS in addition to conventional rehabilitation intervention can significantly improve the executive functioning and core symptoms of preschool children on the autism spectrum.

Desenvolvimento e propriedades psicométricas do Teste Informatizado de Avaliação das Funções Executivas / Development and psychometric properties of the Computerized Executive Functions Assessment Test / Desarrollo y propiedades psicométricas del Test Informatizado de Evaluación de las Funciones Ejecutivas

Funções executivas (FE) são habilidades que permitem o autocontrole comportamental e cognitivo e estão relacionadas a diversos desfechos ao longo da vida. O uso de testes informatizados para avaliar as FE pode facilitar a precisão dos registros, a padronização e a análise dos dados. Este estudo objetivou desenvolver um instrumento informatizado para avaliar FE em crianças de 4 a 10 anos e analisar características psicométricas. Foram conduzidas cinco etapas: 1) Definição teórica e metodológica; 2) Construção dos itens; 3) Estudo piloto; 4) Análise de juízes; e 5) Estudos psicométricos de validade e fidedignidade. As tarefas informatizadas mostraram-se adequadas para o público-alvo, conforme avaliação dos juízes. As diferentes tarefas de memória de trabalho, inibição e flexibilidade cognitiva apresentaram correlações significativas entre si e a maioria das medidas no teste-reteste evidenciou estabilidade na mensuração. Portanto, os resultados sugerem viabilidade para uso do instrumento no contexto brasileiro. (AU)

Executive functions (EF) are skills linked to behavioral and cognitive self-control and are related to various outcomes throughout life. The use of computerized tests to evaluate EFs can facilitate the accuracy of records, standardization and data analysis. This study aimed to develop a computerized instrument for the EF assessment of children aged 4 to 10 years, and to seek psychometric evidence. Five steps were carried out: 1) Theoretical and methodological definition; 2) Construction of the items; 3) Pilot study; 4) Analysis of experts; and 5) Psychometric studies of validity and reliability. The computerized tasks proved to be suitable for the target audience according to the expert's evaluation. The results between the different tasks of working memory, inhibition and cognitive flexibility showed significant correlations and most test-retest measures showed stability in the measurement. Therefore, the results indicate the feasibility of using the instrument in the Brazilian context. (AU)

Funciones ejecutivas (FE) son habilidades que permiten el autocontrol conductual y cognitivo y están relacionadas con diversos resultados a lo largo de la vida. El uso de tests informatizados para evaluar las FE puede facilitar la precisión de los registros, la estandarización y el análisis de datos. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo desarrollar un instrumento informatizado para la FE para niños de 4 a 10 años, y analizar evidencias psicométricas. Fueron ejecutados cinco pasos: 1) Definición teórica y metodológica; 2) Construcción de los ítems; 3) Estudio piloto; 4) Análisis de jueces; y 5) Estudios psicométricos de validez y fiabilidad. Las tareas informatizadas demostraron ser adecuadas para el público objetivo según la evaluación de los jueces. Las diferentes tareas de memoria de trabajo, inhibición y flexibilidad cognitiva mostraron correlaciones significativas entre sí y la mayoría de las medidas test-retest presentaron estabilidad en la medición. Por lo tanto, los resultados sugieren la viabilidad del instrumento para el contexto brasileño. AU)

Executive function correlates with community integration after a traumatic brain injury / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

Objective:To explore the relationship between executive functioning and community integration after a traumatic brain injury and to identify the main factors influencing community integration.Methods:A cross-sectional study of 30 traumatic brain injury survivors was conducted recording their gender, age, years of education, days in coma, living status and mobility. Their executive functioning was assessed using the Disorders of Executive Function Questionnaire (DEX) and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST). Their community integration was evaluated using the Community Integration Questionnaire (CIQ). The independent correlations of demographic characteristics, life status, mobility and executive functioning with CIQ score were quantified.Results:The average total CIQ score was negatively correlated with the average WCST-RP, DEX and WCST-RPE scores, but it was positively correlated with mobility. It was also significantly correlated with life status. DEX scores and WCST-RP scores were significant independent predictors of community integration. The average CIQ family integration score was negatively correlated with days spent in a coma and significantly correlated with living status. The average CIQ social integration score was positively correlated with mobility (and negatively correlated with DEX, WCST-RP and WCST-RPE score. WCST-RP score and mobility were significant independent predictors of CIQ social integration scores. The average CIQ productive activity scores correlated negatively with the DEX, WCST-RP and WCST-RPE scores, and with the DEX and WCST-RP executive function scores. They were significant independent predictors of CIQ productive activity scores.Conclusions:Executive functioning can predict community integration, especially its social integration dimension.

Frequency of Impairment of Executive Functioning among Patients having Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Introduction: Obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD) isa highly debilitating neuropsychiatric condition with anestimated lifetime prevalence of 2-3 percent. Executivefunction refers to the ability to use high level oversightfunctions to modulate memory, sensory information,cognition, and affect as a situation evolves, and use ofstrategies that must shift to maintain performance. Impairmentof nonverbal memory has been reported in studies of patientswith OCD. The objective of present study was to determinethe frequency of impairment of executive functioning amongpatients having obsessive-compulsive disorder.Material and methods: A total of 150 patients fulfillingselection criteria were enrolled through the OutpatientsDepartment of Psychiatry, Services hospital Lahore. Aftertaking informed consent, the demographic data i.e. name, age,gender and duration of OCD were noted. All patients werescreened using the frontal lobe assessment battery (FAB) bythe researcher himself. Impaired executive functioning wascategorized as a calculated FAB score <12.Results: The study revealed that, out of 150 cases of OCD,frequency of impairment of executive functioning amongpatients was calculated as 22.67%(n=34). 65.33%(n=98)participants were between 18-30 years of age (M=30.05,S.D+5.83 years), 54.67%(n=82) were male and 45.33%(n=68)were females.Conclusion: Thus, it is concluded that executive functioningis impaired frequently among patients having obsessivecompulsive disorder. So, it is recommended that executivefunctioning should be monitored among patients who presentwith OCD. However, it is also required that every setup shouldhave their surveillance in order to know the frequency of theproblem.

Funciones ejecutivas y bienestar subjetivo en alumnos que presentan trastorno del espectro autista e inteligencia sobre el rango promedio / Executive functions and subjective well-being of students that presents both above-average intelligence and autism spectrum disorder

Los estudiantes con doble excepcionalidad son alumnos que presentan dos condiciones fuera de lo común, típicamente una condición asociada a talento y otra condición a discapacidad. Este estudio buscó determinar un perfil de funcionamiento ejecutivo (FE) y bienestar subjetivo (BS) de alumnos con doble excepcionalidad (DE) que presentan trastorno del espectro autista (TEA) e inteligencia sobre el rango promedio, para compararlo con estudiantes con desarrollo normativo e inteligencia Promedio de la comuna de Concepción. Los alumnos fueron pareados por sexo, edad y nivel socio económico. Mediante un método cuantitativo, descriptivo, comparativo y transversal, se evaluaron a 10 varones; cinco alumnos DE (M= 12,65 [4,18]) y cinco del grupo comparativo (M=12,48 [4,10]). Al comparar funcionamiento ejecutivo entre grupos, se observó que los alumnos con DE presentan mejor desempeño en Razonamiento Fluido (p=0,04) y, según la percepción de los docentes, un mejor control Inhibitorio (p=0,04). A pesar de que no se encontraron otras diferencias significativas entre grupos, el perfil de alumnos DE si mostró un déficit en funciones ejecutivas, pero únicamente en la manifestación conductual de las mismas. Los resultados asociados al bienestar subjetivo, indican que no existen diferencias significativas entre grupos. El perfil de alumnos DE refleja que mantienen "moderada" satisfacción con la vida y mayor Afecto Positivo que Negativo.

Students with double exceptionality are those who present two out of the ordinary conditions: one associated with outstanding skill and the other associated with a disability. This study sought to determine a profile of executive functioning and subjective well-being of students with double exceptionality (DE) which presented both above-average intelligence and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The results were compared with a control group of equally numbered students. The students were paired by sex, age, and socio-economic level. Through a quantitative, descriptive, comparative and cross-cutting method, 10 males were evaluated: five DE students (M=12.65 [4.18]) and five control group Students (M=12.48 [4.10]). The results of executive functioning show that DE Students present higher performance in Fluid Reasoning (p=0.04) and, according to teachers' perception, a better Inhibitory Control (p=0.04). Although no other significative differences were found between groups, DE students' profile did show a deficiency in executive functioning, but only in its behavioral manifestation. Results associated with subjective well-being didn't show any significative differences between groups. DE students' profile reflects that they maintain moderate satisfaction with life and higher positive affect than negative.

Funciones ejecutivas y ajuste clínico en adolescentes colombianos policonsumidores / Executive functions and clinical adjustment in Colombian adolescents polydrug

Resumen El estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar el funcionamiento ejecutivo y el ajuste clínico en una muestra de adolescentes colombianos policonsumidores. Se efectuó un estudio ex post facto con 204 participantes entre 12 y 17 años (M = 14,50, DT = 1,71). Se aplicó la Batería Neuropsicológica de Funciones Ejecutivas y Lóbulos Frontales BANFE-2 y para la evaluación clínica se utilizó la Escala de Autoestima de Rosenberg, Cuestionario de Afrontamiento COPE, Escala de Impulsividad de Dickman y Cuestionario de 90 Síntomas SCL-90-R. Se identificó un rendimiento significativamente inferior del grupo policonsumidor en las funciones ejecutivas, bajos niveles de autoestima, altos niveles de impulsividad disfuncional y de diversidad psicopatológica, así como estilo de afrontamiento a través del consumo de sustancias. Así mismo, se detectó un efecto predictor de la interacción edad x tiempo de consumo en el funcionamiento ejecutivo, observándose un menor rendimiento de los policonsumidores más jóvenes a medida que se incrementaba el tiempo de consumo.

Abstract The research aim was to analyze the executive functioning and the clinical adjustment in a sample of Colombian teen polydrug users. An ex post facto study was carried out with 204 participants, 12-17 years old (M= 14,50, SD = 1,71). The neuropsychological test BANFE-2 was applied for analyzing frontal lobes and executive functioning and the Rosenberg self esteem scale, a COPE questionnaire, the Dickman impulsivity scale and the SCL-90-R questionnaire were used for clinical adjustment respectively. A lower executive functioning throughput were observed in polydrug users. Low self-esteem, high dysfunctional impulsivity, high diverse psychopathologies and coping strategies for drug use were also observed. A predictor effect between age and consumption time on the executive functioning were also determined. A lower throughput in younger polydrug users increase through consumption time.

Association between Executive Functions and Time Perspectives in Patients with Adults Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / 신경정신의학

OBJECTIVES: This study examined the association between executive functions and time perspectives in patients with adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The executive function including self-management to time, self-organization/problem solving, self-restraint or inhibition, self-motivation, and self-regulation of emotion was analyzed. In addition, the time perspective, including past-negative, past-positive, present-hedonistic, present-fatalistic, future-negative, and future-positive, were investigated. The correlations between the executive functions and time perspectives were analyzed in an adult ADHD patient group. METHODS: Thirty-six participants were divided into 17 in the ADHD group and 19 in the Control group. The participants conduct psychological tests including Barkley Deficits in Executive Functioning Scale (BDEFS), ADHD Self-Report Scale, and the Swedish Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory to confirm their executive functions, attention, and time perspectives. The participants were recruited at Samsung Medical Center from April 2017 to November 2018. The collected data was analyzed using a t-test and Pearson correlation analysis. RESULTS: The adult ADHD patients group showed significantly higher scores in the BDEFS and ADHD Self-Report Scale than the control group. In time perspective scores, the adult ADHD patients group was higher in the past-negative, present-hedonistic, present-fatalistic time perspectives than the control group. In addition, the adult ADHD patients group was lower in future-positive than the control group. In the adult ADHD patients group, the future-positive time perspectives were negatively correlated with the executive functions. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that the negative time perspective is related to the executive function deficits in an adult ADHD group, particularly in the self-management of time, self-organization/problem solving, and self-motivation.

The comparison of risky and ambiguity decision making and cool executive functions between patients with obsessive compulsive disorder and healthy controls

Abstract Background: Executive functioning has been evaluated in obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Cool and hot executive functioning discrimination provided a different way of conceptualising executive functions. Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare ambiguity and risky decision-making and cool executive functions in an OCD and a healthy control group. The relationship between decision-making and cool executive functioning was investigated. Methods: Sixty-two OCD patients and 48 healthy control participants were compared. Decision-making was measured using the Iowa Gambling Task. The cool executive functioning was assessed using the Stroop Test and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Task (WCST). Results: The OCD group completed the WCST and the Stroop Test statistically significantly with a lower score than that of the control group. The OCD group had impaired response inhibition and set-shifting that indicate impaired cool executive functioning. In contrast to a lack of a statistically significant difference, the risky decision-making performance was worse in the OCD group than in the healthy control group and in the unmedicated OCD patients than in the medicated OCD patients. Discussion: The OCD patients had a poorer performance in risky decision-making and cool executive functioning. There was a link between risky decision-making performance and impaired cool executive functions.

Girl With Tyrosinemia Type 1 and Executive Dysfunctions Treated With Methylphenidate: A Case Report

Abstract Hereditary tyrosinemia type 1 (HT1; OMIM 27670) is an inborn error of tyrosine metabolism, caused by a deficiency of the enzyme fumarylacetoacetate hydrolase. This defect leads to accumulation of toxic products, which cause liver and kidney dysfunction. In patients with HT1, IQ, executive functioning, and social cognition are also affected. We report here a case report of a Belgian 11-year-old girl of Moroccan ethnicity with HT1. She had attention problems, which had a significant impact on her school functioning. Neuropsychological tests showed very low scores for processing speed and executive functioning. Therapies such as adaptations in the school and private tutoring were not sufficient to improve this. Treatment with methylphenidate showed a significant improvement in the neuropsychological test and school functioning. This case shows the importance of being alert for problems with executive functions in patients with HT1 and to consider psychopharmacological treatment.

Evaluación de validez convergente y discriminante en tests computarizados de toma de decisiones / Avaliação da Validade Convergente e Discriminante em Testes Computadorizados da Tomada de Decisões / Assessment of convergent and discriminant validity in computerized decision-making tests

El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar la validez convergente y discriminante entre tests de impulsividad, funcionamiento ejecutivo, toma de decisiones (TD) con y sin componente emocional y de TD centrado en el agente. Mediante un diseño instrumental, se evaluaron 217 participantes (64,5% mujeres) entre 18 y 30 años de edad (M= 23,22, ±2,44). El Análisis de Componentes Principales mostró 4 componentes que explicaron el 83,88% de la varianza y agruparon los tests de acuerdo a lo esperado. Además, el estudio de las correlaciones mostró que los tests de TD verídica fueron levemente correlacionados, sugiriendo convergencia parcial entre ellas. No se encontraron correlaciones significativas entre los tests de TD verídica y los tests de TD centrado en el agente, función ejecutiva e impulsividad. Los resultados coincidieron con las expectativas y con los estudios previos sobre el tema.

O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a validade convergente e discriminante entre testes de impulsividade, de funcionamento executivo, de tomada de decisão (TD) com e sem componente emocional e de TD focada no agente. Através de um desenho Instrumental, foram avaliados 217 participantes (64,5% mulheres) entre 18 e 30 anos (M = 23,22 ± 2,44). A Análise de Componentes Principais mostrou quatro componentes que explicaram 83,88% de variância e agrupo os testes como foi esperado. Além disso, o estudo das correlações mostra que os testes da TD verdadeira foram fracamente correlacionados, sugerindo convergência parcial entre elas. Não foram encontradas correlações significativas entre os testes da TD verdadeira e os testes da TD com foco no agente, função executiva e impulsividade. Os resultados coincidem com as expectativas e com estudos prévios sobre o assunto.

The objective of this study was to analyze the convergent and discriminant validity between impulsivity, executive functioning, and decision-making (DM) tests with and without emotional component and with agent-centered DM. Through an Instrumental design, 217 participants were evaluated, 64.5% women, between 18 and 30 years of age (M = 23.22 ± 2.44). The Principal Component Analysis showed four components that explained 83.88% of variance and grouped the tests as expected. In addition, the correlation study shows that the true DM tests were poorly correlated, suggesting partial convergence between them. No significant correlations were found between true DM testing and DM testing with agent focus, executive function and impulsivity. The results coincide with expectations and previous studies on the subject.

Evaluación de validez convergente y discriminante en tests computarizados de toma de decisiones / Avaliação da validade convergente e discriminante em testes computadorizados da tomada de decisões / Assessment of convergent and discriminant validity in computerized decision-making tests

El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar la validez convergente y discriminante entre tests de impulsividad, funcionamiento ejecutivo, toma de decisiones (TD) con y sin componente emocional y de TD centrado en el agente. Mediante un diseño instrumental, se evaluaron 217 participantes (64,5% mujeres) entre 18 y 30 años de edad (M=23,22, ±2,44). El Análisis de Componentes Principales mostró 4 componentes que explicaron el 83,88% de la varianza y agruparon los tests de acuerdo a lo esperado. Además, el estudio de las correlaciones mostró que los tests de TD verídica fueron levemente correlacionados, sugiriendo convergencia parcial entre ellas. No se encontraron correlaciones significativas entre los tests de TD verídica y los tests de TD centrados en el agente, función ejecutiva e impulsividad. Los resultados coincidieron con las expectativas y con los estudios previos sobre el tema. (AU)

Avaliação da Validade Convergente e Discriminante em Testes Computadorizados da Tomada de Decisões O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a validade convergente e discriminante entre testes de impulsividade, de funcionamento executivo, de tomada de decisão (TD) com e sem componente emocional e de TD focada no agente. Através de um desenho Instrumental, foram avaliados 217 participantes (64,5% mulheres) entre 18 e 30 anos (M=23,22 ± 2,44). A Análise de Componentes Principais mostrou quatro componentes que explicaram 83,88% de variância e agrupo os testes como foi esperado. Além disso, o estudo das correlações mostra que os testes da TD verdadeira foram fracamente correlacionados, sugerindo convergência parcial entre elas. Não foram encontradas correlações significativas entre os testes da TD verdadeira e os testes da TD com foco no agente, função executiva e impulsividade. Os resultados coincidem com as expectativas e com estudos prévios sobre o assunto. (AU)

The objective of this study was to analyze the convergent and discriminant validity between impulsivity, executive functioning, and decision-making (DM) tests with and without emotional component and and agent centered DM. Through an Instrumental design, 217 participants were evaluated, 64.5% women, between 18 and 30 years of age (M=23.22 ± 2.44). The Principal Component Analysis showed four components that explained 83.88% of variance and grouped the tests as expected. In addition, the correlation study shows that the true DM tests were poorly correlated, suggesting partial convergence between them. No significant correlations were found between true DM testing and DM testing with agent focus, executive function and impulsivity. The results coincide with expectations and previous studies on the subject, (AU)

Executive functions and Cognitive Reappraisal ability: the relationship in children / Funciones ejecutivas y regulación de la emoción: evidencia de su relación en niños

Resumen La habilidad de reevaluación cognitiva (HRC) es una estrategia de regulación emocional que implica resignificar un evento para cambiar su efecto emocional. En los niños, esta habilidad permite disminuir experiencias emocionales negativas y se ha mostrado como un factor de protección frente a la ansiedad y depresión. Sin embargo, aún resta conocer los factores que contribuyen a explicar las diferencias individuales en esta habilidad. Uno de estos factores son las funciones ejecutivas, ya que contribuyen al control cognitivo de la emoción. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar el rol de las funciones ejecutivas en la HRC. Se evaluaron 100 niños de 9 a 12 años (M = 10.49; DS = 1.10) en memoria de trabajo, flexibilidad cognitiva espontánea, inhibición y HRC mediante la tarea de amplitud oral (Batería AWMA), prueba de fluidez verbal semántica (Batería ENI) y la tarea de identificación de reevaluaciones cognitivas (TIRC) elaborada para este estudio. Los datos se analizaron mediante regresión lineal múltiple. Los resultados mostraron que las funciones ejecutivas predecían la HRC, es decir, los niños que tuvieron mejor desempeño en funcionamiento ejecutivo mostraron mayor HRC. Se espera que estos resultados permitan profundizar el conocimiento de los procesos implicados en el control cognitivo de la emoción.

Abstract The Cognitive Reappraisal Ability (CRA) is an emotional regulation strategy that involves giving a new meaning to an event in order to change the emotional response. In children, this skill helps reduce negative emotional experiences and has proven to be a protective factor against anxiety and depression. However, there's still the need to understand the factors that may influence on the individual differences in the CRA. One of these factors is executive functions, since they contribute to the cognitive control of emotion. The aim of this study was to analyze the role of executive functions in the CRA. We evaluated 100 children whose ages ranged from 9 to 12 years (M=10,49; DS=1,10) on their working memory capacity, spontaneous cognitive flexibility, inhibition and CRA using a Verbal Span Task (AWMA) , Verbal Fluency Task (ENI Battery) and a Cognitive Reappraisal Task CRT, which was designed for this research. Data set was analyzed by linear regression analysis. The results showed executive functions preceded CRA, i.e. children who performed better in executive functioning showed higher CRA. It is expected that these results permit a deeper understanding of the processes involved in cognitive control of emotion.

Behavioral problems and executive functioning characteristics in children with borderline intellectual functioning and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder / 中华行为医学与脑科学杂志

Objective To investigate the behavioral problems,intellectual ability and executive functioning characteristics as well as their correlations in children with borderline intellectual functioning (BIF) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).Methods 60 children with BIF,60 children with ADHD and 60 typical developing children (TDC) participated this study.Parental report measures of behavioral problems were administrated using the Conners' Parent Symptom Questionnaire (PSQ) and Achenbach Children Behavior Checklist Scale (CBCL).All the participants performed the Chinese Revised Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (C-WISC) and a neuropsychological test named integrated visual and auditory continuous performance test (IVA-CPT).Comparison of cognitive profiles and correlation between psychological features were carried out to test the differences and commons among the groups.Results (1) Behavioral problems:the children with BIF had higher scores(3.68±2.85) in withdrawal factor than the children with ADHD (2.82±2.24) and TDC (1.03± 1.59).The children with ADHD had higher scores in conduct,impulsivity,aggressive and delinquent behavior than the children with BIF and TDC.The children with BIF/ADHD had higher scores in learning,anxiety,depression,somatic complaint and hyperactivity than the TDC.(2) Executive functioning:the children with BIF had more visual omission error (12.17± 10.48) than the children with ADHD (6.95±7.20) and TDC (2.33±2.48).The children with BIF and ADHD had lower auditory accuracy and higher visual reaction time,visual/auditory response variability,visual/auditory misrepresentation and auditory omission numbers than the TDC.These was no group difference in auditory reaction time.(3) Correlation analysis:intellectual ability was correlated with behavior problems and neurophysiological index such as conduct,learning,impulsivity,anxiety,depression factors,visual/auditory accuracy,visual reaction time and visual/auditory response variability.Conclusion BIF and ADHD are associated with poor executive functioning and increased behavior problems.The cognitive deficit may be a marker of vulnerability of poor academic and social outcomes in children with BIF and/or ADHD.

Case study: saturday cognitive habilitation program for children with prenatal alcohol exposure

This case study describes the outcomes of a Saturday community intervention program for children suspected of or affected by prenatal exposure to alcohol who exhibited learning deficits. Five children participated in the program and received individualized interventions designed to address learning and academic deficits in either reading or mathematics. Often children affected by prenatal alcohol exposure exhibit deficits with executive processes, including metacognitive functioning, that interfere with learning. Instruction to improve metacognitive skills was incorporated into the intervention programs. The metacognitive training was adapted from the Math Interactive Learning Experience (MILE) and targeted the children's skills to plan, organize, shift, and evaluate problem solving strategies. Standardized tests of nonverbal reasoning and academic achievement were administered before and after the children received interventions to measure progress. The results indicated that four of the five children who participated in the program showed clinically significant gains with scores increasing from the borderline or low average to the average range on measures of nonverbal reasoning, reading comprehension, or mathematics reasoning. One child showed no gains on measures of nonverbal reasoning and reading. A variety of factors including age, cognitive profile, session attendance, and access to special education and other intervention services may have influenced the child's progress. Overall, the case reviews suggest that the interventions show promise to remediate learning problems of children affected by prenatal alcohol exposure in a community setting...

Coping, executive functioning, inhibitory control and decision-making in a sample of depressed suicidal patients

Introduction: Suicidal behavior has been associated with several risk factors, including depression, maladaptive coping, and neuropsychological dysfunction. This study aimed to evaluate coping orientations, executive functioning, attentional capabilities and decision-making in depressed suicidal patients. Methods: Two groups were selected: 32 depressed patients with history of suicide attempt and 30 depressed patients without history of suicide attempt. The Beck Depression Inventory and the COPE Inventory scales were applied, as well as the following neuropsychological tests: Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, Stroop Test, and a modified Iowa Gambling Task. Results: The results indicate a higher level of dysfunction in the executive functioning, mental control, and decision-making domains, and lower levels of orientation to active and reflective coping strategies, humor, and positive signification in the suicidal group. Conclusions: These results indicate that there are neuropsychological differences between depressed patients with and without history of suicide attempt, which may contribute significantly to the occurrence of suicidal behavior. However, the processes involved and the way they contribute to the phenomenon are aspects that still need further clarification.

Comparación del perfil neuropsicológico en una muestra de niños, niñas y adolescentes con y sin sintomatología depresiva / Comparação do perfil neuropsicológico em uma amostra de crianças e adolescentes com e sem sintomatologia depressiva / Comparison of the neuropsychological profile in a sample of boys, girls, and adolescents with and without symptoms of depression

El objetivo fue comparar la atención, memoria y funcionamiento ejecutivo en una muestra de niños, niñas y adolescentes con y sin sintomatología depresiva. Participaron 50 niños y adolescentes escolarizados, con edades entre los 9 y los 16 años, de estrato socioeconómico bajo. Se seleccionaron 25 niños con puntajes significativos en el Children Depression Inventory (CDI) y 25 niños con puntajes bajos; ambos grupos fueron equiparados en edad, sexo y escolaridad. Posteriormente, se aplicó una batería neuropsicológica para comparar la atención, memoria y funcionamiento ejecutivo de ambos grupos. Los resultados muestran un perfil caracterizado por bajo desempeño en atención, memoria semántica y lógica, así como dificultades en control inhibitorio en el grupo con sintomatología depresiva.

The objective of this study was to compare attention, memory, and executive function in a sample of boys, girls, and adolescents with and without symptoms of depression. Participants included 50 low income, school age children and adolescents between the ages of 9 and 16. Twenty five children with high scores and 25 with low scores on the Children Depression Inventory (CDI) were selected, and the groups were matched according to age, gender, and degree of schooling. They were then given a battery of neuropsychological tests in order to compare the attention, memory, and executive function of both groups. Results show a profile characterized by low performance in attention, semantic memory, and logic, as well as inhibitory control difficulties, in the group with symptoms of depression.

O objetivo foi comparar a atenção, memória e função executiva em uma amostra de crianças e adolescentes com e sem sintomatologia depressiva. Participaram 50 crianças e adolescentes escolarizados, com idades entre 9 e 16 anos, de classe socioeconômica baixa. Selecionaram-se 25 crianças com pontuação significativa no CDI e 25 com pontuação baixa; ambos os grupos foram equiparados em idade, sexo e escolaridade. Em seguida, aplicou-se uma bateria neuropsicológica para comparar a atenção, memória e funcionamento executivo de ambos os grupos. Os resultados mostram um perfil caracterizado por baixo desempenho em atenção, memória semântica e lógica, bem como dificuldades no controle inibitório no grupo com sintomatologia depressiva.

Pruebas de fluidez verbal categoriales, fonológicas y gramaticales en la infancia: factores ejecutivos y semánticos / Categorical, phonological and grammatical verbal fluency tasks in children: executive and semantic factors

En el presente trabajo se aplicaron las Pruebas de Fluidez Verbal (PFV), correspondientes al Explorador Neuropsicológico en Fluidez Verbal (ENFV), a una población de niños argentinos. El objetivo principal fue conocer su estructura factorial en niños y divulgar valores normativos. Se obtuvieron dos factores principales: uno ejecutivo y el otro semántico. Esto avala gran parte de la literatura especializada, que discute sobre el rol de las capacidades atencionales y otras habilidades en PFV. Respecto del rol de la edad, se encontró una elevada incidencia en todas las pruebas, excepto la categorial de supermercado. La influencia fue mayor para las pruebas fonológicas y de verbos, lo que fue relacionado con su mayor compromiso frontal y la tardía maduración de estas estructuras. Se sugiere, por último, la continuidad de estos trabajos desde una perspectiva interactiva entre nodos ejecutivos y semánticos. Esto conlleva la utilización de equipos de neuroimágenes para obtener imágenes por Tensor de Difusiones, cuyo dato principal es la conectividad entre regiones cerebrales distantes.

In this work we applied Verbal Fluency Tasks (VFT) belonging to the Verbal Fluency Neuropsychological Explorer (VFNE) to a popu-lation of Argentinean childrens. The main objective was to determine the factor structure in children and disseminate normative values. We obtained two main factors: one executive and one semantic. This supports much of the literature, which discusses the role of attentional capacities and other skills in VFT. On the role of Age, there was a high incidence in all tests except the categorical supermarket. The influence was greater for the phonological tests and verbs, which was associated with greater commitment and delayed frontal maturation of these structures. It suggests, finally, the continuity of this work from an interactive perspective be-tween executive and semantic nodes. This involves the use of neuroimaging equipment to obtain diffusion tensor images, which shows connectivity data between distant brain regions.