Cognition in Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review of Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale Studies.

Objective: To critically analyze the evidence regarding changes in verbal and performance intelligence quotient (IQ) in patients with schizophrenia.Data Sources: An English-language-only search was conducted in the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and LILACS databases for articles with study objectives that included Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) assessment of cognitive functions in patients with schizophrenia. Descriptors were defined based on Medical Subject Headings, where associations of psychotic disorders related to the schizophrenia spectrum were suggested, as well as the "Wechsler Scales" descriptor. The search was conducted in November 2022 with no restriction on the date of publication to select studies that used any of the WAIS editions.Study Selection: Articles that met the inclusion criteria were selected after title and summary identification and full-text review.Results: A total of 28 articles were identified. All studies presented total IQ scores, but only 20 showed results for verbal IQ (n = 20) or performance IQ (n = 19). Analyzed data indicated patients had average performance on verbal comprehension features but low average performance on perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed indices.Conclusions: Executive function deficits were found in the analyzed studies, which reflect difficulties in planning and impulse control-characteristics present in the diagnosis of schizophrenia. The identification of this neuropsychological functioning contributes to the understanding of the cognitive dynamics found in schizophrenia and may help in early diagnosis, reinforcing the hypothesis that cognitive performance may be one of the indicators of psychopathologic expression.Prim Care Companion CNS Disord 2023;25(5):22r03456. Author affiliations are listed at the end of this article.

Resting-state fMRI functional connectivity and clinical correlates in Afro-descendants with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Schizophrenia (SCZ) and bipolar disorder (BD) exhibited altered activation in several brain areas, including the prefrontal and temporal cortex; however, a less explored topic is how brain connectivity and functional disturbances occur in non-Caucasian samples of SCZ and BD. Individuals with SCZ (n=20), BD (n=21), and healthy controls (HC, n=21) from indigenous and African ethnicity were submitted to clinical screening and functional assessments. Mood, compulsive and psychotic symptoms were also correlated to network dysfunction in each group. Two distinct networks' subcomponents demonstrated significant lower global efficiency (GE) in SCZ versus HC, corresponding to left posterior dorsal attention and medial left ventral attention (VA) networks. Lower GE was found in BD versus controls in four subcomponents, including the left medial and right VA. Higher compulsion scores correlated in BD with lower GE in the left VA, whereas increased report of alcohol abuse was associated with higher GE in left default mode network. Although preliminary, differences in the activation of specific networks, notably the left hemisphere, in SCZ versus controls, and lower activation in VA areas, in BD versus controls. Results highlight default mode and salient network as relevant for the emotional processing of SCZ and BD of indigenous and black ethnicity. Abstract: schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, functional neuroimaging, ethnicity, default network.

Mental health interventions for suicide prevention among indigenous adolescents: a systematic review

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The legacies of colonization and of policies of forced assimilation continue to be a cause of intergenerational trauma, manifested through feelings of marginality, depression, anxiety and confusion, which place indigenous peoples at increased risk of suicide. OBJECTIVES: To assess the quality, content, delivery and effectiveness of interventions for preventing suicides among indigenous adolescents. DESIGN AND SETTING: Systematic review conducted with Cochrane methodology, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. METHODS: The Cochrane library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, LILACS and PsycINFO databases were searched for studies published up to February 2021. The following inclusion criteria were used: published in any language; interventions that aimed to prevent suicides among indigenous adolescents; randomized or non-randomized study with a control or comparative group; and validated measurements of mental health problems. RESULTS: Two studies were identified: one on adolescents in the remote Yup'ik community in south-western Alaska, and the other on Zuni adolescents in New Mexico. Both studies showed evidence of effectiveness in interventions for reducing some of the risk factors and increasing some of the protective factors associated with suicide. High levels of community engagement and culture-centeredness were key anchors of both studies, which ensured that the intervention content, delivery and outcome measurements aligned with the beliefs and practices of the communities. Both studies were judged to have a moderate risk of bias, with biases in sample selection, attrition and inadequate reporting of results. CONCLUSIONS: The current evidence base is small but signaled the value of culturally appropriate interventions for prevention of suicide among indigenous adolescents. REGISTRATION DETAILS: The study protocol is registered in the international prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO); no. CRD42019141754.

Mental health interventions for suicide prevention among indigenous adolescents: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: The legacies of colonization and of policies of forced assimilation continue to be a cause of intergenerational trauma, manifested through feelings of marginality, depression, anxiety and confusion, which place indigenous peoples at increased risk of suicide. OBJECTIVES: To assess the quality, content, delivery and effectiveness of interventions for preventing suicides among indigenous adolescents. DESIGN AND SETTING: Systematic review conducted with Cochrane methodology, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. METHODS: The Cochrane library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, LILACS and PsycINFO databases were searched for studies published up to February 2021. The following inclusion criteria were used: published in any language; interventions that aimed to prevent suicides among indigenous adolescents; randomized or non-randomized study with a control or comparative group; and validated measurements of mental health problems. RESULTS: Two studies were identified: one on adolescents in the remote Yup'ik community in south-western Alaska, and the other on Zuni adolescents in New Mexico. Both studies showed evidence of effectiveness in interventions for reducing some of the risk factors and increasing some of the protective factors associated with suicide. High levels of community engagement and culture-centeredness were key anchors of both studies, which ensured that the intervention content, delivery and outcome measurements aligned with the beliefs and practices of the communities. Both studies were judged to have a moderate risk of bias, with biases in sample selection, attrition and inadequate reporting of results. CONCLUSIONS: The current evidence base is small but signaled the value of culturally appropriate interventions for prevention of suicide among indigenous adolescents. REGISTRATION DETAILS: The study protocol is registered in the international prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO); no. CRD42019141754.

Early trauma and schizophrenia onset: preliminary results of an outpatient cohort in Brazil.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the prevalence of early trauma in individuals with onset of schizophrenia (SZ) at early (≤ 18 years) and adult (> 18 years) ages (EOP and AOP, respectively) and explore relationships between the onset of disease and clinical variables including traumatic events and psychotic and mood symptoms. METHODS: Subjects with SZ (n = 71) and EOP and AOP were compared for history of psychological trauma, sexual abuse, and physical punishment using the Early Trauma Inventory Self Report - Short Form (ETISR-SF). They were also compared for history of comorbidities and affective disorders using the Diagnostic Interview for Psychosis and Affective Disorders, the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale, and the Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia. Coefficients were calculated for correlations between scale results and disease duration. RESULTS: Early trauma was significantly associated with an early onset psychotic episode (r = -0.315, p < 0.01). General trauma and depressive symptoms in adulthood were also associated (r = 0.442, p < 0.01), as were social anxiety symptoms and early trauma (r = 0.319, p < 0.01). Total ETISR-SF scores and the physical abuse item were significantly higher in EOP than in AOP. In the hierarchical regression, PANSS scores were best predicted by a model including the duration of disease and age of first psychotic episode (R = 0.303). CONCLUSIONS: Our results support the hypothesis that early trauma, including physical abuse, may play a relevant role in schizophrenia symptoms, such as an earlier psychotic occurrence, as well as features of other psychiatric disorders, such as greater severity of social anxiety and depression.

Early trauma and schizophrenia onset: preliminary results of an outpatient cohort in Brazil

Abstract Objectives To assess the prevalence of early trauma in individuals with onset of schizophrenia (SZ) at early (≤ 18 years) and adult (> 18 years) ages (EOP and AOP, respectively) and explore relationships between the onset of disease and clinical variables including traumatic events and psychotic and mood symptoms. Methods Subjects with SZ (n = 71) and EOP and AOP were compared for history of psychological trauma, sexual abuse, and physical punishment using the Early Trauma Inventory Self Report - Short Form (ETISR-SF). They were also compared for history of comorbidities and affective disorders using the Diagnostic Interview for Psychosis and Affective Disorders, the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale, and the Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia. Coefficients were calculated for correlations between scale results and disease duration. Results Early trauma was significantly associated with an early onset psychotic episode (r = -0.315, p < 0.01). General trauma and depressive symptoms in adulthood were also associated (r = 0.442, p < 0.01), as were social anxiety symptoms and early trauma (r = 0.319, p < 0.01). Total ETISR-SF scores and the physical abuse item were significantly higher in EOP than in AOP. In the hierarchical regression, PANSS scores were best predicted by a model including the duration of disease and age of first psychotic episode (R = 0.303). Conclusions Our results support the hypothesis that early trauma, including physical abuse, may play a relevant role in schizophrenia symptoms, such as an earlier psychotic occurrence, as well as features of other psychiatric disorders, such as greater severity of social anxiety and depression.

Agentes comunitários de saúde e o trabalho com usuários de drogas: obstáculos e desfechos possíveis / Community health agents and work with drug users: possible obstacles and outcomes / Agentes de salud comunitaria y el trabajo con usuarios de drogas: posibles obstáculos y resultados

INTRODUÇÃO: Na Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF), o trabalho do Agente Comunitário de Saúde (ACS) é ponto inicial de ancoragem das ações em saúde voltadas à comunidade. OBJETIVO: compreender o entendimento dos ACS em relação à abordagem da temática das drogas no território em que atuam. Métodos: Estudo qualitativo, realizado com 6 ACS de uma Equipe de Unidade de ESF. Definiu-se a amostra por exaustão. Foram realizadas entrevistas, posteriormente transcritas e organizadas conforme o Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo. RESULTADOS: Foram evidenciados entraves e equívocos no processo de trabalho dos ACS no manejo das demandas relacionadas ao uso de álcool e drogas. CONCLUSÃO: A percepção dos ACS sobre a temática do uso de drogas no cotidiano do serviço de saúde é cautelosa e restrita. Mesmo diante da identificação disto como um problema do território, suas intervenções ocorrem mediante manifestação voluntária do usuário, quando este busca o serviço de saúde.

INTRODUCTION: In the Family Health Strategy (FHS), the work of the Community Health Agent (CHA) is the starting point for anchoring health actions aimed at the community. OBJECTIVE: to comprehend the understanding of the CHA in relation to addressing the theme of drugs in the territory in which they operate. Methods: Qualitative study, carried out with 6 CHA from an FHS Unit Team. The sample was defined by exhaustion. Interviews were carried out, later transcribed and organized according to the Collective Subject Discourse. RESULTS: Obstacles and misunderstandings were evidenced in the work process of the CHA in handling the demands related to the use of alcohol and drugs. CONCLUSION: The perception of CHAs on the theme of drug use in the daily routine of the health service is cautious and restricted. Even with the identification of this as a territory problem, their interventions occur through voluntary manifestation of the user, once he seeks the health service.

INTRODUCCIÓN: En la Estrategia de Salud Familiar (ESF), el trabajo del Agente de Salud Comunitaria (ASC) es el punto de partida para anclar las acciones de salud dirigidas a la comunidad. OBJETIVO: comprender lo entendimiento de la ASC en relación con el tema de las drogas en el territorio en el que operan. Métodos: Estudio cualitativo, realizado con 6 ASC de un equipo de la Unidad ESF. La muestra se definió por agotamiento. Las entrevistas se llevaron a cabo, luego se transcribieron y se organizaron de acuerdo con el Discurso del Sujeto Colectivo. RESULTADOS: se evidenciaron obstáculos y malentendidos en el proceso de trabajo de la ASC en el manejo de las demandas relacionadas con el uso de alcohol y drogas. CONCLUSIÓN: La percepción de los ASC sobre el tema del consumo de drogas en la vida diaria del servicio de salud es cautelosa y restringida. Incluso con la identificación de esto como un problema del territorio, sus intervenciones ocurren a través de la manifestación voluntaria del usuario, cuando este busca el servicio de salud.

Clinical characteristics and diagnostic accuracy of the revised Addenbrooke Cognitive Examination (ACE-R) in older adults with a low educational level / Características clínicas e acurácia do Exame Cognitivo Addenbrooke Versão revisada (ACE-R) em idosos com baixa escolaridade

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination Revised (ACE-R) as a cognitive screening tool for older adults with low levels of schooling and healthy aging, MCI and dementia in Brazil. Methods: All participants underwent neurological and psychiatric examinations and were administered a validated version of ACE-R. Results: A total of 85 participants were evaluated; most were females (84.7%, n = 72). The post hoc analysis showed statistical differences in ACE-R total scores between older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and controls (p < 0.001) and in subitem scores including verbal fluency, language, visuospatial skills and attention (p < 0.001). The visual-spatial skills subitem was the most strongly correlated with schooling level (r = 0.509, p < 0.001), whereas late, immediate recall and recognition memory were not influenced by schooling. The ACE-R had the best diagnostic accuracy in discriminating between MCI and controls = 0.69 (<57.5; 80/66), MD and controls = 0.98 (<50; 100/96), MCI and MD = 0.86 (<49.5; 100/74). Conclusions: ACE-R and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores for older adults with MCI and controls were significantly lower than those reported in similar studies. These preliminary findings support the need for establishing reliable cut-off scores for cognitive assessment of older Brazilian adults with low schooling at risk for dementia taking into consideration ecological and local variables.

RESUMO Objetivo: Determinar a precisão diagnóstica do Exame Cognitivo de Addenbrooke (ACE-R) como uma ferramenta de triagem cognitiva para adultos idosos com baixos níveis de educação e envelhecimento saudável, MCI e demência no Brasil. Métodos: Os indivíduos submeteram-se à avaliação clínica e psiquiátrica e foi administrada uma versão validada da versão revisada da bateria cognitiva ACE-R (ACE-R). Resultados: Oitenta e cinco indivíduos foram avaliados, predominando as mulheres (84,7%, n = 72). Na análise post hoc, controles e CCL exibiram diferenças estatísticas nos escores globais do ACE-R (p < 0,001) e seus subdomínios, incluindo fluência verbal, linguagem, habilidades visuoespaciais e atenção (p < 0,001). A habilidade visuoespacial foi o item mais correlacionado com a escolaridade (r = 0,509, p < 0,001), enquanto a memória tardia, de recordação e reconhecimento não foi influenciada pela educação. A precisão do ACE-R produziu melhores resultados para CCL versus controles = 0,69 (<57,5; 80/66), demência versus controles = 0,98 (<50; 100/96), CCL versus demência = 0,86 (<49,5; 100/74). Conclusões: Os escores de ACE-R e MMSE para controles e CCL foram consideravelmente inferiores aos encontrados em estudos semelhantes. Resultados preliminares confirmam a necessidade de estudos brasileiros estabelecerem pontos de corte confiáveis para baterias cognitivas em idosos com baixa escolaridade e em risco de demência, reconhecendo variáveis ecológicas e regionais.

A Systematic Review of Home-Setting Psychoeducation Interventions for Behavioral Changes in Dementia: Some Lessons for the COVID-19 Pandemic and Post-Pandemic Assistance.

BACKGROUND: Impacts of social isolation measures imposed by COVID-19 Pandemic on mental health and quality of life of older adults living with dementia and their caregivers remain unexplored. Studies have shown that psychoeducational and psychosocial interventions can manage behavioral and psychological symptoms in dementia (BPSD) and reduce the emotional burden on family members when applied in home-setting scenarios. METHOD: a comprehensive systematic review of useful interventions for easing the BPSD burden in patients with dementia (PwD) and their caregivers in the context of COVID-19 quarantine was performed from January 2010 to March 2020. RESULTS: From a total of 187 articles retrieved from electronic databases (MEDLINE, LILACS, Cochrane and SCOPUS), 43 studies were eligible for this review. Most of the psychosocial and psychoeducational interventions described were person-centered strategies based on the cognitive-behavioral approach or informational tools to enhance care providers' knowledge of dementia. Most studies achieved successful results in handling BPSD and mood-anxiety symptoms of care providers, contributing to an overall improvement in dyad life quality. CONCLUSION: Evidence from the last few years suggest that low-cost techniques, tailored to the dyad well-being, with increasing use of technology through friendly online platforms and application robots, can be an alternative to conventional assistance during COVID-19 Pandemic. Nevertheless, the world's current experience regarding the duration of the COVID-19 Pandemic and its effects on the cognition, behavior, and life quality of PwD will demand research on preventive and protective factors of dementia and the pursue of efficient interventions in different scenarios.

The retinoid X receptor: a nuclear receptor that modulates the sleep-wake cycle in rats.

RATIONALE: The nuclear receptor retinoid X receptor (RXR) belongs to a nuclear receptor superfamily that modulates diverse functions via homodimerization with itself or several other nuclear receptors, including PPARα. While the activation of PPARα by natural or synthetic agonists regulates the sleep-wake cycle, the role of RXR in the sleep modulation is unknown. OBJECTIVES: We investigated the effects of bexarotene (Bexa, a RXR agonist) or UVI 3003 (UVI, a RXR antagonist) on sleep, sleep homeostasis, levels of neurochemical related to sleep modulation, and c-Fos and NeuN expression. METHODS: The sleep-wake cycle and sleep homeostasis were analyzed after application of Bexa or UVI. Moreover, we also evaluated whether Bexa or UVI could induce effects on dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine epinephrine, adenosine, and acetylcholine contents, collected from either the nucleus accumbens or basal forebrain. In addition, c-Fos and NeuN expression in the hypothalamus was determined after Bexa or UVI treatments. RESULTS: Systemic application of Bexa (1 mM, i.p.) attenuated slow-wave sleep and rapid eye movement sleep. In addition, Bexa increased the levels of dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine epinephrine, adenosine, and acetylcholine sampled from either the nucleus accumbens or basal forebrain. Moreover, Bexa blocked the sleep rebound period after total sleep deprivation, increased in the hypothalamus the expression of c-Fos, and decreased NeuN activity. Remarkably, UVI 3003 (1 mM, i.p.) induced opposite effects in sleep, sleep homeostasis, neurochemicals levels, and c-Fos and NeuN activity. CONCLUSIONS: The administration of RXR agonist or antagonist significantly impaired the sleep-wake cycle and exerted effects on the levels of neurochemicals related to sleep modulation. Moreover, Bexa or UVI administration significantly affected c-Fos and NeuN expression in the hypothalamus. Our findings highlight the neurobiological role of RXR on sleep modulation.

Mental health interventions for suicide prevention among indigenous adolescents: a systematic review protocol.

INTRODUCTION: There are more than 370 million indigenous people from 5000 cultures living in 90 countries worldwide. Although they make up 5% of the global population, they account for 15% of the extreme poor. Youth suicide is the second leading cause of mortality among 15-29 years old and disproportionately affects indigenous youth. This research protocol pertains to a systematic review of studies that use a comparator/control group to evaluate the effectiveness of suicide interventions targeting indigenous adolescents (aged 10-19 years). METHODS AND ANALYSIS: We will conduct a systematic search on MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, LILACS and PsycINFO from inception to September 2019 to identify articles that compare mental health interventions for suicide prevention among indigenous adolescents. Two reviewers will independently determine the eligibility of each study. Studies will be assessed for methodological quality using the risk of bias tool to assess non-randomised studies of interventions. We will conduct a meta-analysis if possible and use established statistical methods to identify and control for heterogeneity where appropriate. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This systematic review will use published data and does not require ethics approval. However, this review is in preparation of a feasibility study that will examine how best to support the physical and mental health of indigenous adolescents in Brazil. Ethics approval for the feasibility study was obtained from National Research Ethics Commission. Findings will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed publication and will be made available to key decision-makers with authority for indigenous health and other relevant stakeholders. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42019141754.

The Endocannabinoid System May Modulate Sleep Disorders in Aging.

Aging is an inevitable process that involves changes across life in multiple neurochemical, neuroanatomical, hormonal systems, and many others. In addition, these biological modifications lead to an increase in age-related sickness such as cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, neurodegenerative disorders, and sleep disturbances, among others that affect activities of daily life. Demographic projections have demonstrated that aging will increase its worldwide rate in the coming years. The research on chronic diseases of the elderly is important to gain insights into this growing global burden. Novel therapeutic approaches aimed for treatment of age-related pathologies have included the endocannabinoid system as an effective tool since this biological system shows beneficial effects in preclinical models. However, and despite these advances, little has been addressed in the arena of the endocannabinoid system as an option for treating sleep disorders in aging since experimental evidence suggests that some elements of the endocannabinoid system modulate the sleep-wake cycle. This article addresses this less-studied field, focusing on the likely perspective of the implication of the endocannabinoid system in the regulation of sleep problems reported in the aged. We conclude that beneficial effects regarding the putative efficacy of the endocannabinoid system as therapeutic tools in aging is either inconclusive or still missing.

Um estudo bibliométrico nos Arquivos de Neuropsiquiatria (1943-1962): descortinando práticas e conhecimentos psicológicos / A bibliometric study on the Arquivos de Neuropsiquiatria (1943-1962): Revealing p sychological practices and knowledges / Une étude bibliométrique aux Arquivos de Neuropsiquiatria (1943-1962): Découvrir les pratiques et les connaissances psychologiques / Un estudio bibliométrico en los Archivos de Neuropsiquiatría (1943-1962): desentrañando las prácticas y conocimientos psicológicos

A profissionalização da Psicologia, no Brasil, ocorreu em meio a embates entre diferentes profissionais envolvidos com suas aplicações, na primeira metade do século XX. Parte desses embates estava circunscrita às aplicações clínicas dos métodos e técnicas psicológicas, elementos que circulavam entre a Psicologia, a Psiquiatria e a Psicanálise. Nessa direção, esta pesquisa lança luz historiográfica a práticas e conhecimentos psicológicos que circularam nos Arquivos de Neuro-Psiquiatria, entre 1943 e 1962. Os resultados sugerem a presença de métodos e técnicas psicológicas para lidar com quadros clínicos variados, sendo prevalente a apropriação de teorias psicodinâmicas. Nota-se, portanto, apropriações clínicas da neuropsiquiatria que auxiliam em uma compreensão ampliada de embates científico-profissionais quando da regulamentação da formação e da profissão de psicólogo, no país.

In Brazil, the professionalization of Psychology is a consequence of debates among different professions involved into its applications during the first half of the 20th century. Part of this debate was limited to the clinical applications of psychological methods and techniques; elements connected to Psychology, Psychiatry, and Psychoanalysis. In this regard, this study highlights psychological practices and knowledges in circulation in the "Arquivos de Neuro-Psiquiatria", between 1943 and 1962. The results show the use of psychological methods and techniques to address different conditions, and a strong appropriation of psychodynamic theories. Clinical appropriations of Neuropsychiatry that helps to a better comprehension of the scientific and professional debates are noteworthy, connected to the institutionalization of the training and the profession of Psychologist, in the country.

Au Brésil, la professionnalisation de la Psychologie s'est produite au milieu des conflits entre différents professionnels de la santé mentale au cours de la première moitié du XXème siècle. Une partie de ces conflits était limitée aux applications cliniques des méthodes et techniques psychologiques qui circulaient entre Psychologie, Psychiatrie et Psychanalyse. Ainsi, cette recherche met en évidence les pratiques et connaissances psychologiques qui ont circulé dans les «Arquivos de Neuro-Psiquiatria¼ (1943-1962). Les résultats suggèrent l'utilisation de méthodes et techniques psychologiques, principalement de théories psycho-dynamiques, pour traiter différents états cliniques. On remarque donc que des appropriations cliniques de neuropsychiatrie aident à comprendre les conflits scientifiques-professionnels de la réglementation de la profession de psychologue au Brésil.

La profesionalización de la Psicología en Brasil se dio en la primera mitad del siglo XX, en medio de enfrentamientos entre diferentes profesionales involucrados con su aplicación. Parte de estos enfrentamientos se limitaba a las aplicaciones clínicas de los métodos y técnicas psicológicas, elementos que circulaban entre la Psicología, la Psiquiatría y el Psicoanálisis. Teniendo esto en cuenta, esta investigación ilumina historiográficamente las prácticas y los conocimientos psicológicos que circularon en los Archivos de Neuropsiquiatría, entre 1943 y 1962. Los resultados sugieren la presencia de métodos y técnicas psicológicas para manejar cuadros clínicos variados, prevaleciendo la apropiación de teorías psicodinámicas. Se observan, por lo tanto, apropiaciones clínicas de la neuropsiquiatría que ayudan para una comprensión ampliada de los enfrentamientos científico-profesionales en el momento de la reglamentación de la formación y la profesión de psicólogo en el país.

Die Professionalisierung der brasilianischen Psychologie ist das Ergebnis von Debatten zwischen Vertretern unterschiedlicher Theorien, die in der ersten Hälfte des 20. Jahrhunderts stattfanden. Ein Teil dieser Debatten betraf die klinische Anwendung psychologischer Methoden und Techniken, sowie Aspekte der Psychologie, Psychiatrie und Psychoanalyse. Die vorliegende Studie beleuchtet die psychologischen Praktiken und das psychologische Wissen, welche zwischen 1943 und 1962 ihren Niederschlag in den „Arquivos de Neuro-Psiquiatria" fanden. Die Ergebnisse unserer Untersuchung zeigen auf, dass der Einsatz dieser psychologischen Methoden und Techniken zum Ziel hatte, unterschiedliche klinische Krankheitsbilder zu behandeln, wobei psychodynamische Theorien eine bedeutende Rolle spielten. Die Tatsache der damaligen Hinwendung zur Neuropsychiatrie führt ebenfalls zu einem besseren Verständnis des wissenschaftlichen und professionellen Diskurses zur Institutionalisierung der Ausbildung und des Berufes des Psychologen in Brasilien.

Relationship between sexual hormones, quality of life and postmenopausal sexual function.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the relationship between sexual hormones, sexual function and quality of life in postmenopausal women. METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a convenience sample of 36 postmenopausal women between the ages of 45 and 65 in follow-up at a climacteric outpatient clinic. Mood, quality of life, sexual function and hormonal profile were assessed. RESULTS: With regard to sexual hormones and sexual function, a relationship was found between orgasm and luteinizing hormone (r=0.37), orgasm and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) (r=0.39), SHBG and less pain (r=0.44), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and desire (r=-0.45), as well as between prolactin and lubrication (r=0.33). Sexual hormones and quality of life were related as follows: progesterone and limitations due to physical aspects (r=0.35), SHBG and social aspects (r=0.35), cortisol and pain (r=0.46), DHEA and social aspects (r=-0.40). Finally, the following relationships were found between sexual function and quality of life: sexual desire and vitality, social aspects, state of general health and mental health (r=0.46, r=0.51, r=0.35, and r=0.38, respectively). Arousal, orgasm and satisfaction with sexual life showed a relationship with less physical pain (r=0.40, r=0.42, and r=0.43, respectively). Satisfaction with sexual life was correlated with vitality (r=0.33). CONCLUSION: Different correlations than expected were found in this study regarding the effect of some hormones on sexual function and some aspects of the quality of life of postmenopausal women.

Relationship between sexual hormones, quality of life and postmenopausal sexual function / Relação entre hormônios sexuais, qualidade de vida e função sexual na pós-menopausa

Abstract Objective To assess the relationship between sexual hormones, sexual function and quality of life in postmenopausal women. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted with a convenience sample of 36 postmenopausal women between the ages of 45 and 65 in follow-up at a climacteric outpatient clinic. Mood, quality of life, sexual function and hormonal profile were assessed. Results With regard to sexual hormones and sexual function, a relationship was found between orgasm and luteinizing hormone (r=0.37), orgasm and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) (r=0.39), SHBG and less pain (r=0.44), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and desire (r=-0.45), as well as between prolactin and lubrication (r=0.33). Sexual hormones and quality of life were related as follows: progesterone and limitations due to physical aspects (r=0.35), SHBG and social aspects (r=0.35), cortisol and pain (r=0.46), DHEA and social aspects (r=-0.40). Finally, the following relationships were found between sexual function and quality of life: sexual desire and vitality, social aspects, state of general health and mental health (r=0.46, r=0.51, r=0.35, and r=0.38, respectively). Arousal, orgasm and satisfaction with sexual life showed a relationship with less physical pain (r=0.40, r=0.42, and r=0.43, respectively). Satisfaction with sexual life was correlated with vitality (r=0.33). Conclusion Different correlations than expected were found in this study regarding the effect of some hormones on sexual function and some aspects of the quality of life of postmenopausal women.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a relação entre hormônios sexuais, função sexual e qualidade de vida em mulheres na pós-menopausa. Métodos Estudo transversal com amostra de conveniência de 36 mulheres na pós-menopausa, com idades entre 45 e 65 anos, em seguimento ambulatorial de climatério. Humor, qualidade de vida, função sexual e perfil hormonal foram avaliados. Resultados Entre hormônios sexuais e função sexual, foi encontrada relação entre orgasmo e hormônio luteinizante (r=0,37), orgasmo e globulina ligadora de hormônios sexuais (SHBG) (r=0,39), SHBG e menos dor (r=0,44), desidroepiandrosterona (DHEA) e desejo (r=-0,45), bem como entre prolactina e lubrificação (r=0,33). Entre hormônios sexuais e qualidade de vida: progesterona e limitações por aspectos físicos (r=0,35), SHBG e aspectos sociais (r=0,35), cortisol e dor (r=0,46), DHEA e aspectos sociais (r=-0,40). Por fim, entre função sexual e qualidade de vida: desejo sexual e vitalidade, aspectos sociais, estado geral de saúde e saúde mental (r=0,46, r=0,51, r=0,35 e r=0,38, respectivamente). Excitação, orgasmo e satisfação com a vida sexual mostraram uma relação com menos dor física (r=0,40, r=0,42 e r=0,43, respectivamente). A satisfação com a vida sexual foi correlacionada com a vitalidade (r=0,33). Conclusão Correlações diferentes das esperadas foram encontradas neste estudo em relação ao efeito de alguns hormônios sobre a função sexual e alguns aspectos da qualidade de vida de mulheres na pós-menopausa.

Sleep and Neurochemical Modulation by DZNep and GSK-J1: Potential Link With Histone Methylation Status.

Histone methylation/demethylation plays an important modulatory role in chromatin restructuring, RNA transcription and is essential for controlling a plethora of biological processes. Due to many human diseases have been related to histone methylation/demethylation, several compounds such as 3-deazaneplanocin A (DZNep) or 3-((6-(4,5-Dihydro-1H-benzo[d]azepin-3(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-2-yl)pyrimidin-4-yl)amino)propanoic acid; N-[2-(2-pyridinyl)-6-(1,2,4,5-tetrahydro-3H-3-benzazepin-3-yl)-4-pyrimidinyl]-ß-Alanine (GSK-J1), have been designed to inhibit histone methylase or suppress histone demethylase, respectively. In the present study, we investigated the effects on the sleep-wake cycle and sleep-related neurochemical levels after systemic injections of DZNep or GSK-J1 given during the light or dark phase in rats. DZNep dose-dependently (0.1, 1.0, or 10 mg/kg, i.p.) prolonged wakefulness (W) duration while decreased slow wave sleep (SWS) and rapid eye movement sleep (REMS) time spent during the lights-on period with no changes observed in dark phase. In opposite direction, GSK-J1 (0.1, 1.0, or 10 mg/kg, i.p.) injected at the beginning of the lights-on period induced no statistical changes in W, SWS, or REMS whereas if administered at darkness, we found a diminution in W and an enhancement in SWS and REMS. Finally, brain microdialysis experiments in freely moving animals were used to evaluate the effects of DZNep or GSK-J1 treatments on contents of sleep-related neurochemicals. The results showed that DZNep boosted extracellular levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, serotonin, adenosine, and acetylcholine if injected at the beginning of the lights-on period whereas GSK-J1 exerted similar outcomes but when administered at darkness. In summary, DZNep and GSK-J1 may control the sleep-wake cycle and sleep-related neurochemicals through histone methylation/demethylation activity.

Therapeutic Approaches for the Management of Sleep Disorders in Geriatric Population.

OBJECTIVE: Aging is a natural biological phenomenon that occurs in human beings. With increasing of age, there is an appearance of deleterious changes related to progression onto pathological conditions, including hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, hearing and vision impairments, as well as sleep disorders. It is important to recognize that some sleep disturbances reported by aged subjects include insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, among others. Moreover, accumulating evidence indicates that coexistence of medical issues with sleep disorders constitutes clinical challenges for treatment of comorbidities in elderly. Here, we have attempted to review and summarize the available literature that assesses the sleep disturbances in aging. In addition, we highlight the management of sleep disorders associated with aging. Due to the particular health condition of aged adults, the development of effective pharmacological interventions for sleep disorders treatment in aging is warranted. METHODS: Review of studies retrieved from the PubMed. RESULTS: The sleep-wake cycle includes abnormalities classified as sleep disorders. Comorbidity between sleep disturbances and aging-related health issues will represent a public health challenge to be addressed in the near future. Moreover, this scenario will suggest an area that requires further drug investigation and design of new pharmacological and pharmaceutical strategies to treat sleep disorders in the elderly population. CONCLUSION: The review highlights the sleep disturbances in aging. We focus on current knowledge in medicinal chemistry and further design of new treatments tools for managing sleep disturbances in the aged population.

Terapia cognitivo-comportamental em grupo para a disfunção sexual na pós-menopausa / Group cognitive behavioral therapy for female sexual dysfunction in postmenopause

RESUMO Objetivo Validação de protocolo de terapia cognitivo-comportamental breve em grupo para disfunção sexual feminina na pós-menopausa. Métodos Intervenção em grupo com mulheres (n = 14) na pós-menopausa (55 a 75 anos) com disfunção sexual, em acompanhamento ginecológico ambulatorial em um centro especializado para queixas relacionadas ao climatério. As pacientes foram divididas em grupos: o primeiro (Grupo Teste, n = 5) recebeu abordagem cognitivo-comportamental de 12 sessões. Os dois grupos (denominados igualmente Grupo Intervenção - n = 5 e n = 4) foram formados pela divisão dos sujeitos para melhor acomodação física e receberam 10 sessões, resultantes de ajuste e mensuração dos procedimentos do protocolo a partir do Grupo Teste. Foram aplicados a Escala de Índice de Funcionamento Sexual Feminino e o Questionário de Crenças Sexuais Disfuncionais antes e depois da intervenção. Resultados Houve frequente ocorrência de comportamentos/crenças de baixa autoestima, problemas com o parceiro e desinteresse ou dificuldade sexual. A disfunção sexual (problemas com o desejo e/ou lubrificação, orgasmo, satisfação e dor) e as crenças sexuais disfuncionais (conservadorismo, pecado, idade-crenças, imagem corporal, afetividade e maternidade) apresentaram melhora significativa com a aplicação do protocolo. Conclusão Considerando os aspectos particulares das mulheres com disfunção sexual na pós-menopausa, desenvolvemos um protocolo de terapia cognitivo-comportamental em grupo, com significativo potencial terapêutico. Embora não tenha sido utilizado um grupo controle e tenha sido aplicado em número reduzido de participantes, esse protocolo pode ser avaliado e utilizado em casos similares, cabendo novas pesquisas para verificar a aplicabilidade dele para disfunção sexual nesse estágio do desenvolvimento feminino.

ABSTRACT Objective Validation of the protocol of brief cognitive behavioural group therapy for female sexual dysfunction on post menopause. Methods Group intervention with postmenopausal (55-75 years old) women (n = 14) with sexual dysfunction, on gynecological outpatient follow-up in a specialized center for climacteric related complaints. The patients were divided into groups: the first (Test Group, n = 5) received 12 sessions of cognitive-behavioral approach. The two groups (equally named Intervention Group - n = 5 and n = 4) were formed by the division of subjects for bettering physical accommodation and received 10 session, resulting from adjustment and measurement of the protocol procedures starting from the Test Group. The Female Sexual Function Index scale and the Sexual Dysfunctional Beliefs Questionnaire were applied before and after intervention. Results There were frequent reports of behaviors/beliefs of low self-esteem, problems with partner and sexual disinterest or difficulty. Sexual dysfunction (problems with desire and/or lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction and pain) and dysfunctional sexual beliefs (conservatism, sin, age-beliefs, body image, affectivity and maternity) both presented significant improvement with the protocol application. Conclusion Considering the particular aspects of postmenopausal women with sexual dysfunction, we developed a cognitive behavioral group therapy protocol, with significant therapeutic potential. Though a control group was not used and that the application was done in a reduced number of participants, this protocol can be assessed and utilized in similar cases, being fit new researches to verify the applicability of such for sexual dysfunction at this stage of female development.