Construct validity of selected Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (ANAM) battery measures.

The Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (ANAM) is a computerized library of tests designed to assess neurocognitive functioning across administrations (Kane & Reeves, 1997). This study was designed to examine neuropsychological constructs measured by selected ANAM measures and to compare them with traditional measures putatively assessing similar domains. The sample consisted of 191 outpatients with suspected neurocognitive dysfunction. Correlations and regressions indicated significant relationships between traditional and computerized tests measuring similar constructs. PCA results yielded a three-factor solution: Factor I (Processing Speed/Efficiency), Factor II (Retention/Memory), and Factor III (Working Memory).

An exploration of the construct validity of the Heaton memory tests.

The Heaton techniques for assessing memory differ from most other memory measures by employing the combination of learning trials, repeated exposure to test stimuli, and 4-hour recall measures. The present study was designed to explore the relationship between the Heaton Story and Figure memory procedures, the California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT), and measures of attention, word fluency, and spatial perception. Data from 126 individuals were analyzed. Three separate factor analyses were performed that examined measures of attention, learning, and recall. Each revealed a three-factor solution accounting for 71, 70, and 72% of the variance, respectively. Regression analyses supported the visual components of Figure Memory and the verbal components of Story Memory obtained in the factor analyses. Overall, the findings supported the independence of the Heaton Memory procedures and the role of spatial factors in performance of Figure Memory. Additionally, both Figure and Story Memory shared variance with the CVLT, supporting the validity of both procedures as memory measures.

Neuropsychological and psychological functioning in chronic fatigue syndrome.

Although patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) typically present subjective complaints of cognitive and psychological difficulties, studies to date have provided mixed objective support for the existence of specific cognitive deficits. The present study was designed to examine differences in performance between individuals diagnosed with CFS and matched controls with respect to sustained attention, processing efficiency, learning, and memory. Subjects included 17 patients meeting Centers for Disease Control research criteria for CFS and 17 control subjects. Subjects were administered six measures assessing attention, memory, and word-finding ability and two measures assessing psychological distress. For the most part, the two groups did not differ on measures of neurocognitive functioning. Significant group differences were found on a single measure of attention and incidental memory. However, CFS patients differed markedly from controls with respect to reported psychological distress. The results support previous findings of notable levels of psychological distress among CFS patients. They also suggest the need for alternative research paradigms to assess the cognitive abilities of CFS patients.

Neurocognitive functioning in chronic fatigue syndrome.

Although substantial research has been conducted on chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) over the past decade, the syndrome remains poorly understood. The most recent case definition describes CFS as being characterized both by disabling fatigue and by subjective reports of difficulty with concentration and "short-term" memory. However, research into the neurocognitive and psychological functioning of individuals with CFS has provided mixed objective results. The current paper reviews studies that have examined the neurocognitive and/or psychological functioning of individuals with CFS. Changes in research design and instruments employed to study individuals with CFS are suggested.