Development and validation of the Uniform Data Set (v3.0) executive function composite score (UDS3-EF).

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Cognitive composite scores precisely measure executive functioning (EF).
• Developing reliable and valid EF measures is crucial for research and clinical applications.
• Existing measures may have limitations in efficiency and psychometric properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate the Uniform Data Set v3.0 executive functioning composite score (UDS3-EF).
• To assess the psychometric properties and practical advantages of the UDS3-EF.
• To compare the UDS3-EF's efficiency with other EF measures.

Main Methods:

• Developed the UDS3-EF using item-response theory on 3507 controls from the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center dataset.
• Applied nonlinear and linear demographic adjustments.
• Validated the UDS3-EF with independent cohorts using neuropsychological tests and brain MRI via linear models.

Main Results:

• The UDS3-EF demonstrated good-to-excellent model fit.
• UDS3-EF scores significantly differed across cognitive groups (controls > MCI > AD/bvFTD).
• UDS3-EF showed strong correlations with other EF tests and relevant brain regions, requiring a smaller sample size for detecting changes compared to other measures.

Conclusions:

• The UDS3-EF is a well-suited measure for quantifying EF in research and clinical trials.
• The UDS3-EF offers psychometric and practical advantages over its component tests.
• This composite score enhances the precision and efficiency of EF assessment.