To investigate factors that predict cognitive enhancement following engagement in an intensive Computerized Cognitive Training Protocol.
To investigate factors that predict cognitive enhancement following engagement in an intensive 6-month, 5 days per week training use the ABI Wellness BEARS platform and Brainex Software Symbol Relations Module. The study will examine the impact of intensive working memory training on neurocognitive markers of brain plasticity (intervention-related changes) in 1) performance on neuropsychological tests, 2) BDNF levels in blood and salivary, 3) ERP measures of working memory, and 4) resting state fMRI and structural MRI.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
30
Participants will log into ABI Wellness Platform five days per week (M-T-W-Th-F) and train using the Symbol Relations module for 45 to 60 minutes. Every other week, participants will meet with their training facilitator via zoom to review training progress and troubleshoot any training-related questions.
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, United States
RECRUITINGChanges in cognitive outcome measures
We will use age-corrected standard scores of the NIH toolbox Total Cognitive Composite, Fluid Intelligence Composite, and individual scores on RAVLT, Verbal Fluency, and Trailmaking Task as cognitive outcome measures.
Time frame: 6 months
Changes in BDNF Levels in blood and saliva
Using FUJIFILM high sensitivity ELISA kits and commercially available ELISA kits.
Time frame: 6 months
Self-report exercise and physical activity
Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (questionnaire). Measures walking, moderate, and vigorous activity. Zero lower limit, no upper limit. Higher values indicate more physical activity.
Time frame: 6 months
Intervention-related changes in ERP measures, such as the P3 component (P3a and P3b)
1\) Measured in response to verbal and visual working memory tasks
Time frame: 6 months
Intervention-related changes in resting state fMRI
A group ICA analysis procedure will be applied to pre- and post-intervention rs-fMRI BOLD signal activity. Correlations will be explored between fMRI parameters, cognitive, and training data (e.g NIH toolbox Total Cognitive Composite, Fluid Intelligence Composite, Crystallized Composite, CCT engagement and progress).
Time frame: 6 months
Quality of life self-report
Flanagan Quality of Life Scale (questionnaire). Measures quality of life. Likert scale 0-112, higher values indicate higher quality of life.
Time frame: 6 months
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Sleep
Medical Outcomes Study Sleep Scale (questionnaire) Likert scale measuring sleep quality and sleep problems index. 0-60 with greater values representing higher sleep quality and lower sleep problems.
Time frame: 6 months
Anxiety
Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 Item Scale (questionnaire) Likert scale measuring severity of anxiety. 0-21 with greater values representing more severe anxiety.
Time frame: 6 months
Depression
Patient Health Questionnaire Depression Scale (questionnaire) Likert scale measuring the severity of depression. 0-24 with higher scores representing more severe depression.
Time frame: 6 months
Self-report on impact of fatigue
Modified Fatigue Impact Scale Likert scale on the impact of fatigue on one's physical, cognitive, and psychosocial activity. 0-84 with higher scores indicating a greater impact of fatigue on a person's activities.
Time frame: 6 months
Feelings about cognitive/thinking skills
Cognitive Self- Efficacy Questionnaire Likert scale on feelings people have about their cognition/thinking skills. 0-72 with a higher score indicating more positive feelings regarding the efficacy of ones cognitive/thinking abilities.
Time frame: 6 months