2016 Volume 18 Issue 3+4 Pages 121-127
The cognitive network shows a deep relationship with the autonomic nervous system when performing cognitive tasks. We hypothesize that cognitive function may be affected by autonomic emotional responses, particularly executive function. This study was designed to clarify the involvement of the autonomic system during an executive functional task via developmental changes assessed using pupillometry. Seventeen healthy children and 9 healthy adults participated in this study. Children were divided into 3 groups （Group A, 7-9 years;Group B, 10-14 years;Group C, 15-19 years）. Pupil diameter was recorded using an eye mark recorder during the Wisconsin card sorting test （WCST）. The rate of pupil variations was integrated and compared within each age group. Categories achieved （CA） in behavioral results of WCST gradually increased with age, showing significant differences between Group A and other groups. The change rate of pupillary diameter increased with CS and decreased with consecutive correct responses and after identification of a new category in adults. The change rate of pupillary diameter with CS showed a linear increase with age, and the pattern of pupillary response at 10 to 14 years old was comparable to that in adults. The integrated rate of pupil diameter with CS increased with age, and a significant difference was seen between Group A and adults. The degree of mydriasis correlated with number of CA. These findings suggest that autonomic emotional response plays an important role as a part of the process for executive function. These findings suggest that autonomic emotional response is coupled with cognitive function.
