Process Execution Research Articles

Exploring symptom clusters in mild cognitive impairment and dementia with the NIH Toolbox.

Symptom clustering research provides a unique opportunity for understanding complex medical conditions. The objective of this study was to apply a variable-centered analytic approach to understand how symptoms may cluster together, within and across domains of functioning in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia, to better understand these conditions and potential etiological, prevention, and intervention considerations. Cognitive, motor, sensory, emotional, and social measures from the NIH Toolbox were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) from a dataset of 165 individuals with a research diagnosis of either amnestic MCI or dementia of the Alzheimer's type. The six-factor EFA solution described here primarily replicated the intended structure of the NIH Toolbox with a few deviations, notably sensory and motor scores loading onto factors with measures of cognition, emotional, and social health. These findings suggest the presence of cross-domain symptom clusters in these populations. In particular, negative affect, stress, loneliness, and pain formed one unique symptom cluster that bridged the NIH Toolbox domains of physical, social, and emotional health. Olfaction and dexterity formed a second unique cluster with measures of executive functioning, working memory, episodic memory, and processing speed. A third novel cluster was detected for mobility, strength, and vision, which was considered to reflect a physical functioning factor. Somewhat unexpectedly, the hearing test included did not load strongly onto any factor. This research presents a preliminary effort to detect symptom clusters in amnestic MCI and dementia using an existing dataset of outcome measures from the NIH Toolbox.

Development of embedded fuzzy control using reconfigurable FPGA technology

The purpose of this work is to investigate the construction of fuzzy embedded control systems combining fast execution and parallel processing capabilities provided by Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) and Reconfigurable Inputs/Outputs (RIO) chips. A fixed-point fuzzy controller is developed and implemented on a fast mechatronic system with high-speed control and high channel count on an FPGA target. This paper provides a brief introduction to deploying Fuzzy Logic Control (FLC) methods using RIO-FPGA technology. It suggests a technique for implementing the three stages that constitute the FLC and the PD-like FLC and PID-like FLC structures into practice. Controllers with 1 and 2 degrees of freedom are developed and tested experimentally. Parallel loops, key challenging advantage of LabVIEW programming, are utilized for decoding feedback signals, generating pulse trains for actuator's drivers and for calculation of control gains. An NI-SbRIO board that combines deployable devices with a real-time processor, a re-configurable FPGA, and analogue and digital input–output ports is used. The experimental work demonstrates the significant enhancement of implementing reconfigurable embedded fuzzy control upon such mechatronic systems.

Manufacturing cloud service recommendation model based on deep feature learning and user preference perception

ABSTRACT The manufacturing cloud service recommendation model is a key technology for users to quickly discover and obtain the personalized services they need from the increasingly expanding manufacturing cloud; however, the manufacturing cloud service recommendation model faces problems, such as difficulty in representing deep features of services and too sparse user preference models. To address the above problems, this paper proposes a manufacturing cloud service recommendation model framework based on deep feature learning and user preference perception and investigates the key technologies involved. On the one hand, a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)-based deep feature extraction method for manufacturing cloud services is proposed by combining the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic model and word2vec. On the other hand, the concept of a category is introduced through the method of label clustering to perceive user behavior, efficiently build user preference models, and solve the sparse problem of the user-service matrix. Based on this, the execution process of the recommendation model for manufacturing cloud services is analyzed by fusing the deep features of services and user preference models. The experimental results on the actual dataset prove that the method greatly improves the recommendation effect.

Effect of cognitive training on cognitive function in community-dwelling older people with mild-to-moderate dementia: A single-blind randomised controlled trial.

The purpose of this assessor-blinded, randomised controlled trial was to determine the effect of computerised cognitive training (CT) on executive function, processing speed and working memory in 61 people with mild-to-moderate dementia. The primary outcomes were forward Digit Span and Trail Making Tests (TMT) at the completion of the 6-month intervention. Secondary outcomes included cognitive and physical performance, rate of falls, participant and caregiver's quality of life and usability and adherence to the CT program. The study was registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12617000364370). Intervention group (n = 31) participants averaged 81 min of CT per week, and system usability scores were acceptable (participants: 68.8 ± 22.1; caregivers: 79.4 ± 23.5). There were no statistically significant differences in cognitive or physical performance outcomes between the intervention and control groups at 6- or 12-months (between-group differences [95% CI] for primary outcomes at 6-months: Forward Digit Span -0.3 [-0.8, 0.3]; TMT-A 2.7 s [-14.1, 19.5]; TMT-B -17.1 s [-79.3, 45.2]). At the 12-month follow-up reassessment, the intervention group reported significantly more depressive symptoms and had lower caregiver-rated participant quality of life and higher caregiver quality of life compared to control. This study showed no benefit of the CT program on working memory, processing speed and executive function. Future studies are required to better understand how CT can be used to improve cognitive and physical functioning in older people with mild-moderate dementia.

Fabrication of a Nanomagnetic Smart Polymer Carrier as a Potential Candidate for a Drug Delivery System

We developed an intelligent device capable of controlled release of anti-cancer drugs. The nano-carrier consists of two key components: firstly, magnetic nanoparticles were synthesized through co-precipitation and then functionalized for attaching anti-cancer drugs; secondly, a polymer (poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-acrylic acid)) sensitive to pH and temperature was synthesized and employed to encapsulate the drug-loaded magnetic nanoparticles. This responsive polymer exhibits a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of 38.5 °C, indicating a phase transition behavior. Numerous techniques and analyses, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, zeta potentials, scanning electron microscope, and transmission electron microscopy, were employed to confirm the successful execution of the aforementioned process. In vitro release assessments of the anti-cancer drug, doxorubicin, were conducted across various media (pH 5–8 and temperatures ranging from 20 to 40 °C). The outcomes revealed higher drug releases at temperatures exceeding the LCST (40 °C) and at slightly acidic pH levels (5–5.3). Notably, compared to the effectiveness of the unloaded drug, the magnetic smart polymer loaded with DOX exhibited a more potent cytotoxic effect. Considering these results, this nano-carrier emerges as a promising candidate for targeted therapeutic delivery to cancerous tissues.

Минимизация трудоемкости выполнения комплекса вспомогательных действий для операций механической обработки

Abstract. The technological process of manufacturing mechanical engineering products using metal-cutting machines is a structurally complex process. This process can be described by the combination of two types of actions: the working stroke, which results in a change in the structure and properties of the workpiece, and an auxiliary transition, the task of which is to prepare the technological system for the execution of the working process. The execution 
 of auxiliary transitions does not entail a change in the structure and properties of the product, but leads to an increase in the complexity of its manufacture, therefore, increasing the efficiency of technological processes of mechanical processing largely depends on optimizing the complexity of performing a complex of auxiliary transitions. The purpose of the work is to develop a model for optimizing the parameters of a complex of auxiliary transitions for machining operations. The structure of the control object “Technological system” is described, within which two subcategories of control objects are defined: the control object “Technological equipment” and the control object “Wearable equipment”. Hypergraphs of changes in their intermediate states are presented for these subcategories of control objects. According to the presented models, the subcategory of the control object “Technological equipment” has 4 levels of control, the subcategory of the control object “Wearable tooling” has 3 levels of control. Lists of single and vector optimization criteria have been formed for the intermediate states of control objects. A description of a set of actions for the transition of control objects from the (i – 1) state to thei-estate is presented. A list of control parameters has been defined for each subcategory of the control object. The use of the presented model contributes to increasing the efficiency of the technological process by optimizing the values of the parameters of the complex of auxiliary actions at the stage of technological preparation of production.

Inflammatory biomarkers for neurobehavioral dysregulation in former American football players: findings from the DIAGNOSE CTE Research Project

BackgroundTraumatic encephalopathy syndrome (TES) is defined as the clinical manifestation of the neuropathological entity chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). A core feature of TES is neurobehavioral dysregulation (NBD), a neuropsychiatric syndrome in repetitive head impact (RHI)-exposed individuals, characterized by a poor regulation of emotions/behavior. To discover biological correlates for NBD, we investigated the association between biomarkers of inflammation (interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and NBD symptoms in former American football players and unexposed individuals.MethodsOur cohort consisted of former American football players, with (n = 104) or without (n = 76) NBD diagnosis, as well as asymptomatic unexposed individuals (n = 55) from the DIAGNOSE CTE Research Project. Specific measures for NBD were derived (i.e., explosivity, emotional dyscontrol, impulsivity, affective lability, and a total NBD score) from a factor analysis of multiple self-report neuropsychiatric measures. Analyses of covariance tested differences in biomarker concentrations between the three groups. Within former football players, multivariable linear regression models assessed relationships among log-transformed inflammatory biomarkers, proxies for RHI exposure (total years of football, cumulative head impact index), and NBD factor scores, adjusted for relevant confounding variables. Sensitivity analyses tested (1) differences in age subgroups (< 60, ≥ 60 years); (2) whether associations could be identified with plasma inflammatory biomarkers; (3) associations between neurodegeneration and NBD, using plasma neurofilament light (NfL) chain protein; and (4) associations between biomarkers and cognitive performance to explore broader clinical symptoms related to TES.ResultsCSF IL-6 was higher in former American football players with NBD diagnosis compared to players without NBD. Furthermore, elevated levels of CSF IL-6 were significantly associated with higher emotional dyscontrol, affective lability, impulsivity, and total NBD scores. In older football players, plasma NfL was associated with higher emotional dyscontrol and impulsivity, but also with worse executive function and processing speed. Proxies for RHI exposure were not significantly associated with biomarker concentrations.ConclusionSpecific NBD symptoms in former American football players may result from multiple factors, including neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Future studies need to unravel the exact link between NBD and RHI exposure, including the role of other pathophysiological pathways.

Age-related differences in creative cognition: The mediating role of executive functions and associative processes.

Age-related differences in creative cognition: The mediating role of executive functions and associative processes.

Privacy-Preserving Multi-Party Cross-Chain Transaction Protocols

Cross-chain transaction technologies have greatly promoted the scalability of cryptocurrencies, which then facilitates the development of Metaverse applications. However, existing solutions rely heavily on centralized middleware (notary) or smart contracts. These schemes lack privacy considerations, and users’ cross-chain transactions are easy to master by other parties. Some signature-based payment schemes have good privacy but do not support multi-party cross-chain protocols or rely heavily on some time assumptions. The uncertainty of user behavior makes it difficult to design a secure multi-party cross-chain protocol. To solve these problems, we investigate how to design a secure multi-party cross-chain transaction protocol with offline tolerance. We propose a new signature algorithm called the pre-adaptor signature scheme, an extension of the adaptor signature scheme. The pre-adaptor signature scheme combines the multi-signature and adaptor signature schemes, which can realize the secret transmission channel between multiple parties. To provide offline tolerance, we encode our protocol into the P2SH script. Our protocol provides better privacy due to no dependence on smart contracts. The performance evaluation was conducted with ten participants. For each participant of our cross-chain protocol, the initialization and execution process can be performed in 3 milliseconds and with 6 k bytes of communication overhead at most. The cost increases linearly with the increase in the number of participants.

Cognitive Decline in Ageing and Disease: Risk factors, Genetics and Treatments.

Aging is the primary risk factor for cognitive decline, impacting multiple cognitive domains and significantly elevating the risk of conditions such as mild cognitive impairment and dementia. In addition to aging, several diseases contribute to cognitive decline. Alzheimer's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, leads to the loss of neurons and synapses in the brain, resulting in a profound decline in cognitive abilities and functional capacity. Several studies provide compelling evidence that modifiable lifestyle factors play a crucial role in influencing cognitive health. Adopting healthier behaviors has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Genetic factors also play a crucial role in cognitive decline, with several genes being identified that influence the risk of developing conditions like Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Long-term use of opioids and cocaine is also associated with cognitive decline, affecting functions such as memory and executive processes. Understanding the factors contributing to cognitive decline in aging and disease is essential for developing strategies to mitigate its impact. The drugs available to treat patients with cognitive decline due to advanced aging and drug abuse are also summarize.

Factor Structure and Internal Consistency of the National Alzheimer Coordinating Center's Uniform Data Set Version 3 Neuropsychological Test Battery (UDSNB 3.0): The Nigeria Sample.

Construct validation of cognitive batteries across Africa is imperative to understanding dementia in the region. We examined construct validity and internal consistency of the neuropsychological battery of Uniform Data Set version 3 (UDSNB 3.0) of the Alzheimer Coordinating Center in Nigeria older adults. Three hundred forty-nine (220 females; age: 65 to 85) community dwellers were recruited. UDSNB 3.0 with 12 subscales were used to measure cognition. Two sets of data were collected. First was for exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and second was confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Four models were specified for CFA. EFA principal axis factor with varimax rotation yielded 4 factors: Executive function, memory, visual-spatial ability, and processing speed. Four CFA were performed based on 4 specified models, with only model 3 showing good model fit: CMIN/DF=2.13; confirmatory fit index=0.94; root mean square error of approximation=0.07. Model 3 had 5 latent variables: working memory, language, verbal memory, visual-spatial ability, and processing speed. UDSNB 3.0 had an overall Cronbach alpha of 0.73, suggesting strong internal reliability with ANOVA model F134,1619​​​=183.65 significant at P<0.001 level of testing. Our study showed that UDSNB 3.0 has construct validity and good internal consistency in our older adult population.

Impact of online poker gambling on behavioural and neurophysiological responses to a virtual gambling task.

Online poker gambling (OPG) involves various executive control processes and emotion regulation. In this context, we hypothesized that online poker players, accustomed to handling virtual cards, would show high performance on computerized decision-making tasks such as the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT). Using press advertisements, we recruited a non-gambler group (NG; n= 20) and an OPG group (n= 22). All participants performed the IGT while their cerebral activity was recorded by electroencephalography. Compared with the OPG group, the NG group showed significantly better progression in the IGT in the last trials. Recording of brain activity revealed the appearance of a temporal map between 150 and 175 ms specific to the gain condition in both groups. A second map was observed at 215-295 ms specifically in the NG group, and the generators were identified in the occipital regions. This activity is indicative of a high level of visual awareness; thus, it reflects additional processing of visual information, which can be assumed to be induced by the lower exposure of the NGs to online card games. We hypothesize that the absence of this activity in the OPG group might be due to their online habituation to virtual environments.

Abstract 126: Connectome Gradient Dysfunction Contributes to White Matter Hyperintensity-Related Cognitive Decline

Introduction: Although White matter hyperintensity (WMH) is closely associated with cognitive decline, the precise neurobiological mechanisms underlying this relationship are not fully elucidated. Connectome studies have identified a primary-to-transmodal gradient in functional brain networks that support the spectrum from sensation to cognition. However, whether this gradient structure is altered as WMH progresses and how this alteration is associated with WMH-related cognitive decline remain unknown. Methods: A total of 758 individuals with WMH were enrolled from two medical centers and one community. All these participants completed cognitive assessment and resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI). The functional connectome gradient was reconstructed based on rs-fMRI by using a gradient decomposition framework. Interrelations amongst regional WMH, functional gradient measures, and specific cognitive domains were explored. Results: The larger WMH volume, the narrower range ( r = -0.099, p = 0.006) and smaller variance ( r = -0.121, p &lt; 0.001) of the primary-to-transmodal gradient, as well as the poorer executive function ( r = -0.135, p = 0.001) and information processing speed ( r = -0.224, p = 0.001). A narrower range ( r = 0.131, p = 0.001) and smaller variance ( r = 0.136, p = 0.001) of the primary-to-transmodal gradient corresponded to poorer executive function. In particular, the relationship between frontal/occipital WMH and executive function was partly mediated by gradient range/variance of the primary-to-transmodal gradient (the 95% confidence interval did not contain the value 0). WMH-related gradient alterations were associated with gene expression levels involved in the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling pathway (FDR q -value &lt; 10 -4 ) and chemical synaptic transmission (FDR q -value &lt; 10 -6 ). Discussion: We found that the primary-to-transmodal gradient dysfunction contributes to WMH-related cognitive decline. The detrimental effect of frontal/occipital WMH on executive function was mediated by decreased differentiation of the connectivity pattern between the primary and transmodal areas. The neurobiological mechanisms may be related to the GPCR signaling pathway and chemical synaptic transmission.

Abstract TP293: Juvenile Mice Are Susceptible to Infarct-Induced Neurodegeneration That Causes Cognitive Decline

Introduction: Over half of pediatric stroke survivors have permanent neurologic and cognitive deficits. Executive function and processing speed are two domains that are consistently affected on neuropsychiatric testing of pediatric stroke survivors. In adult mice, stroke triggers an immune-mediated, infarct-induced neurodegeneration that causes similar cognitive deficits. However, it is unknown whether similar pathophysiology causes children’s cognitive deficits after stroke. Hypothesis: We hypothesize that infarct-induced neurodegeneration occurs in a mouse model of pediatric arterial ischemic stroke. Methods: Male and female C57BL/6J mice were randomized to stroke or sham surgery at p28 to model stroke in late childhood and compared to adult 6-month-old mice. We used permanent distal MCAO followed by 60 minutes of hypoxia, an established model for focal ischemia that generates a purely cortical stroke. Mice underwent behavioral testing at 1- and 7-weeks post stroke with a standard Barnes Maze protocol used in adult mice, and with a protocol adapted for juveniles by increasing difficulty of the task. We performed immunostaining to quantify acute and chronic neuroinflammation, stroke size, myelination, and atrophy 3 days and 8 weeks after surgery. Results: At 7 weeks post-stroke, stroke mice performed significantly worse on Barnes Maze testing than sham mice (n = 7 stroke, 7 sham, p = 0.0265 2-way ANOVA with repeated measures) on the more difficult but not the standard protocol. Like adult mice, pediatric mice exhibited chronic B- and T- lymphocyte neuroinflammation in the stroke scar at 8 weeks after stroke and activated (CD68+) microglia in the scar and connected regions. Both groups had decreased subcortical myelin staining compared to age-equivalent sham mice. However, this decrease was more dramatic in pediatric mice at 65 ± 14% vs. 27% ± 9% in adults, p &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: In a model of pediatric ischemic stroke, juvenile mice develop chronic neuroinflammation in the stroke and in white matter tracts that are connected to the stroke in conjunction with a delayed cognitive deficit. Our results suggest that infarct-induced neurodegeneration occurs after stroke in juvenile mice and may cause more severe dysmyelination than in adults.

Learning where to be flexible: Using environmental cues to regulate cognitive control.

Cognitive flexibility refers to a mental state that allows efficient switching between tasks. While deciding to be flexible is often ascribed to a strategic resource-intensive executive process, people may also simply use their environment to trigger different states of cognitive flexibility. We developed a paradigm where participants were exposed to two environments with different task-switching probabilities, followed by a probe phase to test the impact of environmental cues. Our results show that people were more efficient at switching in a high-switch environment. Critically, we observe environment-specific triggering of cognitive flexibility after a 4-day training period (Experiment 2, N = 51), but not after a 1-day training period (Experiment 1, N = 52). Together, these findings suggest that people can associate the need for cognitive flexibility with their environment, providing an environmental triggering mechanism for cognitive control. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Beyond traditional training: Integrating data from semi-immersive VR dual-task intervention in Parkinsonian Syndromes. A study protocol.

Completing cognitive and motor tasks simultaneously requires a high level of cognitive control in terms of executive processes and attentional abilities. Most of the daily activities require a dual-task performance. While walking, for example, it may be necessary to adapt gait to obstacles of the environment or simply participate in a conversation; all these activities involve more than one ability at the same time. This parallel performance may be critical in the cognitive or motor load, especially for patients with neurological diseases such as Parkinsonian Syndromes. Patients are often characterized by a crucial impairment in performing both tasks concurrently, showing a decrease in attention skills and executive functions, thus leading to increased negative outcomes. In this scenario, the accurate assessment of the components involved in dual-task performance is crucial, and providing an early specific training program appears to be essential. The objective of this protocol is to assess cognitive and motor components involved in dual-task performance and create a training program based on ecological activities focusing on executive and motor functions. Thus, we will employ Virtual Reality to provide semi-immersive, multisensory, ecological, standardized, and realistic experiences for rehabilitative purposes in patients with Parkinsonian Syndromes, considering its high prevalence in aging and the incidence of motor and cognitive dysfunctions in this population. Moreover, we propose to integrate the great amount of different data provided by dual-task and Virtual Reality system, using machine learning techniques. These integrations may increase the treatment's reliability in terms of better prognostic indexes and individualized training.

Exploration of dynamic task scheduling using machine learning approaches

Allocating shared resources gradually allows tasks to be completed efficiently within the allocated time. This is the process of scheduling. The terms "task" and "resource" are used separately in task scheduling and resource allocation, respectively. In computer science and operational management, scheduling is a hot topic. Efficient schedules guarantee system effectiveness, facilitate sound decision-making, reduce resource waste and expenses, and augment total productivity. Selecting the most appropriate resources to complete work items and schedules for computing and business process execution is typically a laborious task. Particularly in dynamic real-world systems, where scheduling different dynamic tasks involves multiple tasks, is a difficult problem. Emerging technology known as "Machine Learning Algorithms" has the ability to dynamically resolve the issue of scheduling tasks and resources optimally. This review paper discusses a study that looked at Machine Learning algorithms used them to schedule tasks dynamically. The Machine Learning Algorithms utilized in dynamic task scheduling and a comparative analysis of those methods are used in this paper to address the study's findings.

Pevesindo Visual Identity Design

&lt;p class="5Abstract"&gt;PT Alastri Teguh International (PT ATI) is the leading distributor of the Natapon and Genius brands that manage building materials from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Using a complete trading system to market PVC ceiling products in the south Sulawesi region makes product price stability unstable. Therefore, PT ATI created a new brand called Pevesindo, aimed at managing new businesses in the Java area and being a differentiator from the previous brands (Natapon and Genius). Pevesindo requires a visual identity with consistent and precise application. In order to support the company's image to make it easier for people to remember and recognize Pevesindo. This design uses a qualitative approach by adapting the Double Diamond design model from the Design Council. It has four stages that help the design process: Discover and Define (a research process that refers to problems), Discover and Deliver (the process of execution to the final result). The data obtained will be analyzed using a SWOT analysis. The resulting design is visual identity in the form of logos, typography, color variations, supergraphics, brand guidelines, and examples of the application of visual identity to the media to be used.&lt;/p&gt;

Hurdles experienced by LIS authors from Pakistan during the operability or implementation of selected research methodologies: A qualitative exploration

Use of appropriate research methodology among authors is essential to produce high quality research. Practical operability or smooth implementation of research methodology and methods must be maintained because lapses in the implementation may hamper research and quality. Hurdles experienced by authors in the operability of research design may negatively impact the conclusions. Researchers need to be aware about the issues arising during the process of research and they must adopt certain steps to avoid such issues. The current study explored the hurdles, negative impacts and relevant measure to streamline the operability of research process. The current empirical research used qualitative design. Interview method was used for exploring author’s views. Pakistani LIS authors were selected for interview from those who have published more than one article during the period 2001 and 2016. Majority of the respondents experienced hurdles in the operability of selected research methodology. Few respondents faced problems because they selected inappropriate research method for the research problem, questions or phenomenon. Selection of irrelevant population and faulty sampling also create disturbances in the smooth execution of research process. Use of faulty data collection tool resulted in the collection of irrelevant, meaningless, neutral, or over rated data. Lack of access to data and its inventory nature and complexity of data analysis procedure also affected smooth operability. Hurdles created negative impact on the quality of research and compromised the accuracy, reliability and validity of results. Multiple strategies were proposed by authors to avoid such hurdles. The current study is an effort to help authors gain an understanding for better implementation and subsequently to make more informed decisions for selection of research methodology and methods.

Bilingual Spatial Cognition: Spatial Cue Use in Bilinguals and Monolinguals.

Structural plasticity changes and functional differences in executive control tasks have been reported in bilinguals compared to monolinguals, supporting a proposed bilingual 'advantage' in executive control functions (e.g., task switching) due to continual usage of control mechanisms that inhibit one of the coexisting languages. However, it remains unknown whether these differences are also apparent in the spatial domain. The present fMRI study explores the use of spatial cues in 15 bilinguals and 14 monolinguals while navigating in an open-field virtual environment. In each trial, participants had to navigate towards a target object that was visible during encoding but hidden in retrieval. An extensive network was activated in bilinguals compared to monolinguals in the encoding and retrieval phase. During encoding, bilinguals activated the right temporal and left parietal regions (object trials) and left inferior frontal, precentral, and lingual regions more than monolinguals. During retrieval, the same contrasts activated the left caudate nucleus and the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), the left parahippocampal gyrus, as well as caudate regions. These results suggest that bilinguals may recruit neural networks known to subserve not only executive control processes but also spatial strategies.