Abstract
Linguistic associative functions in disorders of consciousness patient (DOC) were studied in the present research by using autonomic measures (Skin Conductance Response, SCR; Heart Rate, HR). We intended to verify the preservation of semantic linguistic processes in Vegetative State (VS) and Minimal Consciousness State (MCS) by considering arousal modulation. Twenty-four patients and twenty controls were submitted to an auditory semantic task (congruous or incongruous word sequences). A similar increased SCR/HR was found for both DOC and control group in response to incongruous condition. This modulation was interpreted as a marker of the increased cognitive difficulty in processing and restoring incongruent information. However, MCS and VS groups quantitatively (but not qualitatively) differed in term of degree of increased arousal, since higher SCR and HR increasing was observed for MCS than VS. These results were interpreted as a marker that the semantic processing was partially preserved in both VS and MCS patients.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
