Publications
Search
261.
Parsons, Thomas D.; Silva, Teri M.; Pair, Jarrell; Rizzo, Albert
Virtual Environment for Assessment of Neurocognitive Functioning: Virtual Reality Cognitive Performance Assessment Test Journal Article
In: Studies in Health Technology and Informatics, vol. 132, pp. 351–356, 2008.
@article{parsons_virtual_2008-1,
title = {Virtual Environment for Assessment of Neurocognitive Functioning: Virtual Reality Cognitive Performance Assessment Test},
author = {Thomas D. Parsons and Teri M. Silva and Jarrell Pair and Albert Rizzo},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Virtual%20Environment%20for%20Assessment%20of%20Neurocognitive%20Functioning-%20Virtual%20Reality%20Cognitive%20Performance%20Assessment%20Test.pdf},
year = {2008},
date = {2008-01-01},
journal = {Studies in Health Technology and Informatics},
volume = {132},
pages = {351–356},
abstract = {While standard neuropsychological measures have been found to have adequate predictive value, their ecological validity may diminish predictions about real world functioning. Virtual environments (VEs) are increasingly recognized as ecologically valid tools for neuropsychological assessment. We aim to develop a VE-based neuropsychological battery delivered within the context of a virtual city: Virtual Reality Cognitive Performance Assessment Test (VRCPAT). The 15 minute VRCPAT battery and 1.5 hour in-person neuropsychological assessment were conducted with a sample of 40 healthy adults, between the ages of 21 and 36, that included equivalent distributions of men and women from ethnically diverse populations. No subjects had history of psychiatric or neurologic conditions. Results supported both convergent and discriminant validity. The VRCPAT was found to correlate significantly with traditional neuropsychological tests assessing similar target constructs. No significant correlations existed between VRCPAT measures and non-target constructs. Findings suggest that the VRCPAT measures a capacity consistent with that of traditional neurocognitive measures; and is inconsistent with potential confounds. We conclude that the VRCPAT provides a unique opportunity to reliably and efficiently study neurocognitive function within an ecologically valid environment.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
While standard neuropsychological measures have been found to have adequate predictive value, their ecological validity may diminish predictions about real world functioning. Virtual environments (VEs) are increasingly recognized as ecologically valid tools for neuropsychological assessment. We aim to develop a VE-based neuropsychological battery delivered within the context of a virtual city: Virtual Reality Cognitive Performance Assessment Test (VRCPAT). The 15 minute VRCPAT battery and 1.5 hour in-person neuropsychological assessment were conducted with a sample of 40 healthy adults, between the ages of 21 and 36, that included equivalent distributions of men and women from ethnically diverse populations. No subjects had history of psychiatric or neurologic conditions. Results supported both convergent and discriminant validity. The VRCPAT was found to correlate significantly with traditional neuropsychological tests assessing similar target constructs. No significant correlations existed between VRCPAT measures and non-target constructs. Findings suggest that the VRCPAT measures a capacity consistent with that of traditional neurocognitive measures; and is inconsistent with potential confounds. We conclude that the VRCPAT provides a unique opportunity to reliably and efficiently study neurocognitive function within an ecologically valid environment.
262.
Rizzo, Albert; Graap, Ken; Perlman, Karen; McLay, Robert N.; Rothbaum, Barbara O.; Reger, Greg; Parsons, Thomas D.; Difede, JoAnn; Pair, Jarrell
Virtual Iraq: Initial Results from a VR Exposure Therapy Application for Combat-Related PTSD Journal Article
In: Medicine Meets Virtual Reality, vol. 16, pp. 420–425, 2008.
@article{rizzo_virtual_2008,
title = {Virtual Iraq: Initial Results from a VR Exposure Therapy Application for Combat-Related PTSD},
author = {Albert Rizzo and Ken Graap and Karen Perlman and Robert N. McLay and Barbara O. Rothbaum and Greg Reger and Thomas D. Parsons and JoAnn Difede and Jarrell Pair},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Virtual%20Iraq-%20Initial%20Results%20from%20a%20VR%20Exposure%20Therapy%20Application%20for%20Combat-Related%20PTSD.pdf},
year = {2008},
date = {2008-01-01},
journal = {Medicine Meets Virtual Reality},
volume = {16},
pages = {420–425},
abstract = {Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is reported to be caused by traumatic events that are outside the range of usual human experience including (but not limited to) military combat, violent personal assault, being kidnapped or taken hostage and terrorist attacks. Initial data suggests that at least 1 out of 6 Iraq War veterans are exhibiting symptoms of depression, anxiety and PTSD. Virtual Reality (VR) delivered exposure therapy for PTSD has been used with reports of positive outcomes. The aim of the current paper is to present the rationale and brief description of a Virtual Iraq PTSD VR therapy application and present initial findings from its use with PTSD patients. Thus far, Virtual Iraq consists of a series of customizable virtual scenarios designed to represent relevant Middle Eastern VR contexts for exposure therapy, including a city and desert road convoy environment. User-centered design feedback needed to iteratively evolve the system was gathered from returning Iraq War veterans in the USA and from a system deployed in Iraq and tested by an Army Combat Stress Control Team. Clinical trials are currently underway at Ft. Lewis, Camp Pendleton, Emory University, Weill Cornell Medical College, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, San Diego Naval Medical Center and 12 other sites.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is reported to be caused by traumatic events that are outside the range of usual human experience including (but not limited to) military combat, violent personal assault, being kidnapped or taken hostage and terrorist attacks. Initial data suggests that at least 1 out of 6 Iraq War veterans are exhibiting symptoms of depression, anxiety and PTSD. Virtual Reality (VR) delivered exposure therapy for PTSD has been used with reports of positive outcomes. The aim of the current paper is to present the rationale and brief description of a Virtual Iraq PTSD VR therapy application and present initial findings from its use with PTSD patients. Thus far, Virtual Iraq consists of a series of customizable virtual scenarios designed to represent relevant Middle Eastern VR contexts for exposure therapy, including a city and desert road convoy environment. User-centered design feedback needed to iteratively evolve the system was gathered from returning Iraq War veterans in the USA and from a system deployed in Iraq and tested by an Army Combat Stress Control Team. Clinical trials are currently underway at Ft. Lewis, Camp Pendleton, Emory University, Weill Cornell Medical College, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, San Diego Naval Medical Center and 12 other sites.
263.
Parsons, Thomas D.; Rizzo, Albert
Initial Validation of a Virtual Environment for Assessment of Memory Functioning: Virtual Reality Cognitive Performance Assessment Test Journal Article
In: CyberPsychology and Behavior, vol. 11, no. 1, pp. 16–24, 2008.
@article{parsons_initial_2008,
title = {Initial Validation of a Virtual Environment for Assessment of Memory Functioning: Virtual Reality Cognitive Performance Assessment Test},
author = {Thomas D. Parsons and Albert Rizzo},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Initial%20Validation%20of%20a%20Virtual%20Environment%20for%20Assessment%20of%20Memory%20Functioning-%20Virtual%20Reality%20Cognitive%20Performance%20Assessment%20Test.pdf},
year = {2008},
date = {2008-01-01},
journal = {CyberPsychology and Behavior},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {16–24},
abstract = {The current project is an initial attempt at validating the Virtual Reality Cognitive Performance Assessment Test (VRCPAT), a virtual environment–based measure of learning and memory. To examine convergent and discriminant validity, a multitrait–multimethod matrix was used in which we hypothesized that the VRCPAT’s total learning and memory scores would correlate with other neuropsychological measures involving learning and memory but not with measures involving potential confounds (i.e., executive functions; attention; processing speed; and verbal fluency). Using a sequential hierarchical strategy, each stage of test development did not proceed until specified criteria were met. The 15-minute VRCPAT battery and a 1.5-hour in-person neuropsychological assessment were conducted with a sample of 30 healthy adults, between the ages of 21 and 36, that included equivalent distributions of men and women from ethnically diverse populations. Results supported both convergent and discriminant validity. That is, findings suggest that the VRCPAT measures a capacity that is (a) consistent with that assessed by traditional paper-and-pencil measures involving learning and memory and (b) inconsistent with that assessed by traditional paper-and-pencil measures assessing neurocognitive domains traditionally assumed to be other than learning and memory. We conclude that the VRCPAT is a valid test that provides a unique opportunity to reliably and efficiently study memory function within an ecologically valid environment.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The current project is an initial attempt at validating the Virtual Reality Cognitive Performance Assessment Test (VRCPAT), a virtual environment–based measure of learning and memory. To examine convergent and discriminant validity, a multitrait–multimethod matrix was used in which we hypothesized that the VRCPAT’s total learning and memory scores would correlate with other neuropsychological measures involving learning and memory but not with measures involving potential confounds (i.e., executive functions; attention; processing speed; and verbal fluency). Using a sequential hierarchical strategy, each stage of test development did not proceed until specified criteria were met. The 15-minute VRCPAT battery and a 1.5-hour in-person neuropsychological assessment were conducted with a sample of 30 healthy adults, between the ages of 21 and 36, that included equivalent distributions of men and women from ethnically diverse populations. Results supported both convergent and discriminant validity. That is, findings suggest that the VRCPAT measures a capacity that is (a) consistent with that assessed by traditional paper-and-pencil measures involving learning and memory and (b) inconsistent with that assessed by traditional paper-and-pencil measures assessing neurocognitive domains traditionally assumed to be other than learning and memory. We conclude that the VRCPAT is a valid test that provides a unique opportunity to reliably and efficiently study memory function within an ecologically valid environment.
264.
Kenny, Patrick G.; Parsons, Thomas D.; Gratch, Jonathan; Rizzo, Albert
Evaluation of Justina: A Virtual Patient with PTSD Proceedings Article
In: Lecture Notes in Computer Science, pp. 394–408, 2008.
@inproceedings{kenny_evaluation_2008,
title = {Evaluation of Justina: A Virtual Patient with PTSD},
author = {Patrick G. Kenny and Thomas D. Parsons and Jonathan Gratch and Albert Rizzo},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Evaluation%20of%20Justina-%20A%20Virtual%20Patient%20with%20PTSD.pdf},
year = {2008},
date = {2008-01-01},
booktitle = {Lecture Notes in Computer Science},
pages = {394–408},
abstract = {Recent research has established the potential for virtual characters to act as virtual standardized patients VP for the assessment and training of novice clinicians. We hypothesize that the responses of a VP simulating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in an adolescent female could elicit a number of diagnostic mental health specific questions (from novice clinicians) that are necessary for differential diagnosis of the condition. Composites were developed to reflect the relation between novice clinician questions and VP responses. The primary goal in this study was evaluative: can a VP generate responses that elicit user questions relevant for PTSD categorization? A secondary goal was to investigate the impact of psychological variables upon the resulting VP Question/Response composites and the overall believability of the system.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {inproceedings}
}
Recent research has established the potential for virtual characters to act as virtual standardized patients VP for the assessment and training of novice clinicians. We hypothesize that the responses of a VP simulating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in an adolescent female could elicit a number of diagnostic mental health specific questions (from novice clinicians) that are necessary for differential diagnosis of the condition. Composites were developed to reflect the relation between novice clinician questions and VP responses. The primary goal in this study was evaluative: can a VP generate responses that elicit user questions relevant for PTSD categorization? A secondary goal was to investigate the impact of psychological variables upon the resulting VP Question/Response composites and the overall believability of the system.
265.
Parsons, Thomas D.; Rizzo, Albert
Neuropsychological Assessment of Attentional Processing using Virtual Reality Journal Article
In: Annual Review of CyberTherapy and Telemedicine, vol. 6, no. 1, pp. 23–28, 2008.
@article{parsons_neuropsychological_2008-1,
title = {Neuropsychological Assessment of Attentional Processing using Virtual Reality},
author = {Thomas D. Parsons and Albert Rizzo},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Neuropsychological%20Assessment%20of%20Attentional%20Processing%20using%20Virtual%20Reality.pdf},
year = {2008},
date = {2008-01-01},
journal = {Annual Review of CyberTherapy and Telemedicine},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {23–28},
abstract = {Attention processes are the gateway to information acquisition and serve as a necessary foundation for higher-level cognitive functioning. The Virtual Reality Cognitive Performance Assessment Test (VRCPAT) focuses upon refined analysis of neurocognitive testing using a virtual environment to assess attentional processing and recall of targets delivered within the context of a virtual city and a virtual driving simulation. The 15 minute VRCPAT Attention Module and a 1.5 hour neuropsychological assessment were conducted with a sample of 12 healthy adults, between the ages of 21 and 36, that included equivalent distributions of men and women from ethnically diverse populations. No subjects had history of psychiatric or neurologic conditions. To examine scenario differences, one-way ANOVAs were performed, comparing attentional performance in simple stimulus presentations (Mean = 43.63; SD = 8.91) versus complex stimulus presentations (Mean = 34.63; SD = 6.86). The results indicated that the increase in stimulus complexity caused a significant decrease in performance on attentional tasks (F = 5.12; p = 0.04). To examine scenario differences, we compared attentional performance in low intensity (Mean = 40.01; SD = 4.06) versus high intensity (Mean = 9.25; SD = 3.70) presentations. The results indicated that the increase in stimulus intensity caused a significant decrease in performance on attentional tasks (t = 9.83; p = 0.01). Findings suggest that the increase in stimulus complexity and stimulus intensity within a virtual environment can manipulate performance on attentional tasks.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Attention processes are the gateway to information acquisition and serve as a necessary foundation for higher-level cognitive functioning. The Virtual Reality Cognitive Performance Assessment Test (VRCPAT) focuses upon refined analysis of neurocognitive testing using a virtual environment to assess attentional processing and recall of targets delivered within the context of a virtual city and a virtual driving simulation. The 15 minute VRCPAT Attention Module and a 1.5 hour neuropsychological assessment were conducted with a sample of 12 healthy adults, between the ages of 21 and 36, that included equivalent distributions of men and women from ethnically diverse populations. No subjects had history of psychiatric or neurologic conditions. To examine scenario differences, one-way ANOVAs were performed, comparing attentional performance in simple stimulus presentations (Mean = 43.63; SD = 8.91) versus complex stimulus presentations (Mean = 34.63; SD = 6.86). The results indicated that the increase in stimulus complexity caused a significant decrease in performance on attentional tasks (F = 5.12; p = 0.04). To examine scenario differences, we compared attentional performance in low intensity (Mean = 40.01; SD = 4.06) versus high intensity (Mean = 9.25; SD = 3.70) presentations. The results indicated that the increase in stimulus intensity caused a significant decrease in performance on attentional tasks (t = 9.83; p = 0.01). Findings suggest that the increase in stimulus complexity and stimulus intensity within a virtual environment can manipulate performance on attentional tasks.
266.
Parsons, Thomas D.; Rizzo, Albert
Affective Outcomes of Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for Anxiety and Specific Phobias: A meta-analysis Journal Article
In: Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, vol. 39, pp. 250–261, 2008.
@article{parsons_affective_2008,
title = {Affective Outcomes of Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for Anxiety and Specific Phobias: A meta-analysis},
author = {Thomas D. Parsons and Albert Rizzo},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Affective%20outcomes%20of%20virtual%20reality%20exposure%20therapy%20for%20anxiety%20and%20specific%20phobias-%20A%20meta-analysis.pdf},
year = {2008},
date = {2008-01-01},
journal = {Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry},
volume = {39},
pages = {250–261},
abstract = {Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) is an increasingly common treatment for anxiety and specific phobias. Lacking is a quantitative meta-analysis that enhances understanding of the variability and clinical significance of anxiety reduction outcomes after VRET. Searches of electronic databases yielded 52 studies, and of these, 21 studies (300 subjects) met inclusion criteria. Although meta-analysis revealed large declines in anxiety symptoms following VRET, moderator analyses were limited due to inconsistent reporting in the VRET literature. This highlights the need for future research studies that report uniform and detailed information regarding presence, immersion, anxiety and/or phobia duration, and demographics.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) is an increasingly common treatment for anxiety and specific phobias. Lacking is a quantitative meta-analysis that enhances understanding of the variability and clinical significance of anxiety reduction outcomes after VRET. Searches of electronic databases yielded 52 studies, and of these, 21 studies (300 subjects) met inclusion criteria. Although meta-analysis revealed large declines in anxiety symptoms following VRET, moderator analyses were limited due to inconsistent reporting in the VRET literature. This highlights the need for future research studies that report uniform and detailed information regarding presence, immersion, anxiety and/or phobia duration, and demographics.
267.
Kenny, Patrick G.; Hartholt, Arno; Gratch, Jonathan; Swartout, William; Traum, David; Marsella, Stacy C.; Piepol, Diane
Building Interactive Virtual Humans for Training Environments Proceedings Article
In: Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference (I/ITSEC), Orlando, FL, 2007.
@inproceedings{kenny_building_2007,
title = {Building Interactive Virtual Humans for Training Environments},
author = {Patrick G. Kenny and Arno Hartholt and Jonathan Gratch and William Swartout and David Traum and Stacy C. Marsella and Diane Piepol},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Building%20Interactive%20Virtual%20Humans%20for%20Training%20Environments.pdf},
year = {2007},
date = {2007-11-01},
booktitle = {Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference (I/ITSEC)},
address = {Orlando, FL},
abstract = {There is a great need in the Joint Forces to have human to human interpersonal training for skills such as negotiation, leadership, interviewing and cultural training. Virtual environments can be incredible training tools if used properly and used for the correct training application. Virtual environments have already been very successful in training Warfighters how to operate vehicles and weapons systems. At the Institute for Creative Technologies (ICT) we have been exploring a new question: can virtual environments be used to train Warfighters in interpersonal skills such as negotiation, tactical questioning and leadership that are so critical for success in the contemporary operating environment? Using embodied conversational agents to create this type of training system has been one of the goals of the Virtual Humans project at the institute. ICT has a great deal of experience building complex, integrated and immersive training systems that address the human factor needs for training experiences. This paper will address the research, technology and value of developing virtual humans for training environments. This research includes speech recognition, natural language understanding & generation, dialogue management, cognitive agents, emotion modeling, question response managers, speech generation and non-verbal behavior. Also addressed will be the diverse set of training environments we have developed for the system, from single computer laptops to multi-computer immersive displays to real and virtual integrated environments. This paper will also discuss the problems, issues and solutions we encountered while building these systems. The paper will recount subject testing we have performed in these environments and results we have obtained from users. Finally the future of this type of Virtual Humans technology and training applications will be discussed.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {inproceedings}
}
There is a great need in the Joint Forces to have human to human interpersonal training for skills such as negotiation, leadership, interviewing and cultural training. Virtual environments can be incredible training tools if used properly and used for the correct training application. Virtual environments have already been very successful in training Warfighters how to operate vehicles and weapons systems. At the Institute for Creative Technologies (ICT) we have been exploring a new question: can virtual environments be used to train Warfighters in interpersonal skills such as negotiation, tactical questioning and leadership that are so critical for success in the contemporary operating environment? Using embodied conversational agents to create this type of training system has been one of the goals of the Virtual Humans project at the institute. ICT has a great deal of experience building complex, integrated and immersive training systems that address the human factor needs for training experiences. This paper will address the research, technology and value of developing virtual humans for training environments. This research includes speech recognition, natural language understanding & generation, dialogue management, cognitive agents, emotion modeling, question response managers, speech generation and non-verbal behavior. Also addressed will be the diverse set of training environments we have developed for the system, from single computer laptops to multi-computer immersive displays to real and virtual integrated environments. This paper will also discuss the problems, issues and solutions we encountered while building these systems. The paper will recount subject testing we have performed in these environments and results we have obtained from users. Finally the future of this type of Virtual Humans technology and training applications will be discussed.
268.
Kenny, Patrick G.; Hartholt, Arno; Gratch, Jonathan; Traum, David; Marsella, Stacy C.; Swartout, William
The More the Merrier: Multi-Party Negotiation with Virtual Humans Proceedings Article
In: AAAI Conference On Artificial Intelligence; Proceedings of the 22nd National Conference on Artificial Intelligence, pp. 1970–1971, 2007.
@inproceedings{kenny_more_2007,
title = {The More the Merrier: Multi-Party Negotiation with Virtual Humans},
author = {Patrick G. Kenny and Arno Hartholt and Jonathan Gratch and David Traum and Stacy C. Marsella and William Swartout},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/The%20More%20the%20Merrier-%20Multi-Party%20Negotiation%20with%20Virtual%20Humans.pdf},
year = {2007},
date = {2007-07-01},
booktitle = {AAAI Conference On Artificial Intelligence; Proceedings of the 22nd National Conference on Artificial Intelligence},
volume = {2},
pages = {1970–1971},
abstract = {The goal of the Virtual Humans Project at the University of Southern California�s Institute for Creative Technologies is to enrich virtual training environments with virtual humans � autonomous agents that support face-to-face interaction with trainees in a variety of roles � through bringing together many different areas of research including speech recognition, natural language understanding, dialogue management, cognitive modeling, emotion modeling, non-verbal behavior and speech and knowledge management. The demo at AAAI will focus on our work using virtual humans to train negotiation skills. Conference attendees will negotiate with a virtual human doctor and elder to try to move a clinic out of harm�s way in single and multi-party negotiation scenarios using the latest iteration of our Virtual Humans framework. The user will use natural speech to talk to the embodied agents, who will respond in accordance with their internal task model and state. The characters will carry out a multi-party dialogue with verbal and non-verbal behavior. A video of a single-party version of the scenario was shown at AAAI-06. This new interactive demo introduces several new features, including multi-party negotiation, dynamically generated non-verbal behavior and a central ontology.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {inproceedings}
}
The goal of the Virtual Humans Project at the University of Southern California�s Institute for Creative Technologies is to enrich virtual training environments with virtual humans � autonomous agents that support face-to-face interaction with trainees in a variety of roles � through bringing together many different areas of research including speech recognition, natural language understanding, dialogue management, cognitive modeling, emotion modeling, non-verbal behavior and speech and knowledge management. The demo at AAAI will focus on our work using virtual humans to train negotiation skills. Conference attendees will negotiate with a virtual human doctor and elder to try to move a clinic out of harm�s way in single and multi-party negotiation scenarios using the latest iteration of our Virtual Humans framework. The user will use natural speech to talk to the embodied agents, who will respond in accordance with their internal task model and state. The characters will carry out a multi-party dialogue with verbal and non-verbal behavior. A video of a single-party version of the scenario was shown at AAAI-06. This new interactive demo introduces several new features, including multi-party negotiation, dynamically generated non-verbal behavior and a central ontology.
269.
Kenny, Patrick G.; Rizzo, Albert; Parsons, Thomas D.; Gratch, Jonathan; Swartout, William
A Virtual Human Agent for Training Novice Therapist Clinical Interviewing Skills Proceedings Article
In: Annual Review of CyberTherapy and Telemedicine, pp. 197–210, Washington D.C., 2007.
@inproceedings{kenny_virtual_2007-1,
title = {A Virtual Human Agent for Training Novice Therapist Clinical Interviewing Skills},
author = {Patrick G. Kenny and Albert Rizzo and Thomas D. Parsons and Jonathan Gratch and William Swartout},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/A%20Virtual%20Human%20Agent%20for%20Training%20Novice%20Therapist%20Clinical%20Interviewing%20Skills.pdf},
year = {2007},
date = {2007-06-01},
booktitle = {Annual Review of CyberTherapy and Telemedicine},
volume = {4722},
pages = {197–210},
address = {Washington D.C.},
abstract = {Virtual Reality (VR) is rapidly evolving into a pragmatically usable technology for mental health (MH) applications. Over the last five years, the technology for creating virtual humans (VHs) has evolved to the point where they are no longer regarded as simple background characters, but rather can serve a functional interactional role. Our current project involves the construction of a natural language-capable virtual client named “Justin,” which derived from a military negotiation train- ing tool into a virtual therapy patient for training novice clinicians the art of clinical interviewing with a resistant client. Justin portrays a 16-year old male with a conduct disorder who is being forced to par- ticipate in therapy by his family. The system uses a sophisticated natural language interface that al- lows novice clinicians to practice asking interview questions in an effort to create a positive therapeu- tic alliance with this very challenging virtual client. Herein we proffer a description of our iterative de- sign process and outline our long term vision.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {inproceedings}
}
Virtual Reality (VR) is rapidly evolving into a pragmatically usable technology for mental health (MH) applications. Over the last five years, the technology for creating virtual humans (VHs) has evolved to the point where they are no longer regarded as simple background characters, but rather can serve a functional interactional role. Our current project involves the construction of a natural language-capable virtual client named “Justin,” which derived from a military negotiation train- ing tool into a virtual therapy patient for training novice clinicians the art of clinical interviewing with a resistant client. Justin portrays a 16-year old male with a conduct disorder who is being forced to par- ticipate in therapy by his family. The system uses a sophisticated natural language interface that al- lows novice clinicians to practice asking interview questions in an effort to create a positive therapeu- tic alliance with this very challenging virtual client. Herein we proffer a description of our iterative de- sign process and outline our long term vision.
270.
Crooks, Valerie C.; Parsons, Thomas D.; Buckwalter, John Galen
Validation of the Cognitive Assessment of Later Life Status (CALLS) instrument: a computerized telephonic measure Journal Article
In: BMC Neurology, vol. 7, no. 10, 2007.
@article{crooks_validation_2007,
title = {Validation of the Cognitive Assessment of Later Life Status (CALLS) instrument: a computerized telephonic measure},
author = {Valerie C. Crooks and Thomas D. Parsons and John Galen Buckwalter},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Validation%20of%20the%20Cognitive%20Assessment%20of%20Later%20Life%20Status%20(CALLS)%20instrument-%20a%20computerized%20telephonic%20measure.pdf},
doi = {10.1186/1471-2377-7-10},
year = {2007},
date = {2007-05-01},
journal = {BMC Neurology},
volume = {7},
number = {10},
abstract = {Background: Brief screening tests have been developed to measure cognitive performance and dementia, yet they measure limited cognitive domains and often lack construct validity. Neuropsychological assessments, while comprehensive, are too costly and time-consuming for epidemiological studies. This study's aim was to develop a psychometrically valid telephone administered test of cognitive function in aging. Methods: Using a sequential hierarchical strategy, each stage of test development did not proceed until specified criteria were met. The 30 minute Cognitive Assessment of Later Life Status (CALLS) measure and a 2.5 hour in-person neuropsychological assessment were conducted with a randomly selected sample of 211 participants 65 years and older that included equivalent distributions of men and women from ethnically diverse populations. Results: Overall Cronbach's coefficient alpha for the CALLS test was 0.81. A principal component analysis of the CALLS tests yielded five components. The CALLS total score was significantly correlated with four neuropsychological assessment components. Older age and having a high school education or less was significantly correlated with lower CALLS total scores. Females scored better overall than males. There were no score differences based on race. Conclusion: The CALLS test is a valid measure that provides a unique opportunity to reliably and efficiently study cognitive function in large populations.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Background: Brief screening tests have been developed to measure cognitive performance and dementia, yet they measure limited cognitive domains and often lack construct validity. Neuropsychological assessments, while comprehensive, are too costly and time-consuming for epidemiological studies. This study's aim was to develop a psychometrically valid telephone administered test of cognitive function in aging. Methods: Using a sequential hierarchical strategy, each stage of test development did not proceed until specified criteria were met. The 30 minute Cognitive Assessment of Later Life Status (CALLS) measure and a 2.5 hour in-person neuropsychological assessment were conducted with a randomly selected sample of 211 participants 65 years and older that included equivalent distributions of men and women from ethnically diverse populations. Results: Overall Cronbach's coefficient alpha for the CALLS test was 0.81. A principal component analysis of the CALLS tests yielded five components. The CALLS total score was significantly correlated with four neuropsychological assessment components. Older age and having a high school education or less was significantly correlated with lower CALLS total scores. Females scored better overall than males. There were no score differences based on race. Conclusion: The CALLS test is a valid measure that provides a unique opportunity to reliably and efficiently study cognitive function in large populations.
271.
Robertson, R. Kevin; Nakasujja, Noeline; Wong, Matthew; Musisi, Seggane; Katabira, Elly; Parsons, Thomas D.; Ronald, Allan; Sacktor, Ned
Pattern of neuropsychological performance among HIV positive patients in Uganda Journal Article
In: BMC Neurology, 2007.
@article{robertson_pattern_2007,
title = {Pattern of neuropsychological performance among HIV positive patients in Uganda},
author = {R. Kevin Robertson and Noeline Nakasujja and Matthew Wong and Seggane Musisi and Elly Katabira and Thomas D. Parsons and Allan Ronald and Ned Sacktor},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Pattern%20of%20neuropsychological%20performance%20among%20HIV%20positive%20patients%20in%20Uganda.pdf},
year = {2007},
date = {2007-04-01},
journal = {BMC Neurology},
abstract = {Few studies have examined cognitive functioning of HIV positive patients in sub-Saharan Africa. It cannot be assumed that HIV positive patients in Africa exhibit the same declines as patients in high-resource settings, since there are differences that may influence cognitive functioning including nutrition, history of concomitant disease, and varying HIV strains, among other possibilities. Part of the difficulty of specifying abnormalities in neuropsychological functioning among African HIV positive patients is that there are no readily available African normative databases. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the pattern of neuropsychological performance in a sample of HIV positive patients in comparison to HIV negative control subjects in Uganda. Methods: The neuropsychological test scores of 110 HIV positive patients (WHO Stage 2},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Few studies have examined cognitive functioning of HIV positive patients in sub-Saharan Africa. It cannot be assumed that HIV positive patients in Africa exhibit the same declines as patients in high-resource settings, since there are differences that may influence cognitive functioning including nutrition, history of concomitant disease, and varying HIV strains, among other possibilities. Part of the difficulty of specifying abnormalities in neuropsychological functioning among African HIV positive patients is that there are no readily available African normative databases. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the pattern of neuropsychological performance in a sample of HIV positive patients in comparison to HIV negative control subjects in Uganda. Methods: The neuropsychological test scores of 110 HIV positive patients (WHO Stage 2
272.
Buckwalter, John Galen; Geiger, A. M.; Parsons, Thomas D.; Handler, J.; Howes, J.; Lehmer, R. R.
Cognitive Effects of Short-term Use of Raloxifene: A Randomized Clinical Trial Journal Article
In: International Journal of Neuroscience, vol. 117, pp. 1579–1590, 2007.
@article{buckwalter_cognitive_2007,
title = {Cognitive Effects of Short-term Use of Raloxifene: A Randomized Clinical Trial},
author = {John Galen Buckwalter and A. M. Geiger and Thomas D. Parsons and J. Handler and J. Howes and R. R. Lehmer},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Cognitive%20Effects%20of%20Short-term%20Use%20of%20Raloxifene-%20A%20Randomized%20Clinical%20Trial.pdf},
year = {2007},
date = {2007-01-01},
journal = {International Journal of Neuroscience},
volume = {117},
pages = {1579–1590},
abstract = {Two questions regarding findings from the Women's Health Initiative are (1) What is the effect of various hormonal regimens including selective estrogen receptor modulators? and (2) Is the negative effect on cognitive functioning related to the older age (65+years) if the women? This study addresses these two questions in a short-term randomized trial of the effects of raloxifene versus alendronate on cognition. The study found only one significant interaction where the raloxifene and alendronate group changed differently across the two testing occasions. Hence, raloxifene does not have any impact, positive or negative, on short-term cognitive functioning when compared to alendronate.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Two questions regarding findings from the Women's Health Initiative are (1) What is the effect of various hormonal regimens including selective estrogen receptor modulators? and (2) Is the negative effect on cognitive functioning related to the older age (65+years) if the women? This study addresses these two questions in a short-term randomized trial of the effects of raloxifene versus alendronate on cognition. The study found only one significant interaction where the raloxifene and alendronate group changed differently across the two testing occasions. Hence, raloxifene does not have any impact, positive or negative, on short-term cognitive functioning when compared to alendronate.
273.
Kenny, Patrick G.; Parsons, Thomas D.; Gratch, Jonathan; Leuski, Anton; Rizzo, Albert
Virtual Patients for Clinical Therapist Skills Training Proceedings Article
In: Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence; Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Intelligent Virtual Agents (IVA), pp. 197–210, Paris, France, 2007.
@inproceedings{kenny_virtual_2007,
title = {Virtual Patients for Clinical Therapist Skills Training},
author = {Patrick G. Kenny and Thomas D. Parsons and Jonathan Gratch and Anton Leuski and Albert Rizzo},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Virtual%20Patients%20for%20Clinical%20Therapist%20Skills%20Training.pdf},
year = {2007},
date = {2007-01-01},
booktitle = {Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence; Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Intelligent Virtual Agents (IVA)},
volume = {4722},
pages = {197–210},
address = {Paris, France},
abstract = {Virtual humans offer an exciting and powerful potential for rich interactive experiences. Fully embodied virtual humans are growing in capability, ease, and utility. As a result, they present an opportunity for expanding research into burgeoning virtual patient medical applications. In this paper we consider the ways in which one may go about building and applying virtual human technology to the virtual patient domain. Specifically we aim to show that virtual human technology may be used to help develop the interviewing and diagnostics skills of developing clinicians. Herein we proffer a description of our iterative design process and preliminary results to show that virtual patients may be a useful adjunct to psychotherapy education.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {inproceedings}
}
Virtual humans offer an exciting and powerful potential for rich interactive experiences. Fully embodied virtual humans are growing in capability, ease, and utility. As a result, they present an opportunity for expanding research into burgeoning virtual patient medical applications. In this paper we consider the ways in which one may go about building and applying virtual human technology to the virtual patient domain. Specifically we aim to show that virtual human technology may be used to help develop the interviewing and diagnostics skills of developing clinicians. Herein we proffer a description of our iterative design process and preliminary results to show that virtual patients may be a useful adjunct to psychotherapy education.
274.
Yeh, Shih-Ching; Rizzo, Albert; McLaughlin, Margaret; Parsons, Thomas D.
In: Studies in Health Technology and Informatics, vol. 125, pp. 506–511, 2007.
@article{yeh_vr_2007,
title = {VR Enhanced Upper Extremity Motor Training for Post-Stroke Rehabilitation: Task Design, Clinical Experiment and Visualization on Performance and Progress},
author = {Shih-Ching Yeh and Albert Rizzo and Margaret McLaughlin and Thomas D. Parsons},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/VR%20Enhanced%20Upper%20Extremity%20Motor%20Training%20for%20Post-Stroke%20Rehabilitation-%20Task%20Design,%20Clinical%20Experiment%20and%20Visualization%20on%20Performance%20and%20Progress.pdf},
year = {2007},
date = {2007-01-01},
journal = {Studies in Health Technology and Informatics},
volume = {125},
pages = {506–511},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
275.
Yeh, Shih-Ching; Stewart, Jill; McLaughlin, Margaret; Parsons, Thomas D.; Winstein, Carolee J.; Rizzo, Albert
Evaluation Approach for Post-stroke Rehabilitation Via Virtual Reality Aided Motor Training Proceedings Article
In: Lecture Notes in Computer Science, pp. 378–387, 2007, 2007.
@inproceedings{yeh_evaluation_2007,
title = {Evaluation Approach for Post-stroke Rehabilitation Via Virtual Reality Aided Motor Training},
author = {Shih-Ching Yeh and Jill Stewart and Margaret McLaughlin and Thomas D. Parsons and Carolee J. Winstein and Albert Rizzo},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Evaluation%20Approach%20for%20Post-stroke%20Rehabilitation%20Via%20Virtual%20Reality%20Aided%20Motor%20Training.pdf},
year = {2007},
date = {2007-01-01},
booktitle = {Lecture Notes in Computer Science},
pages = {378–387},
address = {2007},
abstract = {This paper introduces an evaluation approach that was applied to clinical data collected from a virtual reality aided motor training program for post-stroke rehabilitation. The goal of the proposed evaluation approach is to diagnose the patient's current status (performance) and detect change in status over time (progression). Three measures, performance time, movement efficiency, and movement speed, were defined to represent kinematic features of reaching. 3-D performance maps and progression maps were generated based on each kinematic measure to visualize a single patient's behavior. The case study revealed the patient's current status as to direction and range of upper extremity reach ability, composed of pitch, yaw and arm length. Further, progression was found and visualized quantitatively over a series of practice sessions.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {inproceedings}
}
This paper introduces an evaluation approach that was applied to clinical data collected from a virtual reality aided motor training program for post-stroke rehabilitation. The goal of the proposed evaluation approach is to diagnose the patient's current status (performance) and detect change in status over time (progression). Three measures, performance time, movement efficiency, and movement speed, were defined to represent kinematic features of reaching. 3-D performance maps and progression maps were generated based on each kinematic measure to visualize a single patient's behavior. The case study revealed the patient's current status as to direction and range of upper extremity reach ability, composed of pitch, yaw and arm length. Further, progression was found and visualized quantitatively over a series of practice sessions.
276.
Robertson, R. Kevin; Parsons, Thomas D.; Rogers, Steven A.; Braaten, Alyssa J.; Robertson, Wendy T.; Wilson, Susan; Hall, Colin D.
Assessing health-related quality of life in NeuroAIDS: some psychometric properties of the Neurological Quality of Life Questionnaire (NeuroQOL) Journal Article
In: Journal of Clinical Neuroscience, vol. 14, pp. 416+423, 2007.
@article{robertson_assessing_2007,
title = {Assessing health-related quality of life in NeuroAIDS: some psychometric properties of the Neurological Quality of Life Questionnaire (NeuroQOL)},
author = {R. Kevin Robertson and Thomas D. Parsons and Steven A. Rogers and Alyssa J. Braaten and Wendy T. Robertson and Susan Wilson and Colin D. Hall},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Assessing%20health-related%20quality%20of%20life%20in%20NeuroAIDS-%20some%20psychometric%20properties%20of%20the%20Neurological%20Quality%20of%20Life%20Questionnaire%20(NeuroQOL).pdf},
year = {2007},
date = {2007-01-01},
journal = {Journal of Clinical Neuroscience},
volume = {14},
pages = {416+423},
abstract = {Several studies were undertaken to assess the psychometric properties (reliability and initial convergent and discriminant construct validity) of the Neurological Quality of Life Questionnaire (NeuroQOL). The NeuroQOL contains 114 items answered in self report Likert format, with higher scores reflecting better quality of life. Study one compared the questionnaire with existing quality of life measures (Symptom Distress Scale, Sickness Impact Profile) and disease stage, psychological, neuropsychological and neurological measures, and a significant correlation was also fount with each domain. The internal consistency reliability (alpha = 0.96), split half reliability (r12 = 0.97), and test-retest reliability (coefficients were 0.78 for 6 months and 0.67 for one year intervals between test and retest) were all found to high and adequately stable. Overall, these results indicate acceptable reliability and initial construct valididty for the NeuroQOL.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Several studies were undertaken to assess the psychometric properties (reliability and initial convergent and discriminant construct validity) of the Neurological Quality of Life Questionnaire (NeuroQOL). The NeuroQOL contains 114 items answered in self report Likert format, with higher scores reflecting better quality of life. Study one compared the questionnaire with existing quality of life measures (Symptom Distress Scale, Sickness Impact Profile) and disease stage, psychological, neuropsychological and neurological measures, and a significant correlation was also fount with each domain. The internal consistency reliability (alpha = 0.96), split half reliability (r12 = 0.97), and test-retest reliability (coefficients were 0.78 for 6 months and 0.67 for one year intervals between test and retest) were all found to high and adequately stable. Overall, these results indicate acceptable reliability and initial construct valididty for the NeuroQOL.
277.
Miller, Karen J.; Parsons, Thomas D.; Whybrow, Peter C.; Herle, Katja; Rasgon, Natalie; Herle, Andre; Martinez, Dorothy; Silverman, Dan H.; Bauer, Michael
Verbal Memory Retrieval Deficits Associated With Untreated Hypothyroidism Journal Article
In: Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, vol. 19, no. 2, pp. 132–136, 2007.
@article{miller_verbal_2007,
title = {Verbal Memory Retrieval Deficits Associated With Untreated Hypothyroidism},
author = {Karen J. Miller and Thomas D. Parsons and Peter C. Whybrow and Katja Herle and Natalie Rasgon and Andre Herle and Dorothy Martinez and Dan H. Silverman and Michael Bauer},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Verbal%20Memory%20Retrieval%20Deficits%20Associated%20With%20Untreated%20Hypothyroidism.pdf},
year = {2007},
date = {2007-01-01},
journal = {Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences},
volume = {19},
number = {2},
pages = {132–136},
abstract = {The effects of inadequate thyroid hormone availability to the brain on adult cognitive function are poorly understood. This study assessed the effects of hypothyroidism on cognitive function using a standard neuropsychological battery in 14 patients suffering from untreated hypothyroidism and complaining of subjective cognitive difï¬culties in comparison with 10 age-matched healthy comparison subjects. Signiï¬cant differences between groups were limited to verbal memory retrieval as measured by the California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT). On short delay free recall, long delay free recall, and long delay cued recall, signiï¬cant differences remained between groups despite the limited statistical power of this study. There were no signiï¬cant results found between groups on attentional or nonverbal tasks. Results suggest that hypothyroid-related memory deï¬cits are not attributable to an attentional deï¬cit but rather to speciï¬c retrieval deï¬cits.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The effects of inadequate thyroid hormone availability to the brain on adult cognitive function are poorly understood. This study assessed the effects of hypothyroidism on cognitive function using a standard neuropsychological battery in 14 patients suffering from untreated hypothyroidism and complaining of subjective cognitive difï¬culties in comparison with 10 age-matched healthy comparison subjects. Signiï¬cant differences between groups were limited to verbal memory retrieval as measured by the California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT). On short delay free recall, long delay free recall, and long delay cued recall, signiï¬cant differences remained between groups despite the limited statistical power of this study. There were no signiï¬cant results found between groups on attentional or nonverbal tasks. Results suggest that hypothyroid-related memory deï¬cits are not attributable to an attentional deï¬cit but rather to speciï¬c retrieval deï¬cits.
278.
Rizzo, Albert; Graap, Ken; McLay, Robert N.; Perlman, Karen; Rothbaum, Barbara O.; Reger, Greg; Parsons, Thomas D.; Difede, JoAnn; Pair, Jarrell
Virtual Iraq: Initial Case Reports from a VR Exposure Therapy Application for Combat-Related Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Journal Article
In: Virtual Rehabilitation, vol. 27, pp. 124–130, 2007.
@article{rizzo_virtual_2007,
title = {Virtual Iraq: Initial Case Reports from a VR Exposure Therapy Application for Combat-Related Post Traumatic Stress Disorder},
author = {Albert Rizzo and Ken Graap and Robert N. McLay and Karen Perlman and Barbara O. Rothbaum and Greg Reger and Thomas D. Parsons and JoAnn Difede and Jarrell Pair},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Virtual%20Iraq-%20Initial%20Case%20Reports%20from%20a%20VR%20Exposure%20Therapy%20Application%20for%20Combat-Related%20Post%20Traumatic%20Stress%20Disorder.pdf},
year = {2007},
date = {2007-01-01},
journal = {Virtual Rehabilitation},
volume = {27},
pages = {124–130},
abstract = {Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is reported to be caused by traumatic events that are outside the range of usual human experience including (but not limited to) military combat, violent personal assault, being kidnapped or taken hostage and terrorist attacks. Initial data suggests that at least 1 out of 6 Iraq War veterans are exhibiting symptoms of depression, anxiety and PTSD. Virtual Reality (VR) delivered exposure therapy for PTSD has been used with reports of positive outcomes. The aim of the current paper is to present the rationale and brief description of a Virtual Iraq PTSD VR therapy application and present initial findings from two successfully treated patients. The VR treatment environment was created via the recycling of virtual graphic assets that were initially built for the U.S. Army-funded combat tactical simulation scenario and commercially successful X-Box game, Full Spectrum Warrior, in addition to other available and newly created assets. Thus far, Virtual Iraq consists of a series of customizable virtual scenarios designed to represent relevant Middle Eastern VR contexts for exposure therapy, including a city and desert road convoy environment. User-centered design feedback needed to iteratively evolve the system was gathered from returning Iraq War veterans in the USA and from a system deployed in Iraq and tested by an Army Combat Stress Control Team. Clinical trials are currently underway at Camp Pendleton and at the San Diego Naval Medical Center and the results from two successfully treated patients are presented along with a delineation of our future plans for research and clinical care using this application.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is reported to be caused by traumatic events that are outside the range of usual human experience including (but not limited to) military combat, violent personal assault, being kidnapped or taken hostage and terrorist attacks. Initial data suggests that at least 1 out of 6 Iraq War veterans are exhibiting symptoms of depression, anxiety and PTSD. Virtual Reality (VR) delivered exposure therapy for PTSD has been used with reports of positive outcomes. The aim of the current paper is to present the rationale and brief description of a Virtual Iraq PTSD VR therapy application and present initial findings from two successfully treated patients. The VR treatment environment was created via the recycling of virtual graphic assets that were initially built for the U.S. Army-funded combat tactical simulation scenario and commercially successful X-Box game, Full Spectrum Warrior, in addition to other available and newly created assets. Thus far, Virtual Iraq consists of a series of customizable virtual scenarios designed to represent relevant Middle Eastern VR contexts for exposure therapy, including a city and desert road convoy environment. User-centered design feedback needed to iteratively evolve the system was gathered from returning Iraq War veterans in the USA and from a system deployed in Iraq and tested by an Army Combat Stress Control Team. Clinical trials are currently underway at Camp Pendleton and at the San Diego Naval Medical Center and the results from two successfully treated patients are presented along with a delineation of our future plans for research and clinical care using this application.
279.
Parsons, Thomas D.; Rizzo, Albert; Bamattre, Jacob; Brennan, John
Virtual Reality Cognitive Performance Assessment Test Journal Article
In: Annual Review of CyberTherapy and Telemedicine, 2007.
@article{parsons_virtual_2007,
title = {Virtual Reality Cognitive Performance Assessment Test},
author = {Thomas D. Parsons and Albert Rizzo and Jacob Bamattre and John Brennan},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Virtual%20Reality%20Cognitive%20Performance%20Assessment%20Test.pdf},
year = {2007},
date = {2007-01-01},
journal = {Annual Review of CyberTherapy and Telemedicine},
abstract = {Virtual Reality Cognitive Performance Assessment Test (VRCPAT) is a virtual environment based measure of learning and memory. We examined convergent and discriminant validity and hypothesized that the VRCPAT’s Total Learning and Memory scores would correlate with other neuropsychological measures involving learning and memory, but not with measures involving potential confounds (i.e., Executive Functions; Attention; and Processing Speed). Using a sequential hierarchical strategy, each stage of test development did not proceed until specified criteria were met. The 15 minute VRCPAT battery and a 1.5 hour in-person neuropsychological assessment were conducted with a randomly selected sample of 20 healthy adults that included equivalent distributions of men and women from ethnically diverse populations. Results supported both convergent and discriminant validity. That is, findings suggest that the VRCPAT measures a capacity that is 1) consistent with that assessed by traditional paper and pencil measures involving learning and memory; and 2) inconsistent with that assessed by traditional paper and pencil measures assessing neurocognitive domains traditionally assumed to be other than learning and memory. We conclude that the VRCPAT is a valid test that provides a unique opportunity to reliably and efficiently study memory function within an ecologically valid environment.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Virtual Reality Cognitive Performance Assessment Test (VRCPAT) is a virtual environment based measure of learning and memory. We examined convergent and discriminant validity and hypothesized that the VRCPAT’s Total Learning and Memory scores would correlate with other neuropsychological measures involving learning and memory, but not with measures involving potential confounds (i.e., Executive Functions; Attention; and Processing Speed). Using a sequential hierarchical strategy, each stage of test development did not proceed until specified criteria were met. The 15 minute VRCPAT battery and a 1.5 hour in-person neuropsychological assessment were conducted with a randomly selected sample of 20 healthy adults that included equivalent distributions of men and women from ethnically diverse populations. Results supported both convergent and discriminant validity. That is, findings suggest that the VRCPAT measures a capacity that is 1) consistent with that assessed by traditional paper and pencil measures involving learning and memory; and 2) inconsistent with that assessed by traditional paper and pencil measures assessing neurocognitive domains traditionally assumed to be other than learning and memory. We conclude that the VRCPAT is a valid test that provides a unique opportunity to reliably and efficiently study memory function within an ecologically valid environment.
280.
Iudicello, Jennifer E.; Woods, Steven Paul; Parsons, Thomas D.; Moran, Lisa M.; Carey, Catherine L.; Grant, Igor
Verbal fluency in HIV infection: A meta-analytic review Journal Article
In: Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society, vol. 13, pp. 183–189, 2007.
@article{iudicello_verbal_2007,
title = {Verbal fluency in HIV infection: A meta-analytic review},
author = {Jennifer E. Iudicello and Steven Paul Woods and Thomas D. Parsons and Lisa M. Moran and Catherine L. Carey and Igor Grant},
url = {http://ict.usc.edu/pubs/Verbal%20fluency%20in%20HIV%20infection-%20A%20meta-analytic%20review.pdf},
doi = {10.10170S1355617707070221},
year = {2007},
date = {2007-01-01},
journal = {Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society},
volume = {13},
pages = {183–189},
abstract = {Given the largely prefrontostriatal neuropathogenesis of HIV-associated neurobehavioral deficits, it is often presumed that HIV infection leads to greater impairment on letter versus category fluency. A meta-analysis of the HIV verbal fluency literature was conducted (k 5 37, n 5 7110) to assess this hypothesis and revealed generally small effect sizes for both letter and category fluency, which increased in magnitude with advancing HIV disease severity. Across all studies, the mean effect size of category fluency was slightly larger than that of letter fluency. However, the discrepancy between category and letter fluency dissipated in a more conservative analysis of only those studies that included both tests. Thus, HIV-associated impairments in letter and category fluency are of similar magnitude, suggesting that mild word generation deficits are evident in HIV, regardless of whether traditional letter or semantic cues are used to guide the word search and retrieval process.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Given the largely prefrontostriatal neuropathogenesis of HIV-associated neurobehavioral deficits, it is often presumed that HIV infection leads to greater impairment on letter versus category fluency. A meta-analysis of the HIV verbal fluency literature was conducted (k 5 37, n 5 7110) to assess this hypothesis and revealed generally small effect sizes for both letter and category fluency, which increased in magnitude with advancing HIV disease severity. Across all studies, the mean effect size of category fluency was slightly larger than that of letter fluency. However, the discrepancy between category and letter fluency dissipated in a more conservative analysis of only those studies that included both tests. Thus, HIV-associated impairments in letter and category fluency are of similar magnitude, suggesting that mild word generation deficits are evident in HIV, regardless of whether traditional letter or semantic cues are used to guide the word search and retrieval process.
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