Search Results (36)

Background/Objectives: Children born small for gestational age (SGA) are at increased risk for impaired growth, metabolic disturbances, and neurodevelopmental difficulties. Although previous research has examined cognitive and behavioral outcomes in this population, findings remain inconsistent. Moreover, limited evidence is available regarding the potential effects of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) therapy on cognitive development. We aimed to assess cognitive performance, emotional–behavioral functioning, and neonatal predictors of neurocognitive outcomes in term SGA children compared with age- and sex-matched peers born appropriate for gestational age (AGA). We also explored potential differences in cognitive outcomes between rhGH-treated and untreated SGA children. Methods: A total of 18 term SGA children and 23 AGA controls underwent anthropometric measurements, biochemical evaluation, cognitive testing using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children—Fourth Edition (WISC-IV), and behavioral assessment through the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Birth weight, length, and head circumference were analyzed as potential predictors of cognitive performance. Results: SGA children demonstrated significantly lower Intelligence Quotient (IQ) scores than AGA peers, with marked weaknesses in Perceptual Reasoning index (PRI) and Processing Speed index (PSI), while Verbal Comprehension and Working Memory were preserved. They also exhibited higher internalizing behavioral symptoms, whereas externalizing behaviors did not differ between groups. Birth head circumference emerged as a strong predictor of PRI and a modest predictor of PSI. No associations were found between rhGH treatment parameters and cognitive outcomes. Larger longitudinal studies are needed to clarify how early growth restriction affects brain development and cognition and whether GH therapy influences these processes. Full article

Dyslexia, a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder, is characterized by persistent reading and spelling difficulties despite average intellectual potential. Although intellectual functioning in dyslexia is often described as average, emerging evidence suggests meaningful within-group variability. This study examined whether children and adolescents with dyslexia exhibited distinct intellectual profiles based on the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales, Fifth Edition (SB5). Data were obtained from a large, diagnostically verified sample of 3458 individuals aged 10–19 years assessed in psychological-pedagogical counseling centers across Poland. We used latent profile analysis (LPA) of all 10 SB5 subtests and compared models that specified 2–6 latent classes. The optimal solution identified two profiles: (a) a small subgroup (5%) with globally reduced intellectual functioning and a profound deficit in verbal working memory (>3 standard deviations below the norm) and (b) the predominant subgroup (95%) with broadly average intellectual functioning and relatively preserved reasoning abilities. Profile membership was associated with socioeconomic status; the low-functioning subgroup was associated with lower parental education and age, as younger participants were more likely to belong to this group. These findings highlight the dimensional nature of intellectual heterogeneity in dyslexia and underscore the diagnostic value of profile-based approaches over global intelligence quotient (IQ) scores. Full article

Background: Primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE) has been hypothesized to be associated with cognitive impairments, particularly in intelligence and working memory. However, the extent and significance of this relationship remain unclear. This meta-analysis aims to systematically examine the association between PNE and cognitive functioning. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted, including 10 studies with a total of 9987 participants (primary nocturnal enuresis = 1758; control = 8229). Cognitive performance, particularly intelligence quotient scores, was analyzed using pooled statistical methods to determine potential differences between groups. Results: Children with PNE exhibited a mean intelligence quotient score 2.44 points lower than control participants. However, this difference did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.261), and the overall effect size was minimal (t = −1.165). The pooled standard deviation was 13.91, indicating substantial variability across studies. Conclusions: While children with PNE tend to have slightly lower intelligence quotient scores than their peers, the results do not suggest a statistically significant impact on global intelligence. However, the consistent trend observed across studies highlights the need for further research to investigate specific cognitive domains that may be affected by enuresis. Future studies should focus on neurodevelopmental mechanisms and explore potential intervention strategies to address any cognitive vulnerabilities associated with this condition. Full article

Background: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 5% of children and 2.5% of adults suffer from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This disorder can have significant negative consequences on people’s lives, particularly children. In recent years, methods based on artificial intelligence and neuroimaging techniques, such as MRI, have made significant progress, paving the way for development of more reliable diagnostic tools. In this proof of concept study, our aim was to investigate the potential utility of neuroimaging data and clinical information in combination with a deep learning-based analytical approach, more precisely, a novel feature extraction technique for the diagnosis of ADHD with high accuracy. Methods: Leveraging the ADHD200 dataset, which encompasses demographic information and anatomical MRI scans collected from a diverse ADHD population, our study focused on developing modern deep learning-based diagnostic models. The data preprocessing employed a pre-trained Visual Geometry Group16 (VGG16) network to extract two-dimensional (2D) feature maps from three-dimensional (3D) anatomical MRI data to reduce computational complexity and enhance diagnostic power. The inclusion of personal attributes, such as age, gender, intelligence quotient, and handedness, strengthens the diagnostic models. Four deep-learning architectures—convolutional neural network 2D (CNN2D), CNN1D, long short-term memory (LSTM), and gated recurrent units (GRU)—were employed for analysis of the MRI data, with and without the inclusion of clinical characteristics. Results: A 10-fold cross-validation test revealed that the LSTM model, which incorporated both MRI data and personal attributes, had the best diagnostic performance among all tested models in the diagnosis of ADHD with an accuracy of 0.86 and area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) score of 0.90. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that the proposed approach of extracting 2D features from 3D MRI images and integrating these features with clinical characteristics may be useful in the diagnosis of ADHD with high accuracy. Full article

This paper presents a fast Crank–Nicolson L1 finite difference scheme for the two-dimensional time fractional mobile/immobile diffusion equation with weakly singular solution at the initial moment. First, the time fractional derivative is discretized using the Crank–Nicolson formula on uniform meshes, and a local truncation error estimate is provided. The spatial derivative is discretized using the central difference quotient on uniform meshes. Then, energy analysis methods are utilized to provide an optimal error estimates. On the other hand, the numerical scheme is optimized based on the sum-of-exponentials approximation, effectively reducing computation and memory requirements. Finally, numerical examples are simulated to verify the effectiveness of the algorithm. Full article

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a 4-week respiratory muscle training (RMT) intervention versus continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on cardiorespiratory parameters and cognitive function in patients with OSA. Twenty-eight male patients with OSA were divided into two groups (RMT_group n = 14 and CPAP_group n = 14) and we recorded cardiopulmonary parameters and completed the questionnaires for cognitive impairment (MoCA) and sleep quality (PSQI) before and after 4 weeks. We observed differences before and after the intervention in cardiopulmonary parameters: RMT_group: breathing reserve (p < 0.001) and oxygen breathing (p = 0.002), at the end of the exercise test and pulse-respiratory quotient at rest (p < 0.001), end of exercise (p = 0.020), and recovery (p < 0.001), mean arterial pressure (RMT_groupp = 0.035, CPAP_groupp = 0.032); cognitive function assessment: RMT_group: 7% improvement in MoCA_score (p < 0. 001). and in the attention–working memory domain by 13% (p = 0.001), CPAP_group: improvement in the short-term memory recall domain by 28% (p = 0.001) and in the visuospatial domain by 18% (p = 0.027); sleep quality scores: RMT_group: 22% improvement in PSQI_score (p = 0.013), and 50% reduction in ‘cannot breathe comfortably’ domain (p = 0.013), CPAP_group: 31% increase in ‘waking in the middle of the night or early in the morning’ domain (p = 0.044). Our findings support the implementation of RMT programs in patients with OSA as an effective and beneficial practice to promote exercise and reduce symptoms of sleep disturbance. Full article

Objectives: Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a prevalent condition affecting young people that often necessitates complex medical interventions. This study aims to provide a synthesis of existing meta-analyses examining the impact of CHD on the cognitive functioning in children and young people; Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, identifying peer-reviewed meta-analyses from 1 January 1976 to 17 December 2024, focusing on the cognitive outcomes of CHD patients aged 0–24 years. Data extraction covered study details, participant demographics, outcomes, and quality assessments. Quality assessment followed the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) checklist, and a narrative synthesis was conducted; Results: The narrative synthesis highlighted significant cognitive impairments in children with CHD across domains such as Intelligence Quotient (IQ), executive functions (EF), memory, and alertness. Cognitive impairments were also observed to become worse with increasing age. Furthermore, surgical interventions were found to impact cognitive outcomes, with surgeries at an early age improving survival rates but not entirely mitigating cognitive deficits. Cognitive impairments were more marked in young people assessed at an older age and with a more complex CHD presentation. Conclusions: Children with CHD face persistent cognitive challenges, underscoring the need for early identification and tailored interventions. Routine cognitive assessments and comprehensive care, including educational and psychological support, are crucial for improving neurodevelopmental outcomes. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to track cognitive development and explore effective rehabilitation programs. Full article

The cognitive and affective impacts of video games are subjects of ongoing debate, with recent research recognizing their potential benefits. This study employs the Gaming Skill Questionnaire (GSQ) to evaluate participants’ gaming skills across six genres and overall proficiency. A total of 88 individuals aged 20–40 participated, completing assessments of empathy and six cognitive abilities: verbal short-term memory, verbal working memory, visuospatial short-term memory, visuospatial working memory, psychomotor speed (hand–eye coordination), and attention. Participants’ cognitive abilities were examined using the Digit Span Test, Corsi Block Test, and Deary–Liewald Reaction Time Task, while empathy was assessed using the Empathy Quotient Questionnaire. Findings indicate that higher levels of videogaming proficiency are linked to improvements in visuospatial short-term and working memory, psychomotor speed, and attention. Specific genres enhanced particular skills: RPGs were positively associated with both verbal working memory and visuospatial short-term memory, but were negatively associated with empathy; action games improved psychomotor speed and attention; and puzzle games showed a positive relationship with visuospatial working memory. These results add to ongoing research on the cognitive and affective effects of video games, suggesting their potential to enhance specific cognitive functions. They also highlight the complex relationship between video games and empathy. Future research should explore the long-term impacts and genre-specific effects. Full article

Iron is a key nutrient for cognitive function. During periods of high academic demand, brain and cognitive activity increase, potentially affecting iron intake and reserves. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of iron levels on cognitive function in a university sample, considering the influence of gender. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 132 university students (18–29 years) from the University of Castilla-La Mancha (Spain). A dietary record was formed through a questionnaire to analyze iron consumption, and blood and anthropometric parameters were measured. The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-IV was used to determine the Intelligence Quotient (IQ), as well as the Verbal Comprehension Index (VCI), Working Memory Index (WMI), Processing Speed Index (PSI), and Perceptual Reasoning Index (PRI), to assess cognitive abilities. Among women, the prevalence of iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) was 21% and 4.2%, respectively. No ID or IDA was found in men. The impact of iron intake on IQ and cognitive abilities was mainly associated with the female population, where a positive association between iron intake, serum ferritin, and total IQ was revealed. In conclusion, low iron intake is related to poorer intellectual ability, suggesting that an iron-rich diet is necessary to maintain the academic level of university students. Full article

The expression “twice-exceptionality” has been used to describe conditions in which giftedness and specific disorders coexist. Our study offers a retrospective analysis of clinical reports of gifted children evaluated for suspected specific learning disorders (SLD) or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The initial sample included 456 school-aged children referred to our clinic for suspected SLD and/or ADHD over a two-year interval. The inclusion criteria were: a General Ability Index score above 120 in the cognitive assessment; age 6–18 years; and not satisfying diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder. Forty children were selected for the study. We grouped patients according to the final diagnosis: neurodevelopmental disorder (SLD and/or ADHD) (n = 15), psychopathological disorder (n = 8), mixed neurodevelopmental and psychopathological (n = 13), no emerging disorder (n = 4). The study included 36 (90%) males. Mean age was 9.3 years (SD 1.62). Mean Full-Scale Intelligence Quotient was 121.7 (SD 7.77), mean General Ability Index was 130.2 (SD 6.79). Furthermore, the cognitive assessment of the different groups highlighted a non-homogeneous profile in all groups, with lower scores on working memory and processing speed indexes. Our results support the hypothesis that difficulties in gifted children’s adaptation to scholastic and social settings could be misinterpreted as a manifestation of a clear disease. Full article

Background: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder worldwide. The diamine oxidase enzyme (DAO) is responsible for the histamine gastrointestinal degradation. Its deficient functioning may implicate an excess of histamine in the body. The excess of histamine (histamine intolerance, HIT) has been related with a growing number of diseases and pseudo-allergic symptomatology. However, data on the relationship between the DAO enzyme, HIT, and ADHD are lacking. The main objective of this pilot is to study the prevalence of the four most relevant SNP variants of the AOC1 gene affecting DAO enzyme functionality in a sample of patients diagnosed with ADHD attending child and adolescent mental health services. Methods: In a cohort of 303 participants, we measured the SNP variants of the AOC1 gene. Results: The prevalence of having at least one minor dysfunctional allele was 78.8%. No relationship between ADHD severity and DAO deficiency was found. However, some AOC1 gene variants associated with DAO deficiency were related to several meaningful medical comorbidities. Furthermore, we found a strong association between DAO activity and the intelligence quotient, particularly in working memory. Conclusions: Some SNP variants of the AOC1 gene associated with DAO deficiency are related to some medical comorbidities and cognitive dysfunction in ADHD children and adolescents. Studies including patients with other diagnoses and healthy controls and bigger samples are warranted to confirm our preliminary results. Full article

The development of language, memory and intellectual functions is linked to normal hearing and correct sounds interpretation. Hearing loss (HL), especially in its severe form, negatively affects the development of these functions. This prospective study aimed at comparing the Intelligent Quotients (IQ) of children with cochlear implants (CI) with the ones of people wearing hearing aids (HA) after one year of hearing rehabilitation. 21 subjects with severe/profound bilateral hearing loss (deafness) were included in this study. Eleven children with congenital profound HL underwent CI and ten children with moderate to severe HL (congenital and acquired) were rehabilitated by HA. Children’s IQs were assessed at enrolment (T0) and 12 months after hearing aids/CI use plus speech therapy. Statistical analyses were performed to analyze the data within and between groups. Comparison of IQs showed no statistically significant differences between CI and HA none at T0 and T1. The subtests showed lower scores in verbal comprehension and process speed index in patients treated with HA when compared to CI. This study showed that auditory rehabilitation can support the normal development of cognitive function in children between six and eight years of age. The use of the correct hearing aids based on the patient’s hearing thresholds is important to maximize the rehabilitation outcomes. Due to the small sample size, although stratified for age, our results must be considered preliminary and further analyses on larger samples are needed to confirm our data. Full article

Although relatively specific anatomo-electro-clinical features of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) with bilateral ictal involvement (bitemporal epilepsy—BTLE) have been described, differentiating between BTLE and unilateral TLE (UTLE) remains challenging. Surgery is often the treatment of choice for drug-resistant UTLE, whereas its use is more controversial in BTLE. It is currently unclear whether neuropsychological assessment can contribute to the differential diagnosis. We retrospectively reviewed the neuropsychological evaluation of 46 consecutive patients with refractory TLE. Eighteen patients were diagnosed with BTLE on the basis of ictal electro-clinical data, in particular a video EEG recording of at least one seizure simultaneously involving the two temporal lobes without the possibility of lateralizing its onset or at least two different seizures independently arising from the two temporal lobes. Twenty-eight patients were classified as UTLE. Presurgery evaluation data were used in this study. Compared with UTLE, BTLE was associated with a lower intelligence quotient (IQ) and more severe impairment in long-term memory, the latter remaining significant even after controlling for IQ. No significant differences were found between right and left UTLE. In conclusion, BTLE and UTLE are associated with relatively distinct neuropsychological profiles, further supporting their classification as different disorders within the TLE spectrum. Full article

Choroid plexus carcinomas (CPC) are rare aggressive tumours that primarily affect very young children. Treatment for CPC typically involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Whilst considered necessary for a cure, these therapies have significant neurocognitive consequences for patients, negatively impacting cognitive function including memory, attention, executive functioning, and full-scale intelligence quotients (FSIQ). These challenges significantly impact the quality of life and ultimately socioeconomic parameters such as the level of educational attainment, marital status, and socioeconomic status. This review looks at the tumour- and treatment-related causes of neurocognitive damage in CPC patients and the progress made in finding strategies to reduce these. Opportunities to mitigate the neurodevelopmental consequences of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy are explored in the context of CPC treatment. Evaluation of the pathological and biological mechanisms of injury has identified innovative approaches to neurocognitive protection and neurorehabilitation, which aim to limit the neurocognitive damage. This review aims to highlight multiple approaches physicians can use when treating young children with CPC, to focus on neurocognitive outcomes as a measure of success. Full article

The prognostic ability of global white matter and gray matter metabolite ratios following pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) and their relationship to 12-month neuropsychological assessments of intelligence quotient (IQ), attention, and memory is presented. Three-dimensional proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) in pediatric subjects with complicated mild (cMild), moderate, and severe TBI was acquired acutely (6–18 days) and 12 months post-injury and compared to age-matched typically developing adolescents. A global linear regression model, co-registering MRSI metabolite maps with 3D high-resolution magnetic resonance images, was used to identify longitudinal white matter and gray matter metabolite ratio changes. Acutely, gray matter NAA/Cr, white matter NAA/Cr, and white matter NAA/Cho ratios were significantly lower in TBI groups compared to controls. Gray matter NAA/Cho was reduced only in the severe TBI group. At 12 months, all metabolite ratios normalized to control levels in each of the TBI groups. Acute gray matter and white matter NAA ratios were significantly correlated to 12-month assessments of IQ, attention, and memory. These findings suggest that whole brain gray matter and white matter metabolite ratios reflect longitudinal changes in neuronal metabolism following TBI, which can be used to predict neuropsychological outcomes in pediatric subjects. Full article