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Dong P, Li W, Hu Q, Wu T, Jiang Y, Jin H, Xu C, Buschkuehl M, Jaeggi SM, Zhang Q. The relation between effortful control and executive function training in preschoolers. J Exp Child Psychol 2024; 238:105778. [PMID: 37748340 DOI: 10.1016/j.jecp.2023.105778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the question of whether executive function (EF) is malleable has been widely documented. Despite using the same training tasks, transfer effects remain uncertain. Researchers suggested that the inconsistency might be attributed to individual differences in temperamental traits. In the current study, we investigated how effortful control, a temperamental trait, would affect EF training outcomes in children. Based on parent rating, 79 6-year-old preschoolers were identified as having higher or lower effort control and were assigned to three conditions: working memory (WM) training, inhibitory control (IC) training, and a business-as-usual control group. Children completed assessments at baseline, 1 week after intervention (posttest), and 3 months after intervention (follow-up). As compared with the control group, the WM and IC training groups showed improvement in both trained tasks and nontrained measures. At baseline, children with higher effortful control scores showed greater WM capacity and better IC. Furthermore, effortful control was positively correlated with training gain in both training groups, with children with higher effortful control benefitting more through training. In the WM training group, effortful control was positively correlated with near transfer on WM outcomes both immediately and longitudinally. At posttest, the WM and IC training groups showed a positive correlation between effortful control and fluid intelligence performance. Our results underscore the importance of individual differences in training benefits, in particular the role of effortful control, and further illustrate the potential avenues for designing more effective individualized cognitive training programs to foster learning and optimize children's development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiqi Dong
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310028, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310028, China
| | - Qiong Hu
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310028, China
| | - Tianqi Wu
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310028, China
| | - Yiheng Jiang
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310028, China
| | - Huan Jin
- Hangzhou Bud Kindergarten, Hangzhou 310052, China
| | - Cihua Xu
- School of Philosophy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | | | - Susanne M Jaeggi
- School of Education, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Qiong Zhang
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310028, China.
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2
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Rouder JN, Kumar A, Haaf JM. Why many studies of individual differences with inhibition tasks may not localize correlations. Psychon Bull Rev 2023; 30:2049-2066. [PMID: 37450264 PMCID: PMC10728261 DOI: 10.3758/s13423-023-02293-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Individual difference exploration of cognitive domains is predicated on being able to ascertain how well performance on tasks covary. Yet, establishing correlations among common inhibition tasks such as Stroop or flanker tasks has proven quite difficult. It remains unclear whether this difficulty occurs because there truly is a lack of correlation or whether analytic techniques to localize correlations perform poorly real-world contexts because of excessive measurement error from trial noise. In this paper, we explore how well correlations may localized in large data sets with many people, tasks, and replicate trials. Using hierarchical models to separate trial noise from true individual variability, we show that trial noise in 24 extant tasks is about 8 times greater than individual variability. This degree of trial noise results in massive attenuation in correlations and instability in Spearman corrections. We then develop hierarchical models that account for variation across trials, variation across individuals, and covariation across individuals and tasks. These hierarchical models also perform poorly in localizing correlations. The advantage of these models is not in estimation efficiency, but in providing a sense of uncertainty so that researchers are less likely to misinterpret variability in their data. We discuss possible improvements to study designs to help localize correlations.
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3
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Jaeggi SM, Weaver AN, Carbone E, Trane FE, Smith-Peirce RN, Buschkuehl M, Flueckiger C, Carlson M, Jonides J, Borella E. EngAge - A metacognitive intervention to supplement working memory training: A feasibility study in older adults. AGING BRAIN 2023; 4:100083. [PMID: 38098966 PMCID: PMC10719574 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbas.2023.100083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Working Memory (WM) training has shown promise in supporting cognitive functioning in older adult populations, but effects that generalize beyond the trained task have been inconsistent. Targeting cognitive processes in isolation might be a limiting factor given that metacognitive and motivational factors have been shown to impact older adults' engagement with challenging cognitive activities, such as WM training. The current feasibility study implemented a novel metacognitive intervention in conjunction with WM training in older adults and examined its potential amplifying short- and long-term effects on cognitive and self-report outcomes as compared to WM or active control training alone. One-hundred and nineteen older adults completed a cognitive training over the course of 20 sessions at home. The cognitive training targeted either WM or general knowledge. In addition, one of the WM training groups completed a metacognitive program via group seminars. We tested for group differences in WM, inhibitory control, and episodic memory, and we assessed participants' perceived self-efficacy and everyday memory failures. At post-test, we replicated earlier work by demonstrating that participants who completed the WM intervention outperformed the active control group in non-trained WM measures, and to some extent, in inhibitory control. However, we found no evidence that the supplemental metacognitive program led to benefits over and above the WM intervention. Nonetheless, we conclude that our metacognitive program is a step in the right direction given the tentative long-term effects and participants' positive feedback, but more longitudinal data with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm these early findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elena Carbone
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Erika Borella
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Italy
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4
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Tepe V, Guillory L, Boudin-George A, Cantelmo T, Murphy S. Central Auditory Processing Dysfunction in Service Members and Veterans: Treatment Considerations and Strategies. JOURNAL OF SPEECH, LANGUAGE, AND HEARING RESEARCH : JSLHR 2023:1-28. [PMID: 37379242 DOI: 10.1044/2023_jslhr-23-00095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Military risk factors such as blast exposure, noise exposure, head trauma, and neurotoxin exposure place Service members and Veterans at risk for deficits associated with auditory processing dysfunction. However, there is no clinical guidance specific to the treatment of auditory processing deficits in this unique population. We provide an overview of available treatments and their limited supporting evidence for use in adults, emphasizing the need for multidisciplinary case management and interdisciplinary research to support evidence-based solutions. METHOD We explored relevant literature to inform the treatment of auditory processing dysfunction in adults, with emphasis on findings involving active or former military personnel. We were able to identify a limited number of studies, pertaining primarily to the treatment of auditory processing deficits through the use of assistive technologies and training strategies. We assessed the current state of the science for knowledge gaps that warrant additional study. CONCLUSIONS Auditory processing deficits often co-occur with other military injuries and may pose significant risk in military operational and occupational settings. Research is needed to advance clinical diagnostic and rehabilitative capabilities, guide treatment planning, support effective multidisciplinary management, and inform fitness-for-duty standards. We emphasize the need for an inclusive approach to the assessment and treatment of auditory processing concerns in Service members and Veterans and for evidence-based solutions to address complex military risk factors and injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Tepe
- Department of Defense Hearing Center of Excellence, JBSA Lackland, TX
- The Geneva Foundation, Tacoma, WA
| | - Lisa Guillory
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, MO
| | - Amy Boudin-George
- Department of Defense Hearing Center of Excellence, JBSA Lackland, TX
| | - Tasha Cantelmo
- Alexander T. Augusta Military Medical Center, Fort Belvoir, VA
| | - Sara Murphy
- Department of Defense Hearing Center of Excellence, JBSA Lackland, TX
- The Geneva Foundation, Tacoma, WA
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5
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Guo A, Yang W, Yang X, Lin J, Li Z, Ren Y, Yang J, Wu J. Audiovisual n-Back Training Alters the Neural Processes of Working Memory and Audiovisual Integration: Evidence of Changes in ERPs. Brain Sci 2023; 13:992. [PMID: 37508924 PMCID: PMC10377064 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13070992] [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: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: This study investigates whether audiovisual n-back training leads to training effects on working memory and transfer effects on perceptual processing. (2) Methods: Before and after training, the participants were tested using the audiovisual n-back task (1-, 2-, or 3-back), to detect training effects, and the audiovisual discrimination task, to detect transfer effects. (3) Results: For the training effect, the behavioral results show that training leads to greater accuracy and faster response times. Stronger training gains in accuracy and response time using 3- and 2-back tasks, compared to 1-back, were observed in the training group. Event-related potentials (ERPs) data revealed an enhancement of P300 in the frontal and central regions across all working memory levels after training. Training also led to the enhancement of N200 in the central region in the 3-back condition. For the transfer effect, greater audiovisual integration in the frontal and central regions during the post-test rather than pre-test was observed at an early stage (80-120 ms) in the training group. (4) Conclusion: Our findings provide evidence that audiovisual n-back training enhances neural processes underlying a working memory and demonstrate a positive influence of higher cognitive functions on lower cognitive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ao Guo
- Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
| | - Weiping Yang
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
- Brain and Cognition Research Center (BCRC), Faculty of Education, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Xiangfu Yang
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Jinfei Lin
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
| | - Zimo Li
- Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
| | - Yanna Ren
- Department of Psychology, College of Humanities and Management, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550003, China
| | - Jiajia Yang
- Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
- Applied Brain Science Lab., Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
| | - Jinglong Wu
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100811, China
- Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
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6
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Steen I, Münchow M, Jensen S, Kjaer TW, Waehrens SS, Bredie WLP. Evaluation of a sensory and cognitive online training tool for odor recognition in professional coffee tasters. J SENS STUD 2023. [DOI: 10.1111/joss.12819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ida Steen
- Section for Food Design and Consumer Behaviour, Department of Food Science University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
- CoffeeMind Academy, CoffeeMind Aps Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Morten Münchow
- Section for Food Design and Consumer Behaviour, Department of Food Science University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
- CoffeeMind Academy, CoffeeMind Aps Copenhagen Denmark
| | | | - Troels W. Kjaer
- Department of Clinical Medicine University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Sandra S. Waehrens
- Section for Food Design and Consumer Behaviour, Department of Food Science University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Wender L. P. Bredie
- Section for Food Design and Consumer Behaviour, Department of Food Science University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
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7
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Cáceres NA, Yu Q, Lauzon M, Diniz MA, Tuckerman R, Carrillo A, Philipp M, Foster GD, Seitz AR, Salvy S. Supplementing a widely available weight loss program with gamified inhibitory control training: A randomized pilot study. Obes Sci Pract 2022; 8:775-783. [PMID: 36483117 PMCID: PMC9722449 DOI: 10.1002/osp4.617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Increasing evidence suggests that targeting self-regulatory processes may improve obesity treatment outcomes. Incorporating gamification principles in inhibitory control training may promote sustained training adherence and resulting benefits. This pilot study evaluated the preliminary efficacy of supplementing an evidence-based weight management program (WW) with sustained gamified inhibitory control training (PolyRules!) on change in Body Mass Index (BMI) among adults with overweight/obesity. Methods 30 adults with overweight/obesity (M age 49.9 ± 12.4, 86.7% female; 23.3% Hispanic, mean BMI 35.3 ± 6.3) were randomly assigned to receive WW with or without PolyRules! for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was change in BMI from baseline to post-intervention across study arms. Implementation and process indicators were captured to inform larger trials. Results Average change in BMI was -0.9 in the WW arm and -1.2 in the WW + PolyRules! arm (Cohen's d = 0.26). In the WW + PolyRules! arm, increased training was associated with greater decreases in BMI (r = -0.506, p = 0.0454). WW + PolyRules! participants completed an average of 60.4% sessions and reported positive experiences. There was no difference in frequency of food (d = -0.02) and weight tracking (d = -0.19) between arms. Conclusions Studies in larger samples should evaluate training-related effects on weight. Supplementing WW with gamified inhibitory training appears feasible, with no detrimental effect on engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nenette A. Cáceres
- Cancer Research Center for Health EquityCedars‐Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Qihan Yu
- Cancer Research Center for Health EquityCedars‐Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Marie Lauzon
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Research CenterCedars‐Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Marcio A. Diniz
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Research CenterCedars‐Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Rebecca Tuckerman
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of CaliforniaRiversideCaliforniaUSA
| | | | | | - Gary D. Foster
- WW International, IncNew YorkNYUSA
- Center for Weight and Eating DisordersPerelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Aaron R. Seitz
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of CaliforniaRiversideCaliforniaUSA
- UCR Brain Game CenterRiversideCaliforniaUSA
| | - Sarah‐Jeanne Salvy
- Cancer Research Center for Health EquityCedars‐Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
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8
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Parong J, Seitz AR, Jaeggi SM, Green CS. Expectation effects in working memory training. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2209308119. [PMID: 36067292 PMCID: PMC9477404 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2209308119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a growing body of research focused on developing and evaluating behavioral training paradigms meant to induce enhancements in cognitive function. It has recently been proposed that one mechanism through which such performance gains could be induced involves participants' expectations of improvement. However, no work to date has evaluated whether it is possible to cause changes in cognitive function in a long-term behavioral training study by manipulating expectations. In this study, positive or negative expectations about cognitive training were both explicitly and associatively induced before either a working memory training intervention or a control intervention. Consistent with previous work, a main effect of the training condition was found, with individuals trained on the working memory task showing larger gains in cognitive function than those trained on the control task. Interestingly, a main effect of expectation was also found, with individuals given positive expectations showing larger cognitive gains than those who were given negative expectations (regardless of training condition). No interaction effect between training and expectations was found. Exploratory analyses suggest that certain individual characteristics (e.g., personality, motivation) moderate the size of the expectation effect. These results highlight aspects of methodology that can inform future behavioral interventions and suggest that participant expectations could be capitalized on to maximize training outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jocelyn Parong
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI 53706
| | - Aaron R. Seitz
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521
| | | | - C. Shawn Green
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI 53706
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9
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Pahor A, Seitz AR, Jaeggi SM. Near transfer to an unrelated N-back task mediates the effect of N-back working memory training on matrix reasoning. Nat Hum Behav 2022; 6:1243-1256. [PMID: 35726054 DOI: 10.1038/s41562-022-01384-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The extent to which working memory training improves performance on untrained tasks is highly controversial. Here we address this controversy by testing the hypothesis that far transfer may depend on near transfer using mediation models in three separate randomized controlled trials (RCTs). In all three RCTs, totalling 460 individuals, performance on untrained N-back tasks (near transfer) mediated transfer to Matrix Reasoning (representing far transfer) despite the lack of an intervention effect in RCTs 2 and 3. Untrained N-back performance also mediated transfer to a working memory composite, which showed a significant intervention effect (RCT 3). These findings support a model of N-back training in which transfer to untrained N-back tasks gates further transfer (at least in the case of working memory at the construct level) and Matrix Reasoning. This model can help adjudicate between the many studies and meta-analyses of working memory training that have provided mixed results but have not examined the relationship between near and far transfer on an individual-differences level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Pahor
- School of Education, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA. .,Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA. .,Department of Psychology, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia.
| | - Aaron R Seitz
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Susanne M Jaeggi
- School of Education, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA.,Department of Cognitive Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
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10
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Cáceres NA, Yu Q, Capaldi J, Diniz MA, Raynor H, Foster GD, Seitz AR, Salvy SJ. Evaluating environmental and inhibitory control strategies to improve outcomes in a widely available weight loss program. Contemp Clin Trials 2022; 119:106844. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2022.106844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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11
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Feasibility of a Home-Based Task-Switching Training in Middle-Aged Caregivers. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2022; 6:295-315. [PMID: 35966367 PMCID: PMC9360113 DOI: 10.1007/s41465-021-00237-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe current study aimed at investigating feasibility of a self-administered task-switching training in a middle-aged working population. Eighty-one caregivers (41–62 years old) were instructed to train at home 8 times either within a 7- or 14-day interval. Only 56.7% performed more than 50% of the instructed number of training sessions. However, compliant caregivers (who completed more than 4 training sessions) showed significant training gains and transfer to an untrained task-switching task. Although transfer effects to other cognitive tasks were not found, trained participants tended to report fewer everyday memory failures than a control group. In conclusion, the implementation of a home-based task-switching training in everyday life of caregivers is possible. However, there is only limited evidence for generalization of results of previous laboratory studies. Adherence and transfer to other cognitive tasks are discussed as important challenges in conveying laboratory findings into real life.
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12
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Saklani P, Khan H, Gupta S, Kaur A, Singh TG. Neuropeptides: Potential neuroprotective agents in ischemic injury. Life Sci 2022; 288:120186. [PMID: 34852271 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
AIM Ischemic damage to the brain is linked to an increased rate of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In certain parts of the world, it remains a leading cause of mortality and the primary cause of long-term impairment. Ischemic injury is exacerbated when particular neuropeptides are removed, or their function in the brain is blocked, whereas supplying such neuropeptides lowers ischemic harm. Here, we have discussed the role of neuropeptides in ischemic injury. MATERIALS & METHODS Numerous neuropeptides had their overexpression following cerebral ischemia. Neuropeptides such as NPY, CGRP, CART, SP, BK, PACAP, oxytocin, nociception, neurotensin and opioid peptides act as transmitters, documented in several "in vivo" and "in vitro" studies. Neuropeptides provide neuroprotection by activating the survival pathways or inhibiting the death pathways, i.e., MAPK, BDNF, Nitric Oxide, PI3k/Akt and NF-κB. KEY FINDINGS Neuropeptides have numerous beneficial effects in ischemic models, including antiapoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant actions that provide a powerful protective impact in neurons when combined. These innovative therapeutic substances have the potential to treat ischemia injury due to their pleiotropic modes of action. SIGNIFICANCE This review emphasizes the neuroprotective role of neuropeptides in ischemic injury via modulation of various signalling pathways i.e., MAPK, BDNF, Nitric Oxide, PI3k/Akt and NF-κB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Saklani
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, 140401, Punjab, India
| | - Heena Khan
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, 140401, Punjab, India
| | - Saurabh Gupta
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, 140401, Punjab, India
| | - Amarjot Kaur
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, 140401, Punjab, India
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13
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de Larrea-Mancera ESL, Philipp MA, Stavropoulos T, Carrillo AA, Cheung S, Koerner TK, Molis MR, Gallun FJ, Seitz AR. Training with an auditory perceptual learning game transfers to speech in competition. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2021; 6:47-66. [PMID: 34568741 PMCID: PMC8453468 DOI: 10.1007/s41465-021-00224-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Understanding speech in the presence of acoustical competition is a major complaint of those with hearing difficulties. Here, a novel perceptual learning game was tested for its effectiveness in reducing difficulties with hearing speech in competition. The game was designed to train a mixture of auditory processing skills thought to underlie speech in competition, such as spectral-temporal processing, sound localization, and auditory working memory. Training on these skills occurred both in quiet and in competition with noise. Thirty college-aged participants without any known hearing difficulties were assigned either to this mixed-training condition or an active control consisting of frequency discrimination training within the same gamified setting. To assess training effectiveness, tests of speech in competition (primary outcome), as well as basic supra-threshold auditory processing and cognitive processing abilities (secondary outcomes) were administered before and after training. Results suggest modest improvements on speech in competition tests in the mixed-training compared to the frequency-discrimination control condition (Cohen’s d = 0.68). While the sample is small, and in normally hearing individuals, these data suggest promise of future study in populations with hearing difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Sebastian Lelo de Larrea-Mancera
- Psychology Department, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA USA.,Brain Game Center, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA USA
| | - Mark A Philipp
- Brain Game Center, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA USA
| | | | | | - Sierra Cheung
- Brain Game Center, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA USA
| | - Tess K Koerner
- Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR USA.,VA RR&D National Center for Rehabilitative Auditory Research, Portland, OR USA
| | - Michelle R Molis
- Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR USA.,VA RR&D National Center for Rehabilitative Auditory Research, Portland, OR USA
| | - Frederick J Gallun
- Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR USA.,VA RR&D National Center for Rehabilitative Auditory Research, Portland, OR USA
| | - Aaron R Seitz
- Psychology Department, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA USA.,Brain Game Center, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA USA
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14
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Pahor A, Collins C, Smith RN, Moon A, Stavropoulos T, Silva I, Peng E, Jaeggi SM, Seitz AR. Multisensory Facilitation of Working Memory Training. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2021; 5:386-395. [PMID: 34485810 PMCID: PMC8415034 DOI: 10.1007/s41465-020-00196-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Research suggests that memorization of multisensory stimuli benefits performance compared to memorization of unisensory stimuli; however, little is known about multisensory facilitation in the context of working memory (WM) training and transfer. To investigate this, 240 adults were randomly assigned to an N-back training task that consisted of visual-only stimuli, alternating visual and auditory blocks, or audio-visual (multisensory) stimuli, or to a passive control group. Participants in the active groups completed 13 sessions of N-back training (6.7 hours in total) and all groups completed a battery of WM tasks: untrained N-back tasks, Corsi Blocks, Sequencing, and Symmetry Span. The Multisensory group showed similar training N-level gain compared to the Visual Only group, and both of these groups outperformed the Alternating group on the training task. As expected, all three active groups significantly improved on untrained visual N-back tasks compared to the Control group. In contrast, the Multisensory group showed significantly greater gains on the Symmetry Span task and to a certain extent on the Sequencing task compared to other groups. These results tentatively suggest that incorporating multisensory objects in a WM training protocol can benefit performance on the training task and potentially facilitate transfer to complex WM span tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Pahor
- University of California, Riverside, Department of Psychology, Riverside, California, USA
- University of California, Irvine, School of Education, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Cindy Collins
- University of California, Riverside, Department of Psychology, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Rachel N Smith
- University of California, Irvine, School of Education, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Austin Moon
- University of California, Riverside, Department of Psychology, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Trevor Stavropoulos
- University of California, Riverside, Department of Psychology, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Ilse Silva
- University of California, Riverside, Department of Psychology, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Elaine Peng
- University of California, Riverside, Department of Psychology, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Susanne M Jaeggi
- University of California, Irvine, School of Education, School of Social Sciences (Department of Cognitive Sciences), Irvine, California, USA
| | - Aaron R Seitz
- University of California, Riverside, Department of Psychology, Riverside, California, USA
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15
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Wagle S, Ghosh A, Karthic P, Ghosh A, Pervaiz T, Kapoor R, Patil K, Gupta N. Development and testing of a game-based digital intervention for working memory training in autism spectrum disorder. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13800. [PMID: 34226615 PMCID: PMC8257736 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-93258-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is prevalent globally, yet it lacks cost-effective treatment approaches. Deficits in executive functions occur frequently in autism spectrum disorder and present a target for intervention. Here we report the design and development of five smartphone-based games for training working memory in children with ASD. These open-source games, available free of cost to the community, were designed to match the behavioral preferences and sensorimotor abilities of children with ASD. We then conducted a preliminary trial to test the effectiveness of a month-long intervention using these games. Although we did not see a significant change in the working memory of all children with a month-long training, children who performed better on the games also showed more improvement in their working memory, suggesting that a longer intervention with the games might be useful in improving working memory. Using a Hindi translation of the autism treatment evaluation checklist, we also tested the collateral gains of the training in reducing autistic symptoms. We found no significant change in the autistic symptoms after the intervention. Further, there was no correlation between the change in the working memory and the change in the autistic symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surbhit Wagle
- grid.417965.80000 0000 8702 0100Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016 India
| | - Arka Ghosh
- grid.417965.80000 0000 8702 0100Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016 India
| | - P. Karthic
- grid.417965.80000 0000 8702 0100Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016 India
| | - Akriti Ghosh
- Amrita School for Special Children and Rehabilitation Center, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208005 India
| | - Tarana Pervaiz
- Amrita School for Special Children and Rehabilitation Center, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208005 India
| | - Rashmi Kapoor
- Amrita School for Special Children and Rehabilitation Center, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208005 India ,Regency Hospital Limited, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208005 India
| | - Koumudi Patil
- grid.417965.80000 0000 8702 0100Design Program and Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016 India
| | - Nitin Gupta
- grid.417965.80000 0000 8702 0100Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016 India ,grid.417965.80000 0000 8702 0100Cognitive Science Program, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016 India ,grid.417965.80000 0000 8702 0100Mehta Family Center for Engineering in Medicine, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016 India
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16
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Exploring Individual Differences as Predictors of Performance Change During Dual-N-Back Training. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2021; 5:480-498. [DOI: 10.1007/s41465-021-00216-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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17
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Denkinger S, Spano L, Bingel U, Witt CM, Bavelier D, Green CS. Assessing the Impact of Expectations in Cognitive Training and Beyond. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s41465-021-00206-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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18
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19
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Koerner TK, A. Papesh M, Gallun FJ. A Questionnaire Survey of Current Rehabilitation Practices for Adults With Normal Hearing Sensitivity Who Experience Auditory Difficulties. Am J Audiol 2020; 29:738-761. [PMID: 32966118 DOI: 10.1044/2020_aja-20-00027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose A questionnaire survey was conducted to collect information from clinical audiologists about rehabilitation options for adult patients who report significant auditory difficulties despite having normal or near-normal hearing sensitivity. This work aimed to provide more information about what audiologists are currently doing in the clinic to manage auditory difficulties in this patient population and their views on the efficacy of recommended rehabilitation methods. Method A questionnaire survey containing multiple-choice and open-ended questions was developed and disseminated online. Invitations to participate were delivered via e-mail listservs and through business cards provided at annual audiology conferences. All responses were anonymous at the time of data collection. Results Responses were collected from 209 participants. The majority of participants reported seeing at least one normal-hearing patient per month who reported significant communication difficulties. However, few respondents indicated that their location had specific protocols for the treatment of these patients. Counseling was reported as the most frequent rehabilitation method, but results revealed that audiologists across various work settings are also successfully starting to fit patients with mild-gain hearing aids. Responses indicated that patient compliance with computer-based auditory training methods was regarded as low, with patients generally preferring device-based rehabilitation options. Conclusions Results from this questionnaire survey strongly suggest that audiologists frequently see normal-hearing patients who report auditory difficulties, but that few clinicians are equipped with established protocols for diagnosis and management. While many feel that mild-gain hearing aids provide considerable benefit for these patients, very little research has been conducted to date to support the use of hearing aids or other rehabilitation options for this unique patient population. This study reveals the critical need for additional research to establish evidence-based practice guidelines that will empower clinicians to provide a high level of clinical care and effective rehabilitation strategies to these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tess K. Koerner
- VA RR&D National Center for Rehabilitative Auditory Research, VA Portland Health Care System, OR
| | - Melissa A. Papesh
- VA RR&D National Center for Rehabilitative Auditory Research, VA Portland Health Care System, OR
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
| | - Frederick J. Gallun
- VA RR&D National Center for Rehabilitative Auditory Research, VA Portland Health Care System, OR
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
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20
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Green CS. Interventions to Do Real-World Good: Generalization and Persistence. Psychol Sci Public Interest 2020. [DOI: 10.1177/1529100620933847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Shawn Green
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison
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21
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Sandeep S, Shelton CR, Pahor A, Jaeggi SM, Seitz AR. Application of Machine Learning Models for Tracking Participant Skills in Cognitive Training. Front Psychol 2020; 11:1532. [PMID: 32793032 PMCID: PMC7387708 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A key need in cognitive training interventions is to personalize task difficulty to each user and to adapt this difficulty to continually apply appropriate challenges as users improve their skill to perform the tasks. Here we examine how Bayesian filtering approaches, such as hidden Markov models and Kalman filters, and deep-learning approaches, such as the long short-term memory (LSTM) model, may be useful methods to estimate user skill level and predict appropriate task challenges. A possible advantage of these models over commonly used adaptive methods, such as staircases or blockwise adjustment methods that are based only upon recent performance, is that Bayesian filtering and deep learning approaches can model the trajectory of user performance across multiple sessions and incorporate data from multiple users to optimize local estimates. As a proof of concept, we fit data from two large cohorts of undergraduate students performing WM training using an N-back task. Results show that all three models predict appropriate challenges for different users. However, the hidden Markov models were most accurate in predicting participants' performances as a function of provided challenges, and thus, they placed participants at appropriate future challenges. These data provide good support for the potential of machine learning approaches as appropriate methods to personalize task performance to users in tasks that require adaptively determined challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjana Sandeep
- Department of Computer Science, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
- Brain Game Center, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Christian R. Shelton
- Department of Computer Science, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Anja Pahor
- Brain Game Center, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
- School of Education, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Susanne M. Jaeggi
- School of Education, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Aaron R. Seitz
- Brain Game Center, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
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22
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Combined and Isolated Effects of Acute Exercise and Brain Stimulation on Executive Function in Healthy Young Adults. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9051410. [PMID: 32397614 PMCID: PMC7291170 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9051410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract: Acute cognitive enhancement has been sought by healthy young individuals to improve academic and professional performance. Among several methods, physical exercise interventions and transcranial direct current brain stimulation (tDCS) have shown promise in impacting executive functions. Here, we observed a set of new findings about the causal effect of acute aerobic exercise and tDCS across three facets of executive function: Inhibition (as measured by a flanker task) was selectively impacted by acute aerobic exercise but not tDCS, whereas working memory (as measured by an n-back task) was impacted by both acute aerobic exercise and tDCS, with effects emerging on distinct processing components for each manipulation. Sustained attention (as measured by the Mackworth clock task), on the other hand, was not impacted by acute aerobic exercise or tDCS. Interestingly, no effects of combining acute aerobic exercise and tDCS emerged. We argue that understanding the unique and combined contributions of these cognitive enhancement techniques can not only contribute to a deeper mechanistic explanation in healthy individuals but also inform future research with clinical and aging populations.
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Abstract
Working memory is an important function for human cognition since several day-to-day activities are related to it, such as remembering a direction or developing a mental calculation. Unfortunately, working memory deficiencies affect performance in work or education related activities, mainly due to lack of concentration, and, with the goal to improve this, many software applications have been developed. However, sometimes the user ends up bored with these games and drops out easily. To cope with this, our work explores the use of intelligent robotics and dynamic difficulty adjustment mechanisms to develop a novel working memory training system. The proposed system, based on the Nao robotic platform, is composed of three main components: First, the N-back task allows stimulating the working memory by remembering visual sequences. Second, a BDI model implements an intelligent agent for decision-making during the progress of the game. Third, a fuzzy controller, as a dynamic difficulty adjustment system, generates customized levels according to the user. The experimental results of our system, when compared to a computer-based implementation of the N-back game, show a significant improvement on the performance of the user in the game, which might relate to an improvement in their working memory. Additionally, by providing a friendly and interactive interface, the participants have reported a more immersive and better game experience when using the robotic-based system.
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24
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Flynn RM, Colón-Acosta N, Zhou J, Bower J. A Game-Based Repeated Assessment for Cognitive Monitoring: Initial Usability and Adherence Study in a Summer Camp Setting. J Autism Dev Disord 2019; 49:2003-2014. [PMID: 30656527 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-03881-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The current feasibility study examined the adherence, reliability, and assessment potential of an evidence-based game-like mobile Monitoring Tool (Akili Interactive Labs), to monitor 100 participants' cognition for eight sessions at a summer camp for children with special needs. A validated measure of attention was administered at baseline. In the last session, participants completed an exit questionnaire. The Monitoring Tool was found to be enjoyable, and showed a high rate of adherence. No Monitor-related adverse events were reported. Monitor metrics showed good reliability across repeated measurements, indicating it is stable over long-term cognitive monitoring. There was evidence that the Monitoring Tool was able to detect differences in cognition between the children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M Flynn
- Silver School of Social Work, McSilver Institute for Poverty Policy and Research, New York University, 41 East 11th Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY, 10003, USA. .,Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 633 N St. Clair St, 19th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
| | | | - Jimmy Zhou
- Akili Interactive, 125 Broad Street, 4th Floor, Boston, MA, 02110, USA
| | - Jeffrey Bower
- Akili Interactive, 125 Broad Street, 4th Floor, Boston, MA, 02110, USA
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25
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Vervaeke J, Hoorelbeke K, Baeken C, Van Looy J, Koster EHW. Transfer and Motivation After Cognitive Control Training for Remitted Depression in Healthy Sample. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s41465-019-00135-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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26
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Improving Methodological Standards in Behavioral Interventions for Cognitive Enhancement. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s41465-018-0115-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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27
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Anderson PJ, Lee KJ, Roberts G, Spencer-Smith MM, Thompson DK, Seal ML, Nosarti C, Grehan A, Josev EK, Gathercole S, Doyle LW, Pascoe L. Long-Term Academic Functioning Following Cogmed Working Memory Training for Children Born Extremely Preterm: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Pediatr 2018; 202:92-97.e4. [PMID: 30177350 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2018.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the effectiveness of Cogmed Working Memory Training compared with a placebo program in improving academic functioning 24 months post-training in extremely preterm/extremely low birth weight 7-year-olds. STUDY DESIGN A multicenter double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized controlled trial was conducted across all tertiary neonatal hospitals in the state of Victoria, Australia. Participants were 91 extremely preterm/extremely low birth weight 7-year-old children born in Victoria in 2005. Children were randomly assigned to either the Cogmed or placebo arm and completed the Cogmed or placebo program (20-25 sessions of 35-40 minutes duration) at home over 5-7 weeks. Academic achievement (word reading, spelling, sentence comprehension, and mathematics) was assessed 24 months post-training, as well as at 2 weeks and 12 months post-training, via standardized testing inclusive of working memory, attention, and executive behavior assessments. Data were analyzed using an intention-to-treat approach with mixed-effects modeling. RESULTS There was little evidence of any benefits of Cogmed on academic functioning 24 months post-training, as well as on working memory, attention, or executive behavior at any age up to 24 months post-training compared with the placebo program. CONCLUSIONS We currently do not recommend administration of Cogmed for early school-aged children born extremely preterm/extremely low birth weight to improve academic functioning. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12612000124831.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Anderson
- Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Katherine J Lee
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Pediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Gehan Roberts
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Pediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Megan M Spencer-Smith
- Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Deanne K Thompson
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Pediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Marc L Seal
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Pediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Andrea Grehan
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Elisha K Josev
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Pediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Lex W Doyle
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Pediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Neonatal Services, The Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Leona Pascoe
- Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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28
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Fellman D, Salmi J, Ritakallio L, Ellfolk U, Rinne JO, Laine M. Training working memory updating in Parkinson's disease: A randomised controlled trial. Neuropsychol Rehabil 2018; 30:673-708. [PMID: 29968519 DOI: 10.1080/09602011.2018.1489860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Frontostriatal dysfunction in Parkinson's disease (PD) increases the risk for working memory (WM) impairment and depression, calling for counteractive measures. Computerised cognitive rehabilitation is a promising option, but targeted training protocols are lacking and lab-based training can be demanding due to the repeated visits. This study tested the feasibility and efficacy of home-based computerised training targeting mainly WM updating in PD. Fifty-two cognitively well-preserved PD patients were randomised to a WM training group and an active control group for five weeks of training (three 30-min sessions per week). WM training included three computerised adaptive WM tasks (two updating, one maintenance). The outcomes were examined pre- and post-training with trained and untrained WM tasks, tasks tapping other cognitive domains, and self-ratings of executive functioning and depression. Home-based training was feasible for the patients. The training group improved particularly on the updating training tasks, and showed posttest improvement on untrained WM tasks structurally similar to the trained ones. Moreover, their depression scores decreased compared to the controls. Our study indicates that patients with mild-to-moderate PD can self-administer home-based computerised WM training, and that they yield a similar transfer pattern to untrained WM tasks as has been observed in healthy older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Fellman
- Department of Psychology, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Juha Salmi
- Department of Psychology, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland.,Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Ulla Ellfolk
- Department of Psychology, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland.,Expert Services, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Juha O Rinne
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Division of Clinical Neurosciences, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Matti Laine
- Department of Psychology, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland.,Turku Brain and Mind Center, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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Dörrenbächer S, Kray J. The Impact of Game-Based Task-Shifting Training on Motivation and Executive Control in Children with ADHD. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s41465-018-0083-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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30
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Cognitive Training for Military Application: a Review of the Literature and Practical Guide. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s41465-018-0076-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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31
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Seitz AR. A new framework of design and continuous evaluation to improve brain training. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2018; 2:78-87. [PMID: 29868648 PMCID: PMC5984043 DOI: 10.1007/s41465-017-0058-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Effective teaching critically relies upon effective evaluation because evaluation is required to gain understanding of existing abilities and, in turn, determine learning outcomes. Methods of effective evaluation are surprisingly elusive in many fields and this limits our understanding of which training methods are truly effective. In the present article, issues of effective evaluation are discussed in the context of "brain training," an exciting but much criticized field. Problems in test validity in the field of brain training, parallel those in many other fields; such as deficiencies in test reliability, teaching to the test, expectation effects, as well as statistical rigor. Here we review these issues and discuss how commonalities between the goals of evaluation and adaptive training procedures suggest a new paradigm that synthesizes evaluation and training. We suggest that continuous evaluation, where testing is integrated into the training, may provide a path towards greater reliability of skill evaluation, through longitudinal sampling, and validity, through better alignment of evaluation activities in respect to learning objectives.
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32
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Cohen Hoffing R, Karvelis P, Rupprechter S, Seriès P, Seitz AR. The Influence of Feedback on Task-Switching Performance: A Drift Diffusion Modeling Account. Front Integr Neurosci 2018; 12:1. [PMID: 29456494 PMCID: PMC5801306 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2018.00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Task-switching is an important cognitive skill that facilitates our ability to choose appropriate behavior in a varied and changing environment. Task-switching training studies have sought to improve this ability by practicing switching between multiple tasks. However, an efficacious training paradigm has been difficult to develop in part due to findings that small differences in task parameters influence switching behavior in a non-trivial manner. Here, for the first time we employ the Drift Diffusion Model (DDM) to understand the influence of feedback on task-switching and investigate how drift diffusion parameters change over the course of task switch training. We trained 316 participants on a simple task where they alternated sorting stimuli by color or by shape. Feedback differed in six different ways between subjects groups, ranging from No Feedback (NFB) to a variety of manipulations addressing trial-wise vs. Block Feedback (BFB), rewards vs. punishments, payment bonuses and different payouts depending upon the trial type (switch/non-switch). While overall performance was found to be affected by feedback, no effect of feedback was found on task-switching learning. Drift Diffusion Modeling revealed that the reductions in reaction time (RT) switch cost over the course of training were driven by a continually decreasing decision boundary. Furthermore, feedback effects on RT switch cost were also driven by differences in decision boundary, but not in drift rate. These results reveal that participants systematically modified their task-switching performance without yielding an overall gain in performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russell Cohen Hoffing
- UCR Brain Game Center, Department of Cognitive Psychology, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Povilas Karvelis
- School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Samuel Rupprechter
- School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Peggy Seriès
- School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Aaron R Seitz
- UCR Brain Game Center, Department of Cognitive Psychology, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
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33
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Editorial Special Topic: Enhancing Brain and Cognition Through Cognitive Training. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2017; 1:353-357. [PMID: 29552678 DOI: 10.1007/s41465-017-0057-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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34
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Mohammed S, Flores L, Deveau J, Hoffing RC, Phung C, Parlett CM, Sheehan E, Lee D, Au J, Buschkuehl M, Zordan V, Jaeggi SM, Seitz AR. The Benefits and Challenges of Implementing Motivational Features to Boost Cognitive Training Outcome. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2017; 1:491-507. [PMID: 30221244 DOI: 10.1007/s41465-017-0047-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In the current literature, there are a number of cognitive training studies that use N-back tasks as their training vehicle; however, the interventions are often bland, and many studies suffer from considerable attrition rates. An increasingly common approach to increase participant engagement has been the implementation of motivational features in training tasks; yet, the effects of such "gamification" on learning have been inconsistent. To shed more light on those issues, here, we report the results of a training study conducted at two Universities in Southern California. A total of 115 participants completed 4 weeks (20 sessions) of N-back training in the laboratory. We varied the amount of "gamification" and the motivational features that might make the training more engaging and, potentially, more effective. Thus, 47 participants trained on a basic color/identity N-back version with no motivational features, whereas 68 participants trained on a gamified version that translated the basic mechanics of the N-back task into an engaging 3D space-themed "collection" game (Deveau et al. Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience, 8, 243, 2015). Both versions used similar adaptive algorithms to increase the difficulty level as participants became more proficient. Participants' self-reports indicated that the group who trained on the gamified version enjoyed the intervention more than the group who trained on the non-gamified version. Furthermore, the participants who trained on the gamified version exerted more effort and also improved more during training. However, despite the differential training effects, there were no significant group differences in any of the outcome measures at post-test, suggesting that the inclusion of motivational features neither substantially benefited nor hurt broader learning. Overall, our findings provide guidelines for task implementation to optimally target participants' interest and engagement to promote learning, which may lead to broader adoption and adherence of cognitive training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shafee Mohammed
- School of Education, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Lauren Flores
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Jenni Deveau
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Russell Cohen Hoffing
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Calvin Phung
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Chelsea M Parlett
- School of Education, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Ellen Sheehan
- School of Education, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - David Lee
- School of Education, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Jacky Au
- School of Education, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Martin Buschkuehl
- MIND Research Institute, 111 Academy Dr., Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Victor Zordan
- School of Computing, Clemson University, 307 McAdams Hall, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
| | - Susanne M Jaeggi
- School of Education, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Aaron R Seitz
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
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Abstract
Practising a task can produce learning that generalizes to other tasks. Measurement of such generalization is complicated by how generalization doesn't always manifest simply as better performance on the new task, but also in the form of faster learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron R Seitz
- UCR Brain Game Center, University of California, Riverside, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
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Abstract
Executive functions refer to top–down processes utilized in goal-directed behavior. Executive functions and academic achievement relate robustly, from early childhood through adolescence. Executive functions and their neural networks appear to be malleable, and environments can support their development. Varied approaches, including educational curricula, structured physical exercise, and computer-based training, can improve executive functions. The intervention work suggests that children who are most “at-risk” demonstrate the largest gains, but evidence of far transfer to academic achievement or other behavioral outcomes that are important to schools is at this point only promising. The review highlights developmental considerations for measurement and intervention, and discusses implications for schools in supporting children’s development of executive functions. Policy implications of the scientific findings suggest strategies for providing environments that foster the development of executive functions.
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There is no convincing evidence that working memory training is NOT effective: A reply to Melby-Lervåg and Hulme (2015). Psychon Bull Rev 2016; 23:331-7. [PMID: 26518308 DOI: 10.3758/s13423-015-0967-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Our recent meta-analysis concluded that training on working memory can improve performance on tests of fluid intelligence (Au et al., Psychon Bull Rev, 22(2), 366-377, 2015). Melby-Lervåg and Hulme (Psychon Bull Rev, doi: 10.3758/s13423-015-0862-z ) challenge this conclusion on the grounds that it did not take into consideration baseline differences on a by-study level and that the effects were primarily driven by purportedly less rigorous studies that did not include active control groups. Their re-analysis shows that accounting for baseline differences produces a statistically significant, but considerably smaller, overall effect size (g = 0.13 vs g = 0.24 in Au et al.), which loses significance after excluding studies without active controls. The present report demonstrates that evidence of impact variation by the active/passive nature of control groups is ambiguous and also reveals important discrepancies between Melby-Lervåg and Hulme's analysis and our original meta-analysis in terms of the coding and organization of data that account for the discrepant effect sizes. We demonstrate that there is in fact no evidence that the type of control group per se moderates the effects of working memory training on measures of fluid intelligence and reaffirm the original conclusions in Au et al., which are robust to multiple methods of calculating effect size, including the one proposed by Melby-Lervåg and Hulme.
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Baranowski T, Blumberg F, Buday R, DeSmet A, Fiellin LE, Green CS, Kato PM, Lu AS, Maloney AE, Mellecker R, Morrill BA, Peng W, Shegog R, Simons M, Staiano AE, Thompson D, Young K. Games for Health for Children-Current Status and Needed Research. Games Health J 2015; 5:1-12. [PMID: 26262772 DOI: 10.1089/g4h.2015.0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Videogames for health (G4H) offer exciting, innovative, potentially highly effective methods for increasing knowledge, delivering persuasive messages, changing behaviors, and influencing health outcomes. Although early outcome results are promising, additional research is needed to determine the game design and behavior change procedures that best promote G4H effectiveness and to identify and minimize possible adverse effects. Guidelines for ideal use of different types of G4H by children and adolescents should be elucidated to enhance effectiveness and minimize adverse effects. G4H stakeholders include organizational implementers, policy makers, players and their families, researchers, designers, retailers, and publishers. All stakeholders should be involved in G4H development and have a voice in setting goals to capitalize on their insights to enhance effectiveness and use of the game. In the future, multiple targeted G4H should be available to meet a population's diverse health needs in developmentally appropriate ways. Substantial, consistent, and sophisticated research with appropriate levels of funding is needed to realize the benefits of G4H.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Baranowski
- 1 USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine , Houston, Texas
| | - Fran Blumberg
- 2 Division of Psychological and Educational Services, Fordham University Graduate School of Education , New York, New York
| | | | - Ann DeSmet
- 4 Department of Movement and Sport Sciences, Ghent University , Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lynn E Fiellin
- 5 play2PREVENT Lab, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven, Connecticut
| | - C Shawn Green
- 6 Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin , Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Pamela M Kato
- 7 Serious Games Institute, Coventry University , Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Amy Shirong Lu
- 8 Departments of Communication Studies and Health Sciences, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ann E Maloney
- 9 Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School , Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Robin Mellecker
- 10 Centre for Physical Activity & Nutrition Research, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health, Deakin University , Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Wei Peng
- 12 Department of Telecommunications, Information Studies and Media, Michigan State University , East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Ross Shegog
- 13 Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, University of Texas School of Public Health , Houston, Texas
| | - Monique Simons
- 14 Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning, Utrecht University , Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Amanda E Staiano
- 15 Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University , Baton Rouge, Louisiana
| | - Debbe Thompson
- 1 USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine , Houston, Texas
| | - Kimberly Young
- 16 Russell J. Jandoli School of Journalism & Mass Communication, St. Bonaventure University , New York
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