Cognitive Content of Commercial Exergames

2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (3) ◽  
pp. 23-37
Author(s):  
Fernanda Cerveira Abuana Cerveira Fronza ◽  
Elisa Pinheiro Ferrari ◽  
Daniela Karine Ramos ◽  
Ademilde Silveira Sartori ◽  
Fernando Luiz Cardoso
Keyword(s):  
Selective Attention ◽  
Executive Functions ◽  
Cognitive Flexibility ◽  
Cognitive Functions ◽  
Logical Reasoning ◽  
Cognitive Content ◽  
Long Jump

The objective of study was to identify and describe the cognitive content of commercial Exergames through the evaluation of five experts in cognitive functions. The method used to delineate the relevance of the executive functions in Exergames involved the concordance between judges. Based on the evaluation of the experts, regarding the representativeness of the cognitive functions for each modality, 60% agreed moderately that logical reasoning was present in soccer. In athletics, logical reasoning in the launching of dart stands out (60%). In the long jump, 60% of the experts moderately agreed that logical reasoning is present, while in skiing 60% stated that participants used selective attention. In Tennis, 40% of experts agreed that cognitive flexibility is demonstrated. There was great agreement by the experts that the aquarium game involved the presence of selective attention (100%), except in the case of the winding stream. It is concluded that there is a representation of executive functions in the commercial Exergames analyzed.

scholarly journals Basic and complex cognitive functions in Adult ADHD

PLoS ONE ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 16 (9) ◽  
pp. e0256228
Author(s):  
Saleh M. H. Mohamed ◽  
Marah Butzbach ◽  
Anselm B. M Fuermaier ◽  
Matthias Weisbrod ◽  
Steffen Aschenbrenner ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Working Memory ◽  
Selective Attention ◽  
Cognitive Flexibility ◽  
Processing Speed ◽  
Cognitive Functions ◽  
Neuropsychological Tests ◽  
Adult Adhd ◽  
Verbal Learning ◽  
Test Word ◽  
Basic Functions

Background Many clinical studies reported deficits in basic and complex cognitive functions in adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). However, the extent in which deficits in basic functions (i.e., processing speed and distractibility) contribute to complex cognitive impairments (i.e., working memory, planning, cognitive flexibility, memory functions) in adults with ADHD is not well-studied. So far, literature show only one study, revealing that basic functions explain 27–74% of executive dysfunctions. Yet, the authors reported that findings could be affected by the selection of neuropsychological tests. The goal of the present research is to replicate such a finding using a different sample and a different set of neuropsychological tests. Methods Forty-eight adult patients with ADHD were compared with 48 healthy controls in basic cognitive functions, namely processing speed and distractibility and more complex cognitive functions, namely selective attention, cognitive flexibility, planning, working memory, verbal fluency, and verbal memory. Basic and complex cognitive functions were assessed using the Vigilance and Sustained Attention, Selective Attention, N-Back, Tower of London, Trail Making Test, Word Fluency, and Verbal Learning and Memory. Results and conclusion Logistic regression analyses showed that impairments in complex cognitive functions explained 25% of the variance in ADHD diagnosis. The explained variance dropped from 25% to 9% after considering basic functions of processing speed and distractibility. This 64% reduction highlights the importance of basic functions for impairments in complex functions in patients with ADHD.

Exercise for Cognitive Improvement and Rehabilitation (EXCIR) Improves Attention and Executive Functions in Children with ADHD

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vahid Nejati
Keyword(s):  
Selective Attention ◽  
Executive Functions ◽  
Inhibitory Control ◽  
Cognitive Flexibility ◽  
Sustained Attention ◽  
Cognitive Rehabilitation ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Children With Adhd ◽  
Cognitive Improvement ◽  
Experimental Group

Abstract Background: Physical activities improves cognitive functioning. The purpose of the present study is to effect of physical activity with progressive cognitive demands on attention and executive functions in children with ADHD. Methods: Thirty children with ADHD were randomly assigned into two equal experimental and control groups. The experimental group received 12 sessions of exercise for cognitive improvement and rehabilitation (EXCIR). Working memory, selective attention, sustained attention, inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility were administered pre- and post-intervention through 1-back test, Stroop test, attention registration test, go no go test and trial making test in order. The repeated measure ANOVAs were used for analysis.Results: The results showed that experimental group has a greater performance in selective attention, sustained attention, inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility compared to control group. Conclusions: These findings implicate that the cognitive rehabilitation program is advantageous for improvement of attention and executive functions in children with ADHD.

scholarly journals The Effect of Transcranial Random Noise Stimulation on Cognitive Training Outcome in Healthy Aging

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michela Brambilla ◽  
Lars Dinkelbach ◽  
Annelien Bigler ◽  
Joseph Williams ◽  
Nahid Zokaei ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Working Memory ◽  
Executive Functions ◽  
Cognitive Training ◽  
Inhibitory Control ◽  
Cognitive Functions ◽  
Random Noise ◽  
Logical Reasoning ◽  
Performance Change ◽  
Transcranial Random Noise Stimulation

Background and Objective: Aging is associated with a decline in attentional and executive abilities, which are linked to physiological, structural, and functional brain changes. A variety of novel non-invasive brain stimulation methods have been probed in terms of their neuroenhancement efficacy in the last decade; one that holds significant promise is transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS) that delivers an alternate current at random amplitude and frequency. The aim of this study was to investigate whether repeated sessions of tRNS applied as an add-on to cognitive training (CT) may induce long-term near and far transfer cognitive improvements.Methods: In this sham-controlled, randomized, double-blinded study forty-two older adults (age range 60–86 years) were randomly assigned to one of three intervention groups that received 20 min of 0.705 mA tRNS (N = 14), 1 mA tRNS (N = 14), or sham tRNS (N = 19) combined with 30 min of CT of executive functions (cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, working memory). tRNS was applied bilaterally over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortices for five sessions. The primary outcome (non-verbal logical reasoning) and other cognitive functions (attention, memory, executive functions) were assessed before and after the intervention and at a 1-month follow-up.Results: Non-verbal logical reasoning, inhibitory control and reaction time improved significantly over time, but stimulation did not differentially affect this improvement. These changes occurred during CT, while no further improvement was observed during follow-up. Performance change in logical reasoning was significantly correlated with age in the group receiving 1 mA tRNS, indicating that older participants profited more from tRNS than younger participants. Performance change in non-verbal working memory was significantly correlated with age in the group receiving sham tRNS, indicating that in contrast to active tRNS, older participants in the sham group declined more than younger participants.Interpretation: CT induced cognitive improvements in all treatment groups, but tRNS did not modulate most of these cognitive improvements. However, the effect of tRNS depended on age in some cognitive functions. We discuss possible explanations leading to this result that can help to improve the design of future neuroenhancement studies in older populations.

scholarly journals A systematic review of the use of subcortical intraoperative electrical stimulation mapping for monitoring of executive deficits and neglect: what is the evidence so far?

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maud J. F. Landers ◽  
Margriet M. Sitskoorn ◽  
Geert-Jan M. Rutten ◽  
Emmanuel Mandonnet ◽  
Wouter De Baene
Keyword(s):  
Working Memory ◽  
Electrical Stimulation ◽  
White Matter ◽  
Executive Functions ◽  
Cognitive Flexibility ◽  
Cognitive Functions ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Neurosurgical Planning ◽  
The Right ◽  
Intraoperative Electrical Stimulation

Abstract Background Over the past decade, the functional importance of white matter pathways has been increasingly acknowledged in neurosurgical planning. A method to directly study anatomo-functional correlations is direct electrical stimulation (DES). DES has been widely accepted by neurosurgeons as a reliable tool to minimize the occurrence of permanent postoperative motor, vision, and language deficits. In recent years, DES has also been used for stimulation mapping of other cognitive functions, such as executive functions and visuospatial awareness. Methods The aim of this review is to summarize the evidence so far from DES studies on subcortical pathways that are involved in visuospatial awareness and in the following three executive functions: (1) inhibitory control, (2) working memory, and (3) cognitive flexibility. Results Eleven articles reported on intraoperative electrical stimulation of white matter pathways to map the cognitive functions and explicitly clarified which subcortical tract was stimulated. The results indicate that the right SLF-II is involved in visuospatial awareness, the left SLF-III and possibly the right SLF-I are involved in working memory, and the cingulum is involved in cognitive flexibility. Conclusions We were unable to draw any more specific conclusions, nor unequivocally establish the critical involvement of pathways in executive functions or visuospatial awareness due to the heterogeneity of the study types and methods, and the limited number of studies that assessed these relationships. Possible approaches for future research to obtain converging and more definite evidence for the involvement of pathways in specific cognitive functions are discussed.

scholarly journals Decision-making, cognitive functions, impulsivity, and media multitasking expectancies in high versus low media multitaskers

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Silke M. Müller ◽  
Johannes Schiebener ◽  
Matthias Brand ◽  
Magnus Liebherr
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
Working Memory ◽  
Information Processing ◽  
Executive Functions ◽  
Cognitive Functions ◽  
Internet Use ◽  
Logical Reasoning ◽  
Problematic Internet Use ◽  
Media Multitasking ◽  
Objective Risk

AbstractIn several studies, individuals who reported to frequently multitask with different media displayed reduced cognitive performance, for example in fluid intelligence and executive functioning. These cognitive functions are relevant for making advantageous decisions under both objective risk (requiring reflection and strategical planning) and ambiguous risk (requiring learning from feedback). Thus, compared to low media multitaskers (LMMs), high media multitaskers (HMMs) may perform worse in both types of decision situations. The current study investigated HMMs and LMMs in a laboratory setting with the Game of Dice Task (GDT; objective risk), the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT; ambiguous risk), various tests quantifying cognitive functions (logical reasoning, working memory, information processing, general executive functions), and self-report measures of impulsivity, media multitasking expectancies, and problematic Internet use. From 182 participants, 25 HMMs and 19 LMMs were identified using the Media Multitasking Index. Results show that HMMs compared to LMMs performed weaker on the IGT but not on the GDT. Furthermore, HMMs had slightly decreased performance in tests of logical reasoning and working memory capacity. HMMs tended to increased information processing speed but this difference was not significant. Furthermore, HMMs have more positive expectancies regarding media multitasking and reported higher tendencies toward problematic Internet use. HMMs and LMMs did not differ significantly with respect to impulsivity and executive functions. The results give a first hint that HMMs may have difficulties in decision-making under ambiguous but not under objective risk. HMMs may be more prone to errors in tasks that require feedback processing. However, HMMs appear not to be impaired in aspects of long-term strategic decision-making.

scholarly journals Executive Functions and Domain-Specific Cognitive Skills in Climbers

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (4) ◽  
pp. 449
Author(s):  
Florian Heilmann
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Executive Functions ◽  
Cognitive Flexibility ◽  
Cognitive Skills ◽  
Neuropsychological Tests ◽  
Specific Test ◽  
Domain Specific ◽  
Sport Climbing ◽  
Novices And Experts ◽  
General Physical

Athletes in a particular sport have specific cognitive skills acquired due to regular confrontation with sport-specific requirements. Studies show that the particular type of sport carried out and fostered by general physical activity impacts executive functions (EFs) such as inhibition, working memory, and cognitive flexibility. There are inconsistent results on the connections between domain-specific cognitive skills and executive functions. This study aimed to evaluate the relations between EFs and domain-specific cognitive skills in climbing. Due to that, we examined the executive functions (neuropsychological tests) and domain-specific cognitive skills (climbing-specific test: a preview of the route vs. climbed moves; climbed moves vs. recognition of moves) of 19 climbers (10 novices, 9 experts, grades 5 to 6a vs. 6c+ to 7b). The inter-subject effects analysis shows that novices and experts in sport climbing do not differ in executive functions in this particular case. Concerning domain-specific cognitive skills, there are differences between experts and novices. Experts show a significantly higher level in planning performance or route idea (p < 0.001) as well as in memorizing of climbed moves (p = 0.004). There are no relations between executive functions and domain-specific cognitive skills in climbers.

scholarly journals Large Neutral Amino Acids (LNAAs) Supplementation Improves Neuropsychological Performances in Adult Patients with Phenylketonuria

Nutrients ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (4) ◽  
pp. 1092 ◽  
Author(s):  
Iris Scala ◽  
Maria Pia Riccio ◽  
Maria Marino ◽  
Carmela Bravaccio ◽  
Giancarlo Parenti ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Amino Acids ◽  
Executive Functions ◽  
Metabolic Control ◽  
Cognitive Functions ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Wisconsin Card Sorting Test ◽  
Card Sorting ◽  
Large Neutral Amino Acids ◽  
Neutral Amino Acids ◽  
Poor Metabolic Control

Phenylketonuria is an inborn error of phenylalanine (Phe) metabolism diagnosed by newborn screening and treated early with diet. Although diet prevents intellectual disability, patients often show impairment of executive functions, working memory, sustained attention, and cognitive flexibility. Large neutral amino acids (LNAAs) have been proposed as a dietary supplement for PKU adults. Few studies show that LNAAs may help in improving metabolic control as well as cognitive functions. In this study, 10 adult PKU patients with poor metabolic control were treated for 12 months with LNAAs (MovisCom, 0.8–1 g/kg/day) and underwent Phe and Tyrosine (Tyr) monitoring monthly. Neuropsychological assessment was performed at T0, T+3, and T+12 months by using the American Psychological General Well-Being Index, the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, the Test of Attentional Performance, and the 9-Hole Peg Test. No change in plasma Phe levels was observed during LNAAs supplementation, while Tyr levels significantly improved during LNAAs supplementation (p = 0.03). Psychometric tests showed an improvement of distress and well-being rates, of executive functions, attention, and vigilance, whereas no difference was noted regarding hand dexterity. This study adds evidence of the advantage of LNAAs supplementation in improving cognitive functions and well-being in patients with PKU with poor metabolic control.

scholarly journals Neuropsychology and malnutrition: a study with 7 to 10 years-old children in a poor community

2007 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 45-54 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mônica C. Miranda ◽  
Fernando J. Nóbrega ◽  
Kazue Sato ◽  
Sabine Pompéia ◽  
Elaine G. Sinnes ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Working Memory ◽  
Executive Functions ◽  
Cognitive Functions ◽  
Maternal Mental Health ◽  
Average Birth Weight ◽  
Term Memory ◽  
Malnourished Children ◽  
Visual Spatial ◽  
Neuropsychological Profile ◽  
Prenatal Malnutrition

OBJECTIVES: to compare the neuropsychological profile of eutrophic, stunted and chronically malnourished children, and to analyse the role of socio-economic factors on the cognitive development. METHODS: seven to 10 year-old girls and boys from a poor community in São Paulo were evaluated: 27 eutrophyc, 31 stunted and 15 chronically malnourished. Neuropsychological evaluation involved cognitive functions not fully assessed in this population, such as working, declarative and non-declarative memories, attention and executive functions. Socio-economic indicators, maternal mental health and the children's behaviour at school were also evaluated. RESULTS: malnourished children had a lower score on the vocabulary test than the eutrophic and stunted groups (p s<0.05), performed worse in the visuospatial working memory task (p = 0.01), were more anxious than the stunted (p = 0.006), and despite having lower average birth weight than eutrophic children (p = 0.01), only two children as had prenatal malnutrition. Stunted children exhibited no impairment. No differences in socio-economic variables were found among groups. CONCLUSIONS: chronic malnutrition was associated to impairment of expressive speech, visual-spatial short-term memory and increased anxiety. No effects were observed in intellectual abilities, executive functions, verbal working memory, long-term memory, nor in visuoconstructive function. Preservation of the latter cognitive functions can be attributed to adequate environmental conditions and the lack of overall prenatal malnutrition.

scholarly journals Cultural variation in cognitive flexibility reveals diversity in the development of executive functions

2018 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Cristine H. Legare ◽  
Michael T. Dale ◽  
Sarah Y. Kim ◽  
Gedeon O. Deák
Keyword(s):  
Executive Functions ◽  
Cognitive Flexibility ◽  
Cultural Variation

scholarly journals Age effects on the development of stimulus over-selectivity are mediated by cognitive flexibility and selective attention

2020 ◽  
Vol 45 (1) ◽  
pp. 89-96
Author(s):  
Michelle P. Kelly ◽  
Phil Reed
Keyword(s):  
Selective Attention ◽  
Cognitive Flexibility ◽  
Visual Discrimination ◽  
Discrimination Task ◽  
The Other ◽  
Distractor Task ◽  
Typically Developing ◽  
Cognitive Variables ◽  
Typically Developing Children ◽  
Developmental Trends

Stimulus over-selectivity is said to have occurred when only a limited subset of the total number of stimuli present during discrimination learning controls behavior, thus, restricting learning about the range, breadth, or all features of a stimulus. The current study investigated over-selectivity of 100 typically developing children, aged 3–7 (mean = 65.50 ± 17.31 SD months), using a visual discrimination task. Developmental trends in over-selectivity and their relationship to some cognitive variables (i.e., selective attention, sustained attention, and cognitive flexibility) were the target. Over-selectivity decreased with age, but this effect was mediated by the development of cognitive flexibility. Over-selectivity increased when a distractor task was introduced, which was not mediated by the other cognitive variables under investigation. The current results assist in the establishment of the theoretical underpinnings of over-selectivity by offering evidence of its underlying determinants and relating these to developmental trends.

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