Cognitive Neuropsychology Research Articles

Disorders of single word processing.

In recent years, studies in the cognitive neuropsychology of language have helped in understanding the functional architecture of linguistic processes. It has been shown that recognizing, comprehending and producing a word entails the activation of a complex set of mechanisms, each of which can be selectively impaired as a consequence of brain damage. Investigations of aphasic subjects have demonstrated that the meaning, the pronunciation and the spelling of a word are represented independently, that category information plays a critical role in semantic organization, and that the mental vocabulary represents word class and morphological structure. These distinctions in the architecture of the lexical-semantic system, in turn, have provided the basis for PET and fMRI studies of the neural correlates of single-word processing. These experiments, in agreement with recent neurophysiological investigations, suggest that cognitive/linguistic functions are likely to be represented in distributed neural networks often encompassing more than one lobe, rather than in individual, sharply demarcated neural structures.

The Handbook of cognitive neuropsychology: what deficits reveal about the human mind

Part 1. Foundations. M. Coltheart, Assumptions and Methods in Cognitive Neuropsychology. O. Selnes, Contributions from the Study of Deficits to Our Understanding of Brain Function: A Historical Overview. Part 2. Objects. M.J. Riddoch, G. Humphreys, Recognizing and Identifying Objects. E. de Haan, Face Recognition. Part 3. Attention. C. Umilta, Mechanisms of Attention. M. Farah, Consciousness. Part 4. Words. A. Hillis, The Organization of Lexical Knowledge. W. Badecker, Allen, Morphology: The Internal Structure of Words. B. Rapp, J. Folk, Reading Words. M. Tainturier, B. Rapp, Spelling Words. L. Nickels, Spoken Word Production. Part 5. Sentences. R. Martin, Understanding Sentences. R. Berndt, Producing Sentences. T. Gollan, J. Kroll, Bilingualism. Part 6. Memory. A. Parkin, Memory Systems. J. Shelton, A. Caramazza, Semantic Categories. D. Schacter, C. Dodson, Constructive Processes in Memory. Part 7. Space, Time, Numerosity and Music. M. Noel, Numerical Cognition. I. Peretz, Musical Cognition. M. McCloskey, Spatial Frames of Reference. J. Mangels, R. Ivry, Temporal Processing. Part 8. Actions and Plans. L. Buxbaum, B. Coslett, Motor Programming and Execution. G. Humphreys, Planning and Executing Complex Action Sequences. Part 9. Future Directions. M. McCloskey, Future Directions.

Cognitive neuropsychology: The ‘english’ school 1942–1999

Research on the visual and verbal subsystems of working memory has shown vigorous development, with PET, fMRI and behavioural data all supporting separate systems, with further fractionation being likely. Analysis of executive processes is revealing a range of subprocesses, providing a very fruitful field for the interaction of cognitive psychology, neuropsychology and functional imaging.

Calculating without reading? Comments on Cohen and Dehaene (2000)

Cohen and Dehaene (Cognitive Neuropsychology, 2000, Vol. 17, pp. 563-583) reported the case of a pure alexic patient who preserved some calculation abilities despite severely impaired Arabic numeral reading. They argued that these residual abilities and the general pattern of performance of the patient can be fully explained within their anatomo-functional triple-code model. Here, we show how the lack of specification of the assumed architecture, the failure to provide sufficiently detailed data, and the absence of adequate refutation of alternative accounts make this study unsuitable for constraining theories of numerical cognition.

Calculating without reading? Comments on Cohen and Dehaene (2000)

Cohen and Dehaene (Cognitive Neuropsychology, 2000, Vol. 17, pp. 563-583) reported the case of a pure alexic patient who preserved some calculation abilities despite severely impaired Arabic numeral reading. They argued that these residual abilities and the general pattern of performance of the patient can be fully explained within their anatomo-functional triple-code model. Here, we show how the lack of specification of the assumed architecture, the failure to provide sufficiently detailed data, and the absence of adequate refutation of alternative accounts make this study unsuitable for constraining theories of numerical cognition.

Cognitive neuropsychology and functional brain imaging: implications for functional and anatomical models of cognition

We discuss the relations between functional imaging and cognitive neuropsychological research. We begin by elaborating on some of the problems of traditional neuropsychological research, which attempted to provide accounts of cognitive performance at a neural as well as at a functional level of description. The difficulties in making neural-level arguments from neuropsychological data include: problems of associated deficits, problems due to interactive effects between brain regions, problems with analyses based on behavioural syndromes, problems due to the influence of compensatory strategies, and problems in separating damaged from disconnected representations. We discuss how cognitive neuropsychology by-passed many of these problems by emphasising functional rather than neural-level theories, though problems with inferences at the neural-level remain. We then consider the contribution that functional imaging can make to cognitive neuropsychology. Using evidence drawn from studies of language, object recognition and visual attention, we argue that functional imaging complements cognitive neuropsychology by: (i) not being reliant on accidents of nature and by enabling effects of lesions on `distant' neural areas to be measured, (ii) revealing the brain systems necessary and sufficient for a given task, (iii) providing tests of neural-level models of cognition, and by (iv) providing novel evidence on the mechanisms of functional recovery in patients. In addition to this, imaging studies can contribute directly to functional-level theories, by providing converging evidence on the neural locus of cognition – knowing `where' can allow new inferences about `how' a given task is performed.

Functionally Activated Brain Imaging (O-15 PET and fMRI) in the Study of Learning and Memory after Traumatic Brain Injury

Advances in functional imaging technology and cognitive neuropsychology have resulted in paradigms in which participants can perform cognitive tasks during functional image acquisition. We will discuss the application of two approaches (oxygen-15 positron emission tomography and functional magnetic resonance imaging) that have recently been used to examine components of learning and memory following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Activated functional brain imaging findings that we will discuss may suggest possible functional reallocation and reorganization of brain substrates involved in verbal learning and memory following brain injury. The findings also are clearly in line with other research that indicates a prominent role for the frontal lobes in learning and memory functioning, and support the concept of distributed neural networks for memory-related functions, cognitive load, and the potential for examining brain re-organization after injury.

The Neurocognition of Language

Book ReviewsThe Neurocognition of LanguageDavid Green Dr.David Green Dr.Search for more papers by this authorPublished OnlineNovember 17, 2006https://doi.org/10.1027//0269-8803.15.1.48aPDFView Full Text ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack Citations ShareShare onFacebookTwitterLinkedInReddit SectionsMoreFiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 15Issue 1January 2001ISSN: 0269-8803eISSN: 2151-2124 tabs.informationJournal of Psychophysiology (2001), 15, pp. 48-48 https://doi.org/10.1027//0269-8803.15.1.48a.© 2001The Federation of European Psychophysiology SocietiesPDF download

The Hippocampal and Parietal Foundations of Spatial Cognition

The Hippocampal and Parietal Foundations of Spatial Cognition

Psychoanalysis and Cognitive Neuropsychology: Theoretical and Methodological Affinities

The position is taken in this paper that psychoanalysis can better profit from findings in neuroscience (and vice versa) through the mediation of cognitive science. It is argued that cognitive science is highly compatible with Freud’s background and thinking. This opinion stems from a reconsideration of Freud’s neuropsychological work, with particular reference to his book on aphasia.Cognitive neuropsychology and psychoanalysis are also thought to share some basic theoretical tenets and methods; for example, the assumption of transparency and the emphasis on single case studies.Some basic concepts developed within cognitive (neuro)psychology may indeed be painlessly incorporated into psychoanalytic theory. Among these, the concepts of modularity and informational encapsulation as well as the distinction among different types of memory appear to have a particular importance.

Historical Development and Methodological Foundations of Cognitive Neuropsychology

The cognitive neuropsychology is presented in its historical development and main methodological changes. The ontological debates are distinguished on the relations between mind and brain in the history of psychology. The appearance of neuropsychology is described as a result of the studies concerning the relations between aphasia and cerebral injuries. The research in cognition, a strong movement in psychology in the last four decades, is recognized as a contribution to the understanding of human mental operations. Such developments strengthened the relations between brain and mind. The main methodological proposals in cognitive neuropsychology are discussed with special emphasis for the following aspects: debate between case and groups studies; dissociations between cognitive tasks; and advances and limitations of the neuroimaging techniques. Finally, the historical process of scientific and professional organization of the area is described.

Mecanismos atencionales y síndromes neuropsicológicos

Both cognitive psychology and neuropsychology require an approach to the multidimensional 'attention'. Attention permits behaviour to be suitable to the task in hand. According to the situation or activity required, the components or mechanisms of attention necessary vary (selectivity, alertness, vigilance, focus, inhibitory control mechanisms, etc.)as do the different neural networks involved. In the different neuropsychological syndromes different components and attention mechanisms are affected. For instance, in attention deficit disorder there is inability to take notice of control of carrying out inappropriate responses, whilst in visual heminegligence there may be a defect of a mechanism such as disconnection of attention selective to a given space. To obtain coherent results in the study of attention disorders in various syndromes, the different components and attention mechanisms should be systematically evaluated using specific tests. In neuropsychology frequently the tests used only measured the aspects most closely connected to speed of perception and visual selective attention, without evaluating other components. Sometimes study data measuring different aspects of attention have been compared, and therefore the conclusions drawn regarding possible attention disorders were controversial. The lack of standardised data and the difficulty of establishing 'pure' tests of attention mechanisms make the task more arduous. Only the integration of experimental studies of cognitive psychology and the techniques and procedures of neuropsychology permit clarification of the construction and the advance of explanatory models.

Las memorias y la enfermedad de Alzheimer

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in the elderly. Memory loss is generally the most pervasive cognitive symptom of AD but is not the only one and is not homogeneous in its loss. Memory complaint is one of the most frequent complaints in elderly people but not all complaints of memory inefficiencies in old age reflect dementing illnesses. Amnesia is the failure or lack of memory. Research in cognitive psychology and neuropsychology of memory has produced evidence than human memory is not a unitary aspect of human cognition but is organized in independent systems. Tulving (1995) and Van der Linden (1997) identified at least five major memory systems: primary memory or working memory, episodic memory, semantic memory, procedural system and perceptual priming. From a theoretical view of multiple memory systems, the purpose of the present conference is the review of multiple systems models of human memory and the memory processes, encoding, storage and retrieval in AD and memory assessment. Memory assessment is not limited by formal testing and requires ecological assessment by daily living tasks of AD patients. Appropriateness of multiple memory systems models is discussed.

Attentional deficits in patients with post-concussion symptoms: a componential perspective

Attentional deficits are frequently reported by patients suffering from closed head injuries. The majority will develop a group of clinical symptoms known as post-concussion symptoms or syndromes (PCS), which are characterized by a range of subjectively experienced symptoms including headaches, dizziness, fatigue, irritability, slowed thinking, and memory dysfunction. It is posited that attentional deficit is the crucial factor for the apparent failures of memory and higher cognitive functioning, and may contribute largely to difficulty in re-integrating back into the community and resuming independent daily living. It also appears that there are large variations within these patients, in terms of both presented symptoms and neuropsychological performances. However, these variations in terms of attentional deficits have not been systematically differentiated and examined. This article aims to build up a theoretical framework to guide the investigation of the varieties of attentional deficits in patients with PCS. Current theories on attention from cognitive psychology, neuropsychology, cognitive neuroscience and clinical rehabilitation will be reviewed and integrated. It is hoped that a better understanding of the underlying mechanism of such defects will foster and guide the development of intervention.

Attentional deficits in patients with post-concussion symptoms: a componential perspective

Attentional deficits are frequently reported by patients suffering from closed head injuries. The majority will develop a group of clinical symptoms known as post-concussion symptoms or syndromes (PCS), which are characterized by a range of subjectively experienced symptoms including headaches, dizziness, fatigue, irritability, slowed thinking, and memory dysfunction. It is posited that attentional deficit is the crucial factor for the apparent failures of memory and higher cognitive functioning, and may contribute largely to difficulty in re-integrating back into the community and resuming independent daily living. It also appears that there are large variations within these patients, in terms of both presented symptoms and neuropsychological performances. However, these variations in terms of attentional deficits have not been systematically differentiated and examined. This article aims to build up a theoretical framework to guide the investigation of the varieties of attentional deficits in patients with PCS. Current theories on attention from cognitive psychology, neuropsychology, cognitive neuroscience and clinical rehabilitation will be reviewed and integrated. It is hoped that a better understanding of the underlying mechanism of such defects will foster and guide the development of intervention.

Le dépistage des troubles du langage chez l’enfant.Une contribution à la prévention de l’illettrisme

Identification of language disorders in childhood to help prevent illiteracy. C. Billard Early identification of disorders of oral and written language development is essential for effective action before the vicious circle of educational failure and established psychosocial consequences. There has been growing awareness among health and education professionals that the means of recognizing, treating and teaching children with specific oral and written language disorders are inadequate. There is still a limited number of diagnostic tools that have not been fully evaluated. Nevertheless, considerable effort has been made in recent years to develop instruments for early detection and precise diagnostic evaluation. Developments in cognitive neuropsychology provide new approaches for the management of these disorders.

Cognitive biases and addiction: an evolution in theory and method.

An evolution in theoretical models and methodological paradigms for investigating cognitive biases in the addictions is discussed. Anomalies in traditional cognitive perspectives, and problems with the self-report methods which underpin them, are highlighted. An emergent body of cognitive research, contextualized within the principles and paradigms of cognitive neuropsychology rather than social learning theory, is presented which, it is argued, addresses these anomalies and problems. Evidence is presented that biases in the processing of addiction-related stimuli, and in the network of propositions which motivate addictive behaviours, occur at automatic, implicit and pre-conscious levels of awareness. It is suggested that methods which assess such implicit cognitive biases (e.g. Stroop, memory, priming and reaction-time paradigms) yield findings which have better predictive utility for ongoing behaviour than those biases determined by self-report methods of introspection. The potential utility of these findings for understanding "loss of control" phenomena, and the desynchrony between reported beliefs and intentions and ongoing addictive behaviours, is discussed. Applications to the practice of cognitive therapy are considered.

Remembering and knowing in a patient with preserved recognition and impaired recall

ROB is a patient who has a severe deficit in recalling recently presented verbal material following rupture and repair of an anterior communicating artery aneurysm [Hanley JR, Davies ADM, Downes J, Mayes A. Cognitive Neuropsychology 1994;11:543–78; Hanley JR, Davies ADM. In: Parkin A, editor. Case Studies in the Neuropsychology of Memory. Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum, 1997. p. 111–26]. Despite this, her performance on tests of recognition memory is comfortably within the normal range. In the present series of experiments, we investigated whether or not ROB's performance on tests of recognition memory might be associated with a disproportionately large number of correct decisions made on the basis of familiarity rather than contextual retrieval [e.g. Mandler G. Psychological Review 1980;87:252–71]. Contrary to this hypothesis, the results showed that ROB made a high proportion of remember decisions relative to know decisions in recognition [cf. Gardiner JM. Memory & Cognition 1988;16:309–13] and produced a high recollection score when conscious recollection and familiarity were placed in opposition to one another [cf. Jacoby LL, Woloshyn V, Kelley C. Journal of Experimental Psychology: General 1989;118:115–25.]. ROB's recognition memory performance therefore appears to be qualitatively as well as quantitatively similar to that found in the normal population. As ROB has suffered damage to both the fornix and the anterior thalamus, the results of the present study are consistent with the claim that damage to the extended hippocampal system has a much more severe effect on recall than on recognition [Aggleton JP, Shaw C. Neuropsychologia 1996;34:51–62; Aggleton JP, Saunders RC. Memory 1997;5:49–71]. The present results provide no support, however, for the additional suggestion [Aggleton JP, Brown MW. Behavioral and Brain Sciences 1999;22:425–56.] that the extended hippocampal system is necessary for recognition memory decisions that are based on contextual retrieval.

Integration of Neuropsychological and Cognitive Theory in Rehabilitation

Clinical neuropsychology has focused on the diagnosis and localization of brain damage. Much of the early progress in the field relied upon an atheoretical-actuarial approach. Recently a link between neuropsychology and cognitive psychology has emerged. From the early focus upon brain-behavior relationships, neurocognitive theories have emerged to explain observed brain functions. Although many researchers have enjoyed the collaboration between neuropsychology and cognitive psychology, others continue to investigate functions without considering the merging of finds. This article reviews integrative elements of cognitive and neuropsychological research and the emergence of cognitive neuropsychology.

Deterioro cognitivo en la enfermedad de Parkinson

Whether there are mental changes in Parkinson s disease (EP) or not, has been a confused and contradictory subject since the earliest studies and semiological definition of the disorder. James Parkinson himself, in his study An essay on the shaking palsy (1817), stated that in the condition he described, the sense and intellect were not damaged. Thanks to the development of cognitive neuropsychology, at the present time there are rather more precise concepts regarding this fascinating area of neurology. We give a summary, as schematic as possible, of theory relating to the known data. 1. The presence or absence of cognitive deterioration in EP 2. The neuropsychological characteristics of cognitive involvement in EP, cognitive defects in incipient EP and in established EP. 3. The risk factor involved in the occurrence of cognitive deterioration. This knowledge should be used for better understanding of the patient s mental state at every stage of the disease, during follow up studies and for the neuro conductual therapeutic and socio familial approach in each case.