1
|
Oliveira MEC, Torres GSV, Franklin RG, Gomes KAL, Nóbrega WFS, Fernandes TP, Santos NA. Cognitive impairments associated with chemotherapy in women with breast cancer: a meta-analysis and meta-regression. Braz J Med Biol Res 2023; 56:e12947. [PMID: 37851791 PMCID: PMC10578133 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x2023e12947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is one of the most widely used treatments for breast cancer (BC). However, there is evidence of side effects like cognitive changes related to the chemotherapy treatment. The aim of the study was not only to summarize the existing evidence on the relationship between chemotherapy and cognitive performance in women with BC but also to identify additional consequences and aspects associated with these impairments. We conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis and meta-regression to present updated information on the matter. We retrieved data from the databases PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Scopus. Twenty studies comprising over 2,500 women were examined and the results indicated that chemotherapy can compromise cognition in women with BC (-1.10 OR [95%CI: -1.81 to -0.74], P<0.01), with working memory (-0.49 OR [95%CI: -0.85 to -0.13], P=0.03) being the most affected among the domains. Furthermore, additional data indicated that cognitive impairment is most likely amid women with BC having a lower education level (Q=4.85, P=0.02). Our results suggested that chemotherapy affects cognitive functions in women with BC, and certain characteristics can worsen the deterioration. A comprehensive study of women with breast cancer and existing predictors contributes to optimized personal journeys, elevated life prospects, and advanced care that can also aid prognosis and therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M E C Oliveira
- Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brasil
| | - G S V Torres
- Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brasil
| | - R G Franklin
- Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - K A L Gomes
- Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brasil
| | - W F S Nóbrega
- Departamento de Odontologia, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Campina Grande, PB, Brasil
| | - T P Fernandes
- Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brasil
| | - N A Santos
- Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Souza GS, Fernandes TP, Santos NA. Editorial: Methods and protocols in sensory neuroscience. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1291987. [PMID: 37829820 PMCID: PMC10565849 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1291987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Givago S. Souza
- Tropical Neurology Lab, Federal University of Para, Pará, Brazil
| | - Thiago P. Fernandes
- Cognitive Neuroscience and Behaviour Programme, Federal University of Paraiba, Paraíba, Brazil
| | - Natanael A. Santos
- Cognitive Neuroscience and Behaviour Programme, Federal University of Paraiba, Paraíba, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Degraff Z, Souza GS, Santos NA, Shoshina II, Felisberti FM, Fernandes TP, Sigurdsson G. Brain atrophy and cognitive decline in bipolar disorder: Influence of medication use, symptomatology and illness duration. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 163:421-429. [PMID: 37276646 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.05.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Bipolar disorder (BPD) is a chronic condition characterized by recurrent episodes of mania and depression. To date, the association of biological and psychopathological processes in BPD has not been extensively studied on a cognitive and cortical basis at the same time. We investigated whether brain atrophy (in prefrontal, temporal and occipital cortices) was associated with cognitive, biological and clinical processes in patients with BPD and healthy controls (HCs). A total of 104 participants (56 with BPD) completed tasks that measured attention, memory, information processing speed, inhibitory control, visuospatial working memory and cognitive flexibility. In addition, structural brain scans were obtained using high-resolution MRI. Outcomes of the measurements were examined using robust multiple mediation analyses. BPD patients showed greater cortical atrophy across all regions of interest when compared to HCs, linked to cognitive decline. BPD patients had slower reaction times and markedly increased errors of commission on the tasks. The outcomes were significantly influenced by medication use, symptomatology and illness duration. The findings showcase the complexity of brain structures and networks as well as the physiological mechanisms underlying diverse BPD symptomatology and endophenotypes. These differences were pronounced in patients with BPD, motivating further investigations of pathophysiological mechanisms involved in brain atrophy and cognitive decline.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeke Degraff
- Svenskagier Neurologie, Stockholm, Sweden; Institute of Neurology, Belgium.
| | | | | | | | | | - Thiago P Fernandes
- Federal University of Para, Para, Brazil; Federal University of Paraiba, Paraiba, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Galdino LB, Fernandes T, Schmidt KE, Santos NA. Altered brain connectivity during visual stimulation in schizophrenia. Exp Brain Res 2022; 240:3327-3337. [PMID: 36322165 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-022-06495-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCZ) can be described as a functional dysconnectivity syndrome that affects brain connectivity and circuitry. However, little is known about how sensory stimulation modulates network parameters in schizophrenia, such as their small-worldness (SW) during visual processing. To address this question, we applied graph theory algorithms to multi-electrode EEG recordings obtained during visual stimulation with a checkerboard pattern-reversal stimulus. Twenty-six volunteers participated in the study, 13 diagnosed with schizophrenia (SCZ; mean age = 38.3 years; SD = 9.61 years) and 13 healthy controls (HC; mean age = 28.92 years; SD = 12.92 years). The visually evoked potential (VEP) showed a global amplitude decrease (p < 0.05) for SCZ patients as opposed to HC but no differences in latency (p > 0.05). As a signature of functional connectivity, graph measures were obtained from the Magnitude-Squared Coherence between signals from pairs of occipital electrodes, separately for the alpha (8-13 Hz) and low-gamma (36-55 Hz) bands. For the alpha band, there was a significant effect of the visual stimulus on all measures (p < 0.05) but no group interaction between SCZ and HZ (p > 0.05). For the low-gamma spectrum, both groups showed a decrease of Characteristic Path Length (L) during visual stimulation (p < 0.05), but, contrary to the HC group, only SCZ significantly lowered their small-world (SW) connectivity index during visual stimulation (SCZ p < 0.05; HC p > 0.05). This indicates dysconnectivity of the functional network in the low-gamma band of SCZ during stimulation, which might indirectly reflect an altered ability to react to new sensory input in patients. These results provide novel evidence about a possible electrophysiological signature of the global deficits revealed by the application of graph theory onto electroencephalography in schizophrenia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas B Galdino
- Laboratory of Perception, Neurosciences and Behaviour, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil. .,Neurobiology of Vision Lab, Brain Institute (ICe), Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil.
| | - Thiago Fernandes
- Laboratory of Perception, Neurosciences and Behaviour, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Kerstin E Schmidt
- Neurobiology of Vision Lab, Brain Institute (ICe), Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Laboratory of Perception, Neurosciences and Behaviour, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Shoshina II, Oliveira ME, Silva GM, Negreiros NS, Felisberti FM, Fernandes TP, Santos NA. Facial processing in bipolar disorder is mediated by clinical and biological aspects. Braz J Psychiatry 2022; 44:602-610. [PMID: 36682881 PMCID: PMC9851762 DOI: 10.47626/1516-4446-2022-2490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The process of detecting faces can be considered one of the initial steps in face recognition, which is essential for human interaction. We sought to investigate whether a face perception task reliably detects subtle perceptual disturbances between patients with bipolar disorder (BD) and healthy controls. METHODS In this multisite study, we examined differences between BD patients and matched healthy controls. Participants were instructed to detect the orientation (either left or right) of a face when it was presented as a face/non-face pair on a computer screen using Bayesian entropy estimation. Data analyses compared performance between the groups. RESULTS Overall, BD patients exhibited more perceptual disturbances compared with controls. BD patients who took olanzapine had better performance and faster reaction times (RTs) than patients who took lithium or were medication-naive. BD patients who took lithium had better performance and faster RTs than medication-naive patients. The medication-naive BD group exhibited greater disturbances than all other groups. CONCLUSION These findings highlight the reliability of the face perception task used herein and may be important for public health initiatives and follow-up studies that seek to understand the diverse effects of other variables that can affect sensory processing in this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina I. Shoshina
- Department of Liberal Arts and Sciences, St. Petersburg State University, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Milena E. Oliveira
- Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, PB, Brazil,Laboratório de Percepção, Neurociências e Comportamento, UFPB, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | - Gabriella M. Silva
- Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, PB, Brazil,Laboratório de Percepção, Neurociências e Comportamento, UFPB, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | - Nathalia S. Negreiros
- Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, PB, Brazil,Laboratório de Percepção, Neurociências e Comportamento, UFPB, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | | | - Thiago P. Fernandes
- Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, PB, Brazil,Laboratório de Percepção, Neurociências e Comportamento, UFPB, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil,Correspondence: Thiago P. Fernandes, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, Centro de Ciências Humanas e Letras, Departamento de Psicologia, CEP 58059-900, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil. E-mail:
| | - Natanael A. Santos
- Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, PB, Brazil,Laboratório de Percepção, Neurociências e Comportamento, UFPB, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Fernandes TP, Shoshina II, Oliveira MEC, Andreevna VE, Silva GM, Santos NA. Correlates of clinical variables on early-stage visual processing in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 149:323-330. [PMID: 35339912 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The use of noninvasive tools can help understand mental states and changes that are caused by medications, symptom severity, and other clinical variables. We investigated low-level visual processing using the contrast sensitivity function (CSF), a reliable, robust, and widely used approach. Our main purpose was (1) to evaluate visual impairments in schizophrenia (SCZ) and bipolar disorder (BPD) patients and (2) to investigate associations between clinical variables and visual function in both diseases. Fifty-six healthy controls (HCs; mean age = 31.04 years), 42 BPD patients (mean age = 32.84 years) who took only lithium, and 39 SCZ patients who took only olanzapine (mean age = 32.80 years) were recruited for this study. CSF differed between groups. Both groups of patients exhibited lower discrimination at low, mid-, and high spatial frequencies compared with HCs. No differences were observed between patients, with the exception of high spatial frequency. These impairments were also related to clinical variables, revealed by a strong effect in the mediation analyses. These findings may aid investigations of other clinical variables and the role of state- and trait-like effects on visual and cognitive processing in these patient populations. This study underscores the need for visual remediation interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thiago P Fernandes
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Brazil.
| | - Irina I Shoshina
- Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Milena E C Oliveira
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Brazil
| | | | - Gabriella M Silva
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Brazil
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Shoshina II, Almeida NL, Oliveira MEC, Trombetta BNT, Silva GM, Fars J, Santos NA, Fernandes TP. Serum levels of olanzapine are associated with acute cognitive effects in bipolar disorder. Psychiatry Res 2022; 310:114443. [PMID: 35286918 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Bipolar (BPD) patients have deficits in cognition, but there are still controversies about the effects of some medications on their cognitive performance. Here, we investigated the relationship between cognition in terms of executive functions, memory, and attention in both first-episode medication-naive BPD patients and BPD patients taking olanzapine. Forty-one healthy controls, 40 unmedicated drug-naive BPD patients, and 34 BPD patients who took only olanzapine were recruited for the study. Cognitive performance was assessed using the Flanker test, Stroop test, and Corsi-block test. Bayesian multivariate regression analysis was run considering maximum robustness to avoid bias and to predict the outcomes. Our results revealed that unmedicated medication-naive BPD patients performed worse than healthy controls and the olanzapine group in some tasks. Additionally, BPD patients who took olanzapine had better cognitive performance than healthy controls and unmedicated BPD patients. The acute cognitive effects were predicted by olanzapine dosage and serum levels (i.e., large effects). The potential pro-cognitive effects of olanzapine in BPD patients should be carefully interpreted by considering various other clinical variables. We expect that our findings will contribute to further research in this area, with the goal of helping other researchers, patients, and the population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina I Shoshina
- Pavlov Institute of Physiology, RAS, Laboratory of Vision Physiology, Saint-Petersburg, Russia; St. Petersburg State University, Institute for Cognitive Research, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Natalia L Almeida
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Brazil
| | - Milena E C Oliveira
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Brazil
| | - Bianca N T Trombetta
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Brazil
| | - Gabriella M Silva
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Brazil
| | - Julien Fars
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Brazil
| | - Thiago P Fernandes
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Fernandes TP, Oliveira MEC, Silva GM, Santos NA. Improvement in visual performance after nicotine gum administration in tobacco use disorder: a case report. J Addict Dis 2022; 40:568-576. [PMID: 35264083 DOI: 10.1080/10550887.2021.2020045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Chronic tobacco consumption, identified as Tobacco Use Disorder (TUD), is a public health problem. We present a case report of a 37-year-old Brazilian male diagnosed with TUD at age 26, with no comorbidities, that presented visual improvements (i.e., lower thresholds and better discrimination) after nicotine gum administration. Here, we assessed contrast sensitivity and chromatic discrimination using the Metropsis and the Cambridge Colour Test, respectively. Results showed lower thresholds for both visual tasks after the use of nicotine gum. Even considering this is a single case report, our intent is to open new avenues for research involving smoking, addiction and the use of nicotine gum as a replacement tool or adjuvant tool for improvement of visual and/or cognitive processing. It is well known that nicotine gum has protective effects for some diseases, and improves some cognitive functions. However, unclear were its effects on visual processing of people with TUD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thiago P Fernandes
- Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Lab, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Milena E C Oliveira
- Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Lab, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Gabriella M Silva
- Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Lab, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Lab, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Almeida NL, Silva JBS, Oliveira MEC, Fernandes TP, Santos NA. Eye movement impairments in children with malnutrition. Int J Psychol 2022; 57:644-651. [PMID: 35262928 DOI: 10.1002/ijop.12838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Malnutrition is characterised by deficient nutrient ingestion and absorption and is still one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality in children worldwide. Our main rationale was that protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) may affect eye movement in children with malnutrition. Twenty children without PEM (mean age = 10.8; SD = 1.0 years) and 18 children with PEM (mean age = 10.9; SD = 1.2 years) were included in the present study. We applied three types of tests: one that consisted of a maze and two versions of the Spot the Seven Errors test using boats and elephants. Our results indicated that children with PEM exhibited performance deficits in the maze test (p < .001) and Spot the Seven Errors test for both boats (p < .001) and elephants (p < .001). These data suggest that nutritional impairments during the first year of life (i.e., a critical period) can directly impact eye movement. Eye tracking is a reliable technique to investigate higher-order processes, but our results should be interpreted with caution. Our findings highlight the relevance of cognitive development in malnourished children, which can negatively affect their development. Screening, assessment and rehabilitation strategies are essential in this at-risk population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia L Almeida
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Jessica B S Silva
- Department of Psychology, Minas Gerais State University, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Milena E C Oliveira
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Thiago P Fernandes
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Amaro LC, Faria LO, Santos NA, Pezzini TR, Ferreira LM, Veiga DF. Brazilian patients' expectations regarding breast reconstruction. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2022; 75:e23-e24. [PMID: 35341706 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2022.02.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L C Amaro
- Translational Surgery Graduate Program, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Rua Botucatu, 740, 2° andar. Vila Clementino, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - L O Faria
- Medical School, Universidade do Vale do Sapucai, Pouso Alegre, MG, Brazil
| | - N A Santos
- Medical School, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - T R Pezzini
- Medical School, Universidade Nove de Julho, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - L M Ferreira
- Translational Surgery Graduate Program, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Rua Botucatu, 740, 2° andar. Vila Clementino, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - D F Veiga
- Translational Surgery Graduate Program, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Rua Botucatu, 740, 2° andar. Vila Clementino, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil; Division of Plastic Surgery, Universidade do Vale do Sapucai, Pouso Alegre, MG, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Shoshina II, Hovis JK, Felisberti FM, Santos NA, Adreeva A, Butler PD, Fernandes TP. Visual processing and BDNF levels in first-episode schizophrenia. Psychiatry Res 2021; 305:114200. [PMID: 34653830 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.114200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that patients diagnosed with schizophrenia (SCZ) have deficits in early visual processing, namely contrast processing. The brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) is an important measure to investigate neuroplasticity in some visual functions like visual perception. In this study, we investigated the relationship between visual processing and BDNF levels in first-episode SCZ patients. Thirty-nine healthy controls and 43 first-episode SCZ patients were enrolled. Contrast sensitivity measurements were conducted using low, mid- and high spatial frequencies. First-episode SCZ patients had higher contrast sensitivity than healthy controls for all frequencies, except for the middle spatial frequency. Negative correlations were found between BDNF, contrast sensitivity and clinical variables, mostly for middle and high spatial frequencies among females. Our results provide support for (i) the association of SCZ with alterations of magno- and parvocellular pathway functioning and (ii) decreased BDNF levels in first-episode SCZ patients. This study highlights the importance of using biomarkers along with other measures to investigate visual processing in SCZ and other disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina I Shoshina
- Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Science, Department of Visual Physiology, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation; St. Petersburg State University, Department of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Jeffery K Hovis
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Fatima M Felisberti
- Department of Psychology, Kingston University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Brazil
| | - Anna Adreeva
- St. Petersburg State University, Department of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Pamela D Butler
- Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, NY, United States; Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, NY, USA
| | - Thiago P Fernandes
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Silva GM, Souto JJDS, Fernandes TP, Bolis I, Santos NA. Interventions with Serious Games and Entertainment Games in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review. Dev Neuropsychol 2021; 46:463-485. [PMID: 34595981 DOI: 10.1080/87565641.2021.1981905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The use of serious games and entertainment games was compared as adjuvant tools for intervention in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). A comprehensive search was performed in the MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. From 295 studies, 53 studies were selected and included in this review. Overall, studies showed improvement after intervention, regardless of the type of video games, mostly for social skills and behavior. However, these changes should be regarded with caution, as they are limited to the tests applied. Furthermore, neither the entertainment nor the serious approach had a therapeutic impact on emotional resilience, representing the current gap in the field. Thus, even considering the limitations, our study is important because it shows that both categories have strengths.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Medeiros Silva
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Jandirlly Julianna de Souza Souto
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Thiago P Fernandes
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Ivan Bolis
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Silva GM, Souto JJ, Fernandes TP, Bonifacio TA, Almeida NL, Gomes GH, Felisberti FM, Santos NA. Impairments of facial detection in tobacco use disorder: baseline data and impact of smoking duration. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 43:376-384. [PMID: 32997076 PMCID: PMC8352734 DOI: 10.1590/1516-4446-2020-1107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Chronic tobacco consumption, classified as tobacco use disorder (TUD), has been associated with a variety of health problems. Investigations of face processing in TUD are hampered by lack of evidence. Here, we evaluated facial detection in TUD and assessed test-retest reliability for a facial detection task. Methods: Participants were instructed to detect the orientation (either left or right) of a face when it was presented with a face/non-face pair on the monitor screen, using Bayesian entropy estimation. Bland-Altman analysis and intraclass correlation coefficients were used to test the reliability of the task. The general linear model and Bayesian statistics were then used to evaluate differences between TUD (n=48) and healthy controls (n=34). Results: The reliability of the task was high for the 96 stimuli presentations. Slower reaction times (p < 0.001) and lower discrimination index (p < 0.001) were observed in the TUD group than for healthy controls. Mediation analysis indicated direct effects of smoking duration on reaction time (p < 0.001) and discrimination index (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Overall, we observed high reliability of this task and reduction of facial detection in tobacco use disorder. We conclude our findings are significant for public health initiatives and call for follow-up studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella M Silva
- Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.,Laboratório de Percepção, Neurociências e Comportamento, UFPB, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | - Jandirlly J Souto
- Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.,Laboratório de Percepção, Neurociências e Comportamento, UFPB, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | - Thiago P Fernandes
- Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.,Laboratório de Percepção, Neurociências e Comportamento, UFPB, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | - Thiago A Bonifacio
- Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.,Laboratório de Percepção, Neurociências e Comportamento, UFPB, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | - Natalia L Almeida
- Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.,Laboratório de Percepção, Neurociências e Comportamento, UFPB, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | | | | | - Natanael A Santos
- Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.,Laboratório de Percepção, Neurociências e Comportamento, UFPB, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Silva GM, Fernandes TP, Felisberti FM, Oliveira ME, Almeida NL, Souto JJ, Santos NA. Heavy and light smokers have slight differences in chromatic discrimination. J Addict Dis 2021; 40:151-156. [PMID: 34338615 DOI: 10.1080/10550887.2021.1950285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The effects of smoking on color vision have been scarcely studied. To bridge such gap, this study examined if there were differences in chromatic discrimination between heavy and light smokers. Methods: The psychophysical Trivector test was used to evaluate chromatic discrimination in healthy controls (n = 36), heavy smokers (n = 29), and light smokers (n = 32). The subject's task was to identify the orientation of the Landolt C ring gap - presented and randomized in one of the four positions (e.g., up, down, right, and left). Results: The thresholds for Protan (red), Deutan (green) and Tritan (blue) were higher in heavy smokers compared to nonsmokers but not to light smokers. Conclusions: The results confirm that heavy smoking and chronic exposure to its harmful compounds affect color discrimination when compared to light smoking; and this is more pronounced in heavy smokers than light smokers. This is particularly important to understand the differences among smokers on visual and multisensory processing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella M Silva
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Thiago P Fernandes
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | | | - Milena E Oliveira
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Natalia L Almeida
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Jandirlly J Souto
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although some studies have shown impairments in patients with bipolar disorder (BPD) and in smokers, it is unclear how these two factors work together. Our premise was that chronic smoking affects color discrimination and this is more pronounced in BPD. Objective: Our main purpose was to investigate the influence of smoking and BPD on color discrimination. Methods: Twenty-three smokers and 23 BPD smokers patients, aged 25-45 years old, participated in this study. Color vision testing was performed using the Trivector subtest of the Cambridge Colour Test. Participants' task was to indicate the pseudoisochromatic stimulus in four directions (up, down, right, and left). Results: It was shown that the smokers had better color vision than BPD smokers for the Protan (p < .001), Deutan (p < .001), and Tritan (p < .001) (red, green, and blue, respectively) axes. Thus, the BPD smokers' group had greater difficulty distinguishing the chromaticity variations (i.e., presented diffuse color vision impairments and not specific to any axis). Conclusions: The present study highlights a possible relationship between smoking and BPD in color discrimination. This highlights the importance of understanding the diffuse effects of this relationship.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milena E C Oliveira
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Natalia L Almeida
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Thiago P Fernandes
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Vazi EPG, Holanda F, Santos NA, Cardoso CV, Martins MFM, Bondan EF. Short-term systemic methotrexate administration in rats induces astrogliosis and microgliosis. Res Vet Sci 2021; 138:39-48. [PMID: 34091228 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX), an antifolate drug, is widely used in chemotherapeutic protocols for metastatic and primary brain tumors and some autoimmune diseases. Its efficacy for brain tumors is limited by the high incidence of central nervous system (CNS) complications. This investigation aimed to observe the morphological effects, including astroglial and microglial responses, following systemic short-term MTX administration in adult rats. Male Wistar rats received 5 or 10 mg/kg/day of MTX by intraperitoneal route for 4 consecutive days (respectively, MTX5 and MTX10 groups) or the same volume of 0.9% saline solution (control group). On the 5th day, brain samples were collected for hematoxylin-eosin and luxol fast blue staining techniques, as well as for immunohistochemical staining for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression in astrocytes and Iba1 (ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1) for microglia in the frontal cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus and molecular/granular layers of the cerebellum. Morphometric analyses were performed using Image Pro-Plus software. Brain levels of the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β were determined by ELISA. No signs of neuronal loss or demyelination were observed in all groups. Increased GFAP and Iba1 expression was found in all areas from the MTX groups, although it was slightly higher in the MTX10 group compared to the MTX5. Both TNF-α and IL-1β levels were decreased in the MTX5 group compared to controls. In the MTX10 group, TNF-α decreased, although IL-1β was increased relative to controls. MTX administration induced microglial reaction and astrogliosis in several CNS areas. In the MTX5 group, it apparently occurred in the presence of decreased proinflammatory cytokines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E P G Vazi
- Graduate Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, University Paulista, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - F Holanda
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University Cruzeiro do Sul, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - N A Santos
- Graduate Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, University Paulista, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - C V Cardoso
- Graduate Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, University Paulista, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - M F M Martins
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University Cruzeiro do Sul, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - E F Bondan
- Graduate Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, University Paulista, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Department of Veterinary Medicine, University Cruzeiro do Sul, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Fernandes TP, Almeida NL, Silva GM, Santos NA. Nicotine gum enhances visual processing in healthy nonsmokers. Brain Imaging Behav 2021; 15:2593-2605. [PMID: 33675460 DOI: 10.1007/s11682-021-00461-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The main purpose of this study was to investigate the isolated effects of nicotine on visual processing, namely contrast processing. METHODS Thirteen participants, aged 18-40 years, were enrolled in this double blind, randomized and pilot controlled trial involving nicotine gum administration (placebo, 2-mg and 4-mg doses). The participants' instruction was to detect the location of vertical gratings (0.2; 1.0; 3.3; 5.7; 8.8; 13.2 and 15.9 cycles per degree) when it was presented either left or right on the monitor screen. A repeated multivariate analysis of variance was conducted to analyse the results for the visual processing tasks. Bayesian analyses were also carried out considering maximum robustness to avoid bias. RESULTS The findings that nicotine gum administration resulted in better contrast discrimination when compared to placebo gum (p < .001). More specifically, the 4-mg resulted in better visual sensitivity when compared to the 2-mg (p < .01) and the placebo (p < .001) gum. Demographic data were not related to the outcomes. CONCLUSIONS These data bring the need for support the findings. If proved, it is possible that nicotine, in small doses, can have a potential therapeutic use for those populations with low vision. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER RBR-46tjy3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thiago P Fernandes
- Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil. .,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.
| | - Natalia L Almeida
- Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil. .,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.
| | - Gabriella M Silva
- Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
|
19
|
Almeida NL, Rodrigues SJ, Gonçalves LM, Silverstein SM, Sousa IC, Gomes GH, Butler PD, Fernandes TP, Santos NA. Opposite effects of smoking and nicotine intake on cognition. Psychiatry Res 2020; 293:113357. [PMID: 32823200 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Our main purpose was to investigate how smoking and nicotine interacted with specific aspects of cognitive functioning. The research was conducted in two parts: (i) an investigation of cognition in heavy smokers and healthy nonsmokers, and (ii) an investigation of cognition in healthy nonsmokers enrolled in a clinical trial involving administration of nicotine gum. Results indicated that the relationship between smoking and nicotine was characterized by an inverted U-shaped effect. On the one hand, cognitive test performance of the heavy smokers group was reduced on all of the cognitive tasks used here. On the other hand, healthy nonsmokers who used 2-mg of nicotine gum performed better, whilst the 4-mg group performed worse than the 2-mg and the placebo group. Demographic data were not related to the cognitive tasks. These data suggest that small doses of nicotine can have an activating function that leads to improved cognition, while heavy smoking on a chronic (and possibly acute) basis leads to cognitive impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia L Almeida
- Federal University of Paraiba, Department of Psychology, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience, and Behaviour Laboratory, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.
| | - Stephanye J Rodrigues
- Federal University of Paraiba, Department of Psychology, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience, and Behaviour Laboratory, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Letícia M Gonçalves
- Federal University of Paraiba, Department of Psychology, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience, and Behaviour Laboratory, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | | | - Isadora C Sousa
- Federal University of Paraiba, Department of Psychology, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience, and Behaviour Laboratory, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | | | | | - Thiago P Fernandes
- Federal University of Paraiba, Department of Psychology, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience, and Behaviour Laboratory, Joao Pessoa, Brazil.
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Federal University of Paraiba, Department of Psychology, Joao Pessoa, Brazil; Perception, Neuroscience, and Behaviour Laboratory, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Fernandes TP, Hovis JK, Almeida N, Souto JJS, Bonifacio TA, Rodrigues S, Silva GM, Andrade MO, Silva JB, Gomes GH, Oliveira ME, Lima EH, Gomes ME, Junior MVA, Martins ML, Santos NA. Effects of Nicotine Gum Administration on Vision (ENIGMA-Vis): Study Protocol of a Double-Blind, Randomized, and Controlled Clinical Trial. Front Hum Neurosci 2020; 14:314. [PMID: 33100983 PMCID: PMC7506462 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2020.00314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies reported that tobacco addiction was related to visual impairments, but one unresolved issue is whether the impairments are related to the many compounds existing in the cigarettes or to the effects of nicotine. On the other hand, nicotine gum can be used as replacement therapy or as a neuroprotective agent for some diseases. The main purpose of this controlled trial is to investigate the effects of nicotine gum on vision. The ENIGMA-Vis trial aims to compare two dosages of nicotine gum (2 and 4 mg) and a placebo gum in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 100 participants to be allocated into a single group assignment of repeated measures (two studies; N = 50 for each one). Eligibility criteria are healthy non-smokers not diagnosed with substance abuse and without an acute or chronic medical condition. Intervention will last three sessions for each participant with a window frame of 1 week per session. Study outcomes are (1) short-term effects of nicotine gum on contrast sensitivity; (2) short-term effects of nicotine gum on chromatic contrast discrimination; and (3) whether demographics, body mass index, or serum cotinine predicts response of visual processing. This study addresses an important gap in the effects of nicotine on vision. One of the main takeaways of this study is to understand the effects of nicotine on contrast sensitivity and chromatic contrast discrimination. This information will provide a further understanding of how nicotine interacts with early visual processes and help determine how the different components present during smoking can affect vision. Clinical Trial Registration Number: RBR-46tjy3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thiago P Fernandes
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Jeffery K Hovis
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Natalia Almeida
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Jandirlly J S Souto
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Thiago Augusto Bonifacio
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Stephanye Rodrigues
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Gabriella Medeiros Silva
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Michael Oliveira Andrade
- Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil.,Department of Psychology, State University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Jessica Bruna Silva
- Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil.,Department of Psychology, State University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Milena Edite Oliveira
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Eveline Holanda Lima
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Maria Eduarda Gomes
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Marcos V A Junior
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Mariana Lopes Martins
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil.,Department of Speech Therapy, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil.,Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Fernandes TP, Butler PD, Rodrigues SJ, Silva GM, Anchieta MV, Souto JJS, Gomes GHV, Almeida NL, Santos NA. Short-term effects of nicotine gum on facial detection in healthy nonsmokers: a pilot randomized controlled trial. J Addict Dis 2020; 39:15-25. [DOI: 10.1080/10550887.2020.1805093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Thiago P. Fernandes
- Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
- Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Pamela D. Butler
- Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, NY, USA
| | - Stephanye J. Rodrigues
- Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
- Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Gabriella M. Silva
- Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
- Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | | | - Jandirlly J. S. Souto
- Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
- Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | | | - Natalia L. Almeida
- Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
- Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Natanael A. Santos
- Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
- Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Fernandes TP, Santos NA, Paramei GV. Cambridge Colour Test: reproducibility in normal trichromats. J Opt Soc Am A Opt Image Sci Vis 2020; 37:A70-A80. [PMID: 32400518 DOI: 10.1364/josaa.380306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated reproducibility of the Trivector subtest of the Cambridge Colour Test. Data for normal trichromats were obtained in Brazil ($ N = 111 $N=111) at T0, six months (T1), and 12 months later (T2), and in the United Kingdom (${ N}={79}$N=79), with the test directly followed by a retest. Coefficients of repeatability-Bland-Altman indices-for Protan, Deutan, and Tritan vectors were similar for both datasets. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs)-measures of reliability-were low or moderate for these relatively homogeneous datasets; for a heterogeneous dataset, comprising color-normal and abnormal observers, ICCs were 0.80-0.98, indicating the high discriminative accuracy of the Trivector subtest.
Collapse
|
23
|
Abstract
Objectives: The present study evaluated early visual processing, in terms of the contrast sensitivity function (CSF), in bipolar disorder (BPD) patients.Methods: Data were recorded in 17 healthy participants and 17 outpatients with type 1 BPD, from 20 to 45 years of age. The CSF was measured at spatial frequencies of 0.2, 0.6, 3.1, 8.0, 16.0 and 20.0 cycles per degree (cpd) using Gabor patches and a two-alternative, forced-choice, logarithmic staircase method. The groups were matched for gender, age and level of education.Results: The CSF differed between groups. Patients with BPD had lower discrimination at spatial frequencies of 0.2 cpd (P < 0.001), 0.6 cpd (P < 0.001), 16.0 cpd (P < 0.001) and 20.0 cpd (P < 0.001) compared with healthy subjects. No differences were observed at 3.1 cpd (P > 0.05) and 8.0 cpd (P > 0.05). This visual impairment was related both to longer duration of illness and to greater severity of manic symptoms.Conclusions: The differences in visual processing were pronounced in patients with BPD, which justifies further investigations of the pathophysiological mechanisms that are involved in sensorial alterations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thiago P Fernandes
- Department of Psychology, Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Steven M Silverstein
- Department of Psychiatry Division of Schizophrenia Research, Rutgers University Behavioural Health Care, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Natalia L Almeida
- Department of Psychology, Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Department of Psychology, Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Almeida NL, Fernandes TP, Lima EH, Sales HF, Santos NA. Combined influence of illness duration and medication type on visual sensitivity in schizophrenia. Braz J Psychiatry 2019; 42:27-32. [PMID: 31269094 PMCID: PMC6986493 DOI: 10.1590/1516-4446-2018-0331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Patients with schizophrenia have visual processing impairments. The main findings from the literature indicate that these deficits may be related to differences in paradigms, medications, and illness duration. This study is part of a large-scale study investigating visual sensitivity in schizophrenia. Here we aimed to investigate the combined effects of illness duration and antipsychotic use on contrast sensitivity function. Methods: Data were collected from 50 healthy controls and 50 outpatients with schizophrenia (classified according to illness duration and medication type) aged 20-45 years old. The contrast sensitivity function was measured for spatial frequencies ranging from 0.2 to 20 cycles per degree using linear sine-wave gratings. Results: Patients with an illness duration > 5 years had more pronounced deficits. Differences in the combined effects of illness duration and antipsychotic use were marked in patients on typical antipsychotics who had been ill > 10 years. No significant differences were found between typical and atypical antipsychotics in patients with an illness duration < 5 years. Conclusion: Visual impairment was related to both long illness duration and medication type. These results should be tested in further studies to investigate pharmacological mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia L Almeida
- Laboratório de Percepção, Neurociências e Comportamento (LPNeC), Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | - Thiago P Fernandes
- Laboratório de Percepção, Neurociências e Comportamento (LPNeC), Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | - Eveline H Lima
- Laboratório de Percepção, Neurociências e Comportamento (LPNeC), Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | - Hemerson F Sales
- Laboratório de Percepção, Neurociências e Comportamento (LPNeC), Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Laboratório de Percepção, Neurociências e Comportamento (LPNeC), Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Fernandes TP, Shaqiri A, Brand A, Nogueira RL, Herzog MH, Roinishvili M, Santos NA, Chkonia E. Schizophrenia patients using atypical medication perform better in visual tasks than patients using typical medication. Psychiatry Res 2019; 275:31-38. [PMID: 30878854 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2019.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2018] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCZ) patients show deficits in many domains, including cognition and perception. However, results are often mixed. One reason for mixed results may be differences in medication. Very little is known about the role of medication in visual processing. Here, we investigated the effects of typical vs. atypical medication on contrast sensitivity (spatial frequencies ranging from 0.2 to 20 cycles per degree), vernier acuity, and visual backward masking. From a large pool of patients, we selected 50 patients (Study 1, conducted in Brazil) and 97 patients (Study 2, conducted in Georgia) taking either only typical or atypical medication. Patients with atypical medication performed significantly better than patients with typical medication for contrast sensitivity, vernier duration, and backward masking. As a secondary result, we found similar, but not significant, trends for the cognitive tasks (Stroop, Flanker, Trail-Making Test-B, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test and Continuous Performance Test) in the same patients. No correlations were found between demographics, psychopathology, chlorpromazine equivalents and visual processing. A conclusion of our study is that one needs to be careful comparing studies when medication is not comparable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thiago P Fernandes
- Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Albulena Shaqiri
- Laboratory of Psychophysics, Brain Mind Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Station 19, CH-1015, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Andreas Brand
- Institute for Psychology and Cognition Research, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | | | - Michael H Herzog
- Laboratory of Psychophysics, Brain Mind Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Station 19, CH-1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Maya Roinishvili
- Department of Psychiatry, Tbilisi State Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia; Department of Behaviour and Cognitive Functions, I. Beritashvili Institute of Physiology, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Perception, Neuroscience and Behaviour Laboratory, Federal University of Paraiba, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Eka Chkonia
- Department of Psychiatry, Tbilisi State Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Abstract
Prior studies found small effects of chronic smoking on spatial and color vision, but they were inconclusive. This study tries to: (1) replicate and extend these previous findings, and (2) rule in that this relationship is pronounced by tobacco addiction. Data were recorded in 71 healthy controls (M = 33.5 years; SD = 5.4 years) and 63 individuals with tobacco addiction (M = 34.7 years; SD = 4.8 years). Visual processing was assessed in the forms of contrast sensitivity for linear sine-wave gratings (spatial frequencies ranging between 0.2 and 16 cycles per degree) and color discrimination (using the Ellipse and Trivector subtests). The groups were matched for age, gender and level of education. The group with heavy smokers had reduced sensitivity for all spatial frequencies (p < .001), and impairments in color discrimination for both Trivector (all p-values < .001 for Protan, Deutan and Tritan) and Ellipse (all p-values < .001). This study consistently replicates and extended previous findings, and showed that visual processing can be strongly associated with tobacco addiction. These results indicate that excessive use of cigarettes, or chronic exposure to their compounds, affects visual discrimination, supporting the existence of overall deficits in visual processing in tobacco addiction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Natalia L Almeida
- Perception, Neuroscience and Behavior Laboratory, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Perception, Neuroscience and Behavior Laboratory, Joao Pessoa, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Santos NA, Teixeira NC, Valim JOS, Almeida EFA, Oliveira MGA, Campos WG. Sulfur fertilization increases defense metabolites and nitrogen but decreases plant resistance against a host-specific insect. Bull Entomol Res 2018; 108:479-486. [PMID: 29061199 DOI: 10.1017/s0007485317001018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
We tested the sulfur-modulated plant resistance hypothesis using potted cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) plants that were grown without and with increasing levels of sulfur fertilization. Changes in plant chemical traits were assessed and developmental performance of Plutella xylostella, a highly host-specific leaf-chewing insect, was followed. Leaf sulfur concentration gradually increased with growing addition of sulfur in soil; however, there was a generalized saturation response curve, with a plateau phase, for improvements in total leaf nitrogen, defense glucosinolates and insect performance. Plutella xylostella performed better in sulfur-fertilized cabbage probably because of the higher level of nitrogen, despite of the higher content of glucosinolates, which are toxic for many non-specialized insects. Despite the importance of sulfur in plant nutrition and production, especially for Brassica crops, our results showed that sulfur fertilization could decrease plant resistance against insects with high feeding specialization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N A Santos
- Department of Biosystems Engineering,Federal University of São João del Rei,São João del Rei,MG, 36301-160,Brazil
| | - N C Teixeira
- Department of Biosystems Engineering,Federal University of São João del Rei,São João del Rei,MG, 36301-160,Brazil
| | - J O S Valim
- Department of Biosystems Engineering,Federal University of São João del Rei,São João del Rei,MG, 36301-160,Brazil
| | - E F A Almeida
- Institute of Agricultural Science,Federal University of Minas Gerais,Montes Claros,MG, 39525-000,Brazil
| | - M G A Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology,Federal University of Viçosa,Viçosa,MG 36570-900,Brazil
| | - W G Campos
- Department of Biosystems Engineering,Federal University of São João del Rei,São João del Rei,MG, 36301-160,Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Andrade SM, Santos NA, Fernández-Calvo B, Boggio PS, Oliveira EA, Ferreira JJ, Sobreira A, Morgan F, Medeiros G, Cavalcanti GS, Gadelha ID, Duarte J, Marrocos J, Silva MA, Rufino T, Nóbrega SR. Stroke Treatment Associated with Rehabilitation Therapy and Transcranial DC Stimulation (START-tDCS): a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2016; 17:56. [PMID: 26822418 PMCID: PMC4731905 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-016-1186-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Traditional treatment for motor impairment after stroke includes medication and physical rehabilitation. The transcranial direct current stimulation associated with a standard physical therapy program may be an effective therapeutic alternative for these patients. Methods This study is a sham-controlled, double-blind, randomized clinical trial aiming to evaluate the efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation in activities of daily living and motor function post subacute stroke. In total there will be 40 patients enrolled, diagnosed with subacute, ischemic, unilateral, non-recurring stroke. Participants will be randomized to two groups, one with active stimulation and the other with a placebo current. Patients and investigators will be blinded. Everyone will receive systematic physical therapy, based on constraint-induced movement therapy. The intervention will be applied for 10 consecutive days. Patients will undergo three functional assessments: at baseline, week 2, and week 4. Neuropsychological tests will be performed at baseline and week 4. Adverse effects will be computed at each session. On completion of the baseline measures, randomization will be conducted using random permuted blocks. The randomization will be concealed until group allocation. Discussion This study will investigate the combined effects of transcranial direct current stimulation and physical therapy on functional improvement after stroke. We tested whether the combination of these treatments is more effective than physical therapy alone when administered in the early stages after stroke. Trial registration NCT02156635 - May 30, 2014. Randomization is ongoing (40 participants randomized as of the end of December 2015).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suellen M Andrade
- Cognitive Neuroscience and Behavior Program, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil.
| | - Natanael A Santos
- Perception, Neurosciences and Behavior Laboratory, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil.
| | | | - Paulo S Boggio
- Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory and Developmental Disorders Program, Mackenzie Presbyterian University, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Eliane A Oliveira
- Center for Research in Human Movement Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil.
| | - José J Ferreira
- Study Group of Human Movement, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil.
| | - Amanda Sobreira
- Center for Research in Human Movement Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil.
| | - Felipe Morgan
- Center for Research in Human Movement Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil.
| | - Germana Medeiros
- Study Group of Human Movement, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil.
| | - Gyovanna S Cavalcanti
- Center for Research in Human Movement Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil.
| | - Ingrid D Gadelha
- Center for Research in Human Movement Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil.
| | - Jader Duarte
- Study Group of Human Movement, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil.
| | - Joercia Marrocos
- Center for Research in Human Movement Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil.
| | - Michele A Silva
- Center for Research in Human Movement Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil.
| | - Thatiana Rufino
- Study Group of Human Movement, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil.
| | - Sanmy R Nóbrega
- Neuromuscular Adaptations Laboratory, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Teixeira NC, Santos NA, Maurício RM, Guedes RNC, Oliveira MGA, Campos WG. Cabbage Seasonal Leaf Quality Mediating the Diamondback Moth Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Yponomeutidae) Performance. Neotrop Entomol 2013; 42:545-551. [PMID: 27193271 DOI: 10.1007/s13744-013-0156-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2013] [Accepted: 07/16/2013] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Seasonal variation in plant quality may be intense enough to generate predictable patterns in insect herbivore populations. In order to explain seasonal oscillations in neotropical populations of the diamondback moth Plutella xylostella (L.), we tested the following: (1) if nutritional quality of cabbage (Brassica oleraceae var. capitata), a primary host plant of diamondback moth, adversely affects the performance of this insect in late spring and early summer, when populations decline and go extinct, and (2) if nutritional features of cabbage change with the seasons. We measured the performance of diamondback moth reared on leaves of cabbages grown during the four seasons of the year. Summer plants proved to be worse for the survival of the immature stages and subsequent adult fecundity, but there were no significant differences between the remaining seasons. Our results support the hypothesis that short-lived plants, grown in different seasons of the year in the tropics, have different nutritional and defensive attributes. We analyzed nutritional quality of cabbage leaves from the four seasons, but only total lipids were reduced in summer plants. Neotropical populations of diamondback moth collapse before plant quality decay in the summer. If the diamondback moth is well adapted to the seasonal deterioration of the habitat, including the reduction in the quality of host plants, it is expected that emigration happens before the mortality increases and natality decreases during the summer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N C Teixeira
- Depto de Engenharia de Biossistemas, Univ Federal de São João del Rei, 36301-160, São João del Rei, MG, Brasil
| | - N A Santos
- Depto de Engenharia de Biossistemas, Univ Federal de São João del Rei, 36301-160, São João del Rei, MG, Brasil
| | - R M Maurício
- Depto de Engenharia de Biossistemas, Univ Federal de São João del Rei, 36301-160, São João del Rei, MG, Brasil
| | - R N C Guedes
- Depto de Entomologia, Univ Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brasil
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Interação Planta-Praga, Viçosa, MG, Brasil
| | - M G A Oliveira
- Depto de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Univ Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brasil
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Interação Planta-Praga, Viçosa, MG, Brasil
| | - W G Campos
- Depto de Engenharia de Biossistemas, Univ Federal de São João del Rei, 36301-160, São João del Rei, MG, Brasil.
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Interação Planta-Praga, Viçosa, MG, Brasil.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Costa TL, Nogueira RMTBL, Pereira AGF, Santos NA. Differential effects of aging on spatial contrast sensitivity to linear and polar sine-wave gratings. Braz J Med Biol Res 2013; 46:855-60. [PMID: 24141613 PMCID: PMC3854312 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x20133117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2013] [Accepted: 07/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Changes in visual function beyond high-contrast acuity are known to take place
during normal aging. We determined whether sensitivity to linear sine-wave
gratings and to an elementary stimulus preferentially processed in extrastriate
areas could be distinctively affected by aging. We measured spatial contrast
sensitivity twice for concentric polar (Bessel) and vertical linear gratings of
0.6, 2.5, 5, and 20 cycles per degree (cpd) in two age groups (20-30 and 60-70
years). All participants were free of identifiable ocular disease and had normal
or corrected-to-normal visual acuity. Participants were more sensitive to
Cartesian than to polar gratings in all frequencies tested, and the younger
adult group was more sensitive to all stimuli tested. Significant differences
between sensitivities of the two groups were found for linear (only 20 cpd;
P<0.01) and polar gratings (all frequencies tested; P<0.01). The young
adult group was significantly more sensitive to linear than to circular gratings
in the 20 cpd frequency. The older adult group was significantly more sensitive
to linear than to circular gratings in all spatial frequencies, except in the 20
cpd frequency. The results suggest that sensitivity to the two kinds of stimuli
is affected differently by aging. We suggest that neural changes in the aging
brain are important determinants of this difference and discuss the results
according to current models of human aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T L Costa
- Departamento de Psicologia Experimental, Instituto de Psicologia, Universidade de São Paulo, São PauloSP, Brasil
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Simas MLDB, Nogueira RMTBL, Menezes GMM, Amaral VF, Lacerda AM, Santos NA. O uso de pinturas de Dalí como ferramenta para avaliação das alterações na percepção de forma e tamanho em pacientes esquizofrênicos. Psicol USP 2011. [DOI: 10.1590/s0103-65642011005000006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Estudos envolvendo portadores de esquizofrenia têm mostrado alterações severas da percepção e cognição. A maioria dos diagnósticos, entretanto, é baseada na avaliação de processos cognitivos. Nossos estudos investigaram a percepção alterada de forma e tamanho em pacientes com esquizofrenia e com depressão maior utilizando 24 pinturas de Salvador Dalí. Conduzimos dois estudos comparando grupos experimental e controle e observamos, em ambos os casos, que os portadores de esquizofrenia perceberam figuras 1,5 e 3,0 vezes maior do que os respectivos grupos controle. Em outro estudo com pacientes com depressão maior não foram observadas alterações na percepção de tamanho comparado ao grupo controle. Concluímos que este efeito de percepção de forma e tamanho alterados pode servir como marcador no diagnóstico precoce da presença de sintomas positivos na esquizofrenia. Sugerimos que estas pinturas de Salvador Dalí sejam utilizadas como ferramenta para avaliar alterações na percepção de formas e tamanhos em pacientes portadores de esquizofrenia e, assim, prevenir o agravamento dos sintomas cognitivos.
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to determine contrast sensitivity curves of concentric circular patterns with radial frequencies of 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 cycles per degree in young and older adult volunteers. These parameters were also compared with sensitivity contrasts for sine-wave gratings. All participants had normal acuity vision and were free of identifiable ocular illness. Contrast sensitivity was measured in 6 young adults aged 19 to 23 years and 6 older adults aged 60 to 69 years using the psychophysical forced-choice method. In this paradigm the volunteers had to decide which of two stimuli contained the above radial frequencies at low contrast levels. The other neutral stimulus was gray with homogeneous luminance. We detected a decline in contrast sensitivity for older adults at all radial frequencies compared to young adults. Also, contrast sensitivity for sine-wave gratings at all measured frequencies was better, as predicted, for all young adults. Maximum sensitivities in the radial frequency contrast sensitivity function and contrast sensitivity function occurred at 0.25 and 0.5 cycles per degree, respectively, for both young and older adults. These results suggest age-related changes in the contrast sensitivity function for concentric symmetrical stimuli.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N A Santos
- Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brasil.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Simas MLB, Nogueira RMTBL, Santos NA. Radial frequency stimuli and sine-wave gratings seem to be processed by distinct contrast brain mechanisms. Braz J Med Biol Res 2005; 38:419-30. [PMID: 15761622 DOI: 10.1590/s0100-879x2005000300013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
An assumption commonly made in the study of visual perception is that the lower the contrast threshold for a given stimulus, the more sensitive and selective will be the mechanism that processes it. On the basis of this consideration, we investigated contrast thresholds for two classes of stimuli: sine-wave gratings and radial frequency stimuli (i.e., j0 targets or stimuli modulated by spherical Bessel functions). Employing a suprathreshold summation method, we measured the selectivity of spatial and radial frequency filters using either sine-wave gratings or j0 target contrast profiles at either 1 or 4 cycles per degree of visual angle (cpd), as the test frequencies. Thus, in a forced-choice trial, observers chose between a background spatial (or radial) frequency alone and the given background stimulus plus the test frequency (1 or 4 cpd sine-wave grating or radial frequency). Contrary to our expectations, the results showed elevated thresholds (i.e., inhibition) for sine-wave gratings and decreased thresholds (i.e., summation) for radial frequencies when background and test frequencies were identical. This was true for both 1- and 4-cpd test frequencies. This finding suggests that sine-wave gratings and radial frequency stimuli are processed by different quasi-linear systems, one working at low luminance and contrast level (sine-wave gratings) and the other at high luminance and contrast levels (radial frequency stimuli). We think that this interpretation is consistent with distinct foveal only and foveal-parafoveal mechanisms involving striate and/or other higher visual areas (i.e., V2 and V4).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M L B Simas
- Laboratório de Percepção Visual, Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brasil.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to measure contrast sensitivity curves for angular frequencies in the range between 2 and 96 cycles/360 masculine in older human adult volunteers and to compare these measurements with the more usual contrast sensitivity functions for sine-wave gratings. All subjects were free of identifiable ocular disease and had normal acuity. We measured the contrast thresholds for young adults (N=6; age range, 20-26 years) and older adults (N=6; age range, 60-67 years) using the psychophysical forced-choice method. In this paradigm the volunteers had to choose the stimulus containing a test frequency at low contrast (e.g., either a sine-wave grating or an angular frequency stimulus), or another neutral stimulus at mean luminance (without any contrast). Older adults presented a loss in contrast sensitivity at high and medium angular frequencies compared to the young adults (i.e., from 8 to 96 cycles/360 degrees). Contrary to expectation, contrast sensitivity at low angular frequencies, i.e., 2 and 4 cycles/360 degrees, was better for the older group than for the younger group. On the other hand, contrast sensitivity for sine-wave gratings at 3 and 4 cpd was higher for young adults as expected. These results suggest age-related changes in the contrast sensitivity function for angular frequencies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N A Santos
- Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, Jõao Pessoa, PB, Brasil.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Abstract
We measured human contrast sensitivity to radial frequencies modulated by cylindrical (Jo) and spherical (jo) Bessel profiles. We also measured responses to profiles of jo, j1, j2, j4, j8, and j16. Functions were measured three times by at least three of eight observers using a forced-choice method. The results conform to our expectations that sensitivity would be higher for cylindrical profiles. We also observed that contrast sensitivity is increased with the j n order for n greater than zero, having distinct orderly effects at the low and high frequency ends. For n = 0, 1, 2, and 4 sensitivity tended to occur around 0.8-1.0 cpd while for n = 8 and 16 it seemed to shift gradually to 0.8-3.0 cpd. We interpret these results as being consistent with the possibility that spatial frequency processing by the human visual system can be defined a priori in terms of polar coordinates and discuss its application to study face perception.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M L B Simas
- Laboratório de Percepção Visual, Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brasil.
| | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
We measured human frequency response functions for seven angular frequency filters whose test frequencies were centered at 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 16 or 24 cycles/360 degree using a supra-threshold summation method. The seven functions of 17 experimental conditions each were measured nine times for five observers. For the arbitrarily selected filter phases, the maximum summation effect occurred at test frequency for filters at 1, 2, 3, 4 and 8 cycles/360 degree. For both 16 and 24 cycles/360 degree test frequencies, maximum summation occurred at the lower harmonics. These results allow us to conclude that there are narrow-band angular frequency filters operating somehow in the human visual system either through summation or inhibition of specific frequency ranges. Furthermore, as a general result, it appears that addition of higher angular frequencies to lower ones disturbs low angular frequency perception (i.e., 1, 2, 3 and 4 cycles/360 degree), whereas addition of lower harmonics to higher ones seems to improve detection of high angular frequency harmonics (i.e., 8, 16 and 24 cycles/360 degree). Finally, we discuss the possible involvement of coupled radial and angular frequency filters in face perception using an example where narrow-band low angular frequency filters could have a major role.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M L B Simas
- LabVis, Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brasil.
| | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Marques MP, Santos NA, Coelho EB, Bonato PS, Lanchote VL. Enantioselective assay of nisoldipine in human plasma by chiral high-performance liquid chromatography combined with gas chromatographic-mass spectrometry: applications to pharmacokinetics. J Chromatogr B Biomed Sci Appl 2001; 762:87-95. [PMID: 11589462 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-4347(01)00352-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Nisoldipine, a second-generation dihydropyridine calcium antagonist, is a racemate compound used in the treatment of hypertension and coronary heart disease. This study presents an enantioselective HPLC-GC-MS method for the analysis of nisoldipine in human plasma and establishes confidence limits for its application to pharmacokinetic studies. Plasma samples were basified and extracted with toluene. The enantiomers were resolved on a Chiralcel OD-H column using hexane-ethanol (97.5:2.5, v/v) and the (+)- and (-)-fractions were collected separately with the diode array detector switched off. For the quantification of the nisoldipine enantiomers a GC-MS with an Ultra 1 Hewlett-Packard column was used with the detector operated in the single-ion monitoring mode with electron-impact ionization (m/z 371.35 and 270.20 for nisoldipine and m/z 360.00 for the internal standard, nitrendipine). The method proved to be suitable for pharmacokinetic studies based on the low quantification limit (0.05 ng/ml for each enantiomer) and the broad linear range (0.05-50.0 ng/ml for each enantiomer). Low coefficients of variation (<15%) were demonstrated for both within-day and between-day assays. No interference from drugs associated with nisoldipine treatment was observed. The enantioselective pilot study on the kinetic disposition of nisoldipine administered in the racemic form to a hypertensive patient using a multiple dose regimen revealed the accumulation of the (+)-enantiomer with an AUC(0-24) (+)/(-) ratio of approximately 8. Both enantiomers were quantified in plasma at a time interval of 24 h. This HPLC-GC-MS method is reliable, selective and sensitive enough to be used in clinical pharmacokinetic studies on the enantioselective disposition of nisoldipine in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M P Marques
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Santos AC, Uyemura SA, Santos NA, Mingatto FE, Curti C. Hg(II)-induced renal cytotoxicity: in vitro and in vivo implications for the bioenergetic and oxidative status of mitochondria. Mol Cell Biochem 1997; 177:53-9. [PMID: 9450645 DOI: 10.1023/a:1006861319378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The effects of Hg(II) on bioenergetic and oxidative status of rat renal cortex mitochondria were evaluated both in vitro, and in vivo 1 and 24 h after treatment of animals with 5 mg HgCl2/kg i.p. The parameters assessed were mitochondrial respiration, ATP synthesis and hydrolysis, glutathione content, lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and activity of antioxidant enzymes. At low concentration (5 microM) and during a short incubation time, Hg(II) uncoupled oxidative phosphorylation while at slightly higher concentration or longer incubation time the ion impaired the respiratory chain. The rate of ATP synthesis and the phosphorylation potential of mitochondria were depressed, although inhibition of ATP synthesis did not exceed 50%. In vivo, respiration and ATP synthesis were not affected 1 h post-treatment, but were markedly depressed 24 h later. ATP hydrolysis by submitochondrial particle FoF1-ATPase was inhibited (also by no more than 50%) both in vitro, and in vivo 1 and 24 h post-treatment. Hg(II) induced maximum ATPase inhibition at about 1 microM concentration but did not have a strong inhibitory effect in the presence of Triton X-100. Oxidative stress was not observed in mitochondria 1 h post-treatment. However, 24 h later Hg(II) reduced the GSH/GSSG ratio and increased mitochondrial lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation, as well as inhibited GSH-peroxidase and GSSG-reductase activities. These results suggest that the following sequence of events may be involved in Hg(II) toxicity in the kidney: (1) inhibition of FoF1-ATPase, (2) uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation, (3) oxidative stress-associated impairment of the respiratory chain, and (4) inhibition of ATP synthesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A C Santos
- Department of Clinical, Toxicological and Bromatological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brasil
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Simas ML, Santos NA, Thiers FA. Contrast sensitivity to angular frequency stimuli is higher than that for sinewave gratings in the respective middle range. Braz J Med Biol Res 1997; 30:633-6. [PMID: 9283631 DOI: 10.1590/s0100-879x1997000500010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This study compares contrast thresholds for sinewave gratings, or spatial frequencies (1/CSF) with contrast thresholds for angular frequencies (1/aCSF) and for radial frequencies, or Jzero targets (1/rCSF). Observers had to differentiate between one of these frequency stimuli and a stimulus at mean luminance within a forced-choice procedure. All measurements were made with the same equipment, methods and subjects. Our results show higher sensitivity to, or lower thresholds for, angular frequencies when compared to either sinewave gratings or Jzero targets. Contrast values in arbitrary units, in the lower threshold range for angular frequencies, were about half those required to differentiate sinewave gratings from mean luminance in its most sensitive range.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M L Simas
- LabVis-UFPE, Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Brasil.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|