Thumbnail The term "executive function" includes the ability to filter interference, engage in goaldirected behaviors, anticipate the consequences of one's actions, and to exhibit the adaptive concept of mental flexibility. The analysis of executive functions represents one of the most important research areas in contemporary neurosciences. It is partially—but not totally— related to frontal lo...

OBJECTIVE To study whether severity of traumatic brain injury and the intelligence quotient are related to executive dysfunction. PARTICIPANTS Sixty-two adults with brain injury who were referred for a work capacity evaluation. METHODS Retrospective review of severity of traumatic brain injury, intelligence quotient from a previously-conducted neuropsychological evaluation, determination of...

Studies suggest that executive cognitive dysfunction can more reliably predict loss of autonomy than memory impairment can. Executive cognitive function allows for abstract thought, the planning and taking of actions toward a goal, and adaptation to the unexpected. And because executive function and memory operate in distinct regions of the brain, executive dysfunction can occur even when memor...

Catechol-O-methyltransferease (COMT) metabolizes prefrontal cortex dopamine (DA), a neurotransmitter involved in executive behavior; the Val158Met genotype has been linked to executive dysfunction, which might increase sexual risk behaviors favoring HIV transmission. Main and interaction effects of COMT genotype and executive functioning on sexual risk behavior were examined. 192 sexually activ...

Stroke is a leading cause of disability worldwide. Cognitive functions and, in particular, executive function, are commonly affected after stroke, leading to impairments in performance of daily activities, decrease in social participation and in quality of life. Appropriate assessment and understanding of executive dysfunction are important, firstly to develop better rehabilitation strategies f...