Auditory Verbal Learning Test Research Articles

Amyloid deposition and its association with depressive symptoms and cognitive functions in late-life depression: a longitudinal study using amyloid-β PET images and neuropsychological measurements

BackgroundAlthough depression is linked to an increased risk of dementia, the association between late-onset depression (LOD) and amyloid burden remains unclear. This study aimed to determine amyloid deposition in patients with LOD compared to healthy controls (HC) using amyloid-beta (Aβ) positron emission tomography (PET) images and neuropsychological assessments.MethodsForty patients first diagnosed with major depressive disorder after the age of 60 (LOD) and twenty-one healthy volunteers (HC) were enrolled. Depression and anxiety were evaluated using the 17-item Hamilton Depression Scale, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, and Clinical Global Impression Scale. Cognitive function was assessed using the Korean versions of the Mini-Mental Status Examination, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery at baseline and 3-month follow-up. 18F-florbetapir PET images were co-registered with T1-weighted magnetic resonance images.ResultsThere was no significant difference in Aβ deposition between LOD and HC groups. No significant correlation between Aβ burden and depressive symptom severity was found in LOD patients. Higher somatic anxiety was correlated with lower Aβ burden in multiple brain regions, including the left inferior frontal lobe (p = 0.009), right anterior cingulate (p = 0.003), and right superior frontal lobe (p = 0.009). Despite cognitive recovery in areas such as attention (Digit Span Forward, p = 0.026), memory (Auditory Verbal Learning Test Recall Total, p = 0.010; Rey Complex Figure Test Delayed Recall, p = 0.039), and frontal executive function (Contrasting Program, p = 0.033) after three months of antidepressant treatment, cognitive improvement showed no association with amyloid deposition.ConclusionsThese findings suggest distinct mechanisms may underlie amyloid deposition in neurodegenerative changes associated with depression. While amyloid burden in specific brain regions negatively correlated with somatic anxiety, it showed no significant correlation with the severity of depression or overall cognitive function.

Effects of video game immersion and task interference on cognitive performance: a study on immediate and delayed recall and recognition accuracy.

This study investigates the cognitive impacts of video game immersion and task interference on immediate and delayed recall as well as recognition tasks. We enrolled 160 subjects aged 18 to 29, who were regular players of "shoot-em-up" video games for at least 3 years. Participants were assigned to one of three experimental groups or a control group. The experimental conditions varied in the timing and type of tasks: the first group performed a video game session between recall tasks, the second group multitasked with video games and recall tasks simultaneously, and the third group engaged in task switching from video games to recall tasks. Using the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, we measured the effects of these conditions on cognitive performance, focusing on error types and recall accuracy. Results indicated that multitasking and task switching significantly affected the subjects' performance, with notable decrements in recall and recognition accuracy in conditions of high task interference. The study highlights the cognitive costs associated with multitasking in immersive digital games and provides insights into how task similarity and interference might increase error rates and affect memory performance.

Correlation Analysis of ApoB, ApoA1, and ApoB/ApoA1 with Cortical Morphology in Patients with Memory Complaints.

Apolipoproteins and cortical morphology are closely associated with memory complaints, and both may contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease. To examine whether apolipoprotein B (ApoB), apolipoprotein A-1 (ApoA1), and their ratio (ApoB/ApoA1) are associated with cortical morphology in patients with memory complaints. Ninety-seven patients underwent neuropsychological testing, measurements of ApoB, ApoA1, ApoB/ApoA1, plasma Alzheimer's biomarker, apolipoprotein E (ApoE) genotyping, and 3T structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) scans. Based on sMRI scanning locations, patients were categorized into the University of Electronic Science and Technology (UESTC) and the Fourth People's Hospital of Chengdu (FPHC). The Computational Anatomy Toolbox within Statistical Parametric Mapping was used to calculate each patient's cortical morphology index based on sMRI data. The cortical morphology index and apolipoproteins were also analyzed. Significant positive correlations were found between ApoB and sulcal depth in the lateral occipital cortex among the UESTC, the FPHC, and the total sample groups, and negative correlations were observed between sulcal depth in the lateral occipital cortex and the scores of the Shape Trails Test Part A and B. In the FPHC group, the scores of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Basic, delayed recall of the Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Animal Fluency Test and Boston Naming Test were positively correlated with the sulcal depth. ApoB is associated with the sulcal depth in the lateral occipital cortex, potentially relating to speed/executive function in individuals with memory complaints.

WHO-UCLA auditory verbal learning test: Normative data for Spanish-speaking adults in the United States.

Hispanics are a significant demographic in the U.S., with diverse cultures and languages. Assessing cognition in this group is complex as cultural and linguistic factors have been found to affect test performance. To generate normative data on the World Health Organization-University of California Los Angeles Auditory Verbal Learning Test (WHO-UCLA AVLT) in a sample of Spanish-speaking Hispanics residing in the U.S. The sample included 245 Spanish-speaking individuals aged 18-80 across the U.S. (California, Connecticut, Florida, Indiana, New Jersey, Oregon, Virginia, and Wisconsin). Participants were administered the WHO-UCLA AVLT as part of a comprehensive neuropsychological battery. A Bayesian regression approach was used to estimate normative data, including covariates found to be important for predicting performances on measures of learning and memory. Bayesian models showed a logarithmic link between education and all WHO-UCLA AVLT trials, except recognition. For delayed recall, increased Spanish proficiency benefited women's performance exclusively. Time in the U.S. was a significant predictor for total recall, indicating worse performance with longer residency. Recognizing cultural factors like language proficiency and duration of U.S. residence is essential for accurately evaluating cognitive function among Spanish-speaking Hispanics. This research emphasizes the importance of accounting for cultural nuances in developing norms for neuropsychological assessments, thereby improving their relevance and effectiveness in diverse communities.

Memory compromise at extended delays in people with new-onset epilepsy.

Memory is one of the most sensitive markers of cognitive compromise in people with new-onset epilepsy. Nonetheless, around half of these cases score within the normal range on standard memory testing. Here we explore whether memory retention at a 1-week delay reveals otherwise undetected memory compromise in such individuals, and how it relates to subjective memory complaints and mood. Using a prospective design, 38 adults with new-onset epilepsy underwent baseline memory screening via telephone using an abbreviated Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT). Psychological screening occurred via online questionnaires. One week later, without forewarning, participants completed three follow-up memory tasks. Of particular focus, we explored longer-term memory performances and forgetting trajectories in those individuals (n = 23) who demonstrated normal memory performances (scores >10th percentile) at baseline (30-min delay). Outcomes were compared to 32 healthy controls, matched for age, sex, and education. As a group, people with epilepsy performed worse than controls on all memory measures, with 44 percent impaired at baseline testing. Of those unimpaired at baseline, the rate and volume of information loss over 1 week was significantly greater than for controls. Contextual memory performance at 1 week was also significantly poorer for people with epilepsy. At the individual level, the prevalence of impaired forgetting was not significantly different between patients and controls. Subjective memory complaints were not related to any objective tests but were strongly related to self-reported mood and anxiety symptoms. People with new-onset epilepsy show reduced memory at short and extended intervals. For those showing normal memory at baseline, information does appear to be forgotten more quickly than in healthy controls, though the effect is not large. The findings indicate that while extended delay memory testing is not essential in all new epilepsy cases, it could provide useful information for particular individuals. Memory problems are common in people with epilepsy shortly after seizure onset, however, many individuals still show normal memory performances on standard neuropsychological testing. Through testing memory at an extended timepoint (1 week), our study found that on average, these individuals showed a slightly quicker rate of forgetting over a 1-week period than people without a brain condition. Self-reported memory complaints in people with new epilepsy were unrelated to their actual memory skills on testing at short and long timepoints but were rather linked to lower mood and quality of life.

Association of systolic blood pressure variability with cognitive decline in type 2 diabetes: A post hoc analysis of a randomized clinical trial.

We aimed to explore the association between visit-to-visit systolic blood pressure variability (BPV) and cognitive function in individuals with type 2 diabetes. We performed a post hoc analysis of the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Memory in Diabetes (ACCORD-MIND) substudy. A total of 2867 diabetes patients with ≥3 BP measurements between the 4- and 20-month visits were included. Visit-to-visit systolic BPV was calculated. Cognitive decline was defined as a Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE), Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), or Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) score greater than 1 standard deviation (SD) below the baseline mean, or a Stroop test score more than 1 SD above the baseline mean. The associations of systolic BPV with risks of cognitive decline were examined using Cox proportional hazards models, and with changes in brain magnetic resonance imaging parameters were evaluated using mixed models. The risk of cognitive decline defined by the DSST score (but not by other scores) increased significantly with systolic BPV quartiles (p for trend = 0.008), and there was a 55% increased risk for BPV quartile 4 versus quartile 1 (hazard ratio = 1.55, 95% confidence interval 1.10-2.19). Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between systolic BPV and change in white matter lesion volume (β = 0.07, 95% CI 0.01-0.13). A greater visit-to-visit systolic BPV was significantly associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline measured by DSST and an increase in white matter lesion volume in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Analyzing the relationship between processing speed impairment and Rey-15 item test performance

ABSTRACT Objective This study investigated the relationship between processing speed impairment severity and performance on the Rey 15-Item Test (RFIT) and RFIT + Recognition. Method Cross-sectional data from 285 examinees (228 valid/57 invalid) referred for neuropsychological assessment who were administered the RFIT, Weschler Adult Intelligence Scale-Fourth Edition (WAIS-IV) Processing Speed Index (PSI), Brief Visuospatial Memory Test – Revised, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, and three independent criterion PVTs were included. PSI bands were operationalized as Intact (≥85SS; n = 163), Reduced/Possibly Impaired (77-84SS; n = 36), or Impaired (≤76 SS; n = 29). Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analyses tested the RFIT and RFIT + Recognition’s classification accuracy for detecting invalid performance for the overall sample and by PSI impairment status. Results Those with intact processing speed performed significantly better on the RFIT and RFIT + Recognition than those with reduced/possibly impaired and impaired processing speed. Though verbal/visual memory predicted RFIT scores independently, PSI contributed additional variance. ROC curves for RFIT and RFIT + Recognition were significant (AUC=.64-.84). Optimal cut-scores yielded modest sensitivity (30%-63%) and high specificity (89%-93%) among those with intact and reduced processing speed but yielded unacceptable accuracy in those with impaired speed (AUC=.59-.62). Conclusions Although the RFIT and RFIT + Recognition demonstrated acceptable classification accuracy in those with intact processing speed, accuracy diminished with increasing speed impairment. This finding was more pronounced for RFIT + Recognition compared to the traditional RFIT. As such, the RFIT may have limited clinical utility in examinees with more significant processing speed deficits.

Transcutaneous Electrical Acupoint Stimulation for Elders with Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Controlled Pilot and Feasibility Trial

Background: Amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) is an important window of opportunity for early intervention and rehabilitation in dementia. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility and effect of delivering transcutaneous electrical acupuncture stimulation (TEAS) intervention to elders with aMCI. Methods: A total of 61 aMCI patients were randomly allocated into the intervention group (receiving a 12-week TEAS) and control group (receiving health education). The feasibility outcomes included recruitment rate, retention rate, adherence rate, and an exploration of patients’ views and suggestions on the research. The effective outcomes included cognitive function, sleep quality, and life quality, which were measured by the Montreal cognitive assessment scale (MoCA), auditory verbal learning test—Huashan version (AVLT-H), Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), and quality of life short-term-12 (QoL SF-12). Results: The recruitment rate, retention rate, and adherence rate were 67.35%, 92.42%, and 85.29%, respectively. Most aspects of the research design and administration of the TEAS intervention were acceptable. The quantitative analysis suggests that compared with the control group, the scores of MoCA, AVLT-H, and SF-12 (mental component summary) were significantly better (p < 0.05); however, the differences were not statistically significant in PSQI and SF-12 (physical component summary) (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The findings demonstrated that the study was feasible. TEAS awas possible for enhancing cognitive function and mental health in people with aMCI.

Plasma biomarkers in chronic single moderate-severe traumatic brain injury.

Blood biomarkers are an emerging diagnostic and prognostic tool that reflect a range of neuropathological processes following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Their effectiveness in identifying long-term neuropathological processes after TBI is unclear. Studying biomarkers in the chronic phase is vital because elevated levels in TBI might result from distinct neuropathological mechanisms during acute and chronic phases. Here, we examine plasma biomarkers in the chronic period following TBI and their association with amyloid and tau PET, white matter microarchitecture, brain age and cognition. We recruited participants ≥40 years of age who had suffered a single moderate-severe TBI ≥10 years previously between January 2018 and March 2021. We measured plasma biomarkers using single molecule array technology [ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1), neurofilament light (NfL), tau, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and phosphorylated tau (P-tau181)]; PET tracers to measure amyloid-β (18F-NAV4694) and tau neurofibrillary tangles (18F-MK6240); MRI to assess white matter microstructure and brain age; and the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test to measure verbal-episodic memory. A total of 90 post-TBI participants (73% male; mean = 58.2 years) were recruited on average 22 years (range = 10-33 years) post-injury, and 32 non-TBI control participants (66% male; mean = 57.9 years) were recruited. Plasma UCH-L1 levels were 67% higher {exp(b) = 1.67, P = 0.018, adjusted P = 0.044, 95% confidence interval (CI) [10% to 155%], area under the curve = 0.616} and P-tau181 were 27% higher {exp(b) = 1.24, P = 0.011, adjusted P = 0.044, 95% CI [5% to 46%], area under the curve = 0.632} in TBI participants compared with controls. Amyloid and tau PET were not elevated in TBI participants. Higher concentrations of plasma P-tau181, UCH-L1, GFAP and NfL were significantly associated with worse white matter microstructure but not brain age in TBI participants. For TBI participants, poorer verbal-episodic memory was associated with higher concentration of P-tau181 {short delay: b = -2.17, SE = 1.06, P = 0.043, 95% CI [-4.28, -0.07]; long delay: bP-tau = -2.56, SE = 1.08, P = 0.020, 95% CI [-4.71, -0.41]}, tau {immediate memory: bTau = -6.22, SE = 2.47, P = 0.014, 95% CI [-11.14, -1.30]} and UCH-L1 {immediate memory: bUCH-L1 = -2.14, SE = 1.07, P = 0.048, 95% CI [-4.26, -0.01]}, but was not associated with functional outcome. Elevated plasma markers related to neuronal damage and accumulation of phosphorylated tau suggest the presence of ongoing neuropathology in the chronic phase following a single moderate-severe TBI. Plasma biomarkers were associated with measures of microstructural brain disruption on MRI and disordered cognition, further highlighting their utility as potential objective tools to monitor evolving neuropathology post-TBI.

Hypoxemia during rapid eye movement sleep mediates memory impairment in older adults at risk for dementia via CA1 hippocampal volume loss

AbstractBackground and PurposeObstructive sleep apnea is associated with increased dementia risk. Nocturnal hypoxemia, which can be more severe during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, may be a key mechanism. This study examines how REM hypoxemia affects memory and explores whether hippocampal vulnerability to hypoxemia mediates this effect in older adults at risk for dementia.MethodsOlder adults aged ≥50 years (N = 338) with subjective or mild cognitive impairment (i.e., objective impairment) underwent neuropsychological, mood, and medical assessment, magnetic resonance imaging scanning (n = 135), and overnight polysomnography. Verbal learning and memory were assessed with the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test. REM sleep hypoxemia was measured using the Oxygen Desaturation Index‐3% (REM‐ODI). Hippocampal subfield (CA1, CA3, subiculum, and dentate gyrus) volumes were derived from T1 and high‐resolution hippocampus T2 scans. We determined whether the relationship between REM‐ODI and learning and memory was mediated by hippocampal subfield volume. Analyses were repeated in non‐REM sleep to determine whether the effects were REM‐specific.ResultsAlthough there was not a direct effect of REM‐ODI on verbal learning (p > 0.05) or memory (p > 0.05), mediation analyses showed a significant indirect effect of high REM‐ODI on poorer verbal learning (β = −0.09, 95% confidence interval [CI] = −0.238 to −0.005) and memory (β = −0.100, 95% CI = −0.255 to −0.005), which was mediated by CA1 volume. These associations were absent in non‐REM sleep (p > 0.05).ConclusionsHypoxemia during REM sleep may impair memory in people at risk for dementia by reducing CA1 hippocampal volume. Research is needed to explore whether interventions targeting REM sleep hypoxemia are protective against memory decline.

Association between Multi-Domain Lifestyle and Objective Cognitive Impairment in Elderly People with SCD and MCI in Chinese Communities.

Controlling the lifestyle associated with dementia risk can delay the process of cognitive decline. Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are early states in the development of dementia and are also the window period for early intervention in dementia. The purpose of this study was to explore the association between multi-domain lifestyle and objective cognitive impairment in elderly people with SCD and MCI in Chinese communities and to provide reference for effective implementation of precise health management measures to reduce the risk of dementia. A total of 265 middle-aged and elderly volunteers recruited from the community were divided into SCD group (107 cases), MCI group (80 cases), and healthy control (HC) group (78 cases). All participants received clinical interview, examination, and cognitive assessments. The total Dementia Risk Reduction Lifestyle Scale (DRRLS) scores in the HC, SCD, and MCI groups [110.00 (11.25) vs. 101.00 (10.00) vs. 79.50 (20.75)] exhibited statistically significant differences among them. The total score of the DRRLS showed a significant negative correlation with the Trail-Making Test (TMT), and significant positive correlations with both the Verbal Fluency Test (VFT) and Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT) scores (p < 0.05). After adjusting for confounding factors, such as age and years of education, multiple linear regression analysis revealed several points. In the SCD group, brain-strengthening exercise and interpersonal relationship scores were negatively correlated with TMT scores (β = -11.257, -15.077; all p < 0.05), while health responsibility, smoking control behavior, and interpersonal relationship scores were positively correlated with AVLT scores (β = 0.485, 0.344, and 0.406; all p < 0.05). In the MCI Group, brain-strengthening exercise, brain-healthy diet, and interpersonal relationship were negatively correlated with TMT (β = -22.011, -16.206, -11.696; all p < 0.01), whereas health responsibility, mental activity, smoking control behavior, interpersonal relationship, and stress management were positively correlated with AVLT (β = 0.450, 0.435, 0.308, 0.256, 0.607; all p < 0.05). In Chinese communities, the unhealthy lifestyle of elderly individuals with SCD and MCI is significantly associated with cognitive function impairment. The greater their unhealthy lifestyle habits, the more pronounced the scope and severity of cognitive function impairment becomes. Furthermore, different dimensions of lifestyle have varying impacts on cognitive domains.

Detecting malingered neurocognitive dysfunction: Comparative analysis of freestanding and embedded performance validity tests

Detecting malingered neurocognitive dysfunction is a major issue in forensic context, particularly in legal proceeding/insurance assessment after a traumatic brain injury (TBI), condition frequently associated with persistent cognitive impairments that may potentially be related to malingering. Consequently, research has devoted considerable efforts on developing tools to verify symptoms authenticity. This study compared two freestanding performance validity tests (PVTs) (Amsterdam Short-Term Memory Test—ASTM; Word Completion Memory Test—WCMT) and five embedded PVTs (Rey Complex Figure Test—RCFT—Copy and Recall trials; Reliable Digit Span—RDS; Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test—RAVLT—Recognition and Total Learning trials) in a sample of 120 participants, including 15 patients with TBI (Mage = 44.40), 52 experimental simulators (Mage = 29.52) and 53 control (Mage = 29.77). Group performance was analyzed to assess tests’ discriminatory power, and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were used to examine tools’ sensitivity and specificity. Results indicated that experimental simulators performance on the ASTM, WCMT, and RAVLT differed significantly from TBI patients and controls. The RDS and RCFT did not discriminate experimental simulators from TBI group. ROC curves analysis reveals that the most accurate tests in this battery for detecting malingering were the ASTM and the RAVLT-Total Learning score. This study offers implications for identifying malingering in medico-legal settings, underscoring the importance of incorporating PVTs into clinical practice.

Assessment of verbal memory in Parkinson's disease utilizing a virtual reality-based Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test

The Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) is a commonly used tool for evaluating verbal learning and memory in neuropsychological assessments. In recent years, we developed a Virtual Reality (VR) adaptation of the RAVLT (VR-RVLT), aiming for increased ecological validity compared to the traditional pen and paper gold standard (GS-RAVLT). Following validation in healthy cohorts, the VR-RAVLT was validated with thirty individuals with Parkinson's Disease (PD) that completed both the GS-RAVLT and the VR- RAVLT. Validity of the VR-RAVLT was evaluated by assessing its construct and discriminant validity, and test–retest reliability, in comparison to the GS-RAVLT. Results of the PD participants were compared to those of 46 previously recruited healthy participants with comparable age and level of education. Main outcome measures derived from the remembered items on the test lists, exhibited significant and comparable correlations between VR-RAVLT and GS-RAVLT, both among healthy participants and PD participants. Likewise, serial position effects were similar for both formats amog the PD participants. Additionally, both formats showed similar discriminatory ability between healthy controls and PD participants, as well as comparable test–retest reliability measures. Taken together, the results suggest that the VR-based RAVLT is equally effective in measuring verbal memory capabilities in individuals with PD as compared to the GS-RAVLT. Certain results indicate that the virtual reality version has the capability to encompass additional factors that might impact memory performance, thereby suggesting an enhanced ecological validity.

A new test for evaluation of marginal cognitive function deficits in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus through expressing texture recognition by sound symbolic words.

The number of dementia patients is increasing with population aging. Preclinical detection of dementia in patients is essential for access to adequate treatment. In previous studies, dementia patients showed texture recognition difficulties. Onomatopoeia or sound symbolic words (SSW) are intuitively associated with texture impressions and are less likely to be affected by aphasia and description of material perception can be easily obtained. In this study, we aimed to create a test of texture recognition ability expressed by SSW to detect the presence of mild cognitive disorders. The sound symbolic words texture recognition test (SSWTRT) is constructed from 12 close-up photos of various materials and participants were to choose the best SSW out of 8 choices to describe surface texture in the images in Japanese. All 102 participants seen in Juntendo University Hospital from January to August 2023 had a diagnosis of possible iNPH (age mean 77.9, SD 6.7). The answers were scored on a comprehensive scale of 0 to 1. Neuropsychological assessments included MMSE, FAB, and the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), Pegboard Test, and Stroop Test from the EU-iNPH Grading Scale (GS). In study 1 the correlation between SSWTRT and the neuropsychological tests were analyzed. In study 2, participants were divided into two groups: the Normal Cognition group (Group A, n = 37) with MMSE scores of 28 points or above, and the Mild Cognitive Impairment group (Group B, n = 50) with scores ranging from 22 to 27 points, and its predictability were analyzed. In study 1, the total SSWTRT score had a moderate correlation with the neuropsychological test results. In study 2, there were significant differences in the SSWTRT scores between groups A and B. ROC analysis results showed that the SSWTR test was able to predict the difference between the normal and mildly impaired cognition groups. The developed SSWTRT reflects the assessment results of neuropsychological tests in cognitive deterioration and was able to detect early cognitive deficits. This test not only relates to visual perception but is likely to have an association with verbal fluency and memory ability, which are frontal lobe functions.

Fixel-based and tensor-derived white matter abnormalities in relation to memory impairment and neurocognitive disorders.

Aging-related neurocognitive disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), have been characterised by altered brain white matter (WM), relying widely on diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). DTI's limited accuracy in assessing crossing fibres prompted novel methods that distinguish fibres crossing through same voxel-spaces, such as fixel-based analysis (FBA), highlighting subtle macrostructural and microstructural alterations in AD and MCI. We examined the FBA and DTI's specificity in determining WM features relevant to memory in the neurocognitive aging spectrum. Diffusion-weighted images were analysed in 560 participants with various neurocognitive diagnoses from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (F:297; mean age: 73.2 ± 8). Verbal memory was measured in 488 participants using the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test. FBA-derived measures of fibre density (FD), fibre-bundle cross-section (FC), and their combination (FDC), DTI fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) were examined in relation to diagnoses and memory scores, controlling for age, sex, and intracranial volume. MCI and AD groups significantly differed from controls, with lower FD and FDC in the fornix and bilateral fibres extending to the medial temporal lobes (MTL). Memory was positively associated with FD and FDC in the fornix and MTL fibres, and FC in theanterior commissure (AC). Widespread FA reductions and MD increases were observed in AD and MCI and widely associated with memory. Fixel-wise measures highlight fibre tracts that are altered distinctly at the macroscopic and microscopic level in neurocognitive aging, and reveals structures associated with memory performance that are more specifically located than tensor-derived measures.

B - 124 Neuropsychological Evaluation of Chinese Speaking Patients with Parkinson’s Disease for Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery

Abstract Objective Neuropsychological evaluation is a critical part of standardized workup of candidates with Parkinson’s disease (PD) for deep brain stimulation (DBS), identifying patients with cognitive dysfunction (Okun et al., 2006). Existing literature has primarily involved native English speakers with dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), informing treatment planning (Troster et al., 2018). This case series aims to address the gap for Chinese-speaking patients, by describing Chinese neuropsychological measures and norms sensitive to MCI. Method Six cases of first-generation Chinese immigrants diagnosed with PD considering DBS were included in this study. They identified Chinese as their primary language and English as their second language. Duration of residency in the U.S. ranged from 11 to 44 years. The battery included Chinese version of the MOCA; Chinese WAIS-IV; Boston Naming Test (Cheung et al. 2004); semantic verbal fluency, Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Symbol Digit Modalities Test, and Color Trail Test (Lee and Wang, 2010); and Brief Visuospatial Memory Test, Revised Edition (BVMT-R) or RBANS: Figure Recall. Results Consistent with studies for native English speakers (Foley et al., 2018), cognitive declines were found in attention, memory, and executive function domains. Two of the six cases were diagnosed with MCI, which warrants caution before DBS. Conclusions This case series explores measures for Chinese speakers with PD undergoing evaluation for DBS surgery, highlighting cultural considerations, including Chinese measures and norms. This battery can help to differentiate cognitive impairments before proceeding with DBS. Given the diversity within this population and the scarcity of Chinese tools, more research is urgently needed.

B - 108 Sleep Disordered Breathing, Cognition, and Anxiety in Young Adults

Abstract Objective Sleep disordered breathing (SDB) describes abnormal breathing during sleep due to upper airway dysfunction. SDB and anxiety are associated and independently affect cognition. The purpose of this study was to examine these associations among young adults in the domains of executive function, attention, working memory (WM), and long-term memory (LTM). Method Bronx students (N = 49, Mage = 19.8 years (SD = 1.30), female = 65%) were recruited via flyers. SDB risk assessment utilized the Berlin Questionnaire. Cognitive assessment included the Modified Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Trail Making Test A and B, Controlled Oral Word Association Test, and the Cogstate computerized battery (Groton Maze Learning Test, Identification Test, One Back Test, Two Back Test, and Groton Maze Learning Test Recall). Anxiety was assessed with the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales. Individuals in the normal/mild ranges were categorized in the low anxiety group, and individuals in the moderate/severe/extremely severe ranges were categorized in the high anxiety group. Results Anxiety symptoms moderated the relationship between SDB risk and WM. For high anxiety individuals, as SDB risk increased, performance on WM measures decreased (F(1,45) = 6.06, p = 0.02, η2 = 0.12). There was a trend for anxiety symptoms to moderate the relationship between SDB risk and LTM – among high anxiety individuals, as SDB risk increased, performance on LTM decreased (F(1,44) = 4.04, p = 0.05, η2 = 0.084). Conclusion For young adults, anxiety symptoms moderated the relationships between SDB and WM and between SDB and LTM, suggesting that mild levels of anxiety may have a beneficial effect on the relationship between SDB and cognition, while more severe anxiety may worsen that relationship.

A - 108 Changes in Memory and Attention Function Post-COVID-19 Infection in Older Adults with MCI

Abstract Objective Persons with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are more likely to develop dementia due to pre-existing cognitive impairment. COVID-19 is associated with an increased risk of developing dementia one-year post-infection. The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of COVID-19 infection on memory and attention in an amnestic sample. It was hypothesized that older adults with MCI would have significantly worse cognitive function post-COVID-19 infection. Method The current sample was drawn from a larger study of late life brain health. Our sample consisted of 9 older adults (mean age = 77.89 ± 9.89) with MCI. Participants were predominately White (77.78%) and male (100%). Participants completed the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) at baseline (T1) and 6 months (T2). All participants received the COVID-19 vaccine prior to T1 and contracted COVID-19 between T1 and T2. Paired sample t-tests evaluated cognitive change over time. Results Participants experienced non-significant change on the RAVLT Trial 6 (t = 0.00, p = 0.91), RAVLT Delayed Recall (t = 1.00, p = 0.35), RAVLT Sum Trials 1–5 (t = −1.49, p = 0.18), and RAVLT Trial 1 (t = −0.12, p = 0.91). Conclusions In our sample of older adults with MCI, contracting COVID-19 was not associated with significant worsening of learning, memory, or attention over a 6-month period. These findings suggest that the 6–12-month period post-COVID-19 infection may be a critical window for significant worsening of cognitive function. Future research should directly assess cognitive function in older at-risk groups 6–12 months post-COVID-19 infection.

A - 10 Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors Do Not Alter HD-tDCS Effects on Episodic Memory in Cognitively Impaired Older Adults

Abstract Objective High-Definition Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (HD-tDCS) is a potential new intervention for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s Dementia (ad) involving small doses of electrical stimulation. Prior studies suggest potential interactions with Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) that could alter HD-tDCS’s effectiveness on cognitive outcomes. This study evaluated if SSRIs altered HD-tDCS response to episodic memory functioning in individuals with MCI and ad. Method Eighteen individuals (M age = 70.5; 27.8% female; 8 stable on SSRIs), 9 with MCI and 9 with ad, underwent ten 20-minute HD-tDCS sessions of 1 milliampere over the medial frontal cortex. Neuropsychological testing assessed learning and delayed recall for visual (Brief Visuospatial Memory Test-Revised) and verbal (Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test or Hopkins Verbal Learning Test-Revised) episodic memory at baseline and immediately post-treatment. Linear regressions evaluated SSRI use as a predictor of post-treatment episodic memory performance controlling for baseline scores. Results Ten participants demonstrated improvement on at least one measure by 0.5 standard deviation (SD; 5 T-score points), with 5 showing 1 SD improvement. Eleven showed a decline by 0.5 SD on at least one measure, with 7 showing 1 SD decline. SSRI use did not significantly predict better or worse verbal learning (β = −4.285, p = 0.194), verbal delayed recall (β-0.408, p = 0.883), visual learning (β = −2.788, p = 0.405), and visual delayed recall (β = −6.673, p = 0.150) performance post-HD-tDCS. Conclusion Preliminary findings suggest SSRIs may not impact HD-tDCS outcomes in cognitively impaired older adults, specifically for episodic memory. These results may not translate to other neuropsychological domains; however, larger samples are needed for further investigation.

A Novel Score to Predict Individual Risk for Future Alzheimer’s Disease: A Longitudinal Study of the ADNI Cohort

Background: Identifying high-risk individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who are likely to progress to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is crucial for early intervention. Objective: This study aimed to develop and validate a novel clinical score for personalized estimation of MCI-to-AD conversion. Methods: The data from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) study were analyzed. Two-thirds of the MCI patients were randomly assigned to a training cohort (n = 478), and the remaining one-third formed the validation cohort (n = 239). Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with MCI-to-AD progression within 4 years. A prediction score was developed based on the regression coefficients derived from the logistic model and tested in the validation cohort. Results: A lipidomics-signature was obtained that showed a significant association with disease progression. The MCI conversion scoring system (ranged from 0 to 14 points), consisting of the lipidomics-signature and five other significant variables (Apolipoprotein ɛ4, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test immediate and delayed recall, Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale delayed recall test, Functional Activities Questionnaire, and cortical thickness of the AD signature), was constructed. Higher conversion scores were associated with a higher proportion of patients converting to AD. The scoring system demonstrated good discrimination and calibration in both the training cohort (AUC = 0.879, p of Hosmer-Lemeshow test = 0.597) and the validation cohort (AUC = 0.915, p of Hosmer-Lemeshow test = 0.991). The risk classification achieved excellent sensitivity (0.84) and specificity (0.75). Conclusions: The MCI-to-AD conversion score is a reliable tool for predicting the risk of disease progression in individuals with MCI.