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Brighenti S, Cicinelli G, Urdanch B, Keller R. Effects of Executive Functions Training in Primary School Students with Borderline Intellectual Functioning Through a Multi-Method, Multi-Informant Intervention: A Pilot Study. CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2024; 21:159-168. [PMID: 38988682 PMCID: PMC11231727 DOI: 10.36131/cnfioritieditore20240301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Objective Borderline Intellectual Functioning (BIF) impacts cognitive functioning and adaptive behavior. Recent studies have demonstrated the efficacy of Executive Functions trainings to support daily-living skills in several clinical populations. However, although the relationship between Executive Functions and BIF has been studied, few studies have explored the effects of cognitive enhancement training for BIF children. Given the pivotal significance of Executive Functions in learning, orchestrating cognitive processes, and modulating affective and behavioral responses, our study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of cognitive enhancement training targeting Executive Functions in a group of 23 children diagnosed with Borderline Intellectual Functioning devoid of neurodevelopmental impairments. Method We included a multiple assessment based on several informants (children, teachers, parents, and tutors) and provided individualized cognitive enhancement training focused on Executive Functions through both digital and analog activities. The training was highly customized, structured and monitored at various stages of the process activities. The training was composed of 20 sessions, each lasting 2 hours, held twice a week for each child. Results The obtained results confirmed the efficacy of cognitive enhancement training in improving Executive Functions, the primary target of the intervention, particularly in attention, verbal fluency, planning, inhibitory control, working memory, and flexibility. Furthermore, improvements were observed by all the informants in other cognitive functions, learning, and adaptive behaviors. Conclusions Our study contributes to the understanding of BIF, emphasizing the efficacy of neuropsychological enhancement through personalized training for EF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Barbara Urdanch
- High Performance Learning Center, corso Trento 13, 10129, Turin
| | - Roberto Keller
- Psychology Department, University of Turin, via Verdi 10, 10124, Turin
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Chandler-Mather N, Crichton A, Shelton D, Harris K, Donovan C, Dawe S. Carer-reported sleep disturbance and carer- and teacher-rated executive functioning in children with prenatal alcohol exposure and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. Child Neuropsychol 2024:1-22. [PMID: 38607688 DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2024.2337715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Children with prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) have high rates of sleep disturbance and marked difficulties with executive functioning (EF). Sleep disturbance has been associated with poorer EF across development in typically developing children. The contribution of insomnia symptoms and nightmares to EF difficulties in children with PAE and FASD is unclear. The current study examined whether caregiver-reported insomnia symptoms and nightmares predicted difficulties with EF in children with PAE who were assessed at FASD diagnostic clinics. Archival data on 116 children with PAE assessed at FASD diagnostic clinics were extracted from databases. Children were assigned to a preschool-age group (3.1 to 5.9 years, n = 40) and a school-age group (5.9 to 10.9 years, n = 76). Insomnia symptoms and nightmares were measured using items extracted from the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) while EF was measured using the caregiver and teacher Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) rating forms. Bootstrapped regression models were used examine the effects of insomnia symptoms and nightmares on domains of EF in each group while adjusting for potential confounds. For preschool children, insomnia symptoms were associated with greater daytime tiredness while nightmares were associated with greater difficulties with Emergent Metacognition according to their teachers. For school-age children, insomnia symptoms predicted greater EF difficulties across most domains according to their caregivers but not teachers. Sleep disturbance may compound EF impairments in children with PAE and should be screened for as part of FASD diagnostic assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali Crichton
- Victorian Fetal Alcohol Service, Monash Children's Hospital, Clayton, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Doug Shelton
- Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport, Australia
| | - Katrina Harris
- Victorian Fetal Alcohol Service, Monash Children's Hospital, Clayton, Australia
| | - Caroline Donovan
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sharon Dawe
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
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Patel N, Berggren KN, Hung M, Bates K, Dixon MM, Bax K, Adams H, Butterfield RJ, Campbell C, Johnson NE. Neurobehavioral Phenotype of Children With Congenital Myotonic Dystrophy. Neurology 2024; 102:e208115. [PMID: 38359368 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000208115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES To describe the neurobehavioral phenotype of congenital myotonic dystrophy. Congenital myotonic dystrophy (CDM) is the most severe form of myotonic dystrophy, characterized by symptom presentation at birth and later, cognitive impairment, autistic features, and disordered sleep. METHODS The neurobehavioral phenotype was assessed in this cross-sectional study by a neuropsychological battery consisting of the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence, Third Edition, Weschler Intelligence Scale for Children, Fourth Edition, Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale, Second Edition (Vineland-II), Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function including preschool and teacher reports, Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire, Social Communication Scale, and Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised. Sleep quality was evaluated with the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire and Pediatric Daytime Sleepiness Scale. RESULTS Fifty-five children with CDM, ages 5 weeks to 14 years, were enrolled. The mean age and (CTG)n repeats (±SD) were 6.4 ± 3.8 years and 1,263 ± 432, respectively. The mean IQ was 64.1 ± 14.9 on the Weschler scales with 65.6% of participants falling in the extremely low range for IQ. Adaptive functioning was significantly low for 57.1% of participants (n = 20). Caregiver report of executive functioning indicated 23.1% (9/39) of participants had clinically elevated levels of dysfunction, though teacher report was discrepant and indicated 53.3% of participants with CDM fell in this range (8/15). Spearman correlations were strongly positive (p ≤ 0.05) for estimated full scale IQ, overall adaptive functioning and with daily living and socialization domain standard scores on the Vineland-II ranging from r = 0.719 to r = 0.849 for all ages. Aspects of executive function were directly related to features of autism and sleep quality. Social communication was inversely related to all aspects of daily functioning, except communication, and directly related to aspects of autism behavior. DISCUSSION Depressed IQ, adaptive skills, and executive functioning, poor sleep quality, and features of autism and altered social functioning individually describe different aspects of the neurobehavioral phenotype in CDM. These neurobehavioral and sleep measures could help quantitatively measure and assess the burden of cognitive impairment in CDM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namita Patel
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P.), University of Rochester Medical Center, NY; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (H.A.), University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY; Department of Neurology and Center for Inherited Muscle Research (K.N.B., K. Bates, N.E.J.), Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond; College of Dental Medicine (M.H.), Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT; Department of Pediatrics (M.M.D., R.J.B.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City; and Department of Psychology (K. Bax), and Department of Pediatrics (C.C.), London Children's Hospital, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Kiera N Berggren
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P.), University of Rochester Medical Center, NY; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (H.A.), University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY; Department of Neurology and Center for Inherited Muscle Research (K.N.B., K. Bates, N.E.J.), Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond; College of Dental Medicine (M.H.), Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT; Department of Pediatrics (M.M.D., R.J.B.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City; and Department of Psychology (K. Bax), and Department of Pediatrics (C.C.), London Children's Hospital, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Man Hung
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P.), University of Rochester Medical Center, NY; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (H.A.), University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY; Department of Neurology and Center for Inherited Muscle Research (K.N.B., K. Bates, N.E.J.), Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond; College of Dental Medicine (M.H.), Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT; Department of Pediatrics (M.M.D., R.J.B.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City; and Department of Psychology (K. Bax), and Department of Pediatrics (C.C.), London Children's Hospital, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Kameron Bates
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P.), University of Rochester Medical Center, NY; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (H.A.), University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY; Department of Neurology and Center for Inherited Muscle Research (K.N.B., K. Bates, N.E.J.), Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond; College of Dental Medicine (M.H.), Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT; Department of Pediatrics (M.M.D., R.J.B.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City; and Department of Psychology (K. Bax), and Department of Pediatrics (C.C.), London Children's Hospital, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Melissa M Dixon
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P.), University of Rochester Medical Center, NY; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (H.A.), University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY; Department of Neurology and Center for Inherited Muscle Research (K.N.B., K. Bates, N.E.J.), Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond; College of Dental Medicine (M.H.), Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT; Department of Pediatrics (M.M.D., R.J.B.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City; and Department of Psychology (K. Bax), and Department of Pediatrics (C.C.), London Children's Hospital, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Karen Bax
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P.), University of Rochester Medical Center, NY; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (H.A.), University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY; Department of Neurology and Center for Inherited Muscle Research (K.N.B., K. Bates, N.E.J.), Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond; College of Dental Medicine (M.H.), Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT; Department of Pediatrics (M.M.D., R.J.B.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City; and Department of Psychology (K. Bax), and Department of Pediatrics (C.C.), London Children's Hospital, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Heather Adams
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P.), University of Rochester Medical Center, NY; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (H.A.), University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY; Department of Neurology and Center for Inherited Muscle Research (K.N.B., K. Bates, N.E.J.), Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond; College of Dental Medicine (M.H.), Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT; Department of Pediatrics (M.M.D., R.J.B.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City; and Department of Psychology (K. Bax), and Department of Pediatrics (C.C.), London Children's Hospital, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Russell J Butterfield
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P.), University of Rochester Medical Center, NY; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (H.A.), University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY; Department of Neurology and Center for Inherited Muscle Research (K.N.B., K. Bates, N.E.J.), Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond; College of Dental Medicine (M.H.), Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT; Department of Pediatrics (M.M.D., R.J.B.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City; and Department of Psychology (K. Bax), and Department of Pediatrics (C.C.), London Children's Hospital, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Craig Campbell
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P.), University of Rochester Medical Center, NY; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (H.A.), University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY; Department of Neurology and Center for Inherited Muscle Research (K.N.B., K. Bates, N.E.J.), Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond; College of Dental Medicine (M.H.), Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT; Department of Pediatrics (M.M.D., R.J.B.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City; and Department of Psychology (K. Bax), and Department of Pediatrics (C.C.), London Children's Hospital, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Nicholas E Johnson
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P.), University of Rochester Medical Center, NY; Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics (H.A.), University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY; Department of Neurology and Center for Inherited Muscle Research (K.N.B., K. Bates, N.E.J.), Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond; College of Dental Medicine (M.H.), Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT; Department of Pediatrics (M.M.D., R.J.B.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City; and Department of Psychology (K. Bax), and Department of Pediatrics (C.C.), London Children's Hospital, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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Dionne G, Mascheretti S, Feng B, Paradis H, Brendgen M, Vitaro F, Tremblay R, Boivin M. Genetic and phenotypic evidence of the predictive validity of preschool parent reports of hyperactivity/impulsivity and inattention. Dev Psychopathol 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38439652 DOI: 10.1017/s095457942400035x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
To determine the validity of parent reports (PRs) of ADHD in preschoolers, we assessed hyperactivity/impulsivity (HI) and inattention (IN) in 1114 twins with PRs at 1.5, 2.5, 4, 5, 14, 15, and 17 years, and teacher-reports at 6, 7, 9, 10, and 12. We examined if preschool PRs (1) predict high HI/IN trajectories, and (2) capture genetic contributions to HI/IN into adolescence. Group-based trajectory analyses identified three 6-17 years trajectories for both HI and IN, including small groups with high HI (N = 88, 10.4%, 77% boys) and IN (N = 158, 17.3%, 75% boys). Controlling for sex, each unit of HI PRs starting at 1.5 years and at 4 years for IN, increased more than 2-fold the risk of belonging to the high trajectory, with incremental contributions (Odds Ratios = 2.5-4.5) at subsequent ages. Quantitative genetic analyses showed that genetic contributions underlying preschool PRs accounted for up to a quarter and a third of the heritability of later HI and IN, respectively. Genes underlying 1.5-year HI and 4-year IN contributed to 6 of 8 later HI and IN time-points and largely explained the corresponding phenotypic correlations. Results provide phenotypic and genetic evidence that preschool parent reports of HI and IN are valid means to predict developmental risk of ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ginette Dionne
- School of Psychology, Université Laval, Québec City, Canada
| | - Sara Mascheretti
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Child Psychopathology Unit, Scientific Institute, IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Bosisio Parini, Italy
| | - Bei Feng
- School of Psychology, Université Laval, Québec City, Canada
| | - Hélène Paradis
- School of Psychology, Université Laval, Québec City, Canada
| | - Mara Brendgen
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Frank Vitaro
- School of Psychoeducation, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Richard Tremblay
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Michel Boivin
- School of Psychology, Université Laval, Québec City, Canada
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Olsen KD, Sukhodolsky D, Bikic A. Executive functioning in children with ADHD Investigating the cross-method correlations between performance tests and rating scales. Scand J Child Adolesc Psychiatr Psychol 2024; 12:1-9. [PMID: 38645570 PMCID: PMC11027034 DOI: 10.2478/sjcapp-2024-0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Replicated evidence shows a weak or non-significant correlation between different methods of evaluating executive functions (EF). The current study investigates the association between rating scales and cognitive tests of EF in a sample of children with ADHD and executive dysfunction. Method The sample included 139 children (aged 6-13) diagnosed with ADHD and executive dysfunctions. The children completed subtests of the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB). Parents completed the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) and the Children's Organizational Skills Scale (COSS). Analysis Pairwise Spearman correlations were calculated between the composite and separate subscales of cognitive tests and rating scales. In secondary analyses, pairwise Spearman correlations were conducted between all composite scales and subscales, stratified by child sex and child ADHD subtype. Results The correlation analyses between composite scores yielded no significant correlations. The results when comparing CANTAB TO and BRIEF GE are r=-.095, p=.289, and r=.042, p=.643 when comparing CANTAB TO and COSS TO. The analyses between all composite scales and subscales found one significant negative correlation (r=-.25, p<.01). There are significant cross-method differences when stratified by the ADHD-Inattentive subtype, showing significant negative correlations (moderate) between CANTAB and BRIEF composite (r=-.355, p=.014) and subscales. Discussion It is possible that the different methods measure different underlying constructs of EF. It may be relevant to consider the effects of responder bias and differences in ecological validity in both measurement methods. Conclusion The results found no significant correlations. The expectation in research and clinical settings should not be to find the same results when comparing data from cognitive tests and rating scales. Future research might explore novel approaches to EF testing with a higher level of ecological validity, and designing EF rating scales that capture EF behaviors more so than EF cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Denis Sukhodolsky
- Child Study Centre, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, United States
| | - Aida Bikic
- Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Bausela-Herreras E, Alonso-Esteban Y, Alcantud-Marín F. Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function in Preschool (BRIEF-P) and Attention-Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Floor and Ceiling Effects. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 11:58. [PMID: 38255370 PMCID: PMC10814211 DOI: 10.3390/children11010058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is accompanied by executive challenges. OBJECTIVES To obtain evidence of the usefulness of the BRIEF-P and to analyze the possible ceiling and floor effect of its scores in the assessment of executive function in preschoolers with signs compatible with a possible diagnosis of ADHD. METHOD A search was performed in Science Direct, NCBI (PubMed), and ProQuest Education Journals during the period 2012-2022. We included studies that evaluated samples of individuals with symptomatology compatible with ADHD, with an age range between 2 and 6 years, published in English or Spanish. Of a total of 2538 articles, only seven met the inclusion criteria. The risk of bias was assessed using the QUADAS-2 questionnaire. The main variables were age and executive functioning. CONCLUSIONS Executive deficits in early-age individuals with symptoms compatible with ADHD are more extensive than just deficits in working memory. A floor effect has been found in tests associated with hot executive functions and a ceiling effect in cold executive functions. This makes it necessary to use different tests to assess executive performance in preschoolers with ADHD-compatible symptomatology and to design intervention proposals accordingly. The BRIEF-P is an instrument that facilitates obtaining a sensitive and discriminative executive profile, although it should be used in combination with other neuropsychological performance tests.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Francisco Alcantud-Marín
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
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Donders J, Reibsome J, Wilson K. Parent ratings of children's daily functioning in a mixed clinical sample. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY. CHILD 2023:1-8. [PMID: 38006394 DOI: 10.1080/21622965.2023.2284812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
Parent questionnaires pertaining to executive and emotional/behavioral functioning are routinely included in neuropsychological evaluations to complement face-to-face cognitive tests. We evaluated in a clinical sample of 198 6-16 year-old children the degree of overlap and divergence between two common parent rating scales: the Behavior Assessment System for Children-Third Edition (BASC-3) and the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Second Edition (BRIEF-2). This sample was 66% male, 70% white, and included both neurological diagnoses (e.g., 33% traumatic brain injury, 12% cerebral palsy) and neurodevelopmental ones (e.g., 10% attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder). Inter-correlations between composite indices from the respective instruments were moderate (.41-.77). They disagreed about the presence or absence of impairment in 26% of the cases. Cluster analysis revealed four subtypes: Cluster 1 had mild externalizing and executive concerns, Cluster 2 had global emotional/behavioral and executive concerns, Cluster 3 had normal functioning, and Cluster 4 had mild internalizing and executive concerns. Clusters 2 and 3 differed in age and parental education, whereas Clusters 1 and 4 differed in Full Scale IQ. We conclude that BASC-3 and BRIEF-2 provide complementary information about a child's functioning that can inform treatment of neurobehavioral dysfunction. Elevations as well as patterns of the respective profiles on these instruments may help direct such treatment (e.g., cognitive rehabilitation, behavioral management and/or psychotherapy).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacobus Donders
- Department of Psychology, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Kate Wilson
- Department of Psychology, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
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Hall AM, Keil AP, Choi G, Ramos AM, Richardson DB, Olshan AF, Martin CL, Villanger GD, Reichborn-Kjennerud T, Zeiner P, Øvergaard KR, Sakhi AK, Thomsen C, Aase H, Engel SM. Prenatal organophosphate ester exposure and executive function in Norwegian preschoolers. Environ Epidemiol 2023; 7:e251. [PMID: 37304339 PMCID: PMC10256412 DOI: 10.1097/ee9.0000000000000251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Organophosphate esters (OPEs) are ubiquitous chemicals, used as flame retardants and plasticizers. OPE usage has increased over time as a substitute for other controlled compounds. This study investigates the impact of prenatal OPE exposure on executive function (EF) in preschoolers. Methods We selected 340 preschoolers from the Norwegian Mother, Father, and Child Cohort Study. Diphenyl-phosphate (DPhP), di-n-butyl-phosphate (DnBP), bis(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate (BBOEP), and bis(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (BDCIPP) were measured in maternal urine. EF was measured using the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Functioning-Preschool (BRIEF-P) and the Stanford-Binet fifth edition (SB-5). EF scores were scaled so a higher score indicated worse performance. We estimated exposure-outcome associations and evaluated modification by child sex using linear regression. Results Higher DnBP was associated with lower EF scores across multiple rater-based domains. Higher DPhP and BDCIPP were associated with lower SB-5 verbal working memory (β = 0.49, 95% CI = 0.12, 0.87; β = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.08, 1.02), and higher BBOEP was associated with lower teacher-rated inhibition (β = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.01, 0.63). DPhP was associated with lower parent-reported BRIEF-P measures in boys but not girls [inhibition: boys: 0.37 (95% CI = 0.03, 0.93); girls: -0.48 (95% CI = -1.27, 0.19); emotional control: boys: 0.44 (95% CI = -0.13, 1.26); girls: -0.83 (95% CI = -1.73, -0.00); working memory: boys: 0.49 (95% CI = 0.03, 1.08); girls: -0.40 (95% CI = -1.11, 0.36)]. Fewer sex interactions were observed for DnBP, BBOEP, and BDCIPP, with irregular patterns observed across EF domains. Conclusions We found some evidence prenatal OPE exposure may impact EF in preschoolers and variation in associations by sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber M. Hall
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Alexander P. Keil
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Giehae Choi
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Amanda M. Ramos
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - David B. Richardson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Andrew F. Olshan
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Chantel L. Martin
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Gro D. Villanger
- Department of Child Health and Development, Division of Mental and Physical Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ted Reichborn-Kjennerud
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Mental Disorders, Division of Mental and Physical Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Pål Zeiner
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kristin R. Øvergaard
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Amrit K. Sakhi
- Department of Food Safety, Division of Climate and Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Cathrine Thomsen
- Department of Food Safety, Division of Climate and Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Heidi Aase
- Department of Child Health and Development, Division of Mental and Physical Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Stephanie M. Engel
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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Christoforou M, Jones EJH, White P, Charman T. Executive function profiles of preschool children with autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A systematic review. JCPP ADVANCES 2023; 3:e12123. [PMID: 37431322 PMCID: PMC10241451 DOI: 10.1002/jcv2.12123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are both associated with differences in Executive Functioning (EF). There is lack of clarity around the specificity or overlap of EF differences in early childhood when both disorders are first emerging. Method This systematic review aims to delineate preschool EF profiles by examining studies comparing the EF profiles of children with and without ASD or ADHD. Five electronic databases were systematically searched (last search in May 2022) to identify published, quantitative studies of global and specific EF (Inhibition, Shifting, Working Memory (WM), Planning and Attentional Control), comparing children aged 2-6 with a diagnosis of ASD or ADHD to peers without ASD or ADHD. Results Thirty-one empirical studies (10 ADHD and 21 ASD studies) met criteria for inclusion. EF profiles in preschool ASD were characterised by consistent Shifting, and, in most cases, Inhibition impairments. ADHD studies consistently reported impairments in Inhibition and Planning, and in most cases WM. Findings with regards to sustained Attention and Shifting in ADHD and WM and Planning in ASD were mixed. Conclusions Overall, current evidence indicates overlap but also some specificity in EF impairments in preschool ASD and ADHD. There were differences in the degree to which individual domains were impaired, with Shifting more consistently impaired in ASD, and Inhibition, WM and Planning in ADHD. Methodological issues and differences in methods of outcome measurement could potentially underlie mixed findings, as informant-based measures revealed more robust EF impairments than laboratory-based tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Christoforou
- Department of PsychologyInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Emily J. H. Jones
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive DevelopmentBirkbeckUniversity of LondonLondonUK
| | - Philippa White
- Department of Child PsychiatryInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Tony Charman
- Department of PsychologyInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
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Eng CM, Pocsai M, Fulton VE, Moron SP, Thiessen ED, Fisher AV. Longitudinal investigation of executive function development employing task-based, teacher reports, and fNIRS multimethodology in 4- to 5-year-old children. Dev Sci 2022; 25:e13328. [PMID: 36221252 PMCID: PMC10408588 DOI: 10.1111/desc.13328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Increased focus on resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) and the use and accessibility of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) have advanced knowledge on the interconnected nature of neural substrates underlying executive function (EF) development in adults and clinical populations. Less is known about the relationship between rsFC and developmental changes in EF during preschool years in typically developing children, a gap the present study addresses employing task-based assessment, teacher reports, and fNIRS multimethodology. This preregistered study contributes to our understanding of the neural basis of EF development longitudinally with 41 children ages 4-5. Changes in prefrontal cortex (PFC) rsFC utilizing fNIRS, EF measured with a common task-based assessment (Day-Night task), and teacher reports of behavior (BRIEF-P) were monitored over multiple timepoints: Initial Assessment, 72 h follow-up, 1 Month Follow-up, and 4 Month Follow-up. Measures of rsFC were strongly correlated 72 h apart, providing evidence of high rsFC measurement reliability using fNIRS with preschool-aged children. PFC rsFC was positively correlated with performance on task-based and report-based EF assessments. Children's PFC functional connectivity at rest uniquely predicted later EF, controlling for verbal IQ, age, and sex. Functional connectivity at rest using fNIRS may potentially show the rapid changes in EF development in young children, not only neurophysiologically, but also as a correlate of task-based EF performance and ecologically-relevant teacher reports of EF in a classroom context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassondra M Eng
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
- Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Melissa Pocsai
- Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Psychology, City University of New York, New York, New York, USA
| | - Virginia E Fulton
- Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Suanna P Moron
- Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Graduate School of Education, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Erik D Thiessen
- Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Anna V Fisher
- Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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11
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Shephard E, Zuccolo PF, Idrees I, Godoy PBG, Salomone E, Ferrante C, Sorgato P, Catão LFCC, Goodwin A, Bolton PF, Tye C, Groom MJ, Polanczyk GV. Systematic Review and Meta-analysis: The Science of Early-Life Precursors and Interventions for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2022; 61:187-226. [PMID: 33864938 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2021.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate which early neurocognitive and behavioral precursors are associated with the development of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and whether these are currently targeted in early interventions. METHOD We conducted 2 systematic reviews and meta-analyses of empirical studies to examine the following: (1) early-life (0-5 years) neurocognitive and behavioral precursors associated with familial likelihood for ADHD, an early ADHD diagnosis/elevated ADHD symptoms, and/or the presence of later-childhood ADHD; and (2) interventions delivered to children aged 0 to 5 years targeting the identified precursors or measuring these as outcomes. Standardized mean differences (Hedges' g) and pre-post-treatment change scores (SMD) were computed. RESULTS A total of 149 studies (165,095 participants) investigating 8 neurocognitive and behavioral domains met inclusion criteria for part 1. Multi-level random-effects meta-analyses on 136 studies revealed significant associations between ADHD and poorer cognitive (g = -0.46 [95% CIs: -0.59, -0.33]), motor (g = -0.35 [CIs: -0.48, -0.21]) and language (g = -0.43 [CIs: -0.66, -0.19]) development, social (g = 0.23 [CIs: 0.03, 0.43]) and emotional (g = 0.46 [CIs: 0.33, 0.58]) difficulties, early regulatory (g = 0.30 [CIs: 0.18, 0.43]) and sleep (g = 0.29 [CIs: 0.14, 0.44]) problems, sensory atypicalities (g = 0.52 [CIs: 0.16, 0.88]), elevated activity levels (g = 0.54 [CIs: 0.37, 0.72]), and executive function difficulties (g = 0.34 [CIs: 0.05, 0.64] to -0.87 [CIs: -1.35, -0.40]). A total of 32 trials (28 randomized, 4 nonrandomized, 3,848 participants) testing early interventions that targeted the identified precursors met inclusion criteria for part 2. Multi-level random-effects meta-analyses on 22 studies revealed significant intervention-related improvements in ADHD symptoms (SMD = 0.43 [CIs: 0.22, 0.64]) and working memory (SMD = 0.37 [CIs: 0.06, 0.69]). CONCLUSION Children aged 0 to 5 years with current or later-emerging ADHD are likely to experience difficulties in multiple neurocognitive/behavioral functions. Early interventions show some effectiveness in reducing ADHD symptoms, but their effects on neurocognitive/behavioral difficulties require further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Shephard
- Drs. Shephard, Zuccolo, Prof. Polanczyk, Ms. Godoy, and Mr. Catão are with Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil; Drs. Shephard, Goodwin, Tye, and Prof. Bolton are with Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, United Kingdom.
| | - Pedro F Zuccolo
- Drs. Shephard, Zuccolo, Prof. Polanczyk, Ms. Godoy, and Mr. Catão are with Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Iman Idrees
- Ms. Idrees and Dr. Groom are with Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Priscilla B G Godoy
- Drs. Shephard, Zuccolo, Prof. Polanczyk, Ms. Godoy, and Mr. Catão are with Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Erica Salomone
- Dr. Salomone and Mss. Ferrante and Sorgato are with the University of Milan-Bicocca, Italy
| | - Camilla Ferrante
- Dr. Salomone and Mss. Ferrante and Sorgato are with the University of Milan-Bicocca, Italy
| | - Paola Sorgato
- Dr. Salomone and Mss. Ferrante and Sorgato are with the University of Milan-Bicocca, Italy
| | - Luís F C C Catão
- Drs. Shephard, Zuccolo, Prof. Polanczyk, Ms. Godoy, and Mr. Catão are with Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Amy Goodwin
- Drs. Shephard, Goodwin, Tye, and Prof. Bolton are with Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick F Bolton
- Drs. Shephard, Goodwin, Tye, and Prof. Bolton are with Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, United Kingdom; Prof. Bolton is also with The Maudsley NIHR Biomedical Research Centre in Mental Health, King's College London and South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte Tye
- Drs. Shephard, Goodwin, Tye, and Prof. Bolton are with Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Madeleine J Groom
- Ms. Idrees and Dr. Groom are with Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Guilherme V Polanczyk
- Drs. Shephard, Zuccolo, Prof. Polanczyk, Ms. Godoy, and Mr. Catão are with Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil
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12
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Ohmann S, Wurzer M, Popow C. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and executive dysfunction in preschool children. A comparison of NEPSY and BRIEF-P assessments. Encephale 2021; 48:232-240. [PMID: 34092380 DOI: 10.1016/j.encep.2021.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to explore prevalence, interrelations and accuracy of assessing psychopathology, intelligence, and executive functions (EF) in preschool children with ADHD (age 2.1-6.5 years). METHOD We prospectively investigated 115 preschool outpatient children (91 boys, 24 girls, aged 4.3±1.0 years) with the clinical diagnosis of ADHD. Assessment included clinical history, background, psychosocial problems (CBCL, C-TRF), ADHD (DISYPS external ratings), cognitive performance (WPPSI-III, K-ABC), and executive functions (BRIEF-P, NEPSY). RESULTS We found a high frequency of dysexecutive problems in up to 64 % in the parental BRIEF-P assessments, up to 62 % in the BRIEF-P teachers' assessments, and 62 % in the NEPSY functional assessments. Parental and teachers' BRIEF-P scores were only correlated in one subscale, inhibition, and NEPSY and BRIEF-P were not correlated at all. It was found that 42.5 % of the children with noticeable findings had agreeing results in all three, and another 45 % in two tests. CONCLUSIONS About 2/3 of the ADHD preschool children had detectable EF dysfunctions. In order to assess dysexecutive problems, multi-method testing is mandatory.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ohmann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - M Wurzer
- Institute of Statistics and Mathematics, Vienna University of Economics and Business, Building D4, Welthandelsplatz 1, 1020 Vienna, Austria
| | - C Popow
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
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13
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Bernes GA, Villodas M, Coles CD, Kable JA, May PA, Kalberg WO, Sowell ER, Jones KL, Riley EP, Mattson SN. Validity and Reliability of Executive Function Measures in Children With Heavy Prenatal Alcohol Exposure: Correspondence Between Multiple Raters and Laboratory Measures. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2021; 45:596-607. [PMID: 33433001 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rating scales are designed to complement traditional performance-based measures, and both can provide useful information about the functioning of youth with histories of prenatal alcohol exposure. Few studies, however, have compared ratings from multiple informants or the relationship between these subjective rating scale scores and the objective results from laboratory performance-based scales. METHODS The current study addressed both of these questions in 3 study groups: children with histories of prenatal alcohol exposure (n = 47), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; n = 41), and typically developing controls (CON; n = 73). All subjects completed a standardized neuropsychological test battery, including laboratory measures of executive functioning and a self-report measure of executive function behaviors. Parents and teachers completed corresponding rating scales of executive function behaviors for each subject. This study assessed the relationship between these behavior rating scales and corresponding neuropsychological tests, and interrater agreement among the multiple informants. RESULTS Weak correlations were found between the rating scales and laboratory measures, indicating poor convergent validity for the behavior rating scale. Interrater reliability was found but it differed by group. Agreement was found between parent and teacher ratings for children with prenatal alcohol exposure, whereas teacher-child agreement was found for those with ADHD. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this study indicate that behavior ratings can be used to supplement laboratory measures but may not be measuring cognitive abilities regardless of whether a clinical diagnosis is present. A multimethod approach should be used when measuring skills in this domain. This was one of the first studies to examine cross-informant agreement in a sample of children with prenatal alcohol exposure. Further research is necessary to understand why interrater agreement differed for children with prenatal alcohol exposure and those with ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma A Bernes
- Center for Behavioral Teratology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA.,Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Miguel Villodas
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Claire D Coles
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Julie A Kable
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Philip A May
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina Nutrition Research Institute, Kannapolis, NC, USA.,Center on Alcoholism, Substance Abuse, and Addictions, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Wendy O Kalberg
- Center on Alcoholism, Substance Abuse, and Addictions, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Elizabeth R Sowell
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kenneth L Jones
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Edward P Riley
- Center for Behavioral Teratology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA.,Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Sarah N Mattson
- Center for Behavioral Teratology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA.,Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
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14
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Di Lorenzo M, Desrocher M, Westmacott R. The clinical utility of the behavior rating inventory of executive function in preschool children with a history of perinatal stroke. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY-CHILD 2021; 11:429-437. [PMID: 33535801 DOI: 10.1080/21622965.2021.1875828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The current study examined the utility of the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Preschool Version (BRIEF-P) in capturing emerging deficits in executive function in preschool children with a history of perinatal stroke. Parents and teachers of 55 clinically referred preschool children (3-5 years of age) provided ratings using the BRIEF-P. Both parent (M = 56.02, p = .001) and teacher ratings (M = 58.61, p = .002) indicated significant scale elevations for working memory compared to the normative sample, albeit below the clinically elevated range. Parent and teacher ratings were low-to-moderately correlated (r = .05-.55). Greater deficits in working memory (r = -.58), inhibition (r = -.45), and planning/organization (r = -.51), as rated by teachers, were associated with lower intellectual functioning. Parents' ratings were not associated with intellectual functioning. Further, no neurological or personal characteristics were associated with ratings of executive function. The current study demonstrates children with a history of perinatal stroke are, on average, following a normal trajectory of executive function development according to BRIEF-P ratings. The needs for multi-informant ratings and performance-based measures to comprehensively assess executive functioning in preschoolers with a history of stroke are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary Desrocher
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Robyn Westmacott
- Department of Psychology and Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
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15
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Relationship Between Task-Based and Parent Report-Based Measures of Attention and Executive Function in Children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC NEUROPSYCHOLOGY 2020; 6:176-188. [PMID: 33585167 DOI: 10.1007/s40817-020-00089-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
A majority of children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) have demonstrated attention and executive function deficits as measured by both parent report measures and performance on tasks requiring sustained levels of attention. However, prior studies have consistently reported a lack of association between parental report-based and task-based performance measures. The current study investigated whether changes in performance over time within-task (i.e., first-half versus second-half) better correspond to parental reports of executive function and temperament in children with FASD. Greater differences in split-half performance during a continuous performance task were found to be associated with higher parent-reported levels of behavioral regulation and inhibitory control. These findings suggest that within-task performance differences may more accurately reflect individual differences in executive function and temperament as measured by parental report and help to further inform the way in which cognitive processes are measured in children with FASD.
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