Relevance. Animals with knockout of the dopamine transporter gene (DAT–KO) reproduce the main symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Changes in DAT function in DAT-KO rats are a key mechanism in various pathological conditions associated with hyperdophaminergia. The aim of this study was to investigate the features of the manifestation of behavior patterns in response to novelty in free behavior in DAT-KO rats compared with heterozygous animals for the knockout gene (DAT-HET) and wild-type (WT) rats Methods. The experiments were conducted on 57 male Wistar rats DAT-KO, DAT-HET and WT. Rats with a knockout of the DAT gene were initially obtained from St. Petersburg State University, the Institute of Translational Biomedicine. Genotyping and behavior research in the open field were carried out. The analysis of behavior patterns was used: locomotion; sniffing; rearing; grooming; movement in place (changing the coordinates of the head and body within a conditional circle, the center of which is the relatively stationary hind limbs of the animal); peering into the hole; stand on the wall (rearing with an emphasis on the wall of an open field). Results. The DAT-KO rats showed marked hyperactivity compared to the WT and DAT-HET rats, they spent less time in the center of the field and moved in a repetitive circular pattern along the walls. The manifestations of investigatory activity in DAT-KO rats decreased in the number of peering into the hole and sniffings compared with WT and DAT-HET rats. The manifestations of anxiety in DAT-KO rats decreased in the number of acts of "grooming" and movements in place. In DAT-HET rats, there was an increase in locomotor and investigatory activity compared with WT. Conclusion. Based on the analysis of their own behavioral data and other studies, it is concluded that behavioral disinhibition is an overlapping feature of the elements of addictive behavior: impulsivity and compulsivity, which require independent study in DAT-KO animals. The presence of hyperdophaminergia, increased locomotions and investigations in DAT-HET rats with simultaneous cognitive impairment can predict addictive behavior disorders under conditions of gene-environment interaction.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a prevalent neurodevelopmental condition in childhood, associated not only with difficulties in attention and impulsivity but also with increased internalizing symptoms, such as anxiety and depression, and a marked reduction in quality of life. Although pharmacological treatments play a central role in the management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, there is a growing need for psychosocial interventions that target these emotional difficulties and quality of life outcomes while actively involving families. This study is novel in its evaluation of the effectiveness of a structured cognitive behavioral therapy based psychoeducational program involving both children and their parents in reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms and improving quality of life in children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. A quasi-experimental controlled pretest-posttest design was employed. The intervention group comprised thirty-seven children aged eight to twelve years diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and their parents, while the control group included thirty-six age- and gender-matched children with the same diagnosis and their parents. The intervention consisted of an eight-session cognitive behavioral therapy based psychoeducational program integrating emotional regulation, adaptive coping strategies, and parent-focused guidance. Data were collected at baseline and after the intervention using a sociodemographic information form, the Quality of Life Inventory, and the Revised Children's Anxiety and Depression Scale. The intervention and control groups were similar in terms of demographic characteristics. The mean age of children in the intervention group was 10.35 ± 1.40 years, while the mean age of children in the control group was 10.47 ± 1.28 years (p = 0.751). Regarding gender distribution, the intervention group consisted of 11 girls (29.7%) and 26 boys (70.3%), while the control group consisted of 18 girls (50.0%) and 18 boys (50.0%) (p = 0.077). Children participating in the cognitive behavioral therapy -based psycho-educational program showed a statistically significant improvement in quality of life and a significant decrease in anxiety and depressive symptoms between the pre-test and post-test. No significant changes were observed in the same outcome measures in the control group. These findings provide robust evidence that cognitive behavioral therapy based psychoeducational interventions incorporating family participation are effective in improving psychological well-being and quality of life in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. From both psychiatric and nursing perspectives, such programs represent a valuable, non-pharmacological adjunct to standard care, supporting holistic and family-centered approaches in the multidisciplinary management of childhood attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. This study was registered under Clinical Trial Number: NCT06624527 on September 25, 2023. URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06624527?term=NCT06624527&rank=1.

ABSTRACT The rising incidence of amphetamine misuse, particularly in the context of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder treatment, underscores the urgent need for sensitive and effective detection methods. This review examines innovative nanomaterial‐based approaches for AMP detection, emphasizing their advantages over conventional analytical techniques. Various nanomaterials, including carbon nanotubes, graphene and metal nanoparticles, have been utilized to enhance the sensitivity and selectivity of detection methods such as electrochemical sensors, surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy and fluorescence‐based assays. The distinctive properties of nanomaterials, including high surface area, conductivity and biocompatibility, enable the development of rapid and reliable detection systems. This paper discusses recent advancements in nanomaterial synthesis, functionalization and integration into detection platforms, along with the challenges and future directions in this field. By harnessing the potential of nanotechnology, these innovative approaches aim to improve the accuracy and efficiency of amphetamine detection, thereby enhancing the monitoring and management of substance abuse, particularly in individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Introduction ARHGAP32 gene (Rho GTPase Activating Protein 32) encodes a Rho GTPase activating protein, which is vital for the regulation of synaptic plasticity and cytoskeletal dynamics. ARHGAP32 (11q24.3) has been implicated as a candidate gene for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Jacobsen syndrome, where a 243-kb terminal deletion encompasses its locus. A unique patient with de novo (DN) likely gene-disruptive mutation of ARHGAP32 has been reported so far in the medical literature. The present study was undertaken to understand clinical, molecular, and neurobehavioral characteristics of ASD associated with a novel DN nonsense mutation in ARHGAP32 . Methods Clinical characterization included basal and follow-up assessment with standardized measures and comorbidities diagnosis. Trio exome sequencing analyses (WES) and variants annotation were performed. Results WES analyses of a 6-year-old female patient with idiopathic ASD revealed DN heterozygous nonsense variant in ARHGAP32 (NM_001378024.1: c.610C>T; NP_001364953.1: p.(Arg204Ter). The variant is predicted to introduce a premature stop codon, resulting in either a truncated protein or activation of nonsense-mediated mRNA decay, ultimately leading to loss of function. The patient presented with normative growth parameters and cranial measurements, with no congenital morphological anomalies. A diagnosis of idiopathic ASD was made at age 2. Developmental delays were observed, notably language regression beginning at 18 months, mild intellectual disability, and restricted interests accompanied by repetitive motor and verbal behaviors. Significant hyperactivity and attentional difficulties were observed. Over time, she exhibited borderline non-verbal cognitive functioning, persistent speech impairment, and was subsequently diagnosed with comorbid Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Discussion This study identifies shared neurobehavioral features of idiopathic Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) associated with de novo LoF mutations in ARHGAP32 and reinforces the involvement of RhoGAP family proteins in neurodevelopmental disorders. Taken together with previous evidence, our data support the role of ARHGAP32 as a candidate gene for ASD, expanding the genetic spectrum.

While infarcts and white matter hyperintensities (WMH) are critical determinants of post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI), their comprehensive network disconnection mechanisms remain poorly characterized. This study aimed to systematically map the functional and structural network disconnection patterns underlying PSCI, elucidate the relationship between network disconnection and cognitive status-particularly the mediating role of WMH-and identify potential neuromodulation targets based on the disconnection maps. In a cohort of 376 mild-to-moderate first acute ischemic stroke patients without pre-stroke dementia, we employed connectome-based lesion-symptom mapping (CLSM) to construct comprehensive disconnection maps derived from infarct and WMH lesions. The distinctiveness was validated against an independent cohort of 78 cerebral small vessel disease patients. CLSM-derived lesion impact scores were analyzed using regression models to assess their domain-specific cognitive relationships and using mediation modeling to quantify the mediating effects of WMH. Potential neuromodulation targets were subsequently identified based on the disconnection patterns. Results revealed that spatially heterogeneous infarcts and WMH converge on functionally/structurally coherent disconnection patterns through distinct pathological mechanisms, with attention and processing speed (APS) deficits emerging as the most sensitive domain. Lesion impact scores were significantly correlated with cognitive deficits and demonstrated greater predictive contribution for 3-month cognitive outcomes than traditional volumetric measures. WMH-induced disconnections significantly mediated the relationship between infarct and PSCI/APS deficits. The left temporo-parieto-occipital junction could be considered a potential neuromodulation target for PSCI. This study establishes a network-level pathophysiological framework for PSCI, demonstrating distinct yet synergistic roles of acute and chronic vascular lesions.

Executive Function Performance in Bilingual and Monolingual Individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): a Comparative Analysis of Cold (Inhibitory Control and Cognitive Flexibility) and Hot (Theory of Mind) Executive Functions.

Objective This study employs a network meta-analysis to investigate the potential effects of exercise type, duration, frequency, intensity, and cycle on executive functions (inhibitory control, working memory, cognitive flexibility) in children and adolescents with ADHD, thereby providing directional insights for future research. Methods Five databases were systematically searched up to February 1, 2025, yielding 21 RCTs (n = 1,491) involving participants aged 7–18 years. The risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane tools. Standardised mean differences (SMDs) were used as effect measures, while SUCRA was used for probability ranking and GRADE for evidence quality grading. Results Skill-based exercise outperformed isolated aerobic exercise in inhibitory control (SMD = 0.73, 95% CI 0.31–1.41) and cognitive flexibility (SMD = 3.08, 95% CI 0.52–5.63). Combined exercise outperformed controls in working memory (SMD = 0.73, 95% CI 0.35–1.12). SUCRA ranking indicated the highest cumulative probability for skill-based exercise in inhibitory control (95.8) and cognitive flexibility (95.5), while aerobic exercise had the highest probability for working memory (87.1). Sensitivity analyses indicated that estimates for cognitive flexibility were significantly influenced by individual studies, demonstrating limited robustness. Conclusion Preliminary evidence suggests that moderate-intensity, skill-based exercise may improve inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility within 6–10 weeks. Aerobic exercise may enhance working memory within 4–5 weeks. However, factors such as ADHD subtypes, age, and dose-response relationships remain unclear. Clinical implementation should be individualised and await high-quality validation.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is an established neurodevelopmental disorder prevalent during childhood, and its symptoms encompass lack of attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Impulsive activity is observed to impact on academic as well as social functioning. Despite the efficacy of medication and behavioural therapies in managing ADHD, the fact is established that these therapies are limited, and the demand for an effective complementary therapy is growing. Physiotherapeutic activity techniques emphasising the domains of motor control, balance, proprioception, and cognition integration stand as promising non-pharmacologic therapies effectively improving the aspect of control. This work seeks to assess the efficacy of a formulated physiotherapeutic activities program in the regulation of impulsive behaviour in children afflicted by ADHD. Based on precisely defined parameters of improvement, the study determines the efficacy of a specific physiotherapeutic approach in arresting the symptoms of impulsivity and response inhibition in affected children. The results of the current study can prove to be a potential impetus in establishing physiotherapeutic interventions as a primary means of multifaceted ADHD management in affected children.

Students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) face a continuous challenge with their attention span, putting them at a greater risk of academic or psychological difficulties compared to their peers. Innovative communication technologies are demonstrating potential to address these attention-span concerns. Virtual Reality (VR) is one such example, and has the potential to address attention-span difficulties among ADHD students. Accordingly, this study presents an EEG-based multimodal sensing pipeline as a methodological contribution, focusing on sensor-based data acquisition, signal processing, and neurophysiological interpretation to assess attention in VR-based environments, simulating a university supply chain educational topic. Thus, in this paper, a sequential exploratory approach investigated how 35 participants experienced an interactive VR-learning-driven supply chain game. A Brain–Computer Interaction (BCI) sensor generated insights by quantitatively analysing electroencephalogram (EEG) data that were processed through the proposed pipeline and integrated with subjective measures to validate participant’s subjective feelings. These insights originated from questions during the experiment that followed the Spatial Presence and Technology Acceptance Model to form a multimodal assessment framework. Findings demonstrated that the experimental group experienced a higher improved attention, concentration, engagement, and focus levels compared to the control group. BCI results from the experimental group showed more dominant voltage potentials in the right frontal and prefrontal cortex of the brain in areas responsible for attention, memory, and decision-making. A high acceptance of the VR technology among neurodiverse students highlights the added benefits of multimodal learning assessment methods in an educational setting.

To examine the prevalence of comorbidities and the use of psychiatric comedication among individuals in medical treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), in comparison to a matched control group from the general population. This nationwide case-control study included 1,082,378 Danish individuals aged 7-64 of whom 98,398 had at least one prescription of ADHD medication during 2023. Data was collected over an observation period spanning from 2013 to 2023. Cases were matched to controls (1:10) from the general population on birth year and sex. Data were obtained and accessed through The Danish Health Data Authority. Associations were estimated using conditional logistic regression models. Somatic and particularly psychiatric comorbidities were more common among individuals in ADHD treatment across all age groups. Among those in ADHD treatment 46.7% had at least one comorbidity compared to 23.3% in the control group. The use of psychiatric comedications (besides ADHD medication) was likewise more common among individuals in ADHD treatment (32.7%) compared to the controls (7.2%). The association estimates from conditional logistic regression revealed a higher likelihood of somatic and psychiatric comorbidities among those in ADHD treatment in all age groups. Females in ADHD treatment had 4.48-4.50 times higher odds of comorbidities compared to females not in ADHD treatment (OR7 - 17 years = 4.48, 95% CI: 4.27-4.70; OR18 - 29 years = 4.50, 95% CI: 4.37-4.64). Similar patterns were observed for males but with slightly lower ORs (OR7 - 17 years = 2.35, 95% CI: 2.27-2.44; OR18 - 29 years = 3.38, 95% CI: 3.28-3.50). This study reveals that both prevalence of somatic and psychiatric comorbidities and the use of psychiatric comedication are significantly higher among individuals in ADHD treatment. The highest occurrence is seemingly among females aged 7-17 year and 18-29 years. The coexistence of ADHD with other somatic and psychiatric conditions can constitute a more complex disease burden, necessitating enhanced disease management strategies to reduce complications and enhance quality of life. Longitudinal studies are needed to confirm the temporal association of these results.

Mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNA-CN) reflects mitochondrial function and has been associated with several psychiatric disorders. However, the shared genetic architecture between mtDNA-CN and psychiatric conditions remains largely unexplored. Utilizing the largest available genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics from individuals of European ancestry, we systematically investigated the shared genetic architecture between mtDNA-CN and five major psychiatric disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder (BD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and schizophrenia (SCZ). Specifically, we assessed genetic overlap at the global, regional, and variant levels. In addition, gene expression analyses were performed to identify genes whose predicted expression was associated with both mtDNA-CN and psychiatric traits. Functional enrichment analyses were conducted to characterize the biological functions underlying the shared genes. Significant global-level genetic overlap was observed between mtDNA-CN and all five psychiatric disorders. Regional analyses identified four genomic regions with high pleiotropic probability shared between mtDNA-CN and ADHD, BD, and SCZ. At the variant level, 30 lead variants were detected, corresponding to 30 independent loci jointly associated with mtDNA-CN and psychiatric traits. These loci were mapped to 305 unique genes, among which 87 genes exhibited significant associations between their predicted expression levels and both mtDNA-CN and psychiatric disorders. Functional enrichment highlighted neurodevelopmental and ubiquitin-related pathways, with significant downregulation of shared genes in key brain regions. These findings provide comprehensive evidence for shared genetic mechanisms linking mitochondrial function and psychiatric disorders, highlighting mitochondrial dysfunction as a promising target for future therapy.

Combined transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) and cognitive training (CT) for cognitive impairment: Evidence from clinical applications and basic research.

Evolution of users' subjective experience over three training sessions with an EEG Motor-Imagery Brain-Computer Interface (MI-BCI).

Recent research suggests that dyslexia involves not only reading difficulties but also deficits in working memory, attention, language, and information processing. This study examined the role of auditory attention in the comprehension of syntactically complex sentences in children with dyslexia. Participants completed an auditory language comprehension test and an auditory sustained attention task. Results showed that the dyslexic group scored lower than controls on both tasks, indicating weaker auditory attention and comprehension. They gave fewer correct answers and exhibited longer reaction times, particularly as syntactic complexity increased. Dyslexic individuals also made more errors and required more time to respond, suggesting impairments in auditory language processing, likely linked to attention deficits. While increased syntactic complexity reduced performance in both groups, the dyslexic group consistently demonstrated more pronounced difficulties than their typical peers did. These findings highlight that auditory attention and syntactic complexity significantly affect sentence comprehension in children with dyslexia. The results suggest that comprehension challenges in dyslexia are not solely due to reading limitations but also involve broader cognitive processing issues. Insights into specific sentence structures and processing delays can inform the development of more sensitive diagnostic tools and targeted interventions for assessing and supporting language comprehension in dyslexic populations.

Perceptions of adults with ADHD on pharmacological treatment initiation and subsequent adherence: a thematic analysis.

Jingning formula alleviates ADHD by restoring gut microbiota dysbiosis and tryptophan metabolic dysfunction.

This study aimed to examine the multidimensional relationships between MOXO-d-CPT performance and severity profiles-attention, timing, impulsivity and hyperactivity-and regional brain volumetric and cortical thickness measures in individuals with ADHD. Thirty-eight adults with ADHD underwent MOXO-d-CPT assessment and high-resolution structural brain MRI. MOXO-d-CPT performance and severity levels were analysed in relation to 155 regional brain volumes and 110 cortical thickness measures using group-wise statistical comparisons. Attention performance and severity were associated with volumetric and cortical thickness differences primarily in frontal, temporal and cerebellar regions. Timing performance was related to cerebellar and frontal volumetric measures, whereas timing severity showed limited volumetric differences without cortical involvement. Impulsivity performance demonstrated no volumetric differences but was associated with cortical thickness variations in frontal and temporal regions. Hyperactivity performance was linked to both volumetric and cortical alterations, whereas hyperactivity severity was associated exclusively with cortical thickness differences, predominantly in occipital regions (p < 0.05). These findings highlight distinct structural brain correlates underlying MOXO-d-CPT performance and symptom severity dimensions in ADHD, supporting a multidimensional neurobiological framework that extends beyond categorical diagnostic approaches.

Background: This research explores the complex relationship between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and language skills, focusing on the impact of the disorder on children’s language development. It is designed as a systematic literature review to synthesize and evaluate existing evidence on this topic. Based on the existing literature, ADHD affects multiple dimensions of language, including phonological awareness, pragmatic comprehension, morphosyntactic structure, narrative skills, and written expression. The difficulties that children with ADHD exhibit at the language level are directly related to their deficits in working memory, attention, and organization, which make it challenging for them to acquire and use language at both educational and social levels. Methods: This study followed the PRISMA methodology, with a systematic selection process across four stages (identification, screening, eligibility, and inclusion). During the identification phase, 475 records were identified (450 from database searches and 25 through reference screening). After screening and applying inclusion criteria, 15 studies met all eligibility requirements and were included in the final synthesis. Results: The present research highlighted the important role that occupational therapists and psychologists can play in the language development of children with ADHD. Strategic interventions to alleviate the language difficulties of children with ADHD are designed to enhance phonological awareness, executive function, speech and language, the use of technological tools, and social skills training. Conclusions: The importance of early diagnosis and implementation of holistic, individualized interventions targeting the language, executive, and social difficulties manifested by children with ADHD is considered influential in addressing the barriers to improving language skills as effectively as possible.

Causal relationships between ADHD, ASD and brain structure: A mendelian randomization study.

Background/Objectives: The treatment of dual disorders (DDs) must be comprehensive and multidisciplinary. Evidence supports the effectiveness of psychotherapy in treating DDs. The second part of this consensus synthesizes the available evidence on psychological treatment for specific DDs. Methods: Two consensus methods were sequentially implemented: the nominal group technique and the Delphi method. Results: This consensus review encompassed a compilation of recommendations for the psychological treatment of neurodevelopmental, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, somatic symptom, eating, and personality disorders. Finally, recommendations for the future research agenda on the psychological treatment of DD were included. Conclusions: (1) Psychological treatment, particularly integrated treatment, is effective. (2) In the case of dual autism, interventions for substance use disorders should be adapted to this population’s characteristics. (3) More research is needed on dual social anxiety, panic, generalized anxiety, somatic symptom, and eating disorders, for which Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most commonly used treatment. (4) For dual attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, multicomponent treatment is recommended (psychoeducation, CBT, and peer or family support). (5) For dual anxiety disorders, CBT is the first-line treatment. (6) For dual post-traumatic stress disorder, CBT (cognitive processing therapy and prolonged exposure therapy), acceptance and commitment therapy, stress inoculation training, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are effective. (7) For dual personality disorders, evidence is scarce. (8) For borderline personality disorder, dialectical behavior therapy, dynamic deconstructive psychotherapy, and dual-focus schema therapy show promise. (9) For antisocial personality disorder, CBT, contingency management, and counseling on impulsive lifestyles may be useful. (10) Much more evidence is needed from studies that overcome the methodological limitations of existing ones.