O Papel bidirecional da nicotina na tarefa Go/No-go: um ensaio clínico piloto / The bidirectional role of nicotine in a Go/No-go task: a pilot clinical trial / El papel bidireccional de la nicotina en la tarea Go/no-go: un ensayo clínico piloto

Estudos mostram que o tabagismo é responsável por afetar algumas funções cognitivas. No entanto, a nicotina é apenas um dos componentes existentes no cigarro e existem evidências de que pode servir como agente neuroprotetivo e causar melhoras em algumas funções cognitivas. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi investigar como a nicotina interage com algumas funções cognitivas. Um ensaio clínico piloto com administração de gomas de nicotina contendo 2-mg ou 4-mg, ou gomas placebo contendo a mesma textura, sabor e aparência, foi realizado. Quarenta e dois participantes participaram da pesquisa e os resultados indicaram que a relação entre nicotina e o desempenho na tarefa Go/No-Go podem ser bidirecionais. Os resultados indicaram que participantes do grupo que utilizaram 4-mg de nicotina apresentaram menor desempenho, enquanto os participantes que fizeram uso de 2-mg de nicotina tiveram melhor desempenho do que os demais. Esta pesquisa tem aplicações biopsicossociais e podem ajudar na compreensão da relação entre tabagismo e nicotina, além de contribuir para estratégias que possam ajudar no abandono do cigarro ou na melhora de condições que afetem a cognição (AU).

Past findings in the literature indicated that smoking could affect given cognitive functions. However, nicotine is only one of the components in cigarettes and there is evidence that it may act as a neuroprotective agent and improve some cognitive functions. The purpose of this research was to investigate how nicotine interacts with certain cognitive functions. We conducted a pilot clinical trial using nicotine gum containing 2-mg or 4-mg, or placebo gum with the same texture, flavor, and appearance. Forty-two healthy nonsmokers were enrolled in this research. Our findings indicated that the relationship between nicotine and performance on the Go/No-Go task might be opposite. The results showed that participants in the 4-mg group performed worse, while participants who used 2-mg of nicotine performed better than the others. This research supports biopsychosocial applications and can help interpret the relationship between smoking and nicotine, and contribute to strategies that may support smoking cessation, or improve conditions that affect cognition (AU).

Estudios demuestran que el tabaquismo es responsable de afectar a algunas funciones cognitivas. Sin embargo, la nicotina es solo uno de los componentes de los cigarrillos, y existen evidencias de que la nicotina puede actuar como un agente neuroprotector y mejorar algunas funciones cognitivas. El objetivo de este estudio fue investigar cómo la nicotina interactúa con algunas funciones cognitivas. Se realizó un ensayo clínico piloto con la administración de chicles de nicotina de 2 mg o 4 mg, o chicles de placebo con la misma textura, sabor y apariencia. Cuarenta y dos participantes participaron en la investigación y los resultados indicaron que la relación entre la nicotina y el rendimiento en la tarea Go/No-go puede ser bidireccional. Los resultados indicaron que los participantes del grupo de 4 mg obtuvieron un menor rendimiento en las variables del Go/No-Go, mientras que los participantes que utilizaron 2 mg de nicotina obtuvieron un mejor rendimiento que los demás. Esta investigación respalda las aplicaciones biopsicosociales y puede ayudar a interpretar la relación entre el tabaquismo y la nicotina, además de contribuir a las estrategias que pueden ayudar a dejar de fumar o mejorar las condiciones que afectan la cognición (AU).

Mapping changes in women's visual functions during the menstrual cycle: narrative review

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: This article systematically updates the literature on changes in visual functions during the phases of the normal menstrual cycle in women. OBJECTIVES: To update Guttridge's 1994 review of visual structures and functions associated with the menstrual cycle and broaden the search through psychophysical, neuroimaging and neurobehavioral measurements covering 1994-2020. DESIGN AND SETTING: Narrative review conducted in a neurosciences and behavior laboratory in Brazil. METHODS: The PubMed, Cochrane Clinical Answers and Google Scholar databases were searched. After screening and applying the eligibility criteria, 32 articles were examined. Through this analysis, the following information was extracted: (1) geographical distribution of the study; (2) sample size (according to age and phase of the menstrual cycle); (3) type of measurements according to psychophysical, neuroimaging and neurobehavioral instruments; (4) vision testing model; (5) visual subcategory evaluated; (6) categories of processed visual stimuli; and (7) main findings. RESULTS: The menstrual phases give rise to significant changes in visual functions, including in relation to orientation and spatial attention, visual campimetry and visual sensitivity. These relate specifically to the follicular and luteal phases. CONCLUSIONS: These findings theoretically expand the effects of menstrual cycles on visual functions found by Guttridge (1994). Despite some inconsistencies in the studies analyzed, it was found that visual processing during the follicular and luteal phases of the normal menstrual cycle of healthy women can explain physiological, cognitive, behavioral and social modulations.

Mapping changes in women's visual functions during the menstrual cycle: narrative review.

BACKGROUND: This article systematically updates the literature on changes in visual functions during the phases of the normal menstrual cycle in women. OBJECTIVES: To update Guttridge's 1994 review of visual structures and functions associated with the menstrual cycle and broaden the search through psychophysical, neuroimaging and neurobehavioral measurements covering 1994-2020. DESIGN AND SETTING: Narrative review conducted in a neurosciences and behavior laboratory in Brazil. METHODS: The PubMed, Cochrane Clinical Answers and Google Scholar databases were searched. After screening and applying the eligibility criteria, 32 articles were examined. Through this analysis, the following information was extracted: (1) geographical distribution of the study; (2) sample size (according to age and phase of the menstrual cycle); (3) type of measurements according to psychophysical, neuroimaging and neurobehavioral instruments; (4) vision testing model; (5) visual subcategory evaluated; (6) categories of processed visual stimuli; and (7) main findings. RESULTS: The menstrual phases give rise to significant changes in visual functions, including in relation to orientation and spatial attention, visual campimetry and visual sensitivity. These relate specifically to the follicular and luteal phases. CONCLUSIONS: These findings theoretically expand the effects of menstrual cycles on visual functions found by Guttridge (1994). Despite some inconsistencies in the studies analyzed, it was found that visual processing during the follicular and luteal phases of the normal menstrual cycle of healthy women can explain physiological, cognitive, behavioral and social modulations.

Age-related episodic memory decline and the role of amyloid-ß: a systematic review.

Aging has been associated with the functional decline of episodic memory (EM). Unanswered questions are whether the decline of EM occurs even during healthy aging and whether this decline is related to amyloid-ß (Aß) deposition in the hippocampus. OBJECTIVE: The main purpose of this study was to investigate data on the relationship between the age-related EM decline and Aß deposition. METHODS: We searched the Cochrane, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases and reference lists of retrieved articles that were published in the past 10 years. The initial literature search identified 517 studies. After screening the title, abstract, key words, and reference lists, 56 studies met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS: The overall results revealed that increases in Aß are related to lower hippocampal volume and worse performance on EM tests. The results of this systematic review revealed that high levels of Aß may be related to EM deficits and the progression to Alzheimer's disease. CONCLUSIONS: We discussed the strengths and pitfalls of various tests and techniques used for investigating EM and Aß deposition, methodological issues, and potential directions for future research.

O envelhecimento tem sido associado a um declínio funcional da memória episódica (ME). Algo ainda sem resposta é se o declínio da ME ocorre mesmo no envelhecimento saudável e se esse declínio pode estar relacionado à deposição de Aß no hipocampo. OBJETIVO: Nosso objetivo principal foi investigar os dados sobre a relação entre a memória episódica e a deposição de Aß no envelhecimento saudável. MÉTODOS: Nós buscamos nas bases de dados Cochrane, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science e nas listas de referências dos estudos dos últimos 10 anos. A busca inicial nas bases de dados identificou 517 estudos. Após a triagem de título, resumos, palavras-chave e referências, 56 estudos atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. RESULTADOS: O resultado geral revelou que o aumento de Aß estava relacionado ao menor volume do hipocampo e pior desempenho em testes de ME. Em resumo, os resultados da presente revisão sistemática revelaram que altos níveis de Aß podem estar relacionados ao declínio de ME e conversão progressiva para a Doença de Alzheimer. CONCLUSÕES: Aqui, discutimos os pontos fortes e as limitações dos testes e técnicas para investigar a deposição ME e Aß, bem como questões metodológicas e direções futuras.

Age-related episodic memory decline and the role of amyloid-ß: a systematic review / Declínio da memória episódica relacionado à idade e o papel da beta-amiloide: uma revisão sistemática

ABSTRACT Aging has been associated with the functional decline of episodic memory (EM). Unanswered questions are whether the decline of EM occurs even during healthy aging and whether this decline is related to amyloid-β (Aβ) deposition in the hippocampus. Objective: The main purpose of this study was to investigate data on the relationship between the age-related EM decline and Aβ deposition. Methods: We searched the Cochrane, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases and reference lists of retrieved articles that were published in the past 10 years. The initial literature search identified 517 studies. After screening the title, abstract, key words, and reference lists, 56 studies met the inclusion criteria. Results: The overall results revealed that increases in Aβ are related to lower hippocampal volume and worse performance on EM tests. The results of this systematic review revealed that high levels of Aβ may be related to EM deficits and the progression to Alzheimer's disease. Conclusions: We discussed the strengths and pitfalls of various tests and techniques used for investigating EM and Aβ deposition, methodological issues, and potential directions for future research.

RESUMO O envelhecimento tem sido associado a um declínio funcional da memória episódica (ME). Algo ainda sem resposta é se o declínio da ME ocorre mesmo no envelhecimento saudável e se esse declínio pode estar relacionado à deposição de Aβ no hipocampo. Objetivo: Nosso objetivo principal foi investigar os dados sobre a relação entre a memória episódica e a deposição de Aβ no envelhecimento saudável. Métodos: Nós buscamos nas bases de dados Cochrane, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science e nas listas de referências dos estudos dos últimos 10 anos. A busca inicial nas bases de dados identificou 517 estudos. Após a triagem de título, resumos, palavras-chave e referências, 56 estudos atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. Resultados: O resultado geral revelou que o aumento de Aβ estava relacionado ao menor volume do hipocampo e pior desempenho em testes de ME. Em resumo, os resultados da presente revisão sistemática revelaram que altos níveis de Aβ podem estar relacionados ao declínio de ME e conversão progressiva para a Doença de Alzheimer. Conclusões: Aqui, discutimos os pontos fortes e as limitações dos testes e técnicas para investigar a deposição ME e Aβ, bem como questões metodológicas e direções futuras.

Adaptação de uma Escala de Avaliação de Anomalias Perceptuais para o Brasil / Adaptation a Scale of Evaluation of Perceptual Anomalies for Brazil / Adaptación de una Escala de Evaluación de Anomalías Perceptuales para Brasil

Resumo O objetivo desta pesquisa foi adaptar a Structured Interview for Assessing Perceptual Anomalies (SIAPA) para o Brasil para ser utilizada como instrumento de autorrelato. Utilizou-se uma amostra não probabilística de 854 universitários, a maioria do sexo masculino (51,4 %) e com idades entre 16 e 65 anos (M = 23,7; DP = 6,8). Após a tradução e validação semântica da SIAPA, testaram-se os parâmetros de validade e precisão por meio de análises fatoriais, coeficientes alfa de Cronbach e análises via Teoria de Resposta ao Item (TRI). Os resultados confirmaram a adequação psicométrica da medida, apontando uma solução unidimensional com altas cargas no fator geral e alta consistência interna (α = 0,88; Ω = 0,88). Acredita-se que o objetivo proposto tenha sido satisfeito, de modo que, ao final da pesquisa, contou-se com uma medida válida e fidedigna que pode ser utilizada, tanto para rastreio quanto para pesquisa, para compreender e diagnosticar anomalias perceptuais. (AU)

Abstract The purpose of this research was to adapt the Structured Interview for Assessing Perceptual Anomalies (SIAPA) for use in Brazil as a self-report tool. A non-probabilistic sample of 854 undergraduate students was used, mostly men (51.4%) and aged between 16 and 65 years (M = 23.7, SD = 6.8). After the translation and semantic validation of SIAPA, the validity and precision parameters were tested by means of factor analysis, Cronbach's alpha coefficients, and Item Response Theory (IRT) analysis. The results confirmed the psychometric adequacy of the measure, pointing to a one-dimensional solution with high loads on the general factor and high accuracy (α = 0.88; Ω = 0.88). It is believed that the proposed objective was satisfied, so that at the end of the investigation there was a valid and reliable measure that can be used, both for screening and research, to understand and diagnose perceptual anomalies. (AU)

Resumen El objetivo de esta investigación fue adaptar la Structured Interview for Assessing Perceptual Anomalies (SIAPA) para Brasil para utilizarla como instrumento de autoinforme. Se utilizó una muestra no probabilística con 854 universitarios, la mayoría del sexo masculino (51,4%) y con edades entre 16 a 65 años (M = 23,7, DP = 6,8). Después de la traducción y validación semántica de la SIAPA, se probaron los parámetros de validez y precisión por medio de análisis factoriales, coeficientes alfa de Cronbach y análisis vía Teoría de Respuesta al Ítem (TRI). Los resultados confirmaron la adecuación psicométrica de la medida, apuntando una solución unidimensional con altas cargas en el factor general y alta precisión (α = 0,88; Ω = 0,88). Se cree que el objetivo propuesto ha sido satisfecho, de modo que al final de la investigación se contó con una medida valida y fidedigna que se puede utilizar, tanto para detección como investigación, para comprender y diagnosticar anomalías perceptuales. (AU)

Visual processing of color and shape in people with leprosy : Visual processing in people with leprosy.

The aim of this study was to analyze the contrast sensitivity of spatial luminance and the color discrimination thresholds of the protan, deutan, and tritan axes of people with leprosy. This study included 8 subjects with leprosy (M = 4, W = 4, M = 33.38 ± 8.7) and 8 healthy subjects (M = 4, W = 4, M = 30.89 ± 5.8). The contrast sensitivity was evaluated by the Metropsis software version 11.0 with vertical sinusoidal grids of frequencies of 0.2, 0.5, 1, 5, 10, and 16 cycles per degree of visual angle (cpd) and color vision by the desaturated Lanthony D15 tests and the trivector and ellipse protocols of the Cambridge Color Test. The results showed significant differences between the groups in the processing of spatial frequencies of 0.2 (U = 14; p = .018); 5.0 (U = 45.0; p = .001); 10.0 (U = 45.0; p = .001), and 16.0 (U = 45.0; p = .001) cpd. The difference in color recognition through D15d (U = 4.0; p = .002). Ellipse 2 (U = 10.0; p = .012) and ellipse 3 (U = 9.0; p = .009) were discriminated against. Overall, the results indicate that leprosy changes the visual processing of low, medium, and high spatial frequencies, as well as the sensitivity of the short wavelength (tritan line of confusion) and long (protan line of confusion) cones.

Dados normativos de um conjunto de faces do Karolinska Directed Emotional Faces em uma amostra brasileira / Normative data of a faces set from Karolinska Directed Emotional Faces in a Brazilian sample / Datos normativos de un conjunto de caras de Karolinska Directed Emotional Faces en una muestra brasileña

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi obter dados normativos de um conjunto de faces do Karolinska Directed Emotional Faces (KDEF) em uma amostra brasileira. Para isso foi utilizada uma amostra não probabilística (por conveniência) de 100 participantes da cidade de João Pessoa-PB. Esses tinham idades entre 18 e 62 anos (M=21,6; DP=6,2), a maioria do sexo feminino (76%). Os resultados mostraram que os participantes obtiveram um percentual de acerto médio de 76,2%, de modo que expressões de Alegria (94.7%) e Surpresa (90.3%) foram as emoções mais facilmente identificáveis e Medo (40.65%) a mais difícil. Em relação às medidas de intensidade e valência, Nojo seguida de Surpresa obtiveram classificações mais intensas, e Alegria foi a única emoção com valência positiva alta. Esses achados foram bastante similares com àqueles relatados em pesquisas anteriores, fornecendo normas subjetivas de classificação mais adequadas às características da população brasileira.

The goal of this research was to obtain normative data of set of faces from Karolinska Directed Emotional Faces (KDEF) in a Brazilian sample. It was used a non-probabilistic sample (convenience sample) of 100 participants from the city of João Pessoa-PB. Age ranged from 18 to 62 years (M=21.6, SD=6.2), in which the majority was female (76%). Results showed that participants achieved a mean hit rate of 76.2%, and expressions of joy (94.7%) and surprise (90.3%) were the easiest emotions to identify and fear (40.65%) the most difficult. Regarding the measures of intensity and valence, disgust and surprise obtained more intense classifications, and joy was the only emotion with high positive valence. These findings were quite similar to those reported in previous research, providing subjective norms of classification suitable to the characteristics of the Brazilian population.

El objetivo de esta investigación fue obtener datos normativos de un conjunto de expresiones faciales del Karolinska Directed Emotional Faces (KDEF) en una muestra brasileña. Para ello, se utilizó una muestra no probabilística (por conveniencia) de 100 participantes de la ciudad de João Pessoa-PB. Ellos tenían edades entre 18 y 62 años (M=21,6, DP=6,2), la mayoría del sexo femenino (76%). Los resultados mostraron que los participantes obtuvieron un porcentaje de acierto promedio del 76,2%, de modo que las expresiones de Alegría (94.7%) y Sorpresa (90.3%) fueron las emociones más fáciles de identificar y Miedo (40.65%) la más difícil. Con relación a las medidas de intensidad y valencia, Asco seguida de Sorpresa obtuvieron clasificaciones más intensas, y Alegría fue la única emoción con valencia positiva alta. Estos hallazgos fueron muy similares con aquellos reportados en investigaciones anteriores, proporcionando normas subjetivas de clasificación más adecuadas a las características de la población brasileña.

Tipologia circadiana de estudantes de psicologia: diferenças entre a qualidade de sono, sonolência excessiva e hábitos diários / Circadian typology of psychology students: differences between sleep quality, excessive sleepiness and daily habits / Tipología circadiana de estudiantes de psicología: diferencias entre la calidad de sono, somnolencia excesiva y hábitos diarios

A tipologia circadiana é uma dimensão comportamental associada a preferências de hábitos diários. Contudo, este estudo objetivou avaliar a qualidade de sono e a sonolência excessiva de acadêmicos de Psicologia. Participaram deste estudo quase-experimental 56 estudantes com idade entre 17 e 34 anos. Utilizaram-se como instrumentos o Índice de Qualidade de Sono de Pittsburgh (PSQI), o Questionário de Matutinidade e Vespertinidade, a Escala de Sonolência de Karolinska e a Escala de Ritmo Social Breve. Após avaliar o PSQI, todos os participantes responderam os instrumentos por um período de 14 dias consecutivos. A MANOVA mostrou diferença significativa para sonolência diária durante os dias úteis [λ=0.81; F(4;47)=451,53; p<0,05], especificamente para o horário das 21h [F(2;5)=3,03; p<0,05]. Conclui-se que os estudantes possuem qualidade de sono ruim e, geralmente, tentam compensar as faltas de noites de sono durante a semana nos finais de semana.

The circadian typology is a behavioral dimension associated with preferences of daily habits. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the quality of sleep and excessive sleepiness of undergraduates in psychology. Fifty-five students aged between 17 and 34 years participated in this quasi-experimental study. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire, the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale, and the Brief Social Rhythm Scale were used as instruments. After assessing the PSQI, all participants answered the instruments for a period of 14 consecutive days. MANOVA showed significant difference for daily sleepiness during the working days [λλ=.81; F(4.47)=451.53; p<.05], specifically for business hours of 21h [F(2;5)=3.03; p<.05]. It is concluded that students have poor sleep quality and generally try to compensate for the lack of nights of sleep during the week on weekends.

La tipología circadiana es una dimensión comportamental asociada a preferencias de hábitos diarios. Sin embargo, este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar la calidad del sueño y la somnolencia excesiva de académicos de psicología. Participaron de este estúdio quase-experimental 56 estudiantes con edad entre 17 y 34 años. Se utilizaron como instrumentos o Índice de Calidad de Sono de Pittsburgh (PSQI), o Cuestionario de Matutinidad-Vespertinidad, la Escala de Somnolencia de Karolinska y Escala de Ritmo Social Breve. Aprobar la PSQI, todos los participantes respondan os instrumentos por un período de 14 días consecutivos. A MANOVA mostró una diferencia para somnolencia durante los días laborables [λ=0,81; F(4; 47)=451,53; p<0.05], específicamente para el horario de las 21h [F(2; 5)=3,03; p<0.05]. Las conclusiones de estos estudios tienen la cualidad de su ruina y de manera general como compensar las faltas de la noche durante la semana.

Visual processing of color and shape in people with leprosy

Abstract The aim of this study was to analyze the contrast sensitivity of spatial luminance and the color discrimination thresholds of the protan, deutan, and tritan axes of people with leprosy. This study included 8 subjects with leprosy (M = 4, W = 4, M = 33.38 ± 8.7) and 8 healthy subjects (M = 4, W = 4, M = 30.89 ± 5.8). The contrast sensitivity was evaluated by the Metropsis software version 11.0 with vertical sinusoidal grids of frequencies of 0.2, 0.5, 1, 5, 10, and 16 cycles per degree of visual angle (cpd) and color vision by the desaturated Lanthony D15 tests and the trivector and ellipse protocols of the Cambridge Color Test. The results showed significant differences between the groups in the processing of spatial frequencies of 0.2 (U = 14; p = .018); 5.0 (U = 45.0; p = .001); 10.0 (U = 45.0; p = .001), and 16.0 (U = 45.0; p = .001) cpd. The difference in color recognition through D15d (U = 4.0; p = .002). Ellipse 2 (U = 10.0; p = .012) and ellipse 3 (U = 9.0; p = .009) were discriminated against. Overall, the results indicate that leprosy changes the visual processing of low, medium, and high spatial frequencies, as well as the sensitivity of the short wavelength (tritan line of confusion) and long (protan line of confusion) cones.

Psychophysical measure of visual luminance contrast during a daily rhythm.

This study evaluated visual sensitivity to luminance contrast during a daily period. Twenty-eight young male adults (M = 24.85; SD = 2.4) with normal color vision and 20/20 visual acuity participated in this study. The circadian pattern was assessed using the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale (KSS), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and a sleep diary. To measure the luminance contrast, we used version 11.0 of the Metropsis software with sine-element frequency stimuli for spatial frequencies of 0.2, 0.6, 1, 3.1, 6.1, 8.8, 13.2, and 15.6 cycles per degree of visual angle (cpd). The stimuli were presented on a 19-inch color cathode ray tube (CRT) video monitor with a resolution of 1024 × 786 pixels, an update rate of 100 Hz, and a photopic luminance of 39.6 cd/m2. There was a significant difference in KSS on the weekdays [χ2(2) = 20.27; p = .001] and in the luminance contrast for frequencies of 13.2 cpd [χ2(2) = 8.27; p = .001] and 15.6 cpd [χ2(2) = 13.72; p = .041]. The results showed greater stability of the measurement during the afternoon and a reduction in the visual sensitivity in the high spatial frequencies during the night.

Spatial contrast sensitivity: effects of reliability, test-retest repeatability and sample size using the Metropsis software.

PURPOSE: The goals of the study were to further assess contrast sensitivity to (1) investigate the existence of monocular vs. binocular differences; (2) observe possible differences between sample sizes; (3) investigate the effects of test-retest repeatability. METHODS: Contrast sensitivity measurements were obtained by presenting eight horizontal sine-wave gratings (ranging from 0.2 to 20 cycles per degree). A three-up-one-down method was used to obtain thresholds with a criterion of 79.4% correct responses for each spatial frequency. The mean of 12 reversals was used for obtaining thresholds, and the two-alternative forced-choice method was used. Data were recorded in 55 naive observers from 20 to 45 years. All participants were free from identifiable ocular disease and had normal visual acuity. RESULTS: We observed the absence of differences on CSF for both monocular and binocular observers, as well as the absence of differences between large sample sizes. The latter investigation revealed a high degree of repeatability across time (baseline to 6 months later) with the higher test-retest for low and high spatial frequencies. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicated that spatial contrast sensitivity measurements were little influenced by variables, such as binocular summation, eye dominance, sample size and time using the Metropsis test. The results obtained here have significance for basic and clinical vision science.

Color vision impairments in schizophrenia and the role of antipsychotic medication type.

Schizophrenia patients (SCZ) demonstrate deficits in many domains of mental functioning, including visual perception. An issue that has been relatively unexplored, in terms of explaining variation in visual function in SCZ, however, is medication use. The present study explored potential medication effects on color vision in SCZ, a process that is strongly linked to dopaminergic function in the retina. SCZ patients who had clear-cut either typical (n = 29) or atypical (n = 29) monotherapy, without any other concurrent medication, and a group of age- and gender-matched healthy controls participated in the study. Color vision was assessed by the Cambridge Colour Test, using the Trivector and Ellipse subtests. The results demonstrated impaired color perception in patients with schizophrenia, especially in those receiving typical antipsychotics, but these deficits were subtle and not generalized to all parameters. Our findings are consistent with the known neurophysiology of the retina and visual pathways, and with the effects of dopamine blocking medications, but the results should be carefully interpreted.

Percepção Visual no Tremor Essencial: Uma Revisão Sistemática / Visual Perception in Essential Tremor: A Systematic Review

RESUMO Investigou-se a relação entre percepção visual e tremor essencial (TE). Realizou-se uma revisão dos estudos publicados sobre o tema nas bases de dados PubMed, BIREME, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycINFO, SciELO, SCOPUS e ELSEVIER desde a origem até 05 de janeiro de 2017. A triagem, extração de dados e avaliação foram realizadas por dois revisores. Para avaliar a qualidade dos estudos utilizou-se as diretrizes do National Institutes of Health (NIH). De 132 estudos potencialmente elegíveis, 12 foram selecionados de acordo com os critérios de elegibilidade. Os resultados indicaram que pessoas com TE apresentam baixa sensibilidade visual quando comparados com indivíduos saudáveis, apesar de não apresentarem prejuízos na visão de cores. Apesar da heterogeneidade dos dados, observamos que existem prejuízos visuais em pessoas com TE e estes podem ser uma das principais características clínicas não-motoras.

ABSTRACT It was investigated whether essential tremor (ET) patients would exhibit visual impairments. Studies published in the following databases were reviewed: PubMed, BIREME, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycINFO, SciELO, SCOPUS, and ELSEVIER, from inception to January 05th, 2017. Two independent reviewers performed screening, data extraction, and assessment of the data. The NIH assessment tools used to assess study quality. Out of 132 references, 12 were selected according to the eligibility criteria. Results indicated that ET patients have lower visual sensitivity when compared to control groups. There was no significant evidence for color vision impairment. Despite the findings for heterogeneity, visual impairments in ET patients were observed, and these may be one of the main non-motor clinical characteristics.

Relationship between facial attractiveness and pupil diameter in young adults / Relação entre a atratividade facial e diâmetro pupilar em adultos jovens / Relación entre atratividad facial y diámetro de la pupila en adultos jóvenes

The objective of this study was to investigate whether there is a relationship between pupil diameter and facial attractiveness. Participated in the study 60 young adults (30 men and 30 women) between 18 and 26 years of age (M=20.65, SD=2.20). Ten different unfamiliar neutral faces (five men and five women) were used as stimuli. The pupil diameter of each face was manipulated with pupil diameters of 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6mm (10 faces x5 pupil diameters=50 stimuli). A two-step study was carried out with the same sample and the same sets of faces, seeking to understand the difference of responses between subjects of both sexes. In phase I, result indicated a significant difference in relation to the pupil diameter factor for both the men (ꭓ²=21.93, p<.05) and the women (ꭓ²=44.73, p<.05). In phase II, the results indicated significant differences in relation to the pupil size [F(1, 234)=19.06, p<0.05]. The post-hoc Tukey HSD test showed that both the men and the women differently judged the faces with a pupil diameter of 2mm in relation to the faces with pupil diameters of 3, 4, 5 and 6mm (p<.05). Also, a significant difference between the diameter of 5mm in relation to the diameter of 3mm (p<.05). In general, the results indicate that the pupil diameter is a structural component of the human face that plays an important role in the process of judging facial attractiveness.

O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a relação entre o diâmetro da pupila e a atratividade facial. Participaram da pesquisa 60 jovens com idade entre 18 e 26 anos. Foram utilizadas dez faces de adultos jovens, manipulou-se o diâmetro de cada pupila com variações de 2, 3, 4, 5 e 6mm. Realizou-se um estudo em duas etapas: na fase I, o resultado indicou diferença significativa para o fator de diâmetro pupilar tanto para homens quanto para mulheres (p<0,05). Na fase II, os resultados indicaram diferenças significativas em relação ao tamanho da pupila (p<0,05). O teste post-hoc Tukey mostrou que tanto os homens quanto as mulheres avaliaram diferentemente as faces com diâmetro pupilar de 2mm (p<0,05). Em geral, os resultados indicam que o diâmetro da pupila é um componente da face humana que desempenha um importante função no processo de julgamento da atratividade facial.

El objetivo de este estudio fue investigar si existe una relación entre el diámetro pupilar y el atractivo facial. Participaron en la estudio 60 adultos jóvenes (30 hombres y 30 mujeres) entre 18 y 26 años de edad (M=20.65, DE=2.20). Se utilizaron como estímulos diez rostros neutrales desconocidos diferentes (cinco hombres y cinco mujeres). El diámetro de la pupila de cada cara se manipuló con diámetros de pupila de 2, 3, 4, 5 y 6mm (10 caras x5 diámetros de pupila=50 estímulos). Se realizó un estudio en dos etapas con la misma muestra y los mismos conjuntos de caras buscando entender la diferencia de respuestas entre sujetos de ambos sexos. En la fase I, el resultado indicó una diferencia significativa en relación al factor de diámetro de la pupila tanto para los hombres (ꭓ²=21.93, p <0.05) como para las mujeres (ꭓ²=44.73, p<0.05). En la fase II, los resultados indicaron diferencias significativas en relación al tamaño de la pupila [F(1, 234)=19,06, p<0,05]. La prueba post-hoc de Tukey HSD mostró que tanto los hombres como las mujeres evaluaron de manera diferente las caras con un diámetro pupilar de 2mm con respecto a las caras con diámetros pupilares de 3, 4, 5 y 6mm (p<0,05). Se observó una diferencia significativa entre el diámetro de 5mm en relación al diámetro de 3mm (p<0,05). En general, los resultados indican que el diámetro de la pupila es un componente estructural de la cara humana que desempeña una importante función en el proceso de juicio del atractivo facial.

Relação entre desempenho neurocognitivo e composição corporal de homens e mulheres expostos a solventes orgânicos / Relación entre desempeño neurocognitivo y composición corporal de hombres y mujeres expuestos a solventes orgánicos / Relationship between neurocognitive performance and body composition of men and women exposed to organic solvents

Resumo Investigou-se o efeito dos solventes orgânicos sobre o desempenho neurocognitivo de homens e mulheres com e sem exposição crônica a solventes orgânicos, e verificou correlações entre o desempenho neurocognitivo e índices de composição corporal. Participaram 14 homens e 14 mulheres expostos e 14 homens e 14 mulheres não expostos. Utilizou-se o Trail Making Test (TMT) A e B, Figura Complexa de Rey (FCR), Cópia e Memória, questionário sociodemográfico e avaliação de bioimpedância. A comparação entre mulheres expostas e não expostas mostrou diferença significativa em todos os testes. A comparação entre os homens expostos e não expostos mostrou diferença significativa no TMT-A, FCR-Cópia, FCR-Memória. Contudo, na comparação entre homens e mulheres expostos os resultados não mostraram diferenças significantes. Já na correlação entre o desempenho neurocognitivo com índices de composição corpórea, as mulheres expostas apresentaram correlação significante entre FCR-Cópia com água corporal, peso, massa gorda, massa magra corporal. Os homens expostos apresentaram correlação significante entre o TMT-B com a Relação Cintura-Quadril e gordura visceral. No geral, os solventes orgânicos podem afetar o desempenho neurocognitivo e os efeitos da exposição crônica dependem da precisão do teste neurocognitivo e do índice de composição corpórea.

Resumen Se investigo el efecto de solventes orgánicos sobre el rendimiento neurocognitivo de hombres y mujeres con y sin exposición crónica a solventes orgánicos, además de verificar la correlación entre el rendimiento neurocognitivo y los índices de composición corporal. Participaron 14 hombres y 14 mujeres expuestas y 14 hombres y 14 mujeres no expuestas. Se utilizaron los siguientes tests: Trail Making Test (TMT) A y B, el test Figura Compleja de Rey (FCR; Copia y Memoria), cuestionario sociodemográfico y la evaluación de bioimpedancia. Hubo diferencia significativa entre las mujeres expuestas y las no expuestas, en todos los tests. La comparación de los hombres expuestos con los que no fueron expuestos mostró diferencia significativa en el TMT-A, FCR-Copia y FCR-Memoria. Sin embargo, no hubo diferencias significativas entre los sexos. Con relación a la comparación del rendimiento neurocognitivo con los índices de composición corporal, para las mujeres expuestas hubo correlación significativa entre la FCR-Copia y el agua, peso, masa corporal grasa y masa corporal magra. Para los hombres expuestos hubo correlación significativa entre la TMT-B y la relación cintura/cadera (RCC) y grasa visceral. En general, los solventes orgánicos pueden afectar el desempeño neurocognitivo y los efectos de la exposición crónica dependen de la precisión del test neurocognitivo y del índice de composición corporal.

Abstract It was investigate the effect of organic solvents on the neurocognitive performance of men and women with and without chronic exposure to organic solvents and verify correlations between neurocognitive performance and body composition indices. Participants included 14 men and 14 exposed women and 14 men and 14 unexposed women. The Trail Making Test (TMT) A and B, the Rey Complex Figure (RCF; Copy and Memory), sociodemographic questionnaire, and bioimpedance evaluation were used. There was a significant difference between exposed and non-exposed women in all tests. Comparison between exposed and non-exposed men showed a significant difference in TMT-A, RCF-Copy, and RCF-Memory. However, there was no significant difference between sexes. Regarding the comparison between neurocognitive performance and body composition indices, for exposed women, there was a significant correlation between RCF- Copy and water, body weight, fat mass, and lean mass. Regarding the exposed men, there was a significant correlation between TMT-B and WHR (waist-hip ratio) and visceral fat. In general, organic solvents can affect neurocognitive performance and the effects of chronic exposure depend on the accuracy of the neurocognitive test and the body composition index.

Psychophysical evaluation of contrast sensitivity using Gabor patches in tobacco addiction.

This study, an extension of Fernandes et al. (2017), provided consistent contrast sensitivity function (CSF) measurements in a large sample. CSF was assessed for luminance stimuli in different 48 chronic smokers and 50 healthy nonsmokers. Stimuli for the CSF were Gabor patches with spatial frequencies of .2, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0, and 20.0 cycles per degree (cpd). The use of Gabor patches minimizes uncertainty in spatial position and detection of frequencies. The Gabor patches consisted of vertical gratings that were multiplied by a two-dimensional spatial Gaussian envelope. All of the groups were matched for gender and level of education. All of the participants were free from any neurological disorder, cardiovascular disease, and identifiable ocular disease, and they had normal or corrected-to-normal visual acuity. No abnormalities were detected on the fundoscopic examination or optical coherence tomographic examination. The smoker group had a lower CSF compared with healthy nonsmokers at all spatial frequencies. These results indicate that cigarette smoking or chronic exposure to its constituent compounds affects early-stage visual discrimination, suggesting the existence of deficits in early visual spatial processing in smokers.

Daily variation of visual sensitivity to luminance contrast: Effects of time of measurement and circadian typology.

This study analyzed the fluctuation of the achromatic visual contrast sensitivity (CS) of adult males (M = 23.42 ± 2.6 years) during a daily period. Twenty-eight volunteers were divided into three groups according to circadian typology (CT): moderate morning (MM; n = 8); intermediate (I; n = 10) and moderate evening (ME; n = 10). The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was used to evaluate sleep quality, and the Horne and Ostberg Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire was used to measure CT. To measure CS, we used Metropsis software version 11.0 with vertical sinusoidal grids of 0.2, 0.6, 1, 3.1, 6.1, 8.8, 13.2 and 15.6 cycles per degree of visual angle (cpd). The stimuli were presented on a cathode ray tube (CRT) color video monitor with a 19-inch flat screen, a 1024 × 786 pixel resolution, a 100 Hz refresh rate and a photopic luminance of 39.6 cd/m2. It was inferred that there is a tendency for visual contrast to vary according to daily rhythmicity and CT, mainly for the median spatial frequencies (1.0 cpd, χ2 = 9.93, p < 0.05 and 3.1 cpd, χ2 = 10.33, p < 0.05) and high spatial frequencies (13.2 cpd, χ2 = 11.54, p < 0.05) of ME participants. ME participants had minimal visual contrast sensitivity during the morning shift and a progressive increase from afternoon to night.

Personalidade e Padrões Comportamentais do Sono: Diferenças entre Homens e Mulheres / Rasgos de Personalidad y lós Patrones de Sueño de Comportamiento: Diferencias entre Hombres y Mujeres / Personality Traits and Behavioral Sleep Patterns: Differences between Men and Women

Resumo O presente estudo teve o objetivo de verificar os efeitos comportamentais do sono nos traços de personalidade de adultos jovens. Participaram desta pesquisa 114 voluntários entre 18 e 40 anos de idade. Os sujeitos foram divididos em três grupos: Moderadamente Matutino (n = 23); Intermediário (n = 52) e Moderadamente Vespertino (n = 39). Entre os instrumentos de pesquisa utilizou-se o Questionário de Matutinidade e Vespertinidade de Horne e Östberg e Inventário dos Cinco Grandes Fatores de Personalidade. A MANOVA mostrou diferença significativa entre os cronotipos e os traços de personalidade [λ = 0,78; F(10,198) = 2,52; p < 0,05; η2 = 0,11]. Observou-se diferença significativa apenas para os traços de extroversão [F(2,103) = 3,65; p < 0,05; η2 = 0,06] e amabilidade [F(2,103) = 8,03; p < 0,05; η2 = 0,14]. Este estudo sugere que pessoas com diferentes traços de personalidades possuem horas específicas para realizar suas atividades e que existe uma relação com o padrão do cronotipo. Em geral, os dados indicam que homens e mulheres apresentam traços de personalidade diferentes em relação aos efeitos comportamentais do sono.

Resumen Este estúdio tuvo como objetivo verificar los efectos del comportamento del sueño em los rasgos de personalidad de los adultos jóvenes. El estúdio recogió 114 voluntarios de entre 18 y 40 años de edad. Los sujetos fueron divididos entres grupos: Moderadamente mañana (n = 23); Intermedio (n = 52) y moderadamente Vespertino (n = 39). Entre el instrumento de estudio utilizado el Cuestionario matutinidad y vespertinidad Horne y Östberg y el Inventario de los cinco grandes factores. MANOVA mostró una diferencia significativa entre el cronotipo y rasgos de personalidad [λ = 0.78; F(10.198) = 2.52; p <.05; η2 = 0.11]. Los resultados mostraron una diferencia significativa en la extraversión [F(2.103) = 3.65; p < .05; η2 = 0.06] y rasgos de bondad [F(2.103) = 8.03; p < .05; η2 = 0.14]. La investigación sugiere que entre estos sujetos, diferentes rasgos de personalidad pueden influir en la preferencia por ciertos períodos del día para llevar a cabo las actividades diarias y que existe una relación con el cronotipo estándar. Además, los resultados indican que hombres y mujeres tienen diferentes rasgos de personalidad cuando se comprueban los efectos del comportamiento del sueño.

Abstract This study aimed to investigate the behavioral effects of sleep on the personality traits of young adults. The sample consisted of 114 volunteers with ages between 18 and 40. The subjects were characterized into three groups according to Horne and Östberg (1975): Moderately Morning (n = 23); intermediary (n = 52) and Moderately Evening (n = 39). The Horne and Östberg Morningness and Eveningness questionnaire and the Big five Personality Inventory were used for data collection. MANOVA showed a significant difference between the chronotype and personality traits [λ = 0.78; F(10.198) = 2.52; p < .05; η2 = 0.11]. The results showed a significant difference on extraversion [F(2.103) = 3.65; p < .05; η2 = 0.06] and kindness traits [F(2.103) = 8.03; p < .05; η2 = 0.14]. The investigation suggests that among these subjects, different personality traits may influence preference for certain periods of the day to carry out daily activities and that there is a relationship with the standard chronotype. Also, the results indicate that men and women have different personality traits when the effects of the sleep behavior are checked.

Colour discrimination thresholds in type 1 Bipolar Disorder: a pilot study.

Although some studies have reported perceptual changes in psychosis, no definitive conclusions have been drawn about visual disturbances that are related to bipolar disorder (BPD). The purpose of the present study was to evaluate colour vision in BPD patients. Data were recorded from 24 participants: healthy control group (n = 12) and type 1 BPD group (n = 12). The participants were 20-45 years old and they were free from neurological disorders and identifiable ocular disease and had normal or corrected-to-normal visual acuity. Colour discrimination was evaluated using the Lanthony D-15d, Trivector and Ellipse tests, using a psychophysical forced-choice method. The relationship of visual measures to mood state and cognitive function was also investigated. The results showed that BPD patients had higher colour discrimination thresholds in the D15d (p < 0.001), Trivector (p < 0.001) and Ellipse (p < 0.01) tests compared with healthy controls. Linear regression analysis showed that mood state was related to colour discrimination. BPD individuals were not impaired in cognitive tasks. The present study provided new evidence of potential links between type 1 BPD and visual processing impairments. This research suggests a new direction for studies and the need for research in this field of study.