Treatment for Executive Dysfunction in Adult Survivors of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) involves modulation of cerebral cortex excitability by the application of weak direct current to the scalp. tDCS is a technique that applies safe, low level direct current through large pads on the scalp to stimulate the underlying brain region, with current level \< 0.10 C/cm2. Direct current is transferred by a pair of saline-soaked sponges from the anode to the cathode.

The sham intervention will be used in both arms with one arm receiving the sham intervention on day 1 and the other receiving the sham intervention on day 2. The sham procedure provides the same small current during ramp up to imitate the intervention, but the current is discontinued after ramp up and no intervention is provided. Direct current is transferred by a pair of saline-soaked sponges from the anode to the cathode.

"Three tests will be used to evaluate cognitive function: Dimensional Change Card Sort Test, Flanker Inhibitory Control and Attention Test, and List Sorting Working Memory Test. These measures have a computerized format and are nationally standardized.~The Gray Oral Reading Test measures reading comprehension. Participants are asked to read a set of passages and recall specific details from the stories.~The Woodcock Johnson Understanding Directions measures listening comprehension. Participants listen to a series of complex instructions, then follow the directions by pointing to various objects in a colored picture."

Cognitive exercises using the Lumosity Brain Games program will be used simultaneously with the tDCS intervention. Participants will be asked to engage in training for 20 minutes a day, two days per week over 5 weeks. This program involves cognitive exercises designed to enhance executive function and processing speed.