Prefrontal synthesis training therapies
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Abstract
Prefrontal synthesis of the lateral prefrontal cortex is necessary to create new mental images. When this faculty is deficient, several disorders can occur. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one such disorder, with severe cases leading to prefrontal paralysis. As the results of prefrontal paralysis are devastating and irreversible, there are multiple diagnostic tools available for ASD. In addition, the Vyshedskiy lab has developed a therapy app, Mental Imagery Therapy for Autism, that trains prefrontal synthesis in children with ASD. Data from the app has also uncovered several recommendations that can significantly impact language development in ASD children such as limiting TV watching, and encouraging pretend play. On the other side of the age spectrum, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease affecting the elderly. While AD causes overall cognitive decline, it also affects prefrontal synthesis. As the disease is growing in prevalence as the population ages, diagnostic accessibility has increased in importance. To address a dearth of diagnostics, the Vyshedskiy lab has developed the Boston Cognitive Assessment (BoCA), a cognitive test that boasts several improvements over the current gold standard the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Though pharmaceutical interventions are still a research target for AD, the most promising therapy of the moment is 40Hz light therapy. By offering this therapy in a convenient application format, the Vyshedskiy lab hopes to make it more accessible to people with AD, as well as anyone looking to preserve their cognitive health.
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Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International