Impaired motor learning in children with hydrocephalus.
Hydrocephalic (n = 19) and normal (n = 20) children in two age groups (averaged at 10 and 14 years old) were asked to learn 5 predetermined timing rhythm interval tasks (including timing duration and relative timing pattern) by pressing keys on a computer keyboard. In the acquisition phase, visual and auditory goal timing intervals, as well as visualized feedback were presented to all participants before and after their key presses, respectively. A retention test without the auditory information and visualized feedback was administered 1 day later. By using the computerized timing test, we demonstrated in this study that the hydrocephalic group had significantly (ANOVA analysis) increased relative timing errors; this function depends on the formation of an internal model or a motor program related to long-term memory disorders. These findings could lead to the formulation of training procedures with simplified movements that may help hydrocephalic children improve their motor skill learning.
Ding
Y
Y
Department of Neurological Surgery, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Mich. 48201, USA. yding@neurosurgery.wayne.edu
Lai
Q
Q
McAllister II
J P
JP
Canady
A I
AI
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006849:Hydrocephalus / Q000150:complications*; D008297:Male; D019957:Motor Skills Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D012153:Retention, Psychology / Q000502:physiology; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D013997:Time Factors