Neural activity during working memory predicts clinical response to computerized executive function training prior to cognitive processing therapy.

Background: Executive dysfunction, including working memory deficits, is prominent in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and can impede treatment effectiveness. Intervention approaches that target executive dysfunction alongside standard PTSD treatments could boost clinical response. The current study reports secondary analyses from a randomized controlled trial testing combined PTSD treatment with a computerized training program to improve executive dysfunction.

Randomized controlled trial of computerized working memory training for Veterans with PTSD.

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common psychiatric condition among Veterans that is associated with deficits across a range of neuropsychological domains including working memory. While gold-standard psychosocial treatments are highly effective, there still remains a high rate of individuals who do not engage with or fully benefit from them. Cognitive training targeting specific working memory deficits in PTSD presents an alternative treatment approach that has shown promise for reducing re-experiencing symptoms.

Characterizing Performance on a Suite of English-Language NeuroUX Mobile Cognitive Tests in a US Adult Sample: Ecological Momentary Cognitive Testing Study.

Background: Mobile cognitive testing is growing in popularity, with numerous advantages over traditional cognitive testing; however, the field lacks studies that deeply examine mobile cognitive test data from general adult samples.

Objective: This study characterized performance for a suite of 8 mobile cognitive tests from the NeuroUX platform in a sample of US adults across the adult lifespan.

Methods: Overall, 393 participants completed 8 NeuroUX cognitive tests and a brief ecological momentary assessment survey once per day on their smartphones for 10 consecutive days; each test was administered 5 times over the testing period.

Change in Resting-State Functional Connectivity Following Working Memory Training in Individuals With Repetitive Negative Thinking.

Background: Repetitive negative thinking (RNT) symptoms, which are characterized by pervasive, uncontrollable negative thoughts, are common in individuals with mood, anxiety, and traumatic stress disorders. Inability to regulate the contents of working memory is a hypothesized etiological factor in RNT, which suggests that training to improve working memory may be beneficial. This study examined the effects of working memory training on resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) in individuals with elevated RNT and whether such changes would be associated with clinical improvement.