Cognitive Training Research Articles

Non-pharmacological interventions to support the cognitive rehabilitation of patients admitted to the intensive care unit: An umbrella review.

Critically ill patients experience cognitive impairment throughout their intensive care unit trajectory, in the acute phase and the long-term alike. Cognitive impairment may negatively impact patients' quality of life and rehabilitation outcomes. To provide an overall examination of literature concerning non-pharmacological interventions that can enhance cognitive functioning in critically ill patients or facilitate their rehabilitation pathway during and after their intensive care unit stay. This study was conducted as an umbrella review. A systematic search was conducted in CINAHL, Embase, PubMed and PsychINFO, including all types of peer-reviewed research syntheses published between 2008 and 2023. Eligible studies had to describe interventions capable of improving adult patients' cognitive functioning or supporting their cognitive rehabilitation process throughout the intensive care unit trajectory. All eligible research syntheses were screened systematically; those included were critically appraised. Based on 13 research syntheses, this review summarizes rehabilitative interventions that may be delivered during different phases of critical illness and recovery, in relation to content, delivery and timing. Interventions were: (1) cognitive activities and training, (2) mobilization and physical exercises, (3) emotional, psychological and social support and (4) information. Due to limited evidence, no definitive conclusion can be drawn about which type of intervention is most supportive or effective. Additionally, no recommendations can be made about the optimal timing for intervention delivery. Clinicians involved in developing and implementing cognitive rehabilitation measures should consider designing individualized, multicomponent interventions with a focus on content, delivery and timing.

Behavioural and neuronal substrates of serious game-based computerised cognitive training in cognitive decline: randomised controlled trial.

Investigations of computerised cognitive training (CCT) show heterogeneous results in slowing age-related cognitive decline. To comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of serious games-based CCT, integrating control conditions, neurophysiological and blood-based biomarkers, and subjective measures. In this bi-centric randomised controlled trial with parallel groups, 160 participants (mean age 71.3 years) with cognitive impairment ranging from subjective decline to mild cognitive impairment, were pseudo-randomised to three arms: an intervention group receiving CCT immediately, an active control (watching documentaries) and a waitlist condition, which both started the CCT intervention after the control period. Both active arms entailed a 3-month intervention period comprising a total of 60 at-home sessions (five per week) and weekly on-site group meetings. In the intervention group, this was followed by additional 6 months of CCT, with monthly booster sessions to assess long-term training effects. Behavioural and subjective changes were assessed in 3-month intervals. Biological effects were measured by amyloid blood markers and magnetic resonance imaging obtained before and after training. Adherence to the training protocol was consistently high across groups and time points (4.87 sessions per week). Domain-specific cognitive scores showed no significant interaction between groups and time points. Significant cognitive and subjective improvements were observed after long-term training. Voxel-based morphometry revealed no significant changes in grey matter volume following CCT, nor did amyloid levels moderate its effectiveness. Our study demonstrates no benefits of 3 months of CCT on cognitive or biological outcomes. However, positive effects were observed subjectively and after long-term CCT, warranting the inclusion of CCT in multicomponent interventions.

MHealth-Based Self-Management Program for Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Study.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that gradually limits physical function and decreases quality of life (QOL). We evaluated an mHealth-based self-management program to help patients with RA improve their physical and psychological health, self-efficacy, physical activity, and QOL. The sample included 73 experimental and 69 control participants. A pilot randomized controlled design was employed to identify the effectiveness of an 8-week mHealth-based self-management program, which comprised educational modules regarding disease management and exercise, cognitive training, and motivational support through mobile messages and periodic phone calls. Knowledge of the health effects of RA, disease activity, perceived health, depression, self-efficacy for controlling symptoms, physical activity, and QOL were evaluated pre- and postintervention and after the 4-week follow-up period. This pilot study indicates that the mHealth-based program for people with RA is feasible. The mHealth self-management program improved patients' knowledge of RA, depression, self-efficacy for controlling symptoms, physical activity, and perceived health; however, disease activity and QOL did not significantly change. This pilot study demonstrates the potential of mHealth intervention as an effective program for strengthening self-management capacities in patients with RA. Trial Registration: KCT0007523.

Neuroscientific Approaches to Understanding Adolescent Susceptibility to Substance Abuse

Adolescence is a pivotal developmental stage characterised by significant neurobiological changes that heighten susceptibility to substance abuse. This period is marked by the maturation of the brain regions responsible for decision-making and impulse control, alongside an increased sensitivity to rewards driven by dopaminergic pathways. This review aimed to understand adolescent susceptibility to substance abuse using a neuroscientific approach. In line with best practices, data were collected from a variety reliable source to ensure a comprehensive view of the topic. Research studies on adolescent neurodevelopment have contributed to a broader understanding of the physiological and psychological factors at play during adolescence, while grey literature, including expert interviews and focused group discussions, has offered practical insights from frontline professionals, such as psychologists, social workers, and healthcare providers, who deal directly with adolescent substance use. These results demonstrate that the relationship between genetic factors and environmental conditions, such as stress and trauma, intensifies this vulnerability, thereby heightening the likelihood of individuals participating in risky behaviours. This review examines the neuroscientific foundations of substance use during adolescence, highlighting the critical role of timely interventions that utilize neuroplasticity to enhance resilience and reduce risk. By integrating cognitive training and behavioural therapies into public health initiatives, adolescents' cognitive control mechanisms and their propensity for substance abuse can be reduced.

The effect of non-significant internal carotid artery stenoses on the results of cognitive training and electroencephalographic indicators in cardiac surgery patients

The effect of atherosclerotic lesions of the carotid arteries (CA) on the success of the cognitive function recovery procedures in cardiac patients has not been sufficiently studied. This study aims to evaluate the effects of cognitive rehabilitation depending on the presence of CA stenosis in patients after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) using neurophysiological indicators.Material and methods. The cohort prospective study involved 85 patients (16 of them women), aged 45 to 75 years, admitted for elective CABG. All patients underwent standard clinical and instrumental, neurological, extended neuropsychological and neurophysiological examination.Results. After multi-task training, the patients with CA stenosis had higher levels of high-frequency beta power (13-30 Hz), while the spectral power of the alpha1 rhythm (8-10 Hz) in this group was lower compared to patients without stenosis. In the case of successful cognitive rehabilitation (absence of POCD) at 11–12 days after CABG, compared with the group with POCD, patients without stenoses had higher total power of alpha 1 power and lower — beta power than patients with stenoses CA.Conclusion. The absence of CA stenosis in the patients with successful completion of multi-tasking training contributed to the optimization of brain activity with an increase of alpha power. Whereas the patients with CA stenosis were characterized by an increase in high-frequency brain activity, both in the case of successful multi-tasking training and in its absence, in the early postoperative period of CABG. This study may serve as a basis for the development of special cognitive rehabilitation programs for patients with atherosclerotic lesions of the carotid system.

The effects of cognitive training on driving performance.

Driving is a complex task necessitating an intricate interplay of sensory, motor, and cognitive abilities. Extensive research has underscored the role of neurocognitive functions, including attention, memory, executive functions, and visuospatial skills, in driving safety and performance. Despite evidence suggesting cognitive training's potential in enhancing driving abilities, comprehensive cognitive training's impact on driving performance in young adult drivers remains unexplored. Our study aimed to fill this gap by implementing an intensive, 8-week, multidomain computerized cognitive training program and assessing its transfer effects on the driving performance of young adult drivers, using a high-fidelity simulator. The study employed a randomized controlled trial design, with passive control group. The mixed-design analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed a notable interaction between the time of testing and the respective participant groups concerning driving performance. Post hoc analyses showed that, compared to the control group, participants undergoing cognitive training demonstrated significantly fewer traffic infractions in the post-training evaluation. These findings suggest that cognitive training could be a useful tool for enhancing driving safety and performance in young adult drivers. Further research should aim to address the limitations posed by the absence of an active control group.

Effects of home-based exercise alone or combined with cognitive training on cognition in community-dwelling older adults: A randomized clinical trial

BackgroundStructured and supervised physical exercise and cognitive training are two efficient ways to enhance cognition in older adults. Performing both within a combined intervention could maximize their effect on cognition due to their potential synergy on brain functions. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these interventions were particularly relevant due to the collateral impact of social restrictions regarding physical activity and the level of cognitive stimulation. However, the benefits of remotely monitored intervention combining physical exercise and cognitive training for older adult cognition remain to be demonstrated. Methods127 older adults (age: 65.20 ± 7.95) were randomized in two arms, encouraging self-engagement in six months of home-based physical exercise alone or combined with cognitive training, monitored by phone once a week. Neuropsychological assessment was performed under videoconference supervision at baseline and after three and six months. Composite Z-scores were calculated for processing speed, executive functioning, working, and episodic memory to assess changes after three and six months of training. The weekly metabolic expenditure of self-reported activities was estimated using the compendium of physical activity to distinguish participants performing higher and lower doses of exercise (median split). Results106 participants (83.46 %) completed the 6-month training. Results showed a greater Z-score change in executive functioning for participants in the combined arm than those who only exercised (F = 4.127, p = 0.046, ηp2 = 0.050). Group x Exercise dose interaction was observed for episodic memory Z-score change (F = 6.736, p = 0.011, ηp2 = 0.070), with a greater improvement for participants performing higher doses of exercise compared to those who performed a lower dose, only in exercise alone arm. Performing a higher dose of exercise increased the working memory Z-score change in both intervention arms compared to a lower dose (F = 7.391, p = 0.008, η p2 = 0.076). ConclusionRemote combined training may lead to larger improvement in executive functioning than exercise alone. Physical exercise showed a dose-related improvement in working and episodic memory performances. The combination of cognitive interventions mitigated the effects of exercise on episodic memory. These results suggest that home-based exercise and cognitive training may help improve older adults' cognition. Trial registrationCOVEPIC was retrospectively registered on December 03, 2020. Clinical trials Identifier: NCT04635462 - https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT04635462?term=NCT04635462&draw=2&rank=1

Associations between sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and adherence to self-management behaviours among community-dwelling older adults with mild cognitive impairment.

Self-management is vital for individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to enhance cognitive health and mitigate the risk of dementia. However, maintaining consistent engagement in self-management strategies can be challenging for older adults with MCI. This study aimed to explore the associations between sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and adherence to self-management behaviours among community-dwelling older adults with MCI. A cross-sectional study involving 467 community-dwelling older adults with MCI was conducted from July to November 2022 across Nanjing, Xuzhou, and Lianyungang in Jiangsu Province, China. Data on sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, as well as self-management behaviours for MCI, were collected. Multiple linear and binary logistic regressions were employed to identify factors influencing self-management behaviours. Among the four recommended self-management behaviours for MCI, participants adopted an average of 1.37 ± 1.202 behaviours. Physical exercise (n = 239; 51.2%) was the most prevalent behaviour, followed by modifiable risk factors management (n = 156; 33.4%), cognitive training (n = 144; 30.8%), and cognitive function monitoring (n = 103; 22.1%). Higher education level (B = 0.286, P < 0.001), urban employee medical insurance (B = 0.621, P < 0.001), and non-smoking status (B = 0.389, P = 0.002) positively correlated with aggregate MCI self-management behaviours, while older age (B = -0.295, P < 0.001) had a negative association. Marital status, monthly income, employment status, gender, residence, and family history of cognitive disorders were also found to be associated with specific self-management behaviours for MCI. Enhancing adherence to self-management among community-dwelling older adults with MCI is critical. Sociodemographic and clinical factors should be considered to pinpoint at-risk populations and accordingly tailor support strategies.

Cognitive behavioral therapy combined with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors for premature ejaculation: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Premature ejaculation (PE) remains one of the most common male disorders. Many clinical trials have shown that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has significant efficacy in the treatment of PE. The purpose of this article is to review the current evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of CBT combined with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for treating PE. We selected eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from databases including Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang, VIP, China Biology Medicine (CBM), Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Library. All data in this paper were analyzed using STATA 17.1 software. Cochrane Evaluator's Manual 5.3 was used to assess the quality of the included literature. Data collection was conducted up until May 2024. Finally, 15 high-quality randomized controlled trials were included, with 1243 patients, 653 experimental groups and 590 control groups. The meta-analysis showed that, compared with SSRIs alone, behavioral therapy combined with SSRIs can significantly prolong the IELT of PE patients, and improve perceived control over ejaculation, Chinese Index of Premature ejaculation-5 (CIPE-5), sexual life satisfaction, and spouses' sexual life satisfaction. Furthermore, there were no significant differences in side effects between the two groups. In addition, the published bias test results showed no significant bias. CBT combined with SSRIs could be a viable alternative for the treatment of PE. Both cognitive and behavioral training or behavioral training alone as a supplement to SSRIs are effective, with no significant increase in adverse reactions.

Prehabilitative/rehabilitative exercise, nutrition, and psychological support for bladder cancer: A scoping review of randomized clinical trials.

The study of prehabilitation and rehabilitation ([p]rehabilitation) to alleviate the sequelae of bladder cancer and its treatment has generated numerous opportunities to improve the quality of life of bladder cancer survivors. The authors conducted a scoping review of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) to identify knowledge gaps in and research directions for (p)rehabilitative support for those affected by bladder cancer. The authors systematically searched six databases and synthesized key findings from RCTs conducted from January 1, 2004, through March 15, 2022, that enrolled participants with bladder cancer, survivors, or caregivers in outpatient (p)rehabilitative programs (e.g., exercise, nutrition, or psychological support). Outcomes were characterized according to eight prespecified, clinically relevant categories. The search retrieved 10,968 records, 27 of which met the inclusion criteria, and 24 described unique RCTs with 2471 enrolled participants. Of 24 interventions, 17 (71%) yielded statistically significant results for the outcome of interest. Only one RCT included a cost-effectiveness analysis, and only two characterized the efficacy of interventions for caregivers. Of 11 RCTs involving psychological support, eight yielded statistically significant results, as did nine of 11 RCTs with physical exercise interventions, three of four RCTs with educational interventions, three of four RCTs with nutritional support interventions, one of two RCTs with pharmacologic medications, and zero of one RCT with physical therapy. The most promising interventions for inclusion in multimodal, personalized (p)rehabilitation programs included exercise, stress management training, cognitive training, smoking and alcohol cessation counseling, immunonutrition, stoma education, and penile rehabilitation. Further studies of the cost effectiveness and efficacy for caregivers of such interventions are needed. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: In a scoping review of all randomized clinical trials involving prehabilitative or rehabilitative diet, exercise, and psychological support interventions for patients with bladder cancer, survivors, and their caregivers, 17 of 24 (71%) interventions yielded statistically significant improvements in the outcome of interest. Clinicians should consider implementing such interventions for those affected by bladder cancer.

Cognitive Training Using Virtual Reality: An Assessment of Usability and Adverse Effects

ObjectiveTo evaluate the usability and adverse effects associated with virtual reality(VR) cognitive training and identify factors influencing them. DesignSurvey-based observational study SettingDepartment of Rehabilitation Medicine in the hospital Participant20 rehabilitation professionals(mean(standard deviation) age; 30.0(4.8) years, male 8(40%) and female 12(60%)) and 10 patients with stroke(mean(standard deviation) age; 64.1(13.6) years, male 2(20%) and female 8(80%)). InterventionsThe participants wore a Head-Mounted Display (Meta Quest2) and consecutively underwent custom-designed five cognitive training. Main outcome measuresAfter the training, participants completed three questionnaires: the Systemic Usability Scale (SUS), User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ), and CyberSickness in Virtual Reality Questionnaire (CSO-VR). ResultsThe mean SUS score was 55.1 and 52.3 for rehabilitation professionals and patients, respectively. For the UEQ, the mean score for each item, including Attractiveness, Perspicuity, Efficiency, Dependability, Stimulation, and Novelty, were 0.9/0.2, 0.6/0.2, 0.5/-0.5, 1.2/0.8, 0.9/0.4, and 0.6/0.8 for rehabilitation professionals/patients, respectively. Rehabilitation professionals had slightly higher scores in most UEQ items. The mean CSQ-VR scores were 18.6 and 19.0 for rehabilitation professionals and patients, respectively. ConclusionsParticipants reported moderate usability and a generally below-average user experience, with mild to moderate VR sickness during VR cognitive training. The rehabilitation professionals rated usability higher than the patient group, while patients experienced more severe VR sickness. These findings may serve as a significant insight for developing virtual reality cognitive training for application to patients in the future.

Effects of cognitive training on cognitive function in patients after cardiac surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Postoperative cognitive deficits frequently occur in patients undergoing cardiac surgery, leaving them with reduced cognitive function. Cognitive training has been shown to improve cognitive function, however, the role in patients after cardiac surgery is unclear. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of cognitive training in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Ovid Medline, Web of Science, CNKI, and Wanfang was conducted until March 2024. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Data were meta-analyzed using RevMan 5.4 software. Potential bias and reliability of evidence were fairly assessed by using the Cochrane risk of bias method and the GRADE evidence grading method. A total of 16 studies involving 1335 cardiac surgery patients were included in this study. Compared with the control group, the cognitive training group had a significantly lower incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (RR 0.35, 95% CI 0.18-0.65, P = .001), significantly improved cognitive function (MD 2.54, 95% CI 1.27-3.81, P < .001), and a significantly higher quality of life-mental component (MD 5.22, 95% CI 2.32-8.13, P < .001), anxiety (MD -6.05, 95% CI -10.96 to -1.15, P = .02) and depression (MD -3.97, 95% CI -7.15 to -0.80, P = .01) were significantly improved between groups. However, the differences were not statistically significant for postoperative delirium (RR 1, 95% CI 0.38-2.65, P = 1.00) and postoperative hospitalization (MD -0.95, 95% CI -2.90 to 1.00, P = .34). The present study, based on a low to moderate quality of evidence, suggests that cognitive training improves cognitive functioning, reduces the incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction, and has a positive impact on anxiety and depression in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. However, current evidence does not allow for the determination of effects on quality of life, postoperative delirium, and postoperative length of stay.

The efficacy of cognitive stimulation, cognitive training, and cognitive rehabilitation for people living with dementia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Cognition-oriented treatments (COTs) are a group of non-pharmacological treatments aimed at maintaining or improving cognitive functioning. Specific recommendations on the use of these interventions in people living with dementia (PLwD) are included in the Italian Guideline on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment, developed by the Italian National Institute of Health. This systematic review and meta-analysis, based on the GRADE methodology, is part of the guideline. Considered outcomes included the cognitive functions, quality of life, and functional abilities of PLwD, taking into account disease severity, modality and system of delivery, and form of the intervention. The effectiveness of these interventions on caregivers' outcomes was also assessed. Both group and individual cognitive stimulation were reported as effective in supporting cognitive functions in PLwD at any degree of severity. Individual cognitive training and group cognitive training were reported as effective in improving global cognitive functions in people with mild dementia. Cognitive rehabilitation appeared to be effective only in improving the functional abilities of people with mild dementia. Cognitive rehabilitation appeared to be the most effective in improving caregivers' outcomes, with results suggesting a reduction in care burden. The observed differences in the effectiveness of these interventions in people with different disease severity can be explained by the intrinsic characteristics of each intervention. Despite the large number of available studies, a high clinical, statistical, and methodological heterogeneity was observed. More methodologically rigorous studies are needed to clarify the effectiveness of each protocol and modality of intervention.

Working memory related functional connectivity in adult ADHD and its amenability to training: A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundWorking memory (WM) deficits are among the most prominent cognitive impairments in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While functional connectivity is a prevailing approach in brain imaging of ADHD, alterations in WM-related functional brain networks and their malleability by cognitive training are not well known. We examined whole-brain functional connectivity differences between adults with and without ADHD during n-back WM tasks and rest at pretest, as well as the effects of WM training on functional and structural brain connectivity in the ADHD group. MethodsForty-two adults with ADHD and 36 neurotypical controls performed visuospatial and verbal n-back tasks during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). In addition, seven-minute resting state fMRI data and diffusion-weighted MR images were collected from all participants. The adults with ADHD continued into a 5-week randomized controlled WM training trial (experimental group training on a dual n-back task, n = 21; active control group training on Bejeweled II video game, n = 21), followed by a posttraining MRI. Brain connectivity was examined with Network-Based Statistic. ResultsAt the pretest, adults with ADHD had decreased functional connectivity compared with the neurotypical controls during both n-back tasks in networks encompassing fronto-parietal, temporal, occipital, cerebellar, and subcortical brain regions. Furthermore, WM-related connectivity in widespread networks was associated with performance accuracy in a continuous performance test. Regarding resting state connectivity, no group differences or associations with task performance were observed. WM training did not modulate functional or structural connectivity compared with the active controls. ConclusionOur results indicate large-scale abnormalities in functional brain networks underlying deficits in verbal and visuospatial WM commonly faced in ADHD. Training-induced plasticity in these networks may be limited

The Effects of Cognitive Remediation on Negative Symptoms in Schizophrenia-Spectrum Illness: A Meta-analytic Investigation of Efficacy.

The number of clinical efficacy trials of Cognitive Remediation (CR), a behavioral intervention consisting of cognitive task practice and/or strategy training to improve cognitive skills in schizophrenia, has increased substantially over the past 25 years. While recent reviews have highlighted the effects of CR on cognition and function, CR effects on negative symptoms remain understudied. Given the overlap between negative symptoms and cognition, CR effects might be expected. Electronic databases were evaluated up to September 2023 using a broad range of search terms. Sixty-nine unique, controlled trials that used negative symptoms as an outcome were meta-analyzed. Data were independently extracted with excellent (>98%) reliability. Random effects models assessed the effects of CR on summary and expressive vs. experiential negative symptoms. Moderator analyses evaluated a broad array of treatment and participant factors. The meta-analysis (5319 participants) revealed that CR produced a small effect size improvement on summary negative symptoms (Hedge's g = 0.179). Sample differences in age, duration of illness, symptoms, and antipsychotic dosage did not serve as a barrier to treatment benefit. CR also produced small-to-moderate improvements in alogia (Hedge's g = 0.312) but not experiential negative symptoms. Programs of CR that utilized bridging activities that relate training of cognitive skills to activities of daily living produced greater improvement in negative symptoms (g = 0.281 vs 0.055). Longer CR programs also produce larger effects on negative symptoms. CR produces small, consistent reductions in negative symptoms in people with schizophrenia. Variations in CR effects may be linked to different treatment ingredients.

Advocating individual-based profiles of elite athletes to capture the multifactorial nature of elite sports performance

Elite athletes are high-performance outliers within their specific sports. Even though science seeks to understand the nature of expertise and elite performance, much knowledge remains compartmentalized within subdisciplines. Despite this multidimensionality being acknowledged, an interdisciplinary approach to understanding elite athletes is still rare. This paper synthesizes insights across scientific domains in order to describe the population and individual characteristics of elite athletes. We analyzed diagnostic data from approximately 300 German squad athletes across eight different sports (e.g., gymnastics, volleyball, ice hockey, 3 × 3 basketball etc., agefemale = 18.95 ± 4.84 years, agemale = 19.32 ± 4.19 years) with expertise values ranging from 2 (low expertise) to 16 (high expertise). Data covered muscular strength, lower-body dynamics, muscle-power genetics, blood micronutrients, basic cognitive function, mental health, social support, and training conditions. Results of logistic regressions identified basic cognitive function (B = 0.89) and well-balanced blood micronutrients (B = 1.22) as critical factors distinguishing elite athletes. Additionally, multiple linear regressions suggested that lower-body dynamics (ß = 0.72) is related to increasing expertise values. We examined interactions between determinants of elite performance, and found that social support is positively associated with mental health and training conditions, whereas muscular strength correlates with lower-body dynamics. Focusing on top elite athletes in contrast to semi-elite athletes, we found higher within-group similarities in basic cognitive function and blood micronutrients. Findings indicate the need for a systemic, individualized, and comprehensive model using individual-based profiles.

Effectiveness of Virtual - Compensatory Cognitive Training (V-CCT) for improving cognition in persons with schizophrenia - a multi- centre randomized controlled trial

BackgroundCognitive deficits are the core component in persons with schizophrenia which impacts their socio-occupational functioning. Also, cognitive deficits cause significant impairment with the person’s quality of life [3]. Hence, targeting such a pivotal aspect in persons with schizophrenia through suitable interventions is very important. Developed countries have designed various cognitive remediation programs using computers involving high-end software which cannot be generalized to low-resource settings, like India, due to various factors including sociocultural factors, educational standards, and living standards of the patient population. Compensatory cognitive training (CCT) was developed to be “brief, practical, low-tech” and found to be effective in the west [9]. As there are no structured cognitive intervention modules in India, we have adapted the English CCT manual to be used for an urban population in Chennai, India. CCT was found to be feasible in face-to-face group sessions in our setting [12] and is found to be feasible and acceptable as virtual one–one intervention (unpublished data). Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of V-CCT in enhancing cognition and socio-occupational functioning.MethodsThe proposed study will be a multicenter assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial at two clinical sites in Chennai, India. The preparatory phase of the study would include translation of the manual to the local language, recruitment and training of research assistants, and pilot testing using the translated manual. The second phase will be the main randomized controlled trial (RCT), during which a total of 160 persons diagnosed with schizophrenia will be recruited from both sites. After obtaining informed consent, baseline assessments will be conducted on cognition, functioning, self-esteem, and quality of life. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the virtual CCT group or the control group using a computer-generated randomization table. End-line assessments will be conducted 6 weeks after the baseline by research assistants who are blinded to the randomization post-intervention.DiscussionIf V-CCT is found to be effective, it will be available for use in Tamil for persons with schizophrenia, and it will have an effect on their functioning, quality of life, and self-esteem.Trial registrationThe study is registered under Clinical trial registry-India (CTRI), and the registration number is CTRI/2024/04/065267. Registered on April 2024.

The Comparison of Two Multitasking Approaches to Cognitive Training in Patients after Coronary Bypass Surgery: Theta Activity Changes and &lt;i&gt;sLORETA&lt;/i&gt; Analysis Data

The study investigated the changes in theta activity and localization of its sources by standardized low resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (sLORETA) in patients who have underwent two variants of multitasking cognitive training (CT) in the early postoperative period of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Two groups were formed in a pseudo-random way, which differed according to the type of motor problem used: CT I (n = 27) – a postural balance task and CT II (n = 27) – a simple visual-motor reaction. Cognitive tasks were the same for both groups (counting backwards, verbal fluency, and unusual uses for common objects). Daily sessions of CT were held from the 3rd to 4th day after CABG, with a duration of 5 minutes on the 1st day of training and up to 20 minutes on the 6th to 7th day of training. The current density of theta rhythm sources was lower before CABG than after surgery in the CT II group only. The most significant differences are in the Brodmann area 31, the parietal occipital lobes and precuneus, which may indicate damage associated with cardiac surgery. This effect was not observed in the CT I group. The results of our study demonstrated the informativeness of sLORETA indicators to determine an effective cognitive recovery option after CABG. The reduction of the severity of damaging effects of CABG during training using cognitive tasks and postural balance task was shown. Further research is needed to determine the optimal mode and duration of cognitive training to maximize the functional reserves of such patients.

Effect of cognitive training on selected gait parameters in patients with stroke

Background. Not only may early cognitive rehabilitation help stroke patients with their cognitive impairment, but it can also help patients restore their capabilities to do everyday activities. There isn’t much data on how cognitive training affects spatiotemporal gait variables in stroke survivors. Objective. To examine the impact of cognitive training on selected gait parameters in stroke patients. Subjects and Methods. Forty male and female patients with mild ischemic chronic stroke, ranging in age from 45 to 60 years, were recruited and distributed into two equal groups at random (G1 and G2). The Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MOCA) and the Rehacom system were utilized to evaluate the patient’s cognitive function. The Biodex gait trainer device was utilized to measure several gait variables for all patients. Rehacom cognitive training and a selected physiotherapy program were administered to the study group (G1). The similar selected physiotherapy program utilized for the G1 was applied to the control group (G2). For eight weeks, the treatment was administrated three sessions each week, day after day. All variables were evaluated before- and after-intervention. Results. The step length and walking speed, as well as the MOCA scale score of G1, were significantly higher after treatment than those of G2 (p = 0.001). The correlation between step length and median reaction time (MRT) was moderate negative significant correlation (r = – 0.698, p = 0.001). Conclusion. Cognitive training has a beneficial impact on improving the selected spatiotemporal gait parameters in stroke patients.

Intellectual Stimulation of Women's Transformational Leadership in Improving Institutional Brand Image

Education is one of the efforts to improve human quality. One of the elements that makes education more qualified, Various problems that are inseparable from life as an organization. These problems cover several aspects, such as defining goals, determining policies, developing programs, employing people, providing facilities, achieving results and coordinating separate activities. All of these activities require the involvement of people with different ability backgrounds, such as professional supervisors, and other personnel. This study aims to describe: Intellectual stimulation of women's transformational leadership in improving institutional brand image at the Bahrul Ulum Mambaiyyah Islamic Boarding School (BUM) in South Lampung Regency. This study uses a qualitative approach. This type of research can be used to find and understand what is hidden behind a phenomenon that is sometimes difficult to know or understand. Data collection in this study uses in-depth interview techniques, observation, and documentation where the data sources are from people, documents (paper) and places (place). While to obtain data obtained from informants in various forms such as written notes, interviews, observations and photos. Both from leaders, staff, stakeholders and also those involved in the management of the Bahrul Ulum Mambaiyyah Islamic Boarding School (BUM) in South Lampung Regency. The results of this study can be concluded that; In intellectual stimulation, Mbah Nyai is seen from her intelligence, tenacity, relationships, willingness to sacrifice and uniqueness in her preaching. As well as the charismatic and revolutionary leadership model approach and policies based on the mandate of the vision, mission and objectives of the institution and the mandate.