Predictive Models of Lameness in Dairy Cows Achieve High Sensitivity and Specificity with Force Measurements in Three Dimensions

Cognitive impairment, although not a specific criterion for diagnosis, is widely reported as an associated feature of psychosis. Executive functioning (EF), responsible for independent goal-directed behavior, is a particular cognitive skill often impaired in people with psychosis. Despite a rich history of research, traditional performance-based neurocognitive measures of EF suffer from a variety of methodological issues (e.g., multi-factorial, inconsistent reporting/interpretation of results, impact of mediators on performance), and have limitations with respect to real-world applicability. Further, although findings consistently show EF deficits in people with full psychosis, less is known about EF in individuals at-risk for psychosis, a particularly interesting population given links between early treatment and positive clinical outcomes. The present study sought to better understand the relation between a more ecologically valid approach to measurement of EF (Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function [BRIEF]) and psychosis-risk (using the Structured Interview for Psychosis-risk Syndromes [SIPS]) in a sample of help-seeking youth ( N = 77), ages 12 to 22, in and around Baltimore. The results of linear-regression analyses were unexpected. Polynomial regression utilizing interpretation via simple slopes provided a better picture of these data. Three types of curvilinear effects were evident regressing BRIEF symptoms on SIPS scores. Preserved EF (within the BRIEF Global Executive Composite, Behavioral Regulation Index, Shift and Emotional Control subscales) was related to high SIPS Positive symptoms. Possible explanations for curvilinear effects due to biological, environmental, and psychotropic and therapeutic interventions, as well as implications for treatment are discussed. Methodological, statistical, and sample-related limitations are also addressed.