Diagnóstico de la variante conductual de demencia frontotemporal basado en estadios clínicos adaptado para países con baja educación: el caso de Perú

Demencia frontotemporal (DFT) es una condición neurodegenerativa escasamente reconocida en personas menores a 65 años de edad. El diagnóstico de DFT variante conductual (DFTvc) se basa en una entrevista clínica comprehensiva, complementada por una evaluación multidimensional (neurológica, cognitiva, neuropsiquiátrica, de biomarcadores e imágenes cerebrales) adaptada y validada a la población a estudiar; sin embargo, a pesar del incremento de su prevalencia en Latinoamérica y el Caribe, existe necesidad de herramientas estandarizadas y un consenso para el diagnóstico de DFTvc. El artículo intenta realizar una aproximación del enfoque de diagnóstico de DFTvc en escenario de paises con bajos y medianos ingresos, como el Perú.

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a widely recognized neurodegenerative condition in people under 65 years old. The diagnosis of behavioral variant FTD (bvFTD) is based on a comprehensive clinical assessment, complemented by a multidimensional assessment (neurological, cognitive, neuropsychiatric, biomarker and brain imaging) adapted and validated to the population to be studied; however, despite its increasing prevalence in Latin America and the Caribbean, there is a need for standardized tools and consensus for the bvFTD diagnosis. The manuscript attempts to approximate the approach for the diagnosis of bvFTD in the setting of low and middle-income countries, including Peru.

Electroconvulsive Therapy Impact on Memory Performance in Patients With Depression.

INTRODUCTION: The safety of electroconvulsive therapy has improved greatly over the last decades, making the potentially adverse effects on memory and other neurocognitive functions the main clinical aspect of concern in the present. In Colombia, the general population and healthcare professionals (even some psychiatrists) seem to have mostly negative opinions towards electroconvulsive therapy treatment, but maybe this could be reconsidered if more information is provided; therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the changes in memory and the severity of the symptoms in a group of patients with severe depression before and after electroconvulsive therapy. METHODS: Twenty-three patients ranging in age from 23 to 70 years from the electroconvulsive therapy service at the San Juan de Dios Clinic (Manizales, Colombia) were recruited in order to assess the effect of electroconvulsive therapy on memory in patients with severe depression. Depressive symptoms and memory were assessed with the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) and Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), respectively. The assessment was administered to participants before the initial treatment of electroconvulsive therapy series (0-1 day) and 2 days after their last treatment. RESULTS: Electroconvulsive therapy resulted in significant improvement in the rating of depression. There were no significant differences in the five learning trials, delayed recall, learning and forgetting scores from pre-treatment to post-treatment. Significant pre-treatment/post-treatment differences were found in the delayed recognition trial. CONCLUSIONS: Pre- and post- electroconvulsive therapy cognitive assessment is a feasible and useful procedure. In general, memory performance does not worsen after electroconvulsive therapy in patients with depression. Only delayed recognition is affected a few days following electroconvulsive therapy, particularly in patients with low educational level and bitemporal (BT) electrode placement.

Evaluación del neurodesarrollo en niños con exposición intrauterina al virus del Zika: estudio observacional transversal / Developmental assessment of children with intrauterine exposure to Zika virus: cross-sectional observational study

El virus del Zika produce desenlaces adversos para el desarrollo del sistema nervioso. Este estudio describe el neurodesarrollo cognitivo, adaptativo, comunicativo, social y motor de niños expuestos intrauterinamente al virus del Zika y hace una evaluación del neurodesarrollo con la escala de Battelle a los tres años después del nacimiento. Participaron 30 niños con una media de edad al momento de la evaluación de 37,5 (RIC: 35,7-39,2) meses. Se halló una edad equivalente en meses en las áreas: motora 25,8 (DE: 7,8), adaptativa 26,7 (DE: 5,8), comunicativa 30,2 (DE: 6,9), personal social 33,5 (DE: 8,3) y cognitiva 35,6 (DE: 5,9). Los niños presentaron retraso en el desarrollo para la edad cronológica, 25 niños presentaban retraso en una de las cinco áreas evaluadas. Una alta proporción de niños expuestos al virus del Zika durante la gestación presentaron retraso en el desarrollo, principalmente en el dominio adaptativo y motor.

Zika virus infection affects the development of the nervous system. This study describes the cognitive, adaptative, communicative, social and motor neurodevelopment of children exposed to Zika virus in utero. We used the Batelle scale to assess neurodevelopment three years after birth. Thirty children were included, who had a mean age at evaluation of 37.5 (IQR: 35.7-39.2) months. We found the following equivalent ages in months for each area: motor 25.8 (SD: 7.8), adaptive 26.7 (SD: 5.8), communicative 30.2 (SD: 6.9), social personal 33.5 (SD: 8.3) and cognitive 35.6 (SD: 5.9). Children showed development delay for their chronological age, 25 children were delayed in one of the five areas assessed. A high rate of children exposed to Zika virus during gestation presented delayed developmental age, mainly regarding the adaptive and motor areas.

Comorbilidades neurocognitivas y psicológicas en pacientes con epilepsia de la infancia con puntas centrotemporales. Un estudio de casos y controles / Neurocognitive and psychological comorbidities in patients with self-limited centrotemporal spike epilepsy. A case-control study

Introducción: La epilepsia de la infancia con puntas centrotemporales (EIPCT) es la epilepsia focal autolimitada más frecuente. Este estudio tenía como objetivo evaluar los aspectos cognitivos, conductuales y otros aspectos neuropsicológicos de niños con EIPCT, y compararlos con un grupo de control. Sujetos y métodos: Se realizó un estudio de casos y controles entre enero y mayo de 2022. Se seleccionó para su inclusión en el estudio a pacientes con EIPCT, con edades comprendidas entre 6 y 18 años, en seguimiento en nuestro hospital. Por cada caso, se reclutó, de forma aleatoria, a dos controles de la misma edad. Todos los participantes realizaron la prueba EpiTrack Junior®, y sus padres rellenaron la lista de verificación del comportamiento infantil (CBCL). Resultados: Se incluyó a 18 pacientes (edad media: 8,7 ± 1,7 años). En el momento del diagnóstico de EIPCT, el 83% de los casos presentaba un desarrollo psicomotor adecuado, y el 17%, un trastorno del neurodesarrollo. Las puntuaciones del EpiTrack-Junior® y de la escala total de problemas de la CBCL no se vieron influidas por la lateralidad del foco epiléptico ni por el número de crisis. El 61% de los casos mostró un trastorno leve o significativo en la prueba EpiTrack-Junior® frente al 44% de los controles (p = 0,712), y el 39% de los casos frente al 14% de los controles tuvieron puntuaciones ‘clínicamente significativas’ en la escala total de problemas de la CBCL. Conclusiones: Aunque este estudio no encontró diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre casos y controles, cabe señalar que la mayor parte de los pacientes con EIPCT presentaba un deterioro leve o significativo en las funciones ejecutivas. Un porcentaje considerable de casos se encontraba en el rango patológico en cuanto a problemas emocionales/conductuales. Este estudio destaca la importancia de examinar los problemas cognitivos, conductuales y emocionales de los pacientes con EIPCT.(AU)

Introduction: Self-limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (SeLECTS) is the most frequent self-limited focal epilepsy. This study aimed to assess the cognitive, behavioral, and other neuropsychological aspects of children with SeLECTS, and compare them with a control group. Subjects and methods: A case-control study was carried out between January and May 2022. Patients with SeLECTS, aged between 6 and 18 years, and followed-up at our hospital were selected for inclusion in the study. For each case, two age-matched controls were opportunistically recruited. All the participants performed the EpiTrack Junior® test, and their parents filled out the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Results: Eighteen patients were included (mean age: 8.7 ± 1.7 years). At SeLECTS’ diagnosis, 83% of cases had adequate psychomotor development, and 17% had a neurodevelopmental disorder. The EpiTrack-Junior® and the Total Problems CBCL scores were not influenced by the laterality of the epileptic focus nor by the number of seizures. 61% of cases showed mild or significant impairment in the EpiTrack-Junior® test versus 44% of controls (p = 0.712), and 39% of cases vs. 14% of controls had ‘clinically significant’ scores on the Total Problems CBCL scale (p = 0.087). Conclusions: Although this study did not find statistically significant differences between cases and controls, it should be noted that most patients with SeLECTS had a mild or significant disability in executive functions. A considerable percentage of cases were in the pathological range regarding emotional/behavioral problems. This study highlights the importance of screening the cognitive, behavioral, and emotional problems in all patients with SeLECTS.(AU)

Impacto de la Terapia Electroconvulsiva en el Funcionamiento de la Memoria en Pacientes con Depresión

Introducción: La seguridad de la terapia electroconvulsiva ha mejorado mucho en las últimas décadas, lo que hace que los efectos potencialmente adversos en la memoria y otras funciones neurocognitivas sean el principal aspecto clínico de preocupación en el presente. En Colombia, la población general y los profesionales de la salud (incluso algunos psiquiatras) parecen tener opiniones mayoritariamente negativas sobre el tratamiento electroconvulsivo, pero quizá esto podría reconsiderarse si se brinda más información; por lo tanto, el objetivo del presente estudio es evaluar los cambios en la memoria y la gravedad de los síntomas en un grupo de pacientes con depresión grave antes y después de la terapia electroconvulsiva. Métodos: Se incluyó a 23 pacientes con edades comprendidas entre los 23 y los 70 anos del Servicio de Terapia Electroconvulsiva de la Clínica San Juan de Dios (Manizales, Colombia) para evaluar el efecto de esta terapia en la memoria de pacientes con depresión grave. Los síntomas depresivos y la memoria se evaluaron con la escala de depresión de Hamilton (HAMD) y la prueba de aprendizaje auditivo verbal de Rey (RAVLT) respectivamente. Se evaluó a los participantes antes de la sesión inicial de la serie de terapia electroconvulsiva (0-1 día) y 2 días después de su último tratamiento. Resultados: La terapia electroconvulsiva resultó en una mejora significativa en la puntuación de depresión. No hubo diferencias significativas en las puntuaciones de las 5 pruebas de aprendizaje, recuerdo retardado, aprendizaje y olvido desde antes del tratamiento hasta después de este. Se encontraron diferencias significativas antes y después del tratamiento en la prueba de reconocimiento retardado. Conclusiones: Los problemas de memoria pueden evaluarse y caracterizarse de manera práctica tras la terapia electroconvulsiva. La evaluación cognitiva antes y después de la terapia electroconvulsiva es un procedimiento viable y útil. En general, el rendimiento de la memoria no empeora después de la terapia electroconvulsiva en pacientes con depresión. Solo el reconocimiento retardado se ve afectado unos días después, particularmente en pacientes con bajo nivel educativo y colocación de electrodos bitemporales (BT).

Introduction: The safety of electroconvulsive therapy has improved greatly over the last decades, making the potentially adverse effects on memory and other neurocognitive functions the main clinical aspect of concern in the present. In Colombia, the general population and healthcare professionals (even some psychiatrists) seem to have mostly negative opinions towards electroconvulsive therapy treatment, but maybe this could be reconsidered if more information is provided; therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the changes in memory and the severity of the symptoms in a group of patients with severe depression before and after electroconvulsive therapy. Methods: Twenty-three patients ranging in age from 23 to 70 years from the electroconvulsive therapy service at the San Juan de Dios Clinic (Manizales, Colombia) were recruited in order to assess the effect of electroconvulsive therapy on memory in patients with severe depression. Depressive symptoms and memory were assessed with the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) and Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), respectively. The assessment was administered to participants before the initial treatment of electroconvulsive therapy series (0-1 day) and 2 days after their last treatment. Results: Electroconvulsive therapy resulted in significant improvement in the rating of depression. There were no significant differences in the five learning trials, delayed recall, learning and forgetting scores from pre-treatment to post-treatment. Significant pre-treatment/post-treatment differences were found in the delayed recognition trial. Conclusions: Pre- and post- electroconvulsive therapy cognitive assessment is a feasible and useful procedure. In general, memory performance does not worsen after electroconvulsive therapy in patients with depression. Only delayed recognition is affected a few days following electroconvulsive therapy, particularly in patients with low educational level and bitemporal (BT) electrode placement.

Correlation between cognitive performance and structural neuroanatomy in patients with type I bipolar affective disorder treated with and without lithium.

INTRODUCTION: Lithium treatment of bipolar disorder (BD) has been associated with less cognitive impairment and fewer changes in structural brain anatomy compared to other treatments. However, the studies are heterogeneous and few assess whether these effects are related. The objective of this study was to evaluate and relate cognitive performance and structural neuroanatomy in patients treated with and without lithium. METHODS: Cross-sectional study that included 48 subjects with BD-I, of which 22 were treated with lithium and 26 without lithium. Performance was assessed on Wechsler III (WAIS III), TMT A and B (Trial Making Test) neuropsychological tests, California verbal learning test (CVLT), Rey complex figure test and Wisconsin card sorting test. Brain structures obtained by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were evaluated. The standardised mean difference (SMD) between both groups was calculated, adjusted for confounding variables using a propensity score, and the Spearman correlation coefficient (ρ) was used to assess the relationship between cognitive performance and neuroanatomical regions. RESULTS: Compared to the group without lithium, the group with lithium had fewer perseverative errors in the Wisconsin test (SMD = -0.69) and greater left and right cortical areas (SMD = 0.85; SMD = 0.92); greater surface area in the left anterior cingulate (SMD = 1.32), right medial orbitofrontal cortex (SMD = 1.17), right superior frontal gyrus (SMD = 0.82), and right and left precentral gyrus (SMD = 1.33; SMD = 0.98); greater volume of the right amygdala (SMD = 0.57), right hippocampus (SMD = 0.66), right putamen (SMD = 0.87) and right thalamus (SMD = .67). In the lithium group, a correlation was found with these errors and the thickness of the left precentral gyrus (ρ = -0.78), the volume of the right thalamus (ρ = -0.44), and the right amygdala (ρ = 0.6). CONCLUSIONS: The lithium group had better cognitive flexibility and greater dimension in some frontal and subcortical cortical regions. Furthermore, there was a moderate to high correlation between performance in this executive function and the thickness of the right precentral gyrus, and the volumes of the thalamus and the right amygdala. These findings could suggest a neuroprotective effect of lithium.

Correlación entre el desempeño cognitivo y la neuroanatomía estructural en pacientes con trastorno afectivo bipolar tipo I tratados con y sin litio / Correlation Between Cognitive Performance and Structural Neuroanatomy in Patients with Type I Bipolar Affective Disorder Treated with and Without Lithium

RESUMEN Introducción: El tratamiento del trastorno afectivo bipolar (TAB) con litio se ha relacionado con menos deterioro cognitivo y menores cambios en la anatomía estructural cerebral comparado con otros tratamientos. Sin embargo, los estudios son heterogéneos y son pocos los que evalúan si estos efectos están relacionados. El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar y relacionar el desempeno cognitivo y la neuroanatomía estructural en pacientes tratados con y sin litio. Métodos: Estudio de corte trasversal que incluyó a 48 sujetos con TAB I: 22 tratados con litio y 26 sin litio. Se evaluó el desempeno en las pruebas neuropsicológicas Wechsler III (WAIS III), TMTAyB (Trial Making Test), prueba de aprendizaje verbal de California (TAVEC), prueba de Figura compleja de Rey y prueba de clasificación de tarjetas de Wisconsin. Se evaluaron estructuras cerebrales obtenidas por resonancia magnétiva (RM) cerebral. Se calculó la diferencia de medias estandarizada (DME) entre ambos grupos, con ajuste por variables de confusión mediante puntuación de propensión, y se empleó el coeficiente de correlación de Spearman (p) para evaluar la relación existente entre el desempeno cognitivo y las regiones neuroanatómicas. Resultados: Respecto al grupo sin litio, el grupo con litio tuvo menos errores perseverativos en el Wisconsin (DME = -0,69) y mayores áreas corticales derecha e izquierda (DME = 0,85 y DME = 0,92); mayor superficie en el cíngulo anterior izquierdo (DME = 1,32), la corteza orbi-tofrontal medial derecha (DME = 1,17), el giro frontal superior derecho (DME = 0,82), los giros precentrales derecho e izquierdo (DME = 1,33 y DME = 0,98); mayor volumen de la amígdala derecha (DME = 0,57), el hipocampo derecho (DME = 0,66), el putamen derecho (DME = 0,87) y el tálamo derecho (DME = 0,67). En el grupo con litio, se encontró una correlación con dichos errores y el espesor del giro precentral izquierdo (p = -0,78), el volumen del tálamo derecho (p = -0,44) y la amígdala derecha (p = 0,6). Conclusiones: El grupo con litio tuvo mejor flexibilidad cognitiva y mayor dimensión en algunas regiones corticales frontales y subcorticales. Además, hubo correlación moderada a alta entre el desempeno en esta función ejecutiva y el espesor del giro precentral derecho, y los volúmenes del tálamo y la amígdala derecha. Estos hallazgos podrían indicar un efecto neuroprotector del litio

ABSTRACT Introduction: Lithium treatment of bipolar disorder (BD) has been associated with less impairment and fewer changes in structural brain anatomy compared to other treatments. However, the studies are heterogeneous and few assess whether these effects are related. The objective of this study was to evaluate and relate cognitive performance and structural neuroanatomy in patients treated with and without lithium. Methods: Cross-sectional study that included 48 subjects with BD-I, of which 22 were treated with lithium and 26 without lithium. Performance was assessed on Wechsler III (WAIS III), TMT A and B (Trial Making Test) neuropsychological tests, California verbal learning test (CVLT), Rey complex figure test and Wisconsin card sorting test. Brain structures obtained by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were evaluated. The standardised mean difference (SMD) between both groups was calculated, adjusted for confounding variables using a propen-sity score, and the Spearman correlation coefficient (p) was used to assess the relationship between cognitive performance and neuroanatomical regions. Results: Compared to the group without lithium, the group with lithium had fewer perse-verative errors in the Wisconsin test (SMD = -0.69) and greater left and right cortical areas (SMD = 0.85; SMD = 0.92); greater surface area in the left anterior cingulate (SMD = 1.32), right medial orbitofrontal cortex (SMD = 1.17), right superior frontal gyrus (SMD = 0.82), and right and left precentral gyrus (SMD = 1.33; SMD = 0.98); greater volume of the right amyg-dala (SMD = 0.57), right hippocampus (SMD = 0.66), right putamen (SMD = 0.87) and right thalamus (SMD=.67). In the lithium group, a correlation was found with these errors and the thickness of the left precentral gyrus (p = -0.78), the volume of the right thalamus (p =-0.44), and the right amygdala (p = 0.6). Conclusions: Thelithium group had better cognitive flexibility and greater dimension in some frontal and subcortical cortical regions. Furthermore, there was a moderate to high correlation between performance in this executive function and the thickness of the right precentral gyrus, and the volumes of the thalamus and the right amygdala. These findings could suggest a neuroprotective effect of lithium.

Effect of bariatric surgery on neurocognitive function after 6 months of follow-up: a pilot study / Efectos de la cirugía bariátrica sobre la función neurocognitiva después de 6 meses de seguimiento: un estudio piloto

Background: reduced cognitive performance has been observed in patients with severe obesity. Bariatric surgery and subsequent adipose tissue loss seem to affect cognitive functioning positively; however, improvement predictors are not well established. Aim: to evaluate the cognitive performance and the nutritional status of patients with severe obesity 6-month after bariatric surgery. Methods: we assessed the neuropsychological performance of 22 patients with obesity (body mass index: ~ 42.9 kg/m²). The nutritional evaluation consisted of the routine tests performed in the baseline and postoperative periods. Lastly, we calculated the correlation between neuropsychological assessment results and blood biomarkers. Results: the patients did not present cognitive impairment in the preoperative assessment, but performed below the standard range. The patients underwent significant weight loss after 6 months from surgery (~ 22 kg), with a change in obesity class III to I. Also, the patients presented a significant improvement in attention, mental flexibility, inhibitory control, and processing speed. Additionally, we observed a significant improvement in serum folic acid (108 %), gamma-glutamyl transferase (-41 %), uric acid (-32 %), ferritin (-28 %), triglycerides (-19 %), and high-density lipoprotein (9 %). Lastly, we found a moderate positive correlation between processing speed and body weight (r = 0.46), gamma-glutamyl transferase (r = 0.54), and total protein and mental flexibility (r = 0.75). Conclusion: bariatric surgery promoted significant weight loss and improved attention, mental flexibility, processing speed, and several nutritional biomarkers. Nevertheless, the surgery had limited effects on other cognitive functions such as short- and long-term memory and language (AU)

Introducción: se ha observado una disminución del rendimiento cognitivo en los pacientes con obesidad grave. La cirugía bariátrica y la pérdida de tejido adiposo parecen mejorar el funcionamiento cognitivo; sin embargo, los predictores de mejora no están bien establecidos. Objetivos: evaluar el rendimiento cognitivo y el estado Nutricional de pacientes con obesidad severa después de 6 meses de una cirugía bariátrica. Métodos: evaluamos el desempeño neuropsicológico de 22 pacientes con un índice de masa corporal ~ 42,9 kg/m². Se analizaron las pruebas de rutina realizadas al inicio y después de la cirugía. Calculamos la correlación con la evaluación neuropsicológica y los biomarcadores sanguíneos. Resultados: los pacientes no mostraron deterioro cognitivo en la evaluación preoperatoria, pero sí un rendimiento por debajo del estándar. Los pacientes mostraron una pérdida de peso significativa 6 meses después de la cirugía (~ 22 kg), con un cambio de la clasificación de obesidad de III a I. Además, los pacientes mostraron una mejora significativa de la atención, la flexibilidad mental, el control inhibitorio y la velocidad de procesamiento. Además, observamos una mejora significativa del ácido fólico sérico (108 %), la gamma-glutamil-transferasa (-41 %), el ácido úrico (-32 %), la ferritina (-28 %), los triglicéridos (-19 %) y las lipoproteínas de alta densidad (9 %). Finalmente, encontramos una correlación positiva moderada entre la velocidad de procesamiento y el peso corporal (r = 0,46) y la gamma-glutamil-transferasa (r = 0,54), y entre la proteína total y la flexibilidad mental (r = 0,75). Conclusiones: la cirugía bariátrica promovió una pérdida de peso significativa y mejoró la atención, la flexibilidad mental, la velocidad de procesamiento y varios biomarcadores Nutricionales. Sin embargo, tuvo efectos limitados sobre otras funciones cognitivas, como la memoria y el lenguaje a corto y largo plazo (AU)

Validação de Instrumento em uma População Brasileira de Adolescentes em Conflito com a Lei / Validation of Instrument in a Brazilian Population of Adolescents in Conflict with the Law / Validación de Instrumento en una Población Brasileña de Adolescentes en Conflicto con la Ley

Este estudo teve como objetivo a construção de um software, a partir da testagem adaptativa informatizada para computadores e dispositivos móveis, como possível ferramenta para a avaliação neuropsicológica do controle inibitório. Foi realizado estudo empírico com 70 adolescentes entre 14 e 18 anos que cumpriam medida socioeducativa em complexo de reabilitação. Foi empreendida uma análise via TRI através da constatação do modelo logístico de três parâmetros (3PL); os itens foram ajustados apresentando confiabilidade (Alfa de Cronbach = 0,909). Outra análise constatou a relação entre a tarefa construída e o Five Digit Test (teste que avalia construtos similares). Os resultados apontaram que a tarefa construída tem potencial para avaliar o CI, considerando que a correlação dos escores entre os instrumentos obteve níveis consideráveis de significância (no nível de 0,05). Além disso, verificou-se que o uso da tecnologia da informação no processo de avaliação neuropsicológica torna o processo mais dinâmico e atrativo para o avaliado, além de mais prático e econômico para o avaliador.

This study aimed to build a software from computerized adaptive testing for computers and mobile devices as a possible tool for the neuropsychological assessment of inhibitory control. An empirical study was carried out with 70 teenagers between 14 and 18 years old who were completing socio-educational measures in a rehabilitation complex. An analysis was carried out via IRT through the verification of the logistic model of three parameters (ML3), the items were adjusted showing reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.909). Another analysis found the relationship between the constructed task and the Five Digit Test (a test that assesses similar constructs). The results showed that the constructed task has the potential to assess the IC, considering that the correlation of scores between the instruments obtained considerable levels of significance (at the level of 0.05). Furthermore, it was found that the use of information technology in the neuropsychological assessment process makes the process more dynamic and attractive for the individual, in addition to being more practical and economical for the assessor.

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo construir un software, a partir de pruebas adaptativas computarizadas para computadoras y dispositivos móviles como una posible herramienta para la evaluación neuropsicológica del control inhibitorio. Se realizó un estudio empírico con 70 adolescentes entre 14 y 18 años que estaban completando medidas socioeducativas en un complejo de rehabilitación. Se realizó un análisis vía TRI mediante la verificación del modelo logístico de tres parámetros (3PL), los ítems fueron ajustados mostrando confiabilidad (alfa de Cronbach = 0.909). Otro análisis encontró la relación entre la tarea construida y la prueba de cinco dígitos (una prueba que evalúa constructos similares). Los resultados señalaron que la tarea construida tiene potencial para evaluar el CI, considerando que la correlación de puntajes entre los instrumentos obtuvo niveles considerables de significancia (al nivel de 0.05). Además, se encontró que el uso de la tecnología de la información en el proceso de evaluación neuropsicológica hace que el proceso sea más dinámico y atractivo para el individuo, además de ser más práctico y económico para el evaluador.

Effect of bariatric surgery on neurocognitive function after 6 months of follow-up: a pilot study.

Introduction: Background: reduced cognitive performance has been observed in patients with severe obesity. Bariatric surgery and subsequent adipose tissue loss seem to affect cognitive functioning positively; however, improvement predictors are not well established. Aim: to evaluate the cognitive performance and the nutritional status of patients with severe obesity 6-month after bariatric surgery. Methods: we assessed the neuropsychological performance of 22 patients with obesity (body mass index: ~ 42.9 kg/m²). The nutritional evaluation consisted of the routine tests performed in the baseline and postoperative periods. Lastly, we calculated the correlation between neuropsychological assessment results and blood biomarkers. Results: the patients did not present cognitive impairment in the preoperative assessment, but performed below the standard range. The patients underwent significant weight loss after 6 months from surgery (~ 22 kg), with a change in obesity class III to I. Also, the patients presented a significant improvement in attention, mental flexibility, inhibitory control, and processing speed. Additionally, we observed a significant improvement in serum folic acid (108 %), gamma-glutamyl transferase (-41 %), uric acid (-32 %), ferritin (-28 %), triglycerides (-19 %), and high-density lipoprotein (9 %). Lastly, we found a moderate positive correlation between processing speed and body weight (r = 0.46), gamma-glutamyl transferase (r = 0.54), and total protein and mental flexibility (r = 0.75). Conclusion: bariatric surgery promoted significant weight loss and improved attention, mental flexibility, processing speed, and several nutritional biomarkers. Nevertheless, the surgery had limited effects on other cognitive functions such as short- and long-term memory and language.

Introducción: Introducción: se ha observado una disminución del rendimiento cognitivo en los pacientes con obesidad grave. La cirugía bariátrica y la pérdida de tejido adiposo parecen mejorar el funcionamiento cognitivo; sin embargo, los predictores de mejora no están bien establecidos. Objetivos: evaluar el rendimiento cognitivo y el estado nutricional de pacientes con obesidad severa después de 6 meses de una cirugía bariátrica. Métodos: evaluamos el desempeño neuropsicológico de 22 pacientes con un índice de masa corporal ~ 42,9 kg/m². Se analizaron las pruebas de rutina realizadas al inicio y después de la cirugía. Calculamos la correlación con la evaluación neuropsicológica y los biomarcadores sanguíneos. Resultados: los pacientes no mostraron deterioro cognitivo en la evaluación preoperatoria, pero sí un rendimiento por debajo del estándar. Los pacientes mostraron una pérdida de peso significativa 6 meses después de la cirugía (~ 22 kg), con un cambio de la clasificación de obesidad de III a I. Además, los pacientes mostraron una mejora significativa de la atención, la flexibilidad mental, el control inhibitorio y la velocidad de procesamiento. Además, observamos una mejora significativa del ácido fólico sérico (108 %), la gamma-glutamil-transferasa (-41 %), el ácido úrico (-32 %), la ferritina (-28 %), los triglicéridos (-19 %) y las lipoproteínas de alta densidad (9 %). Finalmente, encontramos una correlación positiva moderada entre la velocidad de procesamiento y el peso corporal (r = 0,46) y la gamma-glutamil-transferasa (r = 0,54), y entre la proteína total y la flexibilidad mental (r = 0,75). Conclusiones: la cirugía bariátrica promovió una pérdida de peso significativa y mejoró la atención, la flexibilidad mental, la velocidad de procesamiento y varios biomarcadores nutricionales. Sin embargo, tuvo efectos limitados sobre otras funciones cognitivas, como la memoria y el lenguaje a corto y largo plazo.

Estudio exploratorio para la validación de la Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis (BICAMS) en la población con esclerosis múltiple remitente recurrente del Hospital San Juan de Dios en Santiago de Chile / Exploratory study for the validation of the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis (BICAMS) in the population with recurrent remitting multiple sclerosis of the San Juan de Dios Hospital in Santiago, Chile

La evaluación cognitiva en personas adultas con esclerosis múltiple (EM) es un área fundamental a tener en cuenta en el proceso de intervención, debido a la alta prevalencia de deterioro cognitivo. En la actualidad, se ha recomendado la evaluación cognitiva por medio de la BICAMS (del inglés Brief International Cognitive Assessment for MS), que es una batería específica para evaluar a personas con EM, pero que no cuenta con validación en nuestro país. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo identificar el impacto de algunos factores clínicos (meses de evolución de la enfermedad y nivel de discapacidad) y personales (sexo, años de escolaridad y edad) que influyen en las medidas cognitivas de la BICAMS, a fin de contar con información relevante y precisa en un futuro proceso de validación. La muestra estuvo constituida por 38 personas con Esclerosis Múltiple Remitente Recurrente (EMRR). Los resultados mostraron que de los cinco factores clínicos observados, solo edad y sexo influyeron de manera significativa sobre los puntajes de las tres pruebas de la BICAMS. Por lo tanto, la validación de esta batería para la población chilena debiera incluir y/o controlar ambas variables de edad y sexo.

The evaluation of cognitive aspects among individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) is key when considering intervention, because of high prevalence of cognitive impairments. At present, cognitive evaluation has been recommended by means of BICAMS (Brief International Cognitive Assessment for MS), which is a battery specifically constructed to assess individuals with MS. However, the battery has not been validated in Chile.The present study aims atdetermining the impact of clinical factors (months since condition's diagnosis and severeness level) and individual factors (sex, age, and years of schooling), which is expected to be accurate and valuable input for future validation processes. Sample consisted of 38 people with remittent-recurrent multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Results showed that only age and gender do significantly impact cognitive performance on all of three BICAMs subtests. Therefore, when validating this battery for Chilean individuals, both age and gender should be included and or controlled.

Neurological and neuropsychological sequelae of Zika virus infection in children in León, Nicaragua / Secuelas neurológicas y neuropsicológicas de la infección por el virus del Zika en niños y niñas en León, Nicaragua / Sequelas neurológicas e neuropsicológicas da infecção pelo vírus zika em crianças em León, Nicarágua

ABSTRACT Objectives. To describe the presence and persistence of neurological and neuropsychological sequelae among children with acquired Zika virus infection and assess whether those sequelae were more common in children infected with Zika virus compared to uninfected children. Methods. We conducted a prospective cohort study of children with and without Zika virus infection in León, Nicaragua, using a standard clinical assessment tool and questionnaire to collect data on symptoms at three visits, about 6 months apart, and a battery of standardized instruments to evaluate neurocognitive function, behavior, depression, and anxiety at the last two visits. Results. Sixty-two children were enrolled, with no significant differences in demographics by infection group. Children infected with Zika virus had a range of neurological symptoms, some of which persisted for 6 to 12 months; however, no consistent pattern of symptoms was observed. At baseline a small percentage of children infected with Zika virus had an abnormal finger-to-nose test (13%), cold touch response (13%), and vibration response (15%) versus 0% in the uninfected group. Neurocognitive deficits and behavioral problems were common in both groups, with no significant differences between the groups. Children infected with Zika virus had lower cognitive efficiency scores at the 6-month visit. Anxiety and depression were infrequent in both groups. Conclusions. Larger studies are needed to definitively investigate the relationship between Zika virus infection and neurological symptoms and neurocognitive problems, with adjustment for factors affecting cognition and behavior, including mood and sleep disorders, home learning environment, history of neuroinvasive infections, and detailed family history of neuropsychological problems.

RESUMEN Objetivos. Describir la presencia y persistencia de secuelas neurológicas y neuropsicológicas en pacientes pediátricos que contrajeron la infección por el virus del Zika y evaluar si dichas secuelas fueron más comunes en los infectados con el virus del Zika en comparación con los no infectados. Métodos. Se realizó un estudio de cohorte prospectivo en pacientes pediátricos con y sin infección por el virus del Zika en León (Nicaragua), con una herramienta de evaluación clínica estándar y un cuestionario para recopilar datos sobre los síntomas en tres visitas, con aproximadamente seis meses de diferencia, y un conjunto de instrumentos estandarizados para evaluar la función neurocognitiva, el comportamiento, la depresión y la ansiedad en las últimas dos visitas. Resultados. Participaron 62 niños y niñas sin diferencias significativas en la demografía por grupo de infección. Los participantes infectados con el virus del Zika mostraron una variedad de síntomas neurológicos, algunos de los cuales persistieron entre 6 y 12 meses; no obstante, no se observó un patrón sistemático en los síntomas. Al inicio del estudio, un pequeño porcentaje de participantes infectados con el virus del Zika mostró resultados anormales a las pruebas dedo-nariz (13%), respuesta al tacto (frío) (13%) y respuesta a la vibración (15%), frente a un 0% en el grupo no infectado. Los déficits neurocognitivos y los problemas de comportamiento fueron comunes en ambos grupos, sin diferencias significativas entre los grupos. Los participantes infectados con el virus del Zika mostraron puntuaciones de eficiencia cognitiva más bajas en la visita a los 6 meses. La ansiedad y la depresión fueron poco frecuentes en ambos grupos. Conclusiones. Son necesarios estudios más amplios para investigar definitivamente la relación entre la infección por el virus del Zika y los síntomas neurológicos y los problemas neurocognitivos, haciendo ajustes para los factores relacionados con la cognición y el comportamiento, incluidos los trastornos del estado de ánimo y el sueño, el entorno de aprendizaje en el hogar, los antecedentes de infecciones neuroinvasivas y los antecedentes familiares detallados de problemas neuropsicológicos.

RESUMO Objetivos. Descrever a presença e a persistência de sequelas neurológicas e neuropsicológicas em crianças com infecção pelo vírus zika e avaliar se essas sequelas foram mais comuns em crianças infectadas pelo vírus zika em comparação com crianças não infectadas. Métodos. Realizamos um estudo de coorte prospectivo em crianças com e sem infecção pelo vírus zika em León, Nicarágua, usando uma ferramenta de avaliação clínica padrão e um questionário para coletar dados de sintomas em três consultas, com cerca de 6 meses de intervalo, além de um conjunto de ferramentas padronizadas para avaliar função neurocognitiva, comportamento, depressão e ansiedade nas duas últimas consultas. Resultados. Foram incluídas 62 crianças, sem diferenças significativas nas características demográficas por grupo de infecção. As crianças infectadas pelo vírus zika tinham uma gama de sintomas neurológicos, alguns dos quais persistiram por 6 a 12 meses. Entretanto, não se observou nenhum padrão consistente de sintomas. No início do estudo, uma pequena porcentagem de crianças infectadas com o vírus zika apresentou resultado anormal na prova índex-nariz (13%), resposta ao toque frio (13%) e sensibilidade vibratória (15%), em comparação a 0% no grupo não infectado. Déficits neurocognitivos e problemas comportamentais foram frequentes em ambos os grupos, mas sem diferenças significativas entre eles. As crianças infectadas com o vírus zika tiveram resultados mais baixos de eficiência cognitiva na consulta de 6 meses. Ansiedade e depressão não foram observadas com frequência em ambos os grupos. Conclusões. São necessários estudos mais amplos para investigar a relação exata entre a infecção pelo vírus zika e sintomas neurológicos e problemas neurocognitivos, com ajuste para fatores que afetam a cognição e o comportamento, incluindo distúrbios do humor e do sono, ambiente de aprendizagem em casa, história de infecções neuroinvasivas e história familiar detalhada de problemas neuropsicológicos.

Story reading with incidental comprehension and memory: left hemisphere dominance / Lectura de una historia con comprensión y memoria incidentales: dominancia del hemisferio izquierdo

ABSTRACT Background: There are no studies on adults with unilateral brain lesions regarding story reading with incidental/implicit comprehension and memory, in which memory is only assessed through delayed recall. There is a need for validation of cerebral laterality in this type of verbal recall, which includes spontaneous performance (free or uncued condition (UC)), and induced-through-question performance regarding the forgotten units (cued condition (CC)). Objectives: To explore the effects of unilateral brain lesions, of oral reading with expression (RE) and comprehension (RC) on delayed recall of a story, as either UC or CC; and to validate the ability of UC and CC to discriminate the side of brain injury. Methods: Data were obtained from 200 right-handed volunteers, among whom 42 had left-hemisphere injury (LHI), 49 had right-hemisphere injury (RHI) and 109 were demographically-matched healthy participants (HP). Patients who were unable to read, understand or speak were excluded. Results: LHI individuals presented impairment of both UC and CC, in relation to the other two groups (non-LHI) with sensitivity and specificity above 70%. LHI and RHI individuals were not significantly different in RE and RC, but they were both different from HP in all the assessments except CC, in which RHI individuals resembled HP. Despite this lack of abnormality in RHI individuals during CC, about half of this group showed impairment in UC. Additionally, whereas RE had a significant effect on UC, the moral of the story (RC) had a significant effect on both UC and CC. Conclusions: The left hemisphere was dominant for this memory task involving implicit processing.

RESUMEN Antecedentes: No existen estudios en adultos con lesiones cerebrales unilaterales sobre la lectura de una historia, con comprensión y memoria incidental/implícita, midiendo sólo el recuerdo diferido. Se necesita validar la lateralidad cerebral en este tipo de recuerdo verbal que incluye: desempeño espontáneo (condición sin claves (CS) o libre) y desempeño inducido con preguntas sobre las unidades olvidadas (condición con claves (CC)). Objetivos: Explorar el efecto de las lesiones cerebrales unilaterales, la lectura expresiva (LE) y la comprensiva (LC), sobre el recuerdo diferido de una historia, sea CS o CC. Validar CS y CC en su capacidad para discriminar el lado de la lesión cerebral. Métodos: Los datos se obtuvieron de 200 voluntarios diestros, 42 con lesiones del hemisferio izquierdo (LHI), 49 con lesiones del hemisferio derecho (LHD), y 109 participantes sanos (PS), equiparados demográficamente. Se excluyeron los pacientes que no pudieron leer, entender o hablar. Resultados: LHI resultó perjudicado respecto de los otros dos grupos (no-LHI) en CS y CC, con una sensibilidad y especificidad superior al 70%. LHI y LHD no se diferenciaron significativamente en LE ni LC, pero ambos fueron diferentes de los PS en todas las evaluaciones excepto CC, en donde LHD se asemejó a los PS. A pesar de esta ausencia de anomalía en LHD durante CC, aproximadamente la mitad de LHD mostró deterioro en CS. Además, mientras que LE tuvo un efecto significativo en CS, la moraleja de la historia (LC) tuvo un efecto significativo tanto en CS como en CC. Conclusiones: El hemisferio izquierdo fue dominante para esta tarea de memoria que involucró procesamiento implícito.

Revisión sistemática sobre pruebas de evaluación neuropsicológica para niños con discapacidad auditiva / Systematic review on neuropsychological assessment tests for children with hearing impairment

La presente investigación se propuso determinar las pruebas de evaluación neuropsicológica más eficaces para niños con discapacidad auditiva mediante la revisión sistemática de la eviden-cia científica publicada. El proceso de búsqueda se hizo de mayo a septiembre de 2020, a partir de las bases de datos: Redalyc, Scielo, Ebsco, Hinari y Scopus. Los artículos seleccionados tenían hasta 10 años de publicación, escritos en idioma inglés. La información sistematizada en la bibliografía posibilitó determinar las pruebas confiables de la evaluación del desarrollo neuropsicológico en pacientes pediátricos con discapacidad auditiva: vocabulario (Test de Voca-bulario en Imágenes Peabody), lenguaje (Test de Evaluación Clínica de los Fundamentos del Lenguaje), funcionamiento ejecutivo (Behavioral Rating Inventory of Executive Function y las Pruebas de habilidades cognitivas Woodcock Johnson), inteligencia (Prueba Breve de Inteligencia de Kaufman). Mientras que, la Prueba informatizada AWARD, el Test de Vocabulario de Boston y el de habilidades de reconocimiento de oraciones (HINT) fueron valoradas con menor operatividad.

This research aimed to determine the most effective neuropsychological assessment tests for children with hearing impairment through a systematic review from published scientific eviden-ce. The searching process was carried out from May to September 2020, including the databa-ses: Redalyc, SciELO, Ebsco, Hinari and Scopus. The selected articles had up to 10 years of publication, written in English languages. The information systematized in the bibliography made it possible to determine the reliable tests of the neuropsychological development evalua-tion in pedagogical patients with hearing disabilities: vocabulary (Peabody Imaging Vocabulary Test), language (Clinical Evaluation of the Fundamentals of Language test), executive functio-ning (Behavioral Rating Inventory of Executive Function and the Woodcock Johnson Cognitive Ability Tests), intelligence (Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test). On the other hand, the AWARD computerized test, the Boston Vocabulary Test and the Sentence Recognition Skills Test (HINT) were evaluated with lower operability.

Comparación del perfil neurocognitivo entre niños de 3 a 6 años con y sin discapacidad auditiva / Comparison of the neurocognitive profile between children aged 3 to 6 years with and without hearing impairmen

El estudio tuvo como objetivo comparar el perfil neurocognitivo pacientes pediátricos normo-yentes de edades entre 3 a 6 años, con respecto al de niños en ese mismo grupo etario que presen-tan discapacidad auditiva, los que utilizaban un implante coclear por entre 24 a 36 meses. Para alcanzarlo, se hizo una investigación con diseño no experimental de tipo comparativo y enfoque cuantitativo. Los datos se obtuvieron a partir de los informes neuropsicológicos archivados en las historias clínicas de 10 pacientes preescolares, atendidos en el Centro de Rehabilitación Integral Especializada "CRIE" en la ciudad de Cuenca en 2019, los que se dividieron en dos grupos (uno con los discapacitados auditivos y otros sin esa característica). El instrumento aplicado en esa institución fue el Cuestionario de Madurez Neuropsicológica (CUMANIN). Las diferencias entre los dos grupos resultaron estadísticamente significativas en la mayoría de las escalas valoradas, los niños sin discapacidad auditiva mostraron un desarrollo neurocognitivo superior al resto de los participantes. La correlación entre las dimensiones del desarrollo neurocognitivo: lenguaje expresivo y fluidez verbal, con respecto a la edad en los niños con discapacidad auditiva, cuyas cifras fueron negativas y se enmarcan en la categoría de fuerte o absoluta

The objective of the study was to compare the neurocognitive profile of normally hearing pediatric patients aged 3 to 6 years with that of children in the same age group with hearing impairment, those who used a cochlear implant for 24 to 36 months. To achieve this, a research was carried out with a non-experimental design of a comparative type and a quantitative approach. The data were obtained from the neuropsychological reports filed in the medical records of 10 preschool patients, treated at the Centro de Rehabilitación Integral Especializada "CRIE" in the city of Cuenca in 2019. The population were divided into two groups (one with the hearing impaired and others without that feature). The instrument applied in that institution was the Neuropsychological Maturity Questionnaire. The differences between the two groups were statisti-cally significant in most of the scales evaluated, the children without hearing impairment showed a neurocognitive development superior to the rest of the participants. The correlation between the dimensions of neurocognitive development: expressive language and verbal fluen-cy, with respect to age in children with hearing disabilities, whose figures were negative and fall into the category of strong or absolute

Electroconvulsive Therapy Impact on Memory Performance in Patients With Depression.

INTRODUCTION: The safety of electroconvulsive therapy has improved greatly over the last decades, making the potentially adverse effects on memory and other neurocognitive functions the main clinical aspect of concern in the present. In Colombia, the general population and healthcare professionals (even some psychiatrists) seem to have mostly negative opinions towards electroconvulsive therapy treatment, but maybe this could be reconsidered if more information is provided; therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the changes in memory and the severity of the symptoms in a group of patients with severe depression before and after electroconvulsive therapy. METHODS: Twenty-three patients ranging in age from 23 to 70 years from the electroconvulsive therapy service at the San Juan de Dios Clinic (Manizales, Colombia) were recruited in order to assess the effect of electroconvulsive therapy on memory in patients with severe depression. Depressive symptoms and memory were assessed with the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) and Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), respectively. The assessment was administered to participants before the initial treatment of electroconvulsive therapy series (0-1 day) and 2 days after their last treatment. RESULTS: Electroconvulsive therapy resulted in significant improvement in the rating of depression. There were no significant differences in the five learning trials, delayed recall, learning and forgetting scores from pre-treatment to post-treatment. Significant pre-treatment/post-treatment differences were found in the delayed recognition trial. CONCLUSIONS: Pre- and post- electroconvulsive therapy cognitive assessment is a feasible and useful procedure. In general, memory performance does not worsen after electroconvulsive therapy in patients with depression. Only delayed recognition is affected a few days following electroconvulsive therapy, particularly in patients with low educational level and bitemporal (BT) electrode placement.

Correlation Between Cognitive Performance and Structural Neuroanatomy in Patients with Type I Bipolar Affective Disorder Treated with and Without Lithium. / Correlación entre el desempeño cognitivo y la neuroanatomía estructural en pacientes con trastorno afectivo bipolar tipo I tratados con y sin litio.

INTRODUCTION: Lithium treatment of bipolar disorder (BD) has been associated with less cognitive impairment and fewer changes in structural brain anatomy compared to other treatments. However, the studies are heterogeneous and few assess whether these effects are related. The objective of this study was to evaluate and relate cognitive performance and structural neuroanatomy in patients treated with and without lithium. METHODS: Cross-sectional study that included 48 subjects with BD-I, of which 22 were treated with lithium and 26 without lithium. Performance was assessed on Wechsler III (WAIS III), TMT A and B (Trial Making Test) neuropsychological tests, California verbal learning test (CVLT), Rey complex figure test and Wisconsin card sorting test. Brain structures obtained by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were evaluated. The standardised mean difference (SMD) between both groups was calculated, adjusted for confounding variables using a propensity score, and the Spearman correlation coefficient (ρ) was used to assess the relationship between cognitive performance and neuroanatomical regions. RESULTS: Compared to the group without lithium, the group with lithium had fewer perseverative errors in the Wisconsin test (SMD = -0.69) and greater left and right cortical areas (SMD = 0.85; SMD = 0.92); greater surface area in the left anterior cingulate (SMD = 1.32), right medial orbitofrontal cortex (SMD = 1.17), right superior frontal gyrus (SMD = 0.82), and right and left precentral gyrus (SMD = 1.33; SMD = 0.98); greater volume of the right amygdala (SMD = 0.57), right hippocampus (SMD = 0.66), right putamen (SMD = 0.87) and right thalamus (SMD=.67). In the lithium group, a correlation was found with these errors and the thickness of the left precentral gyrus (ρ = -0.78), the volume of the right thalamus (ρ =-0.44), and the right amygdala (ρ = 0.6). CONCLUSIONS: The lithium group had better cognitive flexibility and greater dimension in some frontal and subcortical cortical regions. Furthermore, there was a moderate to high correlation between performance in this executive function and the thickness of the right precentral gyrus, and the volumes of the thalamus and the right amygdala. These findings could suggest a neuroprotective effect of lithium.

Activity limitations in leprosy and their association to cognition and neuropsychiatric symptoms / Limitaciones de tarea en la enfermedad de Hansen y su relación con cognición y síntomas neuropsiquiátricos / Limitações de tarefa na hanseníase e sua associação com cognição e sintomas neuropsiquiátricos

ABSTRACT Objectives: to analyze activity limitations in patients with leprosy and their association to cognition and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Methods: this cross-sectional design study included sixty patients with multibacillary leprosy assisted at a reference center. Participants were divided according to their physical disability and submitted to instruments assessing daily activities (basic and instrumental), cognitive functions, and neuropsychiatric symptoms. The order of the instruments was random to avoid any interference of test sequence on the results. Results: fifty-five percent of the participants presented physical disabilities. All patients were independent in performing basic activities but sixty-six percent presented difficulties in performing instrumental activities. Cognitive decline and neuropsychiatric symptoms were seen in advanced stages of the disease, but they were more associated to patient age than to leprosy. Conclusions: leprosy patients presented physical disabilities and difficulties in performing instrumental daily activities. Cognitive decline and neuropsychiatric symptoms were more associated to aging than to leprosy itself.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar limitaciones de tarea en pacientes con Lepra y su relación con cognición y síntomas neuropsiquiátricos. Métodos: este estudio transversal incluyó 60 pacientes con Lepra multibacilar atendidos en centro de referencia. Participantes fueron divididos segundo la disfunción física y evaluados cuanto a las actividades diarias (básicas y instrumentales), funciones cognitivas y síntomas neuropsiquiátricos. Orden de aplicación de los instrumentos aleatoria para evitar interferencia de la secuencia de tests sobre los resultados. Resultados: de los participantes, 55% presentaron disfunción física. Todos pacientes eran independientes en las actividades básicas, pero 66% mostraron dificultades en las actividades instrumentales. Declive cognitivo y síntomas neuropsiquiátricos fueron observados en etapas avanzadas de la enfermedad, pero estos estaban más relacionados a la edad del paciente que a la Lepra. Conclusiones: pacientes con Lepra evidenciaron disfunción física y dificultades en las actividades instrumentales. Declive cognitivo y síntomas neuropsiquiátricos están más relacionados al envejecimiento que a la Lepra.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar as limitações de tarefa em pacientes com hanseníase e sua associação com cognição e sintomas neuropsiquiátricos. Métodos: este estudo transversal incluiu 60 pacientes com hanseníase multibacilar atendidos em um centro de referência. Os participantes foram divididos segundo a disfunção física e avaliados quanto às atividades diárias (básicas e instrumentais), às funções cognitivas e aos sintomas neuropsiquiátricos. A ordem de aplicação dos instrumentos foi aleatória para evitar interferência da sequência dos testes sobre os resultados. Resultados: dos participantes, 55% apresentaram disfunção física. Todos os pacientes eram independentes nas atividades básicas, mas 66% mostraram dificuldades nas atividades instrumentais. Declínio cognitivo e sintomas neuropsiquiátricos foram observados em estágios avançados da doença, porém estes estavam mais associados à idade do paciente do que à hanseníase. Conclusões: pacientes com hanseníase evidenciaram disfunção física e dificuldades nas atividades diárias instrumentais. Declínio cognitivo e sintomas neuropsiquiátricos estão mais associados ao envelhecimento do que à hanseníase.

Anemia falciforme e as consequências nas funções executivas: avaliação em crianças de 6-11 anos / Sickle cell anemia and the consequences in executive functions: evaluation in children of 6-11 years / Anemia falciforme y las consecuencias en las funciones ejecutivas: evaluación en niños de 6-11 años

A anemia falciforme (AF) é reconhecida pela Organização Mundial de Saúde (OMS) como um problema global de saúde pública, sendo a mais comum dentre as doenças hereditárias no Brasil. O objetivo principal desta pesquisa é investigar o desempenho das funções executivas em crianças com anemia falciforme residentes na região Nordeste do país. Participaram 134 crianças, na faixa etária de 6-11 anos, sendo 60 do grupo clínico e 74 do grupo não clínico. Os instrumentos utilizados foram FDT ­ Teste dos Cinco Dígitos; Teste de Trilhas; Torre de Londres e subteste Dígitos. Os dados foram analisados pelo U de Man-n-Whitney indicando diferenças estatísticas (p<0,05) entre os grupos em todos os instrumentos utilizados, exceto no Torre de Londres. Propõe-se que estudos futuros com crianças portadoras de AF detenham-se na intervenção cognitiva de funções afetadas abrangendo pré-escolares e estudantes do ensino fundamental.

Sickle cell anemia is recognized by the World Health Organization as a global public health problem, being the most common among hereditary diseases in Brazil. The main objective of this research is to investigate the performance of executive functions in children with sickle cell anemia residents in the Northeast region of the country. Participants were 134 children, aged 6-11 years, 60 from the clinical group and 74 from the non-clinical group. The instruments used were FDT - Five Digit Test; Trail Making Test; Tower of London and subtest Digits. Data were analyzed by Mann-Whitney U indicating statistical differences (p <0.05) between groups in all instruments used except the Tower of London. Future studies with children with PA should focus on the cognitive intervention of affected functions including preschoolers and elementary school students.

La anemia de células falciformes es reconocida por la Organización Mundial de la Salud como un problema de salud pública global, siendo la más común entre las enfermedades hereditarias en Brasil. El objetivo principal de esta investigación es investigar el desempeño de las funciones ejecutivas en niños con anemia de células falciformes residentes en la región noreste del país. Los participantes fueron 134 niños, de 6 a 11 años, 60 del grupo clínico y 74 del grupo no clínico. Los instrumentos utilizados fueron FDT - Prueba de cinco dígitos; Prueba de pista; Torre de Londres y subprueba de dígitos. Los datos fueron analizados por Mann-Whitney U indicando diferencias estadísticas (p <0.05) entre los grupos en todos los instrumentos utilizados, excepto la Torre de Londres. Los estudios futuros con niños con AP deben centrarse en la intervención cognitiva de las funciones afectadas, incluidos los preescolares y los estudiantes de primaria.

Comparación del desempeño de jóvenes en pruebas neuropsicológicas en formato lápiz y papel e informatizadas / Comparison of the Performance of Young Adults in Neuropsychological Tests in Paper-and-Pencil and Computerized Formats

Resumen Los campos de la aplicación de pruebas psicológicas y neuropsicológicas se han visto impactos por la tecnología específicamente con las pruebas informatizados. Una de las preguntas frecuentes en versiones papel y lápiz comparadas con una versión informatizada de la misma prueba, es si éstas son equivalentes. El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar el desempeño de pruebas neuropsicológicas en formato lápiz y papel y formato computarizado. Participaron 41 estudiantes en dos aplicaciones de las mismas pruebas en las dos versiones. Se encontró que los desempeños fueron equivalentes en la mayoría de las pruebas. Sin embargo, existen variaciones en las modalidades dependiendo de la ejecución de la prueba y con alta variabilidad entre sujetos. Esto sugiere que la diferencia en las puntuaciones podría deberse a la diferencia en los procesos cognitivos subyacentes a la ejecución de las dos modalidades.

Abstract The application of psychological and neuropsychological tests has been impacted by technology, specifically by computerized testing. One of the frequently asked questions is whether the version in pencil and paper and the computerized one can be considered equivalent tests. This study aimed to compare the performance on neuropsychological tests in pencil-and-paper and in computerized format. Forty-one students participated in two applications of the same tests in the two versions. It was found that the performances were equivalent in most of the tests. However, there are variations in the modalities depending on the execution of the test, and high intersubject variability. Results suggest that the difference in scores may be due to the difference in the underlying cognitive processes during the performance of the two modalities.