Stroop Color Research Articles

Aerobic exercise training combined with local strength exercise restores muscle blood flow and maximal aerobic capacity in long-term Hodgkin lymphoma survivors.

It is unclear whether muscle blood flow (MBF) is altered in long-term Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) survivors. We tested the hypothesis that 1) MBF response during mental stress (MS) is impaired in long-term HL survivors and 2) aerobic exercise training combined with local strength exercise (ET) restores MBF responses during MS in these survivors. Eighteen 5-year HL survivors and 10 aged-paired healthy subjects (HC) were studied. Twenty HL survivors were randomly divided into two groups: exercise-trained (HLT, n = 10) and untrained (HLUT, n = 10). Maximal aerobic capacity was evaluated by a cardiopulmonary exercise test and forearm blood flow (FBF) by venous occlusion plethysmography. MS was elicited by Stroop color and word test. ET was conducted for 4 mo, 3/wk for 60 min each session. The aerobic exercise intensity corresponded to anaerobic threshold up to 10% below the respiratory compensation point. The strength exercises consisted of two to three sets of chest press, pulley and squat exercises, 12-15 repetitions each exercise at 30-50% of the maximal voluntary contraction. Baseline was similar in HL survivors and HC, except peak oxygen consumption (peak V̇o2, P = 0.013) and FBF (P = 0.006) that were lower in the HL survivors. FBF responses during MS were lower in HL survivors (P < 0.001). ET increased peak V̇o2 (11.59 ± 3.07%, P = 0.002) and FBF at rest (33.74 ± 5.13%, P < 0.001) and during MS (24 ± 5.31%, P = 0.001). Further analysis showed correlation between the changes in peak V̇o2 and the changes in FBF during MS (r = 0.711, P = 0.001). In conclusion, long-term HL survivors have impaired MBF responses during MS. ET restores MBF responses during MS.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Long-term Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) survivors have impaired muscle blood flow responses during mental stress and decreased maximal aerobic capacity. Supervised aerobic exercise training combined with local strength exercises restores muscle blood flow responses during mental stress and maximal aerobic capacity in these survivors. These findings provide evidence of safety and effectiveness of exercise training in HL survivors. Moreover, they highlight the importance of exercise training in the treatment of this set of patients.

Breaking down processing speed: Motor and cognitive insights in first-episode psychosis and unaffected first-degree relatives

IntroductionProcessing speed (PS) deficits represent a fundamental aspect of cognitive impairment, evident not only in schizophrenia but also in individuals undergoing their first episode of psychosis (FEP) and their unaffected first-degree relatives. Heterogeneity in tests assessing PS reflects the participation of motor and cognitive subcomponents to varying degrees. We aim to explore differences in performance of the subcomponents of PS in FEP patients, parents, siblings, and controls. Materials and methodsResults from tests, including Trail Making Test part A and part B, Digit Symbol Coding Test, Grooved Pegboard Test, and Stroop Word and Stroop Color subtests, were obtained from 133 FEP patients, 146 parents, and 202 controls. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was employed in controls to establish the structure, followed by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to verify if the other groups share this structure. ResultsEFA revealed a two-factor model: Factor 1 for the motor subcomponent and Factor 2 for the cognitive subcomponent. Subsequently, CFA indicated a good fit for the remaining groups with differences in the relationship between the factors. ConclusionsDifferences in the relationships of factors within a common structure suggest the involvement of different compensatory strategies among groups, providing insights into the underlying mechanisms of PS deficits in patients and relatives.

Psychometric properties of the Five-executive Function Tests in Indonesian samples

Difficulties in executive function (EF) may be causative factors in clinical conditions, including learning disabilities, depression, and anxiety. However, defining the structure of EF is an ongoing issue, although Miyake’s three-factor structure is widely accepted. This study aims to discover the underlying factor structure of EF domains, as measured by five tests and the scores of 840 participants, to establish the domains’ validity and reliability. Five neuropsychological tests were included in the exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses (EFA and CFA): the Digit Span (DS); the Stroop Color Word Test (Stroop Test); the phonemic Verbal Fluency Test (pVFT); the Five Point Test (5PT); and the Trail Making Test (TMT). EFA could be meaningfully performed (KMO = .862, Bartlett’s test: 𝜒2 =1393.169, df 45, p .001) and yielded three factors closely mirroring the three core domains of EF. CFA of the model in which the 5PT loaded on factor 2 showed the best goodness of fit indicators, although the difference with the other three-factor models was small. Currently, these EF tests are available in Indonesia and suitable for use, although obtaining normative scores adjusted for demographic factors is necessary.

Structural and functional disruption of subcortical limbic structures related with executive function in pediatric bipolar disorder

BackgroundImpaired cognition has been demonstrated in pediatric bipolar disorder (PBD). The subcortical limbic structures play a key role in PBD. However, alternations of anatomical and functional characteristics of subcortical limbic structures and their relationship with neurocognition of PBD remain unclear. MethodsThirty-six PBD type I (PBD-I) (15.36 ± 0.32 years old), twenty PBD type II (PBD-II) (14.80 ± 0.32 years old) and nineteen age-gender matched healthy controls (HCs) (14.16 ± 0.36 years old) were enlisted. Primarily, the volumes of the subcortical limbic structures were obtained and differences in the volumes were evaluated. Then, these structures served as seeds of regions of interest to calculate the voxel-wised functional connectivity (FC). After that, correlation analysis was completed between volumes and FC of brain regions showing significant differences and neuropsychological tests. ResultsCompared to HCs, both PBD-I and PBD-II patients showed a decrease in the Stroop color word test (SCWT) and digit span backward test scores. Compared with HCs, PBD-II patients exhibited a significantly increased volume of right septal nuclei, and PBD-I patients presented increased FC of right nucleus accumbens and bilateral pallidum, of right basal forebrain with right putamen and left pallidum. Both the significantly altered volumes and FC were negatively correlated with SCWT scores. SignificanceThe study revealed the role of subcortical limbic structural and functional abnormalities on cognitive impairments in PBD patients. These may have far-reaching significance for the etiology of PBD and provide neuroimaging clues for the differential diagnosis of PBD subtypes. ConclusionsDistinctive features of neural structure and function in PBD subtypes may contribute to better comprehending the potential mechanisms of PBD.

Effects of electroacupuncture on cognitive symptoms in major depressive disorder: a pilot study and randomized controlled trial

Objectives To investigate the impact of electroacupuncture on cognitive function, quality of life (QoL), and depression severity in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). Methods This double-blinded randomized controlled trial included 60 participants aged 18-55 with cognitive symptoms related to MDD at Thammasat University Hospital. Participants were divided into two groups: the electroacupuncture group combined with standard antidepressant treatment (EG; n=30) and the control group receiving standard care with placebo acupuncture (CG; n=30). The study assessed 1) executive functions using the Trail making test- B and Stroop Color and Word Test, 2) delayed recall, and 3) subjective cognitive complaint and Quality of life (QoL) using WHODAS 2.0. Depressive symptoms were measured using the Thai version of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Baseline and post-intervention assessments were conducted over 10 weeks. Mann-Whitney U test analyzed treatment effects by comparing median differences between groups. Results Both groups exhibited similar demographics and cognitive traits. Cognitive improvement was observed in both groups at the endpoint. Intention-to-treat analysis revealed significantly higher median scores for subjective cognitive complaints in the EG compared to the CG (EG: Median = 5.5, CG: Median = 0.0, p=0.049). No serious side effects were identified from either electroacupuncture or placebo acupuncture. Conclusions Electroacupuncture improved subjective complaints in MDD patients with cognitive symptoms, but did not show effects on specific cognitive functions, QoL, or depressive symptoms. This study provides initial evidence supporting the potential of electroacupuncture in MDD patients with cognitive symptoms, suggesting opportunities for further research. Trial registration NCT06239740, February 2, 2024, ClinicalTrials.gov.

The study of the relationship between moderate to severe sleep obstructive apnea and cognitive impairment, anxiety, and depression.

The present study endeavored to investigate the interconnection between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and cognitive function, alongside the manifestations of depression and anxiety. Simultaneously, an analysis was conducted to discern the factors exerting influence upon cognitive function. A cohort of 102 patients, who had undergone polysomnography (PSG) at Binhu Hospital, Anhui Medical University, between January 2022 and June 2023, was encompassed in the study. Employing the PSG findings, these individuals were classified into two distinct categories: the grouping consisted of those with either negligible or mild OSA, and the other comprised individuals with moderate to severe OSA. Utilizing the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA-Beijing), Stroop Color and Word Test (SCWT), Digit Span Test (DST), Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS), and Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), scores were recorded and analysed for each of the respective assessments. Additionally, discrepancies and associations between these groups were also scrutinized. The group exhibiting moderate to severe OSA demonstrated significantly elevated measurements in parameters such as neck circumference, BMI, completion times for SCWT-A, B, C, Sleep Inefficiency Index (SIE), SAS, and SDS, in comparison to the No or Mild OSA group. Furthermore, the moderate-severe OSA group manifested notably diminished MoCA scores in areas of visual-spatial and executive function, memory, language, abstraction, delayed recall, orientation, total MoCA score, lowest oxygen saturation (LSaO2), average oxygen saturation, Digit Span Test-backward(DST-b), and Digit Span Test-forward(DST-f), as contrasted with the no-mild OSA group. These inter-group disparities exhibited statistical significance (p < 0.05). The MoCA total score portrayed inverse correlations with age, Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI), BMI, SIE, SAS, SDS, CT90%, AHT90%, and Hypoxic Apnea Duration (HAD) (ranging from -0.380 to -0.481, p < 0.05). Conversely, it displayed positive correlations with DST-f, DST-b, LSaO2, and average oxygen saturation (ranging from 0.414 to 0.744, p < 0.05). Neck circumference, AHI, and SAS were autonomously linked to MoCA scores (OR = 1.401, 1.028, 1.070, p < 0.05), while AHI exhibited an independent correlation with SDS and SAS scores (OR = 1.001, p = 0.003). Patients grappling with moderate to severe OSA frequently reveal cognitive impairment and concomitant emotional predicaments encompassing depression and anxiety. These manifestations share an intimate association with AHI, LSaO2, and average oxygen saturation. Notably, anxiety, when coupled with OSA, emerges as an autonomous influential element impinging upon cognitive impairment.

Abnormal EEG microstates in Alzheimer’s disease: predictors of β-amyloid deposition degree and disease classification

Electroencephalography (EEG) microstates are used to study cognitive processes and brain disease-related changes. However, dysfunctional patterns of microstate dynamics in Alzheimer's disease (AD) remain uncertain. To investigate microstate changes in AD using EEG and assess their association with cognitive function and pathological changes in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). We enrolled 56 patients with AD and 38 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HC). All participants underwent various neuropsychological assessments and resting-state EEG recordings. Patients with AD also underwent CSF examinations to assess biomarkers related to the disease. Stepwise regression was used to analyze the relationship between changes in microstate patterns and CSF biomarkers. Receiver operating characteristics analysis was used to assess the potential of these microstate patterns as diagnostic predictors for AD. Compared with HC, patients with AD exhibited longer durations of microstates C and D, along with a decreased occurrence of microstate B. These microstate pattern changes were associated with Stroop Color Word Test and Activities of Daily Living scale scores (all P < 0.05). Mean duration, occurrences of microstate B, and mean occurrence were correlated with CSF Aβ 1–42 levels, while duration of microstate C was correlated with CSF Aβ 1–40 levels in AD (all P < 0.05). EEG microstates are used to predict AD classification with moderate accuracy. Changes in EEG microstate patterns in patients with AD correlate with cognition and disease severity, relate to Aβ deposition, and may be useful predictors for disease classification.

Interictal Dysfunctions of Attention, Vigilance, and Executive Functions in Migraine and Their Reversal by Preventive Treatment: A longitudinal Controlled Study.

To assess attention, vigilance, and executive functions in migraine patients during headache-free (interictal) periods and in healthy controls without migraine and to study the impact of migraine preventive treatment on these cognitive functions. Preventive drug-naive migraine patients, aged ≥18 years, without a history of medication overuse were studied and compared to non-migraine controls. Psychiatric comorbidity was screened by Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and those who screened positive were evaluated further by specific scales. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale assessed subjective complaints of sleep quality. Cognitive functions were assessed by Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), digit span forward and backward (DS-F, DS-B), trail-making tests (TMT-A and B) and Stroop word (SW), Stroop color (SC), and Stroop interference (SI) tests. Cognitive test scores at the end of 6 months following treatment were compared to baseline scores. One hundred and fifty migraine patients and controls each were studied. Compared to controls, migraine patients performed significantly worse in DS-B ( P < 0.0001), TMT-A ( P = 0.00004), TMT-B ( P < 0.0001), SW ( P < 0.0001), SC ( P < 0.0001), and SI ( P = 0.0221). MMSE scores did not differ between patients and the controls ( P = 0.3224). Compared to the patients without psychiatric comorbidity, migraine patients with psychiatric comorbidity showed no significant differences in the cognitive test scores. Significant improvement in all cognitive test scores ( P < 0.001) was observed after 6 months of treatment. Migraine patients, compared to non-migraine controls, showed deficits in attention, vigilance, and executive functions during the interictal period, which improved with successful preventive treatment. Psychiatric comorbidities did not have a significant impact on cognitive dysfunctions.

Dynamic Cognitive-Motor Training versus Cognitive Computer-Based Training in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Preliminary Randomized Controlled Trial with 2-Month Follow-Up.

Background: Recent studies underscore the intricate relationship between cognitive and motor impairments in Multiple Sclerosis (MS), often exacerbated by CNS damage compromising neural connections. These cognitive-motor deficits contribute to reduced efficiency in daily activities and heightened risks of falls and accidents. The combination of challenging cognitive-motor training in a more ecological setting could improve cognitive functions in people with MS (PwMS). Objective: This study aims to compare the impact of dynamic cognitive-motor training versus computer-based cognitive training on overall cognitive efficiency in PwMS. Methods: Thirty-eight PwMS were recruited through the neurorehabilitation services of an Institute of research and health. Twenty-four participants were randomly assigned to the Cognitive-Motor group (CMg) and Cognitive Therapy group (CTg). Participants underwent three training sessions per week for four weeks, each lasting 50 min. The primary outcome was a comprehensive cognitive assessment using the Cognitive Impairment Index (CII), and the secondary outcomes were the Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life Questionnaire MSQOL-54 and the Stroop Color Word Interference Test (SCWT). Results: Significant differences in the CII scores across T0, T1, and T2, as indicated by Friedman's test (χ2(2) = 14.558, p = .001), were found in the CMg. A significant difference in the change in health subscale of the MSQOL-54 was observed when comparing the groups across T0, T1, and T2 (χ2(2) = 6.059, p = .048). There were also statistically significant differences for the emotional well-being (χ2(2) = 7.581, p = .023) and health distress (χ2(2) = 11.902, p = .003) subscales. Post hoc analysis showed a statistically significant improvement in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) for the former at T1 vs. T0 (Z = -2.502, p = .012 and for the latter at T2 vs. T0 (Z = -2.670, p = .008), respectively. Conclusions: Our results support the combination of cognitive-motor training to enhance cognitive functional outcomes and quality of life compared to computer-based cognitive training in PwMS.

Augmented pressor responses to mental stress in females with spontaneous coronary artery dissection

Background: Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) causes acute coronary syndrome or sudden cardiac death due to a separation of arterial wall layers. The majority of patients with SCAD are females (&gt;80%) with few to no traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Though the physiological mechanisms that predispose to SCAD are unknown, common triggers for SCAD events include sympathoexcitatory stimuli, such as mental and emotional stress. Additionally, studies report high prevalence of depression and anxiety among patients with SCAD. Our study aimed to investigate cardiovascular responses to mental stress in patients with SCAD. We hypothesized that patients with SCAD would have exaggerated cardiovascular responses to mental stress compared to healthy controls. Methods: Four female patients with SCAD were age-, and BMI-matched with 4 healthy females. Participants underwent 2 minutes of baseline quiet rest, a 5-minute Stroop Color Word Test to induce mental stress, followed by 2 minutes of recovery. Continuous beat-to-beat blood pressure (BP, finger photoplethysmography) and heart rate (HR, 3-lead ECG) were recorded. Venous occlusion plethysmography was used to measure forearm blood flow (FBF). Forearm vascular conductance (FVC) was calculated as FBF/mean BP×100. Data are presented as change from baseline (Δmean±SD). Group data were compared using independent samples t-tests. Results: Resting hemodynamic parameters (Systolic [SBP], Diastolic [DBP], and Mean BP [MBP], Pulse pressure [PP], and HR) and FVC were similar between groups. Patients with SCAD had greater increases in DBP (Δ12±5 vs. Δ1±5 mmHg, p=0.02) and PP (Δ5±3 vs. Δ-7±8 mmHg, p=0.04) during the last minute of mental stress test compared to controls. Although, there were no differences in the changes of SBP (Δ17±7 vs. Δ-1±13 mmHg, p=0.05), MBP (Δ13±6 vs. Δ3±8 mmHg, p=0.08), HR (Δ8±0 vs. Δ10±2 bpm, p=0.12), or FVC (Δ1.5±1.2 vs. Δ1.8±1.3 ml/min/100 mmHg, p=0.80) between groups. During the last minute of recovery, there were no differences in hemodynamic parameters (SBP: Δ6±9 vs. Δ-4±10 mmHg, p=0.23; DBP: Δ2±7 vs. Δ-3±2 mmHg, p=0.22; MBP: Δ3±7 vs. Δ-3±5 mmHg, p=0.22; PP: Δ4±5 vs. Δ-1±8 mmHg, p= 0.35; HR: Δ-1±3 vs. Δ0±3 bpm, p=0.64), or FVC (Δ1.3±1.7 vs. Δ0.5±0.3 ml/min/100 mmHg, p= 0.35) between groups. Conclusion: These preliminary data suggest that patients with SCAD have greater increases in DBP and PP in response to mental stress compared to healthy controls. These exaggerated pressor responses might have implications for the pathophysiology of SCAD. NIH K23 HL155506, T32 DK07352, K01 HL148144, UL1 TR0022377, and AHA 898649. This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

Exploring workability in an older working population: associations with cognitive functioning, sleep quality, and technostress.

This observational study investigates workability and its associations with cognitive functioning, sleep quality and technostress among an older working population, also shedding light on potential differences between two occupational categories with different work schedules. Workers aged over 50, employed in different working sectors (banking/finance, chemical and metal-mechanic industry) were administered a self- report questionnaire including Work Ability Index (WAI), cognitive tests (Stroop Color Task, Corsi Blocks, Digit Span), sleep quality questionnaires (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index-PSQI; Insomnia Severity Index-ISI; Ford Insomnia Response to Stress Test-FIRST) and technostress scale. Linear regression models evaluated associations among variables, interaction effects investigated potential moderators. A total of 468 aged workers categorized as white (WCWs; N = 289, 62%) or blue collars (BCWs; N = 179, 38%) were enrolled; most BCWs (N = 104; 58%) were night shift workers. WCWs reported higher workability, cognitive functioning, sleep quality and lower technostress (except for invasion and privacy subscales) than BCWs. Associations between cognitive functioning and workability were statistically significant only for BCWs [slopes equal to 0.2 (0.33), 0.8 (0.34), -0.02 (0.001) for Memory Span Corsi, Block Span Digit and Interference Speed respectively]; additionally, sleep quality significantly moderated this association (p = 0.007). Higher levels of technostress were associated with lower workability, and this relationship was stronger for BCWs. The aging of the workforce has important implications for occupational health and safety. Our findings suggest potential interventions and protective measures to promote older workers' wellbeing; blue-collar workers particularly should benefit from tailored intervention to sustain workability and prevent technostress, considering the role of healthy sleep habits promotion.

Home indoor air quality and cognitive function over one year for people working remotely during COVID-19

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic triggered an increase in remote work-from-home for office workers. Given that many homes now function as offices despite not being designed to support office work, it is critical to research the impact of indoor air quality (IAQ) in homes on the cognitive performance of people working from home. In this study, we followed 206 office workers across the U.S. over one year under remote or hybrid-remote settings during 2021–2022. Participants placed two real-time, consumer-grade indoor environmental monitors in their home workstation area and bedroom. Using a custom smartphone application geofenced to their residential address, participants responded to surveys and periodic cognitive function tests, including the Stroop color–word interference test, Arithmetic two-digit addition/subtraction test, and Compound Remote Associates Task (cRAT). Exposures assessed included carbon dioxide (CO2) and thermal conditions (indoor heat index: a combination of temperature and relative humidity) averaged over 30 min prior to each cognitive test. In fully adjusted longitudinal mixed models (n ≤ 121), we found that indoor thermal conditions at home were associated with cognitive function outcomes non-linearly (p < 0.05), with poorer cognitive performance on the Stroop test and poorer creative problem-solving on the cRAT when conditions were either too warm or too cool. Most indoor CO2 levels were <640 ppm, but there was still a slight association between higher CO2 and poorer cognitive performance on Stroop (p = 0.09). Our findings highlight the need to enhance home indoor environmental quality for optimal cognitive function during remote work, with benefits for both employees and employers.

The impact of Toxocara-seropositivity on attention and motor skills in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

BackgroundThe study aims to compare neurological soft signs and executive functions between Toxocara-seropositive and seronegative groups in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. MethodsThe study included 60 boys with ADHD, aged 7–12. After blood samples were taken, the Stroop Color Word Test and Judgment of Line Orientation test (JLOT) were implemented to measure executive functions. Neurological soft signs were evaluated with Physical and Neurological Examination for Subtle Signs (PANESS). ResultsSerological tests were positive for Toxocara antibodies in 20 cases. There was no significant difference between Toxocara seropositive and seronegative regarding age, socioeconomic status, developmental stages, and ADHD severity. However, Toxocara-seropositive children had higher Stroop time and Stroop interference scores and lower JLOT scores than Toxocara-seronegative children. Furthermore, Toxocara-seropositive children exhibited more neurological soft signs, such as gait and station abnormalities, dysrhythmia, and a longer total time in timed movements compared to Toxocara-seronegative children. ConclusionOur study indicates a link between Toxocara-seropositivity and impaired neurological soft signs and executive functions in ADHD. Further research is needed to understand ADHD mechanisms, develop practical treatments considering immunological factors, and thoroughly evaluate how Toxocara seropositivity affects executive functions and motor skills in children with ADHD.

The relationships between motor skills and executive functions in children with and without autism spectrum disorder.

To date, information on associations between motor skills and executive functions (EF) in autistic children is limited. The purpose of this study was to compare motor skills and EF performance between autistic children and typically developing (TD) children and to examine the relationships between motor skills and EF in these two groups. Forty-eight autistic children and 48 TD children aged 6 to 12 years were recruited for this study. Motor skills were measured with the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency-2 (BOT-2). EF was assessed with the Stroop Color and Word Test, the Wisconsin Card Sorting Task (WCST), and the Test of Attentional Performance: Go/No-go test. Independent sample t-tests were used to compare the BOT-2 scores and EF measures between autistic children and TD children. Pearson product-moment correlation and regressions were conducted to assess the relationships between the BOT-2 scores and the EF measures for each group. Results showed that autistic children scored significantly lower than TD children on all four BOT-2 composite scores and a total motor composite. Autistic children also demonstrated significantly lower levels of performance on all EF measures than TD children. Further, autistic children showed more significant associations between motor skills and EF than TD children, particularly pronounced in the domains of fine manual control and manual coordination to cognitive flexibility, as well as manual coordination and inhibitory control. Continued development of motor skills and EF in autistic children is important. The relationships between motor skills and EF were significant among autistic children, suggesting future research on promoting EF through motor skill interventions in autistic children is required.

Neurocognitive functions in siblings of patients with bipolar disorder

ObjectivesSome studies suggest that there are deficits in neurocognitive functions in the euthymic phase of bipolar disorder and healthy relatives of patients with bipolar disorder and that these neurocognitive disorders may be the endophenotype for bipolar disorder. This study aimed to evaluate the neurocognitive functions of unaffected siblings of patients with bipolar disorder compared with the healthy controls. MethodsThe study included the unaffected siblings of patients with bipolar disorder (n = 75) and healthy volunteers without a family history of bipolar disorder (n = 50). The Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV (SCID-I) was administered to each individual to investigate the diagnosis of Axis-I psychiatric disorders according to DSM-IV. The Judgment of Line Orientation Test, the Auditory Verbal Learning Test, the Serial Digit Learning Test, the Stroop Color Word Test, and the Trail Making Test were used to evaluate neurocognitive functions. ResultsOur study found no difference between the groups regarding processing speed, set-shifting, and mental flexibility. However, unaffected siblings of patients with bipolar disorder had significantly worse performance than healthy controls in verbal learning and memory, response inhibition, and visuospatial function. ConclusionsThis study suggests that visuospatial function, response inhibition, verbal learning, and memory may be endophenotypic markers for bipolar disorder.

The relationship between neurotrophins and cognitive functions in the context of emotional response to sleep deprivation

IntroductionStudies conducted up to date on the subject of deprivation of sleep (DS) primarily focused either on its impact on certain cognitive abilities or mood-enhancing effects in patients with depression. A notable body of evidence suggests that both might be related to alterations in neurotrophin synthesis induced by DS. However, the role of NTs as an interface between DS, mood, and cognitive functions is unclear.ObjectivesThe study aimed to investigate associations between cognitive abilities measured by Trail Making Test (TMT) and Stroop Color and Wort Test (ST), serum protein concentrations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), neurotrophin-3 (NT3), neurotrophin-4 (NT4) as well as the expression of their respective genes after a night of sleep deprivation.MethodsEach participant (n=76) underwent a 24-hour DS under the control of actigraphy. Venous blood collection, TMT, and ST were carried out in the morning after DS. Mood was evaluated twice, after DS and in the preceding evening; based on the alleviation of depression symptoms participants were divided into respondents (RE; n=47) and non-respondents (NR; n=29). Serum protein concentration was determined using ELISA kits. Gene expression was evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction with gene-specific probes (reference gene: β-actin). Relative expression was calculated using the Livak formula. TMT is a neuropsychological instrument; Part 1 is thought to evaluate mostly attention, whereas Part 2 executive functions. ST is a 2-part test applied in the assessment of response inhibition and complex attention.ResultsIn RE, cognitive abilities were not associated with expression levels of any of the studied proteins or mRNA (all p&gt;0.05). In NR, BDNF and GDNF mRNA expressions negatively correlated with TMT Part 1 (p=0.017, p=0.048, respectively); scores obtained in TMT Part 2 bore a similar relation to BDNF, GDNF, and NT4 mRNA (p=0.034, p=0.041, p=0.026, respectively). In this group, expression of all BDNF, GDNF, NT3, NT4 mRNA correlated negatively with both parts of ST (p&lt;0.001, p=0.009, p=0.042, p=0.009 for Part 1; p&lt;0.001, p=0.003, p=0.031, p=0.014 for Part 2, respectively).ConclusionsThose results suggest that alterations in the synthesis of NTs might be an element of the molecular milieu characterizing different types of DS response. Negative correlations between test scores and NT mRNA expressions could imply that the reduction of the production of NT proforms might protect against the decline of cognitive functions in the aftermath of DS. Projects using a larger battery of tests as well as analyzing immature forms of NTs would be desirable in order to further investigate mechanisms underlying DS response.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Unipolar and Bipolar Depressed Inpatients: correlations with Vitamin D and Cognitive Symptoms

Introduction Cognitive symptoms are the main factor of discomfort in depressed patients, persisting even during clinical remission (Conradi et al. Psychol Med 2011;41:1165-74) and inevitably compromising their quality of life (Fehnel et al. CNS Spectr 2013;25:1-10). Several studies have suggested the neuroprotective role of vitamin D, both through actions on the genome and rapid non-genomic mechanisms; so, low serum vitamin D levels are related to poorer cognitive performance (Goodwill et al. JAGS 2017;2:1-8), depressive disorders (Kjærgaard et al. Psyc Res 2011;190:221-225) and suicide risk (Umhau et al. PLoS One 2013;8:e51543).Objectivesto investigate relationships between serum vitamin D levels, depressive symptoms and cognitive performance in unipolar and bipolar depressed adults hospitalized for Major Depressive Episode (MDE).Methods80 patients (34 M and 46 F; average age 48,96±14,17 years; 40% with bipolar depression) were examined. Depression was investigated using Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D), while cognitive functions were explored by: Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) and Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure (ROCF) to assess verbal and visuospatial memory, respectively; Trail Making Test (TMT) and Stroop Color and Word Test to assess attention, spatial planning and cognitive flexibility. Venous blood sampling was used to determine serum Vitamin D levels (average level 15,67 ± 8,7 ng/ml).Results At first, the serum level of vitamin D was found to be inversely correlated with HAM-D scores (p=0,0079), so that lower concentrations of vitamin D is related to greater severity of depression. In addiction, there were strongly significative positive correlations between low vitamin D levels and poorer RAVLT and ROCF scores and strongly significative negative correlations between vitamin serum level and higher scores in TMT and STROOP test, so that calcidiol deficit is associated with poor cognitive performance. Similarly, patients with higher HAM-D scores were found to have a greater cognitive impairment (lower RAVLT e ROCF scores and higher TMT e STROOP scores).Conclusions In accordance with previous works, our study supports the close relationship between serum vitamin D levels and depressive morbidity. During MDE hypovitaminosis D is related to worse disease indices, such as severity of affective symptoms and cognitive impairment, without substantial differences between clinical manifestations of unipolar and bipolar depression, both in terms of affective and cognitive symptoms and disease severity. Considering that cognitive deficits are truly disabling because they may resist to common antidepressant treatments and, as a result, persist during stages of clinical remission, vitamin d supplementation, by minimizing cognitive dysfunction, could be a good strategy to reduce the risk of relapses and to improve patients’ functioning and quality of life.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Evaluation of Neurocognitive Functions of Children and Adolescents Diagnosed with Pediatric Bipolar Disorder and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation and at High Risk for Bipolar Disorder

IntroductionPediatric Bipolar Disorder (BPD) is a chronic psychiatric disorder that alters normal and psychological development processes among patients. Although cognitive deficits in BPD have identified in recent studies, little is known about the developmental trajectory of these deficits. DMDD is a newly defined diagnosis included in the DSM-V. Since it added a new dimension to the clinical spectrum but few studies conducted on DMDD, there are some conflicting discussions in the literature about how to distinguish this disorder from other childhood psychiatric disorders and how to treat it.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to determine the phenomenological and neuropsychological differences between children and adolescents with a diagnosis of BPD (Pediatric Bipolar Disorder), DMDD (Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder), and children and adolescents who are genetically at high risk for Bipolar Disorder (BD), and healthy controls (HCs) who do not have any psychiatric diagnosis, to investigate endophenotypes that may be predictive for BD.MethodsOur study sample consists of four groups, the BPD group (n=30), the Risk group (n=25), the DMDD group (n=36), and the Healthy Control group (n=29). All participants were evaluated by the “Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children—Now and Lifetime Pattern (K-SADS-PL)”. “Young Mania Rating Scale/Parent Form (YMRS-ABF), Conner’s Parent Rating Scale (CPRS-48), Child and Adolescent Behavior Rating Scale (CBCL)” scales were filled by parents, and “Child Depression Inventory (CDI), Youth Self-Report Form for 11-18 Years Olds (YSR)” scales were filled by children and adolescents. Neurocognitive test battery was applied to each participant: Continuous Performance Test (CPT), Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), Stroop Color and Word Test (SCWT), Trait Making Test A and B sections (TMT-A/B), California Verbal Learning Test-Child version (CVLT-C).ResultsWhile it was determined that the cases in the BPD and DMDD groups performed significantly worse in CPT, SCWT, CVLT-C, TMT A/B tests compared to healthy controls, it was found that the subjects in the Risk group performed worse at the CPT test than healthy controls. In addition, the cases in the BPD, Risk and DMDD groups reported more clinical and behavioral problems than the healthy controls.ConclusionsThere is a significant deterioration in the areas of continuous attention, processing speed, cognitive flexibility, response prevention, verbal memory and working memory in the BPD and DMDD groups, and in the continuous attention area in the Risk group compared to healthy controls. Prospective follow-up and imaging studies using larger samples and a larger neurocognitive test battery in the future will better reveal the neuropsychological characteristics of the BPD, Risk and DMDD groups.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Effect of transcranial direct current stimulation combined with transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation on poststroke cognitive impairment: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

IntroductionPoststroke cognitive impairment is a common complication in stroke survivors, seriously affecting their quality of life. Therefore, it is crucial to improve cognitive function of patients who had a stroke....

Sex differences in neurocognitive performance in older adults with bipolar disorder

IntroductionIn recent years, research has focused on the older adults with bipolar disorder (OABD), aged 50 years and over, a constantly growing population due to the increased of life expectancy. Actually, some authors suggest that these individuals constitute a distinct subtype with a specific and different needs such as seen in epidemiologic, clinical and cognitive features. Further research has revealed significant differences between females and males with BD in clinical and cognitive variables in middle-aged and young patients, but this topic among OABD population remains unclear.ObjectivesThe aim of this study is to identify the distinctive profile in clinical, functional and neurocognitive variables between females and males in OABD.MethodsA sample of OABD and Healthy Controls (HC) were included. Euthymic patients or in partial remission were included. Neurocognition was measured with a battery of tests that included premorbid intelligence quotient, working memory, verbal and visual memory, processing speed, language and executive functions. Independent t-test and Chi-squared test analysis were performed as appropriated.ResultsAccording to the analysis, statistically significant differences were seen between females and males. A more impaired cognitive profile is observed in women. They performed worse in the subscales of Arithmetic (F= 6.728, p = &lt;0.001), forward digits (F= 0.936, p= 0.019) and Total Digits (F= 1.208, p= 0.019) of the WAIS-III, in the Stroop Color Word Test, color reading (F= 0.130, p= &lt; 0.001), in the Continuous Performance Test, block change measure (F= 2.059, p= 0.037), in the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure-copy (F= 0.005, p= 0.029) and in the Boston Naming Test (F= 0.011, p= 0.024). Nor significant differences were found in clinical neither in psychosocial functioning variables.ConclusionsIn view of the following results, and since no differences were observed between women and men in terms of clinical and functional outcomes, it could be said that the differences observed in cognition cannot be explained by disease-related factors. Furthermore, these results highlight the need to develop a gender-specific cognitive interventions in OABD population. In this way, we could have an impact on the course of the illness to reach a better quality of life.Disclosure of InterestS. Martín-Parra: None Declared, C. Torrent Grant / Research support from: Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (PI20/00344) integrated into the Plan Nacional de I+D+I and co-financed by the ISCIIISubdireccion General de Evaluación and the Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER), A. Ruiz: None Declared, M. Bort: None Declared, G. Fico Grant / Research support from: Fellowship from “La Caixa” Foundation (ID 100010434 - fellowship code LCF/BQ/DR21/11880019), V. Oliva: None Declared, M. Prisco: None Declared, J. Sanchez-Moreno Grant / Research support from: Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (PI20/00060) integrated into the Plan Nacional de I+D+I and co-financed by the ISCIII-Subdireccion General de Evaluación and the Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER), E. Jimenez Grant / Research support from: Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (PI20/00060) integrated into the Plan Nacional de I+D+I and co-financed by the ISCIII-Subdireccion General de Evaluación and the Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER), A. Martinez-Aran: None Declared, E. Vieta Grant / Research support from: Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (PI18/ 00805, PI21/00787) integrated into the Plan Nacional de I+D+I and cofinanced by the ISCIII Subdirección General de Evaluación and the Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); the Instituto de Salud Carlos III; the CIBER of Mental Health (CIBERSAM); the Secretaria d’Universitats i Recerca del Departament d’Economia i Coneixement (2017 SGR 1365), the CERCA Programme, and the Departament de Salut de la Generalitat de Catalunya for the PERIS grant SLT006/17/00357; the European Union Horizon 2020 research and innovation program (EU.3.1.1. Understanding health, wellbeing and disease: Grant No 754907 and EU.3.1.3. Treating and managing disease: Grant No 945151), B. Sole: None Declared, L. Montejo: None Declared