Journal of Applied Cognitive Neuroscience

Investigating the psychological and physiological responses to isolation and confinement using the THOR space analog simulation

Diego Malpica — 2024-05-14

This research investigates astronaut performance under simulated space conditions, using THOR, an analog astronaut training protocol, during a week-long confinement in an Analog Astronaut Training Center in Poland. Materials and Five participants, including four military and one civilian, underwent a week of isolation. Tests were conducted to assess heart rate variability –HRV–, psychological health, and sleep patterns. Data collection and analysis were standardized, with an alpha level of p < 0.05 and power of 80%. The study found reductions in fat percentage and weight, while muscle mass and water content remained stable. HRV showed significant changes. Increased sleep and state anxiety levels were noted, along with decreased cognitive abilities. Personality traits exhibited heightened hostility and social anxiety, culminating in psychological discomfort. HRV values were normal with variations likely due to stress. A significant correlation was found between mental performance and
HRV, indicating potential influence of sleep on cognitive function during isolation. The study highlights the need for more research on the psychological and physiological implications of long-duration space missions and similar high-demand environments.

Impact of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder on Entrepreneurial Behavior: A Neurobiological Approach

Manon Muûls — 2023-10-05

The objective of this study is to determine the relationship between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and entrepreneurial behavior, specially in characteristics such as risk-taking, creativity, and decision-making. Three groups of ten individuals (5 women; age 36.3 ± 14.0) were selected using social media platforms: one group with ADHD (four participants), one group of entrepreneurs (three participants), and one control group without ADHD or entrepreneurial experience (three participants). 10-question interviews, tailored to their respective profiles, were conducted individually via Zoom. After interviews transcriptions, significant statements were extracted for data analysis. Participants were also instructed to play the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) from an online platform to assess decision-making and risk-taking. Individual data were compiled, compared and statistically processed with Microsoft Excel. As results, comparing interview statements between individuals with ADHD, entrepreneurs, and the control group, in terms of risk-taking, attention, and creativity showed that individuals with ADHD can bring unique traits and skills to entrepreneurship, while entrepreneurs have specific strategies for managing distractions and maintaining focus. The control group emphasizes organization and analysis rather than creativity. The findings from the IGT suggested that people with ADHD may exhibit impulsive tendencies and difficulty evaluating the long-term consequences of their actions. Entrepreneurs were willing to take calculated risks to seize opportunities and achieve their goals, and they were also aware of the need to limit risk and make prudent decisions to protect their investments. The control group highlighted the individual differences in risk-taking in randomly selected individuals, without any special condition. They showed a certain caution in opting for low-risk choices. In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of considering individual and contextual factors in decision-making processes, incorporating neurobiological aspects of ADHD. Although available data did not directly examine the influence of these factors on entrepreneurship success, it highlights the significance of understanding the complex influences involved in decision-making.

Relationship between the automated environment of a flight deck, cognitive flexibility and focused attention in a sample of Colombian pilots

Nindre Pico-Quintero — 2023-12-14

The objective was to analyze the relationship between total, automated and manual flight hours, cognitive flexibility and focused attention in a sample of Colombian pilots. The method used was the analytical empirical, non-experimental, correlational-predictive and cross-sectional design. 100 civilian pilots participated, assuming a confidence level of 95%. The results show low negative correlations between the Stroop Interference variables and the total number of hours studied, as well as between Stroop conflict and manual flight hours. Additionally, a low positive correlation was found between Wisconsin categories and manual flight hours. The regression showed predictive models for focused attention, but not for cognitive flexibility. It is concluded that there are relationships and predictions between total flight hours and focused attention.

ADHD and working memory in children

Daissy-Catalina Delgado-Osorio — 2023-06-30

ADHD (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is one of the most prevalent disorders in Colombia. Executive Functions (EF) play a fundamental role in learning and especially Working Memory (WM). The objective of this study is to identify the relationship between ADHD and WM in boys and girls by searching databases with articles published from 2015 to 2023, research articles on WM with children between the ages of 6 and 14 years diagnosed with ADHD. The authors acknowledge that the WM index is affected in EFs in children with ADHD so it is necessary to further investigate the subtypes of ADHD and to use the MT index as a method of diagnosing ADHD.