[The effects of a computer assisted cognitive training on neuropsychological parameters, mood and dysfunctional cognitions in depressive patients].

Aim: In this pilot study a computer-assisted cognitive training programme (CAT) was tested and evaluated in patients with depressive syndromes for its effects on neuropsychological parameters, modd and dysfunctional cognitions.

Methods: A total of 48 patients were randomized either to the treatment or the control group. The former underwent 20 sessions, 30-45 minutes each, of computer-assisted cognitive training, twice a week.

Cognitive impairment in schizophrenia: clinical ratings are not a suitable alternative to neuropsychological testing.

Despite the fact that cognitive impairment rated with clinical rating scales has been shown to be a poor proxy for cognitive functioning measured with a performance-based assessment battery, studies are still using this approach to predict aspects of outcome in schizophrenia. In the current study 106 outpatients with chronic schizophrenia who had been stable both from a symptomatic and a medication perspective for a period of 6 months before study inclusion were investigated to assess the relationship between a clinical rating of cognitive impairment and the actual performance on neuropsychological tests. The cognitive component of the PANSS was compared to results from a neuropsychological test battery which was selected to cover domains known to be impaired in patients with schizophrenia.