Executive functions scale for university students: UEF-1.

Introduction: Executive functions are a set of mental abilities that allow human beings to consciously regulate their behavior and, in a university setting, will have a significant impact on student success during professional training. Objective: To develop a scale to assess executive functions in a university setting. Method: Using a sample of 1,373 university students from Chile (663) and Ecuador (710) between 17 and 33 years old (Mage = 20.53, SD = 2.34). A study was carried out to analyze the psychometric properties of the instrument using a reliability and validity analysis for a scale that assesses executive functions: conscious monitoring of responsibilities, supervisory attentional system, conscious regulation of behavior, verification of behavior to learn, decision making, conscious regulation of emotions, and management of elements to solve tasks. Results: Adequate internal consistency parameters were found between α = 0.71 and 0.85. The seven executive functions proposed on the scale correlated proportionally between r = 0.42 and 0.62. In the confirmatory factor analysis, good fit indices were obtained in the model of the seven executive functions x2(413) = 1649.14, p = <0.001, CFI = 0.91, SRMR = 0.04 and RMSEA = 0.04. Discussion: The research carried out reaches its conclusion stating that the scale that was developed has the psychometric properties to assess executive functions in the Latin American setting. The results regarding previous research and the contribution made in the line of research of executive functions are discussed.

Experimental Evaluation of EMKEY: An Assistive Technology for People with Upper Limb Disabilities.

Assistive technology can help people with disabilities to use computers more effectively and can enable them to access the same information and resources as people without disabilities. To obtain more insight into the factors that can bring about the design of an Emulator of Mouse and Keyboard (EMKEY) to higher levels of user satisfaction, an experimental study was conducted in order to analyse its effectiveness and efficiency. The experimental study involved 27 participants (Mage = 20.81, SD = 1.14) who performed three experimental games under different conditions (using the mouse and using EMKEY with head movements and voice commands). According to the results, the use of EMKEY allowed for the successful performance of tasks such as matching stimuli (F(2,78) = 2.39, p = 0.10, η2 = 0.06). However, the execution times of a task were found to be higher when using the emulator to drag an object on the screen (t(52,1) = -18.45, p ≤ 0.001, d = 9.60). These results indicate the effectiveness of technological development for people with upper limb disabilities; however, there is room for improvement in terms of efficiency. The findings are discussed in relation to previous research and are based on future studies aimed at improving the operation of the EMKEY emulator.

Low-Cost Human-Machine Interface for Computer Control with Facial Landmark Detection and Voice Commands.

Nowadays, daily life involves the extensive use of computers, since human beings are immersed in a technological society. Therefore, it is mandatory to interact with computers, which represents a true disadvantage for people with upper limb disabilities. In this context, this work aims to develop an interface for emulating mouse and keyboard functions (EMKEY) by applying concepts of artificial vision and voice recognition to replace the use of hands. Pointer control is achieved by head movement, whereas voice recognition is used to perform interface functionalities, including speech-to-text transcription. To evaluate the interface's usability and usefulness, two studies were carried out. The first study was performed with 30 participants without physical disabilities. Throughout this study, there were significant correlations found between the emulator's usability and aspects such as adaptability, execution time, and the participant's age. In the second study, the use of the emulator was analyzed by four participants with motor disabilities. It was found that the interface was best used by the participant with cerebral palsy, followed by the participants with upper limb paralysis, spina bifida, and muscular dystrophy. In general, the results show that the proposed interface is easy to use, practical, fairly accurate, and works on a wide range of computers.

Comparative organizational network analysis considering formal power-based networks and organizational hierarchies.

Comparative organizational network analysis makes it possible to identify the similarities and differences between organizations according to the content of their networks. This research is a comparative study of organizational networks based on formal power. To accomplish this goal, networks were developed in three organizations from different sectors with workers distributed in high, middle and operational levels in the organizational hierarchy. For the study, 100% of the workers within the identified networks were included. The results indicated that, considering centrality and connectivity network indices, there were no statistically significant differences between organizations according to formal power network behavior. However, we obtained statistically significant differences in terms connectivity and centrality considering the workers' hierarchy. The representative nodes of high and middle hierarchical levels had higher indices of connectivity and centrality than the nodes representative of the operational level. This study makes it possible to identify the formal roles within networks based on legitimate power, which can serve as a basis for decision-making processes and resource allocations, for the strategic use of the networks created.

The intervention of Brain Gym in the mathematical abilities of high-school students: A pilot study.

Introduction: The learning process of Mathematics is a challenge in Latin America; therefore, it is of vital importance to conduct actions that improve the performance in this science. Methods: This article is reporting on quasi-experimental research, where, through the use of Brain Gym, the objective is to improve: the definition of rational numbers, problem-solving ability, mathematical order relationships, and equivalent fractions. We worked with 67 students between 12 and 14 years old, organized into an experimental group (n = 35) and a control group (no participation group; n = 32). Results: We made pre and post-test measurements and found that the control group students improved in their problem-solving ability F(1,65) = 8.76, p = 0.04, η 2 = 0.12 and equivalent fractions F(1,65) = 4.54, p = 0.03, η 2 = 0.06. Discussion: In conclusion, the importance of applying innovative processes to improve the teaching and learning of Mathematics can be affirmed. It is important to note that both the control and experimental groups improved their learning, however, the experimental group did so to a greater extent than the students in the control group, who received a traditional educational process, and they did learn, but not at the level of the experimental group.

COVID-19, consumer behavior, technology, and society: A literature review and bibliometric analysis.

The COVID-19 crisis is among the most disruptive events in recent decades. Its profound consequences have garnered the interest of many studies in various disciplines, including consumer behavior, thereby warranting an effort to review and systematize the literature. Thus, this study systematizes the knowledge generated by 70 COVID-19 and consumer behavior studies in the Scopus database. It employs descriptive analysis, highlighting the importance of using quantitative methods and China and the US as research settings. Co-occurrence analysis further identified various thematic clusters among the studies. The input-process-output consumer behavior model guided the systematic review, covering several psychological characteristics and consumer behaviors. Accordingly, measures adopted by governments, technology, and social media stand out as external factors. However, revised marketing strategies have been oriented toward counteracting various consumer risks. Hence, given that technological and digital formats mark consumer behavior, firms must incorporate digital transformations in their process.

Factorial Structure of the EOCL-1 Scale to Assess Executive Functions.

The process of assessing executive functions through behavioral observation scales is still under theoretical and empirical construction. This article reports on the analysis of the factorial structure of the EOCL-1 scale that assesses executive functions, as proposed by the theory developed by Luria, which has not been previously considered in this type of evaluation. In this scale, the executive functions taken into account are error correction, internal behavioral and cognition regulatory language, limbic system conscious regulation, decision making, future consideration of consequences of actions, goal-directed behavior, inhibitory control of automatic responses, creation of new behavioral repertoires, and cognitive-behavioral activity verification. A variety of validity and reliability analyses were carried out, with the following results: (a) an adequate internal consistency level of executive functions between α = 0.70 and α = 0.83, (b) significant convergent validity with a scale that assesses frontal deficits between r = -0.07 and r = 0.28, and (c) the scale's construct validity that proposes a model with an executive central factor comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.93, root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.04 (LO.04 and HI.04), standardized root mean square residual (SRMR) = 0.04, and x2 ( 312 ) = 789.29, p = 0.001. The findings are discussed based on previous literature reports and in terms of the benefits of using a scale to assess the proposed executive functions.

Moderator Role of Monitoring in the Inhibitory Control of Adolescents With ADHD.

Objective: The aim of this research was to analyze the role of monitoring in the causal relationship between inhibitory control and symptoms of combined ADHD. Method: It has been conducted a quantitative investigation of two phases. Results: In the first study, a moderation model was analyzed (N = 144 adolescents with combined ADHD), where monitoring was considered as a moderating variable in the causal relationship between the inhibitory control and the symptomatology of ADHD F(3, 140) = 28.03, p < .001; R2 = .37. In the second study, the model through an experimental study was tested (N = 52 adolescents with and without ADHD) where it was found that adolescents with ADHD improve in their inhibitory control when they receive external support to the monitoring F(1, 50) = 21.38, p < .001, η2 = .30. Conclusion: Results suggest that monitoring compensates the poor performance of inhibitory control in adolescents with ADHD, which is a contribution to the theoretical construction of ADHD and to the treatments proposed for this condition because it goes beyond the classic conception of a causality chain among the deficit of inhibitory control and ADHD symptomatology to propose a new explanation about this disorder, where neuropsychology intervention of monitoring would diminish ADHD's symptomatology impact on adolescents.

Análisis neuropsicológico de un caso con anosognosia / Neuropsychological analysis of a case with anosognosia

Resumen La anosognosia es un trastorno neuropsicológico que genera en el paciente una incapacidad para tener un estado de conciencia pleno sobre su enfermedad o déficit, producto de una injuria cerebral. En este artículo reportamos el análisis de un caso que producto de un traumatismo craneoencefálico presentó esta alteración cerebral. El análisis neuropsicológico inicia con la descripción clínica del caso, su estado premórbido, el relato familiar del estado actual y un análisis neuropsicológico que sustenta la hipótesis diagnóstica de anosognosia. Se discute el caso presentado en base a la necesidad de realizar diagnósticos precisos y proponer programas de rehabilitación neuropsicológica para que los pacientes con anosognosia sufran el menor impacto posible en las actividades de su vida diaria producto del trastorno cerebral adquirido.

Anosognosia is a neuropsychological disorder that generates in the patient an inability to have a state of full awareness about their disease or deficit due to brain injury. In this article we report the analysis of a case that, due to a head injury, presented this brain disorder. The neuropsychological analysis begins with the clinical description of the case, its premorbid status, the family report of the current state and a neuropsychological analysis of the symptoms presented that support the diagnostic hypothesis of anosognosia. The case presented is discussed based on the need to make accurate diagnoses and propose neuropsychological rehabilitation programs so that patients with anosognosia suffer the least possible impact on the activities of their daily lives as a result of acquired brain disorder.

Estructura factorial del sentido de coherencia y su relación de apego / Estrutura fatorial do senso de coerência e sua relação com o apego / Factorial structure of the Sense of Coherence and its relation with attachment

El sentido de coherencia se conforma por tres factores: comprensibilidad, manejabilidad y significatividad. En la investigación se analizó su estructura factorial a partir de la escala SOC-29 y su relación con de apego. Se plantearon tres hipótesis para valorar la confiabilidad, validez convergente y estructura factorial. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 445 participantes. El análisis estadístico se basó en técnicas descriptivas, alfa de Cronbach, correlación de Pearson y análisis factorial confirmatorio. Los resultados obtenidos aportan evidencias en favor de las hipótesis, con una consistencia interna de α=.82, una correlación significativa de apego r=.27 a .83 y un ajuste aceptable del modelo x²=1275.88, CFI=.85, RMSEA=.07 [.06-.07], SRMR=.04. Terminado el estudio, se ha destacado la importancia del cambio lingüístico realizado para adaptar la escala al contexto ecuatoriano; se mencionan dos limitaciones importantes referentes a su aplicación como autorrelato y la localización geográfica, a considerar para trabajos posteriores. (AU)

O senso de coerência é formado por três fatores: compreensibilidade, gerenciabilidade e significância. Na pesquisa, sua estrutura fatorial foi analisada por ser avaliada com a escala SOC-29 e sua relação com o apego. Três hipóteses foram propostas para avaliar confiabilidade, validade convergente e estrutura fatorial. A amostra foi composta por 445 participantes. A análise estatística foi baseada em técnicas descritivas, alfa de Cronbach, correlação de Pearson e análise fatorial confirmatória. Os resultados fornecem evidência para as hipóteses com uma consistência interna de α = 0,82, uma correlação significativa r = 0,27 a 0,83 e ajuste aceitável do modelo x² = 1275.88, CFI = 0,85, RMSEA = 0,07 [0,06-0,07], SRMR = 0,04. O artigo está terminado, enfatizando a importância da mudança linguística feita para adaptar a escala ao contexto equatoriano. Duas limitações importantes são mencionadas em relação à sua aplicação como autorrelato e localização geográfica, a serem levadas em conta para o trabalho subsequente. (AU)

The Sense of Coherence is formed by three factors: comprehensibility, manageability and meaningfulness. In this study, its factorial structure was analyzed through assessment with the SOC-29 scale and its relationship with attachment. Three hypotheses were proposed to assess the reliability, convergent validity and factorial structure, using a sample of 445 participants. Statistical analysis was based on descriptive techniques, Cronbach's alpha, Pearson's correlation and confirmatory factor analysis. The results obtained provide evidence in favor of the hypotheses, with an internal consistency of α=.82, a significant correlation with attachment r=.27 to .83 and an acceptable fit of the model x²=1275.88, CFI=.85, RMSEA=.07 [.06-.07], SRMR=.04. The study highlights the importance of the linguistic changes made to adapt the scale to the Ecuadorian context. Two important limitations are mentioned regarding its application as a self-report and the geographical location, which need to be taken into consideration in subsequent studies. (AU)

Psychometric Properties Of ADHD Rating Scale In School Context / Propiedades Psicométricas De La Escala ADHD En El Contexto Escolar

Abstract Background: The ADHD Rating Scale IV (ADHD RS IV) is one of the most commonly used scales in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) assessment. Its psychometric properties have been studied in contexts including Europe and North America, however, in Latin America, there is shortage of empirical evidence about validity or reliability reported by teachers on a scholar context. The aim of the research was to analyze the psychometric properties of the ADHD RS IV based on the behavior of students reported by teachers. Material/methods: Three hundred and forty-five students voluntarily participated in this study (162 men and 183 women), aged between 5 and 15 years (Mage = 10.43, SD = 3.61). As instruments of measurement ADHD RS IV, Perception of Differences Test and Go / No-Go experiment were used. Cronbach's alpha, Pearson correlation and confirmatory factor analysis were applied and analyzed. Results: In the results it was found that internal consistency coefficient of RS IV ADHD is between .93 and .97. There is a significant statistically correlation between the scale and the number of successes points in the Perception of Differences Test (r = -.55, p = < .001) and mistakes to stimuli no-go (r = .34, p = .002). The classic ADHD model of two factors had good indicators of goodness of fit x 2 (101) = 321.40, p < .001; CFI = .96; RMSEA = .08 (.07 to .09) and SRMR = .04. Conclusions: The article is finalized highlighting the ADHD RS IV has adequate psychometric properties in order to be applied in the school context.

Resumen Antecedentes: La ADHD Rating Scale IV (ADHD RS IV) es una de las escalas más utilizadas en la evaluación del trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad (ADHD). Sus propiedades psicométricas se han estudiado en contextos que incluyen Europa y América del Norte, sin embargo, en América Latina, hay escasez de evidencia empírica sobre la validez o confiabilidad reportada por los docentes en un contexto académico. El objetivo de la investigación fue analizar las propiedades psicométricas del ADHD RS IV con base en el comportamiento de los estudiantes reportados por los maestros. Material /Métodos: Trescientos cuarenta y cinco estudiantes participaron voluntariamente en este estudio (162 hombres y 183 mujeres), con edades comprendidas entre 5 y 15 años (Mage = 10.43, SD = 3.61). Como instrumentos de medida ADHD RS IV, se utilizaron la prueba de percepción de diferencias y el experimento Go / No-Go. Alfa de Cronbach, correlación de Pearson y análisis factorial confirmatorio fueron aplicados y analizados. Resultados: En los resultados se encontró que el coeficiente de consistencia interna de RS IV ADHD está entre .93 y .97. Existe una correlación estadística significativa entre la escala y el número de puntos de éxito en la Prueba de Percepción de Diferencias (r = -.55, p = <.001) y los errores a los estímulos no-go (r = .34, p =. 002). El modelo clásico de TDAH de dos factores tenía buenos indicadores de bondad de ajuste x 2 (101) = 321.40, p <.001; CFI = .96; RMSEA = .08 (.07 a .09) y SRMR = .04. Conclusiones: El artículo finaliza destacando que la ADHD RS IV tiene propiedades psicométricas adecuadas para ser aplicado en el contexto escolar.

Inhibitory Control And Symptomatology Of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder / El Control Inhibitorio Y La Sintomatología Del Trastorno Por Déficit De Atención Con Hiperactividad

Abstract Background: Inhibitory control has been described as a factor causing difficulties in the regulation present in the ADHD. Objective: The aim was to analyze the relationship between inhibitory control and symptoms of ADHD in a sample of 81 subjects diagnosed with ADHD (Mage=10.05, SD=2.53). Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional and correlational scope research was carried out. The instruments used were the ADHD RS IV and SIMON experiment. Correlation inferential statistical regression and regression processes were applied. Results: Three regression models were tested, where inhibitory control presents a significant prediction with the (a) attention deficit F (1,79) =20.69, p=<.001, R 2 =.21, (b) hyperactivity and impulsivity F (1, 79) =5.90, p=.01, R 2 =.07 and (c) the combination of both (a+b) F (1, 79) =13.25, p=< .01, R 2 =.14. Conclusions: The findings suggest that inhibitory control is one of the main executive functions that determines the degree of affectation of the symptomatology of the child population with ADHD.

Resumen Antecedentes: El control inhibitorio ha sido descrito como un factor causal que genera problemas de déficit de atención, impulsividad e hiperactividad que engloban la sintomatología del TDAH. Objetivo: El fin de esta investigación fue analizar la relación entre el control inhibitorio y los síntomas del TDAH en una muestra de 81 sujetos diagnosticados con TDAH (M edad = 10.05, DE = 2.53). Método: Se ejecutó una investigación cuantitativa, transversal y alcance correlacional. Los instrumentos utilizados fueron ADHD RS IV y el experimento SIMON. Se aplicaron procesos de análisis estadístico inferencial correlacional y regresión. Resultados: Tres modelos de regression fueron testeados, donde el control inhibitorio present una relación significativa, prediciendo (a) el déficit de atención F (1, 79) = 20.69, p=< .001, R 2 =.21, (b) hiperactividad e impulsividad F (1, 79) = 5.90, p=.01, R 2 =.07 y (c) la combinación de ambos (a+b) F (1, 79) = 13.25, p=< .01, R 2 =.14. Conclusiones: Los hallazgos encontrados sugieren que el control inhibitorio es una de las funciones ejecutivas principales que determina el grado de afectación de la sintomatología de la población infantil con ADHD.

Fundamentos Neurobiológicos Del Sueño / Neurobiological Basis Of Sleep

Resumen El sueño es una de las conductas más importantes para la cognición del ser humano. Tiene entre 4 a 6 ciclos que se caracterizan por presentar diferente actividad electromagnética que hace que se presente una determinada actividad cerebral en cada una de ellas. Cuando el patrón del sueño se afecta, se presentan alteraciones en la vida diaria del sujeto que lo padece, generando un impacto negativo en las actividades que realiza en el medio personal, familiar y social. En este artículo se reporta una revisión teórica del sueño, su actividad eléctrica durante cada una de sus fases, los trastornos del sueño y el impacto de los trastornos del sueño en la vida del individuo. Se concluye resaltando el rol de mantener un equilibrio en el patrón de sueño como un beneficio para la vida diaria del sujeto.

Abstract Sleep is one of the most important behaviors for the cognition of the human being. It has between 4 to 6 cycles that are characterized by presenting different electromagnetic activity that causes a certain brain activity to occur in each of them. When the sleep pattern is affected, there are alterations in the daily life of the subject who suffers it, generating a negative impact on the activities carried out in the personal, family and social environment. In this article we report a theoretical review of the dream, its electrical activity during each of its phases, sleep disorders and the impact of sleep disorders on the individual's life. It is concluded by emphasizing the role of maintaining a balance in the sleep pattern as a benefit for the daily life of the subject.

Escala Reducida Para Valorar El Sentido De Coherencia: Soc 15 / Scale Reduced To Value The Sense Of Coherence: Soc 15

Resumen Introducción: El sentido de coherencia es una constructo de la salud que permite al individuo enfrentar las dificultades y situaciones difíciles de la vida. Está configurado por tres factores: significado, comprensión y manejo. Se ha propuesto como método de valoración de este constructo a la escala SOC con 29 ítems. Objetivo: En esta investigación se plantea como objetivo, proponer una escala SOC reducida. Métodos: Se trabajó con una muestra de 445 participantes saludables de Quito-Ecuador, 145 hombres (32.5%) y 300 mujeres (67.4%). Resultados: Se obtuvo que la escala reducida en 15 ítems presenta adecuada consistencia interna en sus tres factores: comprensión α=.74, manejo α=.82 y significado α=.82. En el análisis factorial confirmatorio se encontró un ajuste aceptable del modelo reducido (SOC-15) x 2=317.90, GL=87, p=<.001, CFI=.92, RMSEA=.07 (.06-.08) y SRMR=.04. Conclusiones: Se discuten los datos en relación a los beneficios de contar con una escala reducida para su futuro aplicación en el contexto clínico sanitario y científico.

Abstract Introduction: The sense of coherence is a construct of health that allows the individual to face difficult situations of life. It is configured by three factors: meaning, understanding and management. As a method of assessment of this construct, has been proposed the SOC scale with 29 items in its original version. Objective: The objective of this study is to propose a reduced SOC scale. Methods: We worked with a sample of 445 healthy participants from Quito-Ecuador, 145 men (32.5%) and 300 women (67.4%). Results: It was obtained that the reduced scale of 15 items presents an adequate internal consistency in its three factors: understanding α = .74, management α = .82 and meaning α = .82. In the confirmatory factor analysis, an acceptable adjustment of the reduced model was found (SOC-15) x 2 = 317.90, DF = 87, p = <. 001, CFI = .92, RMSEA = .07 (.06-.08) and SRMR = .04. Conclusions: The data is discussed in relation to the benefits of counting with a reduced scale for its future application in the clinical and health scientific context.

Escala De Observación Clínica Para Valorar La Tercera Unidad Funcional De La Teoría De Luria: Eocl-1 / Scale Of Clinical Observation To Valuate The Third Functional Unit Of The Luria Theory: Eocl-1

Resumen El modelo de organización cerebral de Luria propone la interacción de tres unidades funcionales para comprender el trabajo que realiza el cerebro humano. La primera de ellas se encarga de la regulación del tono y la vigilia. La segunda de recibir, procesar y almacenar la información. La tercera, y de central interés de la investigación, se encarga de programar, ejecutar y verificar la actividad mental. Para valorar esta teoría se han desarrollado una serie de test neuropsicológicos experimentales, no obstante, no se ha propuesto una escala que, en base a los preceptos teóricos de la tercera unidad funcional, permita valorarla basada en la observación clínica de las conductas de la vida diaria del ser humano. En esta investigación se propone una escala que permita al clínico valorar las habilidades mentales asociadas con la capacidad de programar, ejecutar y verificar la forma más compleja de actividad mental; integradas en la tercera unidad funcional de Luria. Se discute la propuesta realizada, en base al beneficio que se genera el contar con una escala que permitirá valorar esta teoría, en los diferentes ambientes donde se desenvuelve el individuo mediante la acción de las habilidades cerebrales de la tercera unidad funcional.

Abstract Luria's brain organization model proposes the interaction of three functional units to understand the work performed by the human brain. The first of them is responsible for the regulation of tone and wakefulness. The second one to receive, process and store the information. The third, and of central interest of the investigation, is responsible for programming, executing and verifying mental activity. To evaluate this theory, a series of experimental neuropsychological tests have been developed, however, a scale has not been proposed that, based on the theoretical precepts on the third functional unit, allows to assess it based on the behaviors of the daily life of the human being. This research proposes a scale that will allow the clinician to assess the mental abilities associated with the ability to program, execute and verify the most complex form of mental activity; integrated in the third functional unit of Luria. The proposal is discussed, based on the benefit that is generated by having a scale that will allow to assess this theory, in the different environments where the individual develops through the action of the cerebral abilities of the third functional unit.

Analysis of organizational power networks through a holistic approach using consensus strategies.

Power is one of the most complex organizational attributes to understand due to the multiple related variables and dimensions in which it appears. The ownership and use and of power are reflected in the interpersonal relationships within an organization, as a result, modeling its structure and interactions can lead to knowledge about the power networks that shape it. The objective of this study was to identify the behavior of organizational networks based on existing sources of power, using a consensual analysis of the different topologies present in these networks. The study was carried out in a private production company in Ecuador, which has representation at a domestic level. To this end, a 12-question personalized questionnaire was designed with the aim of identifying specific networks and was applied to 1190 workers in the company. The results were obtained using organizational network analysis and a consensus strategy to integrate the centralities found in multiple networks into one. This study can serve as a reference to organizations, so they can know the relationships between people within it, as part of their management process. In this way, the identification of people within power networks is useful for knowing the "key" actors in the promotion of organizational changes, as well as for the development of career plans based on the position that people occupy in the organizational system.

Atention neuropsychologic evaluation: symbols and digits test / Evaluación neuropsicológica de la atención: test de símbolos y dígitos

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: The symbol digit modality test is a reactive which provides great support in neuropsychological evaluation. Its execution permits to evaluate brain functions such as visual perception, stimuli recognition, attention (focal, selective and sustained), task supervision, interference control among others. OBJECT: The purpose of the current research study was to analyze the normative percentiles of the execution of the test, to identify the performance activity of the reactive according to age group and gender; applying the test in a sample of college students. METHOD: The sample included 250 university students,142 (56.8%) males and 108 (43.2%) females. The age range of the participants was between 18 and 34 years old (M=21.53, DE=2.25). A transversal, non-experimental, quantitative research model with a correlational scope was used. RESULTS: The correct answer average for the test was 52.83 (DE=13,60) and for percentile P5 31,55 right answers were found; for percentile P75 60,00 right answers, P25 had 46,00 right answers, and for P95 74,45 right answers were found. No significant differences were found for the mean of errors in the test in terms of age group f(3, 246)=0,67, p=0,57 and gender t(248)=0,68, p=0,49 of the participants as comparison factor. CONCLUSIONS: Results were discussed based on prior research pointing out the importance of counting with a first statistical parameter of the test as ground for neuropsychological clinical practice in Ecuador.

RESUMEN INTRODUCCIÓN: El test de símbolos y dígitos es un reactivo de gran apoyo en la evaluación neuropsicológica. Su ejecución permite la valoración de funciones cerebrales como la percepción visual, el reconocimiento de estímulos, la atención (focalizada, selectiva y sostenida), supervisión de tareas, control de la interferencia y otras. OBJETIVO: En el presente artículo se reporta una investigación que tuvo como finalidad analizar los percentiles normativos de la ejecución del test, identificar las diferencias en el rendimiento del reactivo, según grupo etario y género de los valores del test al ser aplicado en una muestra de estudiantes universitarios. MÉTODO: La muestra estuvo conformada por 250 estudiantes universitarios, 142 (56,8%) hombres y 108 (43,2%) mujeres. El rango de edad de los participantes fue entre 18 y 34 años de edad (M=21,53, DE=2,25). Se utilizó un diseño de investigación cuantitativo, transversal, no experimental y alcance correlacional. RESULTADOS: Se encontró que la media de aciertos en el test es de 52,83 (DE=13,60) y en el percentil P5 se encontraron 31,55 aciertos; el el percentil P25 existieron 46,00 aciertos, en el percentil P75 se hallaron 60,00 aciertos y en el percentil P95 se encontraron 74,45 aciertos. No se encontraron diferencias significativas en la media de errores del test, considerando el grupo etario f(3, 246)=0,67, p=0,57 y género t(248)=0,68, p=0,49 de los participantes como factor de comparación. CONCLUSIONES: Se discuten los resultados en torno a investigaciones previas, mencionando la importancia de contar con un primer parámetro estadístico del test como base para la práctica clínica neuropsicológica en Ecuador.

Evaluación De Las Habilidades De La Corteza Prefrontal: La Escala Efeco Ii-Vc Y Ii-Vr / Evaluation Of The Skills Of The Prefrontal Cortex: The Efeco Ii-Vc And Ii-Vr

Resumen La corteza pre-frontal es la base de las habilidades mentales de mayor complejidad del desarrollo humano. En su proceso de evaluación, la escala EFECO brinda un importante aporte para valorar su estado. En investigaciones previas se ha estudiado esta escala con su configuración de 67 ítems, narrativa centrada en el déficit y evaluación de 8 funciones ejecutiva. En esta investigación se presentan los siguientes aportes: una nueva versión de la escala, centrada en su narrativa en la habilidad ejecutiva, propuesta de ítems para valorar la función ejecutiva de verificación y una versión resumida de la escala en 42 ítems. En el estudio participaron 118 adultos saludables entre 18 y 25 años de edad (M edad = 20.72, DE = 1.65). En los resultados se encontró que la escala EFECO II-VC (versión modificada y completa) obtuvo como consistencia interna α = .96 y sus sub-escalas consistencia interna entre α = .64 y .81. La escala EFECO II-VR (versión modificada y resumida) obtuvo α = .94 y sus sub-escalas entre α = .68 y .79. La consistencia interna de los factores en los que se engloban las funciones ejecutivas se presentaron adecuados: el sistema supervisor de la cognición II-VC α = .93 y II-VR α = .70, mientras que el sistema supervisor de la conducta II-VC α = .93 y II-VR α = .81. Las correlaciones entre las funciones ejecutivas valoradas con ambas escalas fueron entre medianas y grandes r = .36 y .94. Se cierra el trabajo discutiendo el aporte clínico y científico de la modificación de la escala EFECO.

Abstract The pre-frontal cortex is the basis of the most complex mental abilities of human development. In its evaluation process, the EFECO scale provides an important contribution to assess its status. In previous investigations this scale has been studied with its configuration of 67 items, narrative focused on the deficit and evaluation of 8 executive functions. This research presents a new version of the scale, centered on its narrative in executive ability, proposed items to assess executive verification function and a summarized version of 42 items. The study included 118 healthy adults between 18 and 25 years of age (M age = 20.72, SD = 1.65). In the results it was found that the EFECO II-VC scale (modified and complete version) obtained as internal consistency α = .96 and its sub-scales internal consistency between α = .64 and .81. The EFECO II-VR scale (modified and summarized version) obtained α = .94 and its sub-scales between α = .68 and .79. The internal consistency of the factors in which the executive functions are included were adequate: the supervisory system of cognition II-VC α = .93 and II-VR α = .70, while the supervisor system of behavior II- VC α = .93 and II-VR α = .81. The correlations between the executive functions assessed with both scales were between medium and large r = .36 and .94. The work is closed discussing the clinical and scientific contribution of the modification of the EFECO scale.

Las Funciones Ejecutivas Del Lóbulo Frontal Y Su Asociación Con El Desempeño Académico De Estudiantes De Nivel Superior / The Executive Functions Of The Frontal Lobe And Its Association With The Academic Performance Of Students In Higher Education

Resumen Introducción: Las funciones ejecutivas (FE) son un conjunto de destrezas mentales asociadas al lóbulo frontal del cerebro humano que permiten regular el comportamiento, metacognición y emociones; ejecutando un control consciente del propio pensamiento. Su desarrollo es progresivo a lo largo del ciclo vital del ser humano, por lo tanto, se ven involucradas en el desarrollo social, emocional y académico de las personas. Existen estudios que afirman que el rendimiento académico se ve influenciado por el nivel de desarrollo de las FE (control inhibitorio, memoria de trabajo, flexibilidad cognitiva, monitorización y autorregulación), cuya relación ha sido progresivamente estudiada en diversos rangos etarios y niveles educativos. Método: El objetivo de la investigación fue definir y explicar las principales FE que influyen en el rendimiento académico en estudiantes universitarios. Para ello, se aplicó un método de revisión sistemática que permite recopilar las investigaciones que muestran dicha relación. Resultados y conclusiones: Los estudios revisados evidencian que las principal FE involucrada en el rendimiento académico de los estudiantes universitarios es la memoria de trabajo y en menor medida, las habilidades de planificación, control inhibitorio y flexibilidad cognitiva. Por último, se discute las limitaciones y proyecciones que permite abordar este estudio; considerando las FE como un factor clave para el éxito académico universitario y la implementación de instancias de apoyos pedagógicos que favorezcan el desarrollo profesional de los estudiantes.

Abstract Introduction: Executive functions (EF) are a set of mental skills that allow to regulate the behavior, metacognition and emotions; executing a conscious control of the own thought. The development is progressive along the vital cycle of the human being, therefore, they meet involved in the social, emotional and academic development of the persons. There exist studies that affirm that the academic performance meets influenced by the level of development of the EF (inhibitory control, working memory, cognitive flexibility, monitoring and self-regulation) which relation has been progressively studied in diverse ages ranges and educational levels. Method: This article, has the aim to define and explain principal EF that they influence in the academic performance in university students. For it, there was realized a method of systematic review that allows to compile the investigations that affirm the above mentioned relation. Results and Conclusions: The scopes of the studies affirm that the principal EF involved in the academic performance of the university students is the working memory and in minor measure, the skills of planning, inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility. Finally, there are discussed the limitations and projections that this study allows to approach; considering the EF to be a key factor for the academic university success and the implementation of instances of pedagogic supports that should favor the professional development of the students.

Construcción del déficit de atención / hiperactividad en la prensa escrita ecuatoriana (2007-2015) / Construction of attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder in Ecuadorian written media (2007-2015)

El trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad (TDAH) es una alteración del neurodesarrollo que afecta al comportamiento y cognición de niños/as, adolescentes y adultos. En torno a su línea de investigación, actualmente no se cuenta con una teoría contundente que permita comprenderlo en su totalidad, por lo que todavía se encuentra en desarrollo su fundamentación teórica, determinación de factores causales, eficacia de tratamientos y demás aspectos que engloban al TDAH. En tal contexto, en el presente artículo se propone una investigación que analiza su cobertura otorgada en medios de comunicación, específicamente en la prensa escrita de Ecuador entre 2007 y 2015. La metodología utilizada se basa en dos fases: una primera cualitativa, en donde se hizo un análisis de contenido de treinta y nueve reportajes sobre el trastorno. En la segunda fase se analizaron las frecuencias, porcentajes y coeficiente de confiabilidad de Kappa de la medición realizada. En los resultados encontrados de la fase cualitativa, se propone un paradigma codificado constituido por once categorías que construyen el conocimiento del TDAH en la prensa escrita de Ecuador, donde se resaltan aspectos como las alteraciones familiares, educativas y sociales que genera este trastorno en las personas que lo presentan, mitos sobre sus posibles causas, creencias en torno a la eficacia y efectos no deseados del fármaco como medio de tratamiento, factores de riesgo, protección y otras categorías que se proyectan de los contenidos de los reportajes analizados. En la valoración cuantitativa, se encontró que la evaluación interjueces es de k = .75 que se interpreta como altamente concordante a la medición realizada. Finalmente, se discuten y analizan los resultados en torno a investigaciones previas y la teoría del TDAH.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is an alteration of neurodevelopment that affects the behavior and cognition of children, adolescents and adults. ADHD encompasses three clinical features: excessive motor activity, impaired impulse control, and clinically significant alterations in the ability to focus attention to internal and external stimuli. Regarding its research line, there is currently no strong theory to understand it in its totality, so that it is still developing its theoretical foundation, since there are several proposals that explain the development of this disorder from genetic, the influence of diet, social context, family, and other aspects. Another topic still under construction of ADHD is the efficacy of psychological and neurological treatments, alternative therapies and other proposals of treatment that are used for ADHD. In this context, and contributing to the theoretical construction of ADHD, one of the aspects that have not yet been investigated is how this disorder is constructed in the different contexts in which information about its characteristics is handled. One of them is in the media where it say several statements about ADHD that influence the understanding of this disorder by parents, relatives, teachers and the same people who present it. This article proposes an investigation that analyzes the coverage given to ADHD in the media, specifically in the written press of Ecuador between 2007 and 2015. The methodology was based on a mixed research design of two phases. In the first phase, a qualitative procedure of content analysis of the narratives, contained in thirty-nine reports of the Ecuadorian written press about the disorder was used. In the second phase, through a descriptive quantitative research design, we analyzed the frequencies and percentages of each of the reports and their quantitative contribution in the conformation of the categories found in the qualitative phase. In addition we calculated the Kappa reliability coefficient of the measurement performed by means of the procedure inter judges. In the results of qualitative phase, we propose a codified paradigm constituted by eleven categories that construct the knowledge of ADHD in the written press of Ecuador, where they emphasize aspects such as the family, educational and social alterations that generates this disorder in the people that present it, myths about its possible causes, beliefs about the efficacy and unwanted effects of the drug as a means of treatment, risk and protection factors, and other categories that are projected from the contents of the analyzed articles. In the quantitative evaluation the numerical values that constructed the eleven categories of the qualitative phaseare exposed through frequencies and percentages. In the analysis of Cohen's Kappa coefficient, we found that the interevaluation is k =.75, which is interpreted as highly concordant to the measurement performed. Finally, the data reported in the qualitative and quantitative phases are discussed around the theories about ADHD reported in the main diagnostic manuals and with investigations that affirm the information of the reports that informs the real aspects of the disorder, which contribute to a responsible management of the knowledge about the ADHD and contribute in the understanding and help of children, adolescents and adults that have this disorder. Instead, some myths about ADHD are discussed in the reports and contrasted with formal theory and research on the subject, so that myth-based stories are critically received, as they may affect the beliefs of people living around people with ADHD.