Social connections and depressive symptoms among older adults during the initial lockdown period for COVID-19 / Conexiones sociales y síntomas depresivos entre adultos mayores durante el primer período de confinamiento por COVID-19

Abstract Introduction Little information from developing countries during the first lockdown for COVID-19 is available. We hypothesized that the use of communication tools, and not living alone would provide a protective effect against DS. Objective To determine the association between social connections and depressive symptoms (DS) during the first lockdown period among Mexican community-dwelling older adults. Method Cross-sectional phone survey including 269 participants aged 65 years or older. Participants were asked about their social connections and the presence of DS during the first lockdown for COVID-19. Results Mean age was 83.2 (SD = 6.7). Compared with those without DS, those with DS reported a greater number of phone calls or videocalls although this was not statistically significant. However, when stratifying by housing situation, only the participants who lived alone and that received less calls from friends had more DS (p = .04). Discussion and conclusion Living alone allowed the participants not to have much contact with family and this caused friends to represent the most important social relationship outside the home. We hypothesize that the means to stay socially active for older adults in Latin America are different and have a different impact. Because, DS only were present among the participants who reported living alone and having fewer calls from friends during the confinement period.

Resumen Introducción Hay poca información disponible sobre los países en desarrollo durante el primer período de confinamiento por COVID-19. Planteamos la hipótesis de que el uso de herramientas de telecomunicación y vivir acompañado proporciona un efecto protector frente a la presencia de síntomas depresivos (SD). Objetivo Determinar la asociación entre las conexiones sociales y los SD durante el primer período de confinamiento en adultos mayores mexicanos que viven en la comunidad. Método A través de un estudio transversal, 269 participantes de 65 años o más completaron una encuesta telefónica sobre sus conexiones sociales y la presencia de SD durante el primer período de confinamiento por COVID-19. Resultados La edad media fue de 83.2 (DE = 6.7). En comparación con los que no tenían SD, los que tenían SD reportaron un mayor número de llamadas telefónicas o videollamadas, pero esto no fue estadísticamente significativo. Sin embargo, al estratificar por situación de vivienda, los participantes que vivían solos y que recibían menos llamadas de amigos tenían más SD (p = .04). Discusión y conclusión Vivir solo permitió a los participantes no tener mucho contacto con la familia y esto provocó que los amigos representaran la relación social más importante fuera del hogar. Creemos que los medios para mantenerse socialmente activos de los adultos mayores en América Latina son diferentes y tienen un impacto diferente. Debido a que los SD solo estuvieron presentes entre los participantes que reportaron vivir solos y tener menos llamadas de amigos durante período de confinamiento.

Alcoholización de la vena de Marshall: una alternativa rápida, útil y efectiva en el tratamiento del aleteo auricular perimitral. Una descripción de la técnica / Marshall vein alcoholization, fast, useful and effective alternative in the treatment of perimitral atrial flutter. A description of the technique

Resumen Se presenta el caso de un paciente de 68 años con aleteo auricular perimitral recurrente a terapia antiarrítmica en el seguimiento de ablación de venas pulmonares por fibrilación auricular. En este caso no se logra el control de la arritmia a pesar de una aproximación usual; se aplica radiofrecuencia endoepicárdica del istmo mitral. En vista de lo anterior, se decide realizar alcoholización de la vena de Marshall; una técnica rápida, útil y efectiva en el control de esta arritmia. A continuación, se describe el paso a paso con el objetivo de familiarizar a los cardiólogos intervencionistas con esta técnica. A la fecha, el paciente se encuentra en ritmo sinusal y sin recurrencia de la arritmia en el seguimiento.

Abstract The case of a 68-year-old patient with recurrent perimitral atrial flutter to anti-arrhythmic therapy in the follow-up of pulmonary vein ablation due to atrial fibrillation is presented. In our case, arrhythmia control is not achieved despite a usual approach; Endo-epicardial radiofrequency application at the mitral isthmus level. Given the above, it was decided to alcoholize Marshall’s vein; a fast, useful and effective technique in the control of this arrhythmia. Here is a step-by-step guide to familiarize interventional cardiologists with this technique. The patient is in sinus rhythm and without recurrence of the arrhythmia at follow-up.

The effect of brain aging on the brain′s walking network as revealed by functional near infrared spectroscopy / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

Objective:To explore any effect of brain aging on the brain′s walking network and its mechanism.Methods:Twenty healthy elderly people and 22 healthy young adults formed an elderly group and a youth group. All were evaluated using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Timed Up and Go test (TUGT), the 10-metre walk test (10MWT), the functional near infrared spectroscopy walking synchrony test and GaitRite gait parameters. The intensity of functional connections and the gait parameters of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and the primary motor cortex (MC) were compared between the two groups.Results:Compared with the youth group, the average cadence of the elderly group was significantly faster. The FC value of the RPFC in the homologous ROI, as well as those of the RMC-RPFC and RPFC-LPFC in the heterologous ROI of the elderly group were significantly lower than in the youth group.Conclusions:Lower FC values in the RPFC and its associated brain regions in the elderly during normal walking may be what activates the brain′s walking network in the early stage of brain aging.

Biometría de las conexiones intertendinosas del dorso de la mano humana / Biometry of the intertendinous connection of the dorsum of the human hand

RESUMEN: Las conexiones intertendinosas (CIT) son bandas estrechas de tejido conectivo que unen tendones adyacentes del músculo extensor de los dedos. Dichas bandas se ubican de manera superficial en el dorso del segundo, tercer y cuarto espacios intermetacarpianos (EIMC) presentando funciones importantes como colaborar en la estabilización de la articulación metacarpofalángica y permitir la redistribución de fuerzas extensoras sobre esta articulación. El objetivo del presente estudio fue establecer la biometría de las CIT. Para ello se utilizaron 24 miembros superiores formolizados, pertenecientes al laboratorio de Anatomía, de la Universidad Andrés Bello, sede Viña del Mar, Chile. Se registraron las longitudes de inserción lateral y medial, el ancho y la longitud total de cada CIT. Siguiendo dos criterios, las CIT se clasificaron según morfología y además se localizaron según tercios del dorso de la mano. De las 69 CIT encontradas, el 39 % presentó una disposición transversa y 61 % una oblicua. En relación a la clasificación morfológica de la CIT se identificó un 29 % del tipo 1; 39 % del tipo 2. Para el caso del tipo 3, un 20 % presentó la forma "r" y en un 12 % la forma "y". Respecto a su localización se estableció que en el segundo EIMC el 18 % de las CIT se ubicaron el tercio distal del dorso y el 82 % en el tercio medio. En el tercer EIMC el 96 % de las CIT se localizó en el tercio distal y 4 % en el tercio medio. En el cuarto EIMC el 96 % se ubicó en el tercio distal y el 4 % en el tercio medio. Considerando como referencia la línea biestiloidea, las CIT en el segundo EIMC presentaron un promedio de ancho de 8,16 ± 1,94 mm y una longitud total promedio de 13,71 ± 4,70 mm. En el tercer EIMC, un promedio de 10,94 ± 4,39 mm para el ancho y 6,29 ± 3,26 mm de longitud total promedio. En el cuarto EIMC el promedio de ancho fue de 7,00 ± 3,06 mm y la longitud total promedio 7,08 ± 4,42 mm. Estos hallazgos aportan datos respecto de la biometría y localización de las CIT, lo que resulta de utilidad en procedimientos de reparación quirúrgica del dorso de la mano humana.

SUMMARY: Intertendinous connections (IC) are narrow connective tissue bands extending between the extensor digitorum (ED) tendons. These bands are located superficially on the dorsum of the second, third and fourth intermetacarpal (IMC) space, presenting important functions such as collaborating in the stabilization of the metacarpophalangeal joint (MCP) and allowing the redistribution of extensor forces on this joint. The objective of the present study was to establish the biometric characteristics of IC. To do this, 24 formalized upper limbs are used, belonging to the Anatomy laboratory of the Universidad Andrés Bello, Viña del Mar, Chile. Lateral and medial insertion lengths, width and total length of each IC were recorded. Following two criteria, IC were classified according to morphology and were also located according to thirds of the back of the hand. 69 IC were found, 39% presented a transverse arrangement and 61 % an oblique arrangement. In relation to the morphological classification of IC, 29 % of type 1 were identified, 39 % of type 2. In the case of type 3, 20 % presented the form "r" and 12 % the form "y". Regarding its location, it was established that in the second IMC space, 18 % of the IC were located in the distal third of the back and 82 % in the middle third. In the third IMC space, 96 % of the IC was located in the distal third and 4 % in the middle third. In the fourth IMC space, 96 % were located in the distal third and 4 % in the middle third. Considering the biestiloid line as a reference, the IC in the second IMC space considers an average width of 8.16 + 1.94 mm and an average total length of 13.71 + 4.70 mm. In the third IMC space, an average of 10.94 + 4.39 mm for the width and 6.29 + 3.26 mm of average total length. In the fourth IMC space the average total width of 7.00 + 3.06 mm and the average total length of 7.08 + 4.42 mm. These findings provide data regarding the biometrics and location of IC, which is useful in surgical repair procedures on the back of the human hand.

Research progress of ciRS-7 in cardiovascular diseases / 中国比较医学杂志

Cardiovascular disease is still the world's first cause of death,its morbidity and mortality rates are still increasing. Recent studies have shown that circular RNA is involved in the regulation of gene expression and plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. Circular RNA is a kind of special non-coding RNA, which can regulate the expression of genes at the level of post-transcription or transcription,then regulate various life activities as well as cardiovascular system diseases,becoming a latest research hot spot in the field of RNA. Nowadays,more and more attention is paid to the role of cyclic RNA in the development, early diagnosis, disease monitoring and other aspects of cardiovascular diseases. In this paper,we make an overview of the latest research on circRNAs from the aspects of genesis, function,and the relationship with cardiovas cular diseases,and so on.

Flowing into the unknown: inferred paleodrainages for studying the ichthyofauna of Brazilian coastal rivers

The eastern coastal basins of Brazil are a series of small and isolated rivers that drain directly into the Atlantic Ocean. During the Pleistocene, sea-level retreat caused by glaciations exposed the continental shelf, resulting in enlarged paleodrainages that connected rivers that are isolated today. Using Geographic Information System (GIS), we infer the distribution of these paleodrainages, and their properties for the east Brazilian coast. Specifically, using elevation/bathymetric data for the largest sea-level retreats during the Pleistocene, the paleodrainages, their area and the number of contemporary basins connected by each palaeodrainage, was inferred. For the 145 inferred paleodrainages, total paleodrainage area is strongly correlated with the contemporary area encompassed by each paleodrainage, as well as with the number of contemporary basins encompassed by a paleodrainage. Differences in the continental shelf exposure along the coast affected the degree of past connectivity among contemporary rivers. With our results freely available, we discuss how paleodrainages have tremendous utility in biological studies, especially in regions with limited geologic data. With respect to the diverse ichthyofauna of the Brazilian coast, and its high endemism, we highlight how the inferred paleodrainages provide a backdrop to test hypotheses about the effect of past riverine connectivity on diversity patterns.(AU)

As bacias costeiras do leste do Brasil são formadas por uma série de rios pequenos e isolados que drenam diretamente para o Oceano Atlântico. Durante o Pleistoceno, o recuo do nível do mar causado por glaciações expôs a plataforma continental, resultando em paleodrenagens amplas que conectaram rios atualmente isolados. Usando o Sistema de Informações Geográficas (GIS), inferimos a distribuição destas paleodrenagens e suas propriedades ao longo da costa leste do Brasil. Especificamente, utilizando dados de elevação/batimetria para as maiores regressões marinhas do Pleistoceno, inferimos as paleodrenagens, suas áreas e quantas bacias contemporâneas foram conectadas por cada paleodrenagem. Para as 145 paleodrenagens inferidas, uma forte correlação é observada entre a área das paleodrenagens e a área atualmente exposta de cada paleodrenagem, bem como a quantidade de bacias contemporâneas conectadas por uma paleodrenagem. Diferenças na exposição da plataforma continental ao longo da costa afetaram o grau de conectividade passada entre os rios. Com estes resultados publicamente disponíveis, discutimos como as paleodrenagens são extremamente úteis para estudos biológicos, especialmente em regiões com dados geológicos limitados. A respeito da diversa ictiofauna da costa brasileira e seus altos níveis de endemismo, destacamos como estas paleodrenagens fornecem uma base importante para o teste de hipóteses a respeito do efeito da conectividade passada dos rios nos padrões de diversidade biológica.(AU)

Variaciones anatómicas en el drenaje venoso del cuello / Anatomical variations in the venous drainage of the neck

Resumen Las venas superficiales, especialmente la vena yugular externa, son cada vez más utilizadas para canalización o procedimientos diagnósticos, terapias intravenosas, nutrición parenteral en pacientes debilitados. Las variaciones en el drenaje venoso de la cabeza y cuello son importantes no solamente para los anatomistas y radiólogos, sino también para los cirujanos. Durante una disección de rutina en el Laboratorio de Morfología de la Universidad de Pamplona en un cadáver masculino de 75 años de edad, se encontraron variaciones anatómicas e inusuales patrones de drenaje en la región de cara y cuello, las cuales fueron cuidadosamente disecadas y los detalles morfológicos fueron fotografiados; esas variaciones consistían en: ausencia unilateral de vena yugular externa. La vena lingual, la vena infrahioidea y la vena tiroidea superior tenían conexiones venosas transversas que drenaban en un arco venoso localizado entre la arteria carótida común y la arteria tiroidea superior. Este arco venoso drenaba hacia arriba en la vena facial común y hacia abajo en la vena yugular interna. El conocimiento de las variaciones anatómicas y morfológicas en las venas de cabeza y cuello es esencial para llevar a cabo procedimientos quirúrgicos exitosos en estas regiones.

Abstract The superficial veins, especially the external jugular vein are increasingly used for cannulation or diagnostic procedures, intravenous therapy, parenteral nutrition in debilitated patients. Variations in the venous drainage of the head and neck are important not only for anatomists and radiologists but also for surgeons. During routine dissection in the Laboratory of Morphology, University of Pamplona in a 75 year-old male cadaver in the region face and neck anatomical variations and unusual drainage patterns were found, which were dissected carefully and morphological details were photographed; these variations consisted of unilateral absence of external jugular vein. The lingual vein, the infrahyoid vein and the superior thyroid vein had transverse venous connections that drained into a venous arch located between the common carotid artery and the superior thyroid artery. This draining venous arch upward in the common facial vein and down into the internal jugular vein. Knowledge of the anatomical and morphological variations in the veins of the head and neck is essential to carry out successful surgical procedures in these regions.

Honeydew foraging by birds in an Atlantic Forest fragment of Minas Gerais State, Brazil

Honeydew foraging by birds has been extensively documented in recent years. However, this interaction has been poorly documented in Brazil, with predominance of few species of birds foraging only in Mimosa scabrella trees. With the objective of describing the behavior of birds interacting with scale insects associated with trees, we conducted a study at the Serra de São José, Tiradentes, in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Observations were recorded from June to July 2012. We observed 13 species of birds feeding on honeydew scale insects, eight never previously recorded. We observed individuals using aerial and surface maneuvers to collect the honeydew on the branches or reaching the droppings below the branches. These species were observed foraging individually, in pairs and also in large groups. Our results suggest that honeydew excretion from scale insects associated with Pseudopiptadenia leptostachya trees represents an important energy source for local birds as observed in fragments of Atlantic Forest in the Minas Gerais State, southeast region of Brazil.

O uso de excreções líquidas açucaradas por aves tem sido amplamente divulgado nos últimos anos. No entanto, estudos acerca desta interação são escassos no Brasil, sendo que os poucos existentes relatam apenas algumas espécies de aves forrageando a excreção de insetos presentes em uma única espécie de árvore (Mimosa scabrella). Com o objetivo de descrever o comportamento de aves interagindo com insetos excretores de líquidos açucarados associados com árvores, nós conduzimos um estudo na Serra de São José, município de Tiradentes em Minas Gerais, Brasil. Nossas observações foram feitas de Junho a Julho de 2012 e 13 espécies de aves foram registradas forrageando a excreção, sendo que oito delas nunca haviam sido anteriormente registradas envolvidas neste tipo de interação. Nós observamos indivíduos usando manobras aéreas e na superfície das árvores para coletar a excreção nos galhos ou alcançar gotículas debaixo dos troncos. Estas espécies foram observadas forrageando individualmente, em pares ou em grandes grupos. Nossos resultados sugerem que a excreção açucarada excretada por insetos associados com árvores mamica-de-porca (Pseudopiptadenia leptostachya), representa uma importante fonte de energia para as aves, conforme observado em fragmentos de mata Atlântica no Estado de Minas Gerais, sudeste do Brasil.

Avaliação da resistência à fratura e tensões em diferentes implantes e conexões protéticas: análise in vitro e MEF-3D / Evaluation of the fracture resistance and tensions in different implants and prosthetic connections: in vitro analysis and 3D-FEM

As conexões pilar-implante podem ser classificadas em externas ou internas, sendo responsáveis por influenciar não o comportamento mecânico do sistema. A conexão interna apresenta melhor selamento biológico e distribuição de forças e maior estabilidade quando comparados à conexão externa. Em algumas situações, os implantes e as estruturas a ele conectadas podem fraturar, tornando-se um grave problema para a reabilitação protética. Os implantes também podem ser inseridos em rebordos alveolares com pouca espessura, para isso, possuem diâmetros reduzidos, demonstrado uma taxa de sobrevida e de sucesso similares aos dos implantes com diâmetro regular. PROPOSIÇÃO: Investigar a resistência à fratura entre diferentes conexões, com ou sem a interposição de mini-pilar e implantes com diâmetro reduzido por meio de teste de compressão em uma máquina de ensaio universal e as distribuições de tensões nos conjuntos e parafusos de retenção pelo método de elementos finitos. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: 98 implantes divididos em 14 grupos (n=7), de acordo com sua conexão protética e diâmetros diferentes. Estes implantes foram inseridos em cilindros de resina com inclinação de 30° e com 3 mm de exposição. Utilizou-se pilares UCLAs e intermediários tipo mini-pilares de 2 mm. Os ensaios mecânicos foram realizados por um máquina de ensaio universal e o MEF-3D no programa computacional Solidworks®. RESULTADOS: Nos implantes de 4.0 mm de diâmetro com UCLA os maiores valores, foram obtidos, de forma decrescente: cone Morse hexagonal (CMH) , hexágono interno morse (HIM) , hexágono interno (HI) , hexágono externo (HE), cone Morse (CM), cone Morse hexagonal com microroscas (CMHM); no grupo de implantes com diâmetro reduzido os valores foram: cone morse com diâmetro reduzido (CMDR), corpo único reduzido (UNDR) e hexágono externo com corpo reduzido (HEDR). Com a utilização de um pilar intermediário os maiores valores de resistência à ruptura foram observados nos implantes HI seguidos pelo HIM...

The implant-abutment connections can be classified as external or internal, being responsible for influencing not only the mechanical behavior of the system, but also the response of the peri-implant tissues. The internal connection provides better sealing and biological distribution of forces and greater stability when compared to the external connection. In some cases, implants and structures connected to it may fracture and become a serious problem for prosthetic rehabilitation. Implants can also be inserted into alveolar ridges with little thickness to it, have reduced diameter, demonstrated a rate of survival and success similar to the regular diameter implants. PURPOSE: To investigate the fracture resistance between different connections, with or without the interposition of mini-implant and abutment with the reduced diameter through compression test on a universal testing machine and the finite element method. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 98 implants were divided into 14 groups (n = 7), according to their different diameters and prosthetic connection. These implants were inserted into the resin cylinder with an inclination of 30 ° and 3 mm exposure. We used UCLAs pillars and intermediate mini-pillars 2 mm. The mechanical tests were performed by a universal testing machine and MEF-in 3D computer program Solidworks ®. RESULTS: In implants of 4.0 mm diameter with UCLA and the highest values were obtained in decreasing the hexagon morse taper (HCM) , internal hexagon morse (HIM) , internal hexagon (HI) ,external hexagon (HE) , morse taper (CM), microthread hexagonal morse taper (CMHM) in a group of implants with reduced diameter values were worn diameter morse taper (CMDR) , worn diameter only body (UNDR) and external hexagon with worn diameter (HEDR). With the use of an abutment higher values of tensile strength were observed in the implants HI followed by HIM. The location of the maximum stresses and von Mises were similar in all groups except the group HIM...

Avaliação da resistência à fratura e tensões em diferentes implantes e conexões protéticas: análise in vitro e MEF-3D / Evaluation of the fracture resistance and tensions in different implants and prosthetic connections: in vitro analysis and 3D-FEM

As conexões pilar-implante podem ser classificadas em externas ou internas, sendo responsáveis por influenciar não o comportamento mecânico do sistema. A conexão interna apresenta melhor selamento biológico e distribuição de forças e maior estabilidade quando comparados à conexão externa. Em algumas situações, os implantes e as estruturas a ele conectadas podem fraturar, tornando-se um grave problema para a reabilitação protética. Os implantes também podem ser inseridos em rebordos alveolares com pouca espessura, para isso, possuem diâmetros reduzidos, demonstrado uma taxa de sobrevida e de sucesso similares aos dos implantes com diâmetro regular. PROPOSIÇÃO: Investigar a resistência à fratura entre diferentes conexões, com ou sem a interposição de mini-pilar e implantes com diâmetro reduzido por meio de teste de compressão em uma máquina de ensaio universal e as distribuições de tensões nos conjuntos e parafusos de retenção pelo método de elementos finitos. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: 98 implantes divididos em 14 grupos (n=7), de acordo com sua conexão protética e diâmetros diferentes. Estes implantes foram inseridos em cilindros de resina com inclinação de 30° e com 3 mm de exposição. Utilizou-se pilares UCLAs e intermediários tipo mini-pilares de 2 mm. Os ensaios mecânicos foram realizados por um máquina de ensaio universal e o MEF-3D no programa computacional Solidworks®. RESULTADOS: Nos implantes de 4.0 mm de diâmetro com UCLA os maiores valores, foram obtidos, de forma decrescente: cone Morse hexagonal (CMH) , hexágono interno morse (HIM) , hexágono interno (HI) , hexágono externo (HE), cone Morse (CM), cone Morse hexagonal com microroscas (CMHM); no grupo de implantes com diâmetro reduzido os valores foram: cone morse com diâmetro reduzido (CMDR), corpo único reduzido (UNDR) e hexágono externo com corpo reduzido (HEDR). Com a utilização de um pilar intermediário os maiores valores de resistência à ruptura foram observados nos implantes HI seguidos pelo HIM...

The implant-abutment connections can be classified as external or internal, being responsible for influencing not only the mechanical behavior of the system, but also the response of the peri-implant tissues. The internal connection provides better sealing and biological distribution of forces and greater stability when compared to the external connection. In some cases, implants and structures connected to it may fracture and become a serious problem for prosthetic rehabilitation. Implants can also be inserted into alveolar ridges with little thickness to it, have reduced diameter, demonstrated a rate of survival and success similar to the regular diameter implants. PURPOSE: To investigate the fracture resistance between different connections, with or without the interposition of mini-implant and abutment with the reduced diameter through compression test on a universal testing machine and the finite element method. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 98 implants were divided into 14 groups (n = 7), according to their different diameters and prosthetic connection. These implants were inserted into the resin cylinder with an inclination of 30 ° and 3 mm exposure. We used UCLAs pillars and intermediate mini-pillars 2 mm. The mechanical tests were performed by a universal testing machine and MEF-in 3D computer program Solidworks ®. RESULTS: In implants of 4.0 mm diameter with UCLA and the highest values were obtained in decreasing the hexagon morse taper (HCM) , internal hexagon morse (HIM) , internal hexagon (HI) ,external hexagon (HE) , morse taper (CM), microthread hexagonal morse taper (CMHM) in a group of implants with reduced diameter values were worn diameter morse taper (CMDR) , worn diameter only body (UNDR) and external hexagon with worn diameter (HEDR). With the use of an abutment higher values of tensile strength were observed in the implants HI followed by HIM. The location of the maximum stresses and von Mises were similar in all groups except the group HIM...

Percurso neural da imagem para além das sombras Psicodrama e consumo / The neural pathway of the image beyond the shadows

Este artigo pesquisa o processo neural de formação das imagens mentais, destacando o modo pelo qual ocorre o processamento de informações pelo cérebro, especialmente no que diz respeito à formação das imagens mentais e seus desdobramentos em imagens simbólicas. Tem o objetivo de aprofundar as bases científicas da técnica de construção de imagens e os benefícios advindos dessa prática. Concluindo que a transformação de imagens mentais em imagens psicodramáticas, além de produzir diferentes sentidos a significados encobertos, estimula a construção de novos padrões mentais nos circuitos neuronais, resultando em novas aprendizagens cognitivas, emocionais e comportamentais.

This article explores the neural process of mental image formation, highlighting how information is processed in the brain, especially with regard to the formation of mental images and their development into symbolic images. It aims to further deepen the scientific bases of the technique of image construction and the benefits derived from this practice. It concludes that the transformation of mental images into psychodramatic ones, beyond of leading to hidden meaning, it also promotes the development of new mental patterns within the neural circuits, this leading to new cognitive, emotional and behavioral learning.

An Anatomic Study of the Extensor Tendons of the Human Hand

PURPOSE: Hands are the chief organs for physically manipulating the environment, using anywhere from the roughest motor skills to the finest, and since the fingertips contain some of the densest areas of nerve endings on the human body, they are continuously used organ with complex functions, and therefore, often gets injured. To prevent any functional loss, a detailed anatomical knowledge is required to have a perfect surgical treatment. Also it is necessary to have a thorough understanding of arrangements of the human extensor tendons and intertendinous connections when tenoplasty or tendon transfer is required. We performed a study of the arrangements of the human extensor tendons and the configuration of the intertendinous connections over the dorsum of the wrist and hand. METHODS: A total of 58 hands from Korean cadavers were dissected. The arrangements of extensor indicis proprius, extensor digitorum communis, and extensor digiti minimi tendons and intertendinous connections were studied. RESULTS: The most common distribution patterns of the extensor tendons of the fingers were as follows: a single extensor indicis proprius(EIP) tendon which inserted ulnar to the extensor digitorum-index(EDC-index); a single EDC-index; a single EDC-middle; a double EDC-ring; an absent EDC-little; a double extensor digiti minimi(EDM), a single EDC-index(98.3%), a single EDC-middle(62%), a double EDC-ring(50%), and an absent(65.5%) or a single (32.8%) EDC-little. A double(70.6%) EDM tendons were seen. Intertendinous connections were classified into 3 types: type 1 with thin filamentous type, type 2 with a thick filamentous type, and type 3 with a tendinous type subdivided to r shaped 3r type and y shaped 3y type. The most common patterns were type 1 in the 2nd intermetacarpal space, type 2 in the 3rd intermetacarpal space, and type 3r in the 4th intermetacarpal space. And in the present study, we observed one case of the extensor digitorum brevis manus(EDBM) on the boht side. CONCLUSION: A knowledge of both the usual and possible variations of the extensor tendon and the intertendinous connection is useful in the identification and repair of these structures.

Vias fascículo ventriculares: una rareza electrofisiológica / Ventricular fascicle pathways: an electrophysiological rarity / Vias fascículo-ventriculares: uma raridade eletrofisiológica

Las vias fascículo ventriculares (FV) sustentan una forma rara de preexcitation en la que la morfologia ECG recuerda a la de las vias paraseptales superiores, pero no participan en mecanismos de taquicardia ni requieren tratamiento específico. Algumas diferencias electrocardiográficas, la respuesta a la adenosina intravenosa y, sobre todo el estudio electrofisiológico sientam el diagnóstico diferencial. Se presentan los dos casos con vias FV de una serie consectiva de 62 pacientes con vias accesorias patentes remitidos a nuestro laboratorio para ablación con radiofrecuencia. En uno no se indujeron arritmias y en otro se indujo una taquicardia por reentrada nodal, que se sometió a ablación con êxito y que permitió el diagnóstico de inserción infrahisiana de la via accessoria FC.

Ventricular fascicle connections are an unusual form of pre-excitation. The 12-lead surface ECG during sinus rhythm is similar to the ECG of patients with anteroseptal and midseptal bypass tracts. These fibers do not participate in the tachycardia circuit or need any treatment. Electrocardiographic differences, the response to adenosine and particularly, the electrophysiologicstudy will guide to the correct diagnosis. We present two cases of ventricular fascicle connections in a consecutive series of 62 patients with accessory pathways referred to our service for evaluation and ablation. In one patient, no arrhythmias were induced, and in another patient an atrio-ventricular reentrant nodal tachycardia was induced, which was successfully ablated. The study also revealed theinfra-Hisian insertion of the ventricular fascicle connection.

As vias fascículo-ventriculares (FV) sustentam uma forma rara de pré-excitação em que a morfologia ECG recorda a das vias paraseptais superiores, mas não participam dos mecanismos de taquicardia nem requerem tratamento específico. Algumas diferenças eletrocardiográficas, a resposta à adenosina intravenosa e, sobretudo, o estudo eletrofisiológico estabelecem o diagnóstico diferencial. Apresentam-se os dois casos com vias FV de uma série consecutiva de 62 pacientes com viasacessórias patentes encaminhados ao nosso laboratório para ablação com radiofrequência. Em um não foram induzidas arritmias e no outro foi induzida uma taquicardia por reentrada nodal, que foi submetida à ablação com sucesso e que permitiu o diagnóstico de inserção infra-hissiana da via acessória FV.

O cerebelo e suas principais conexões: estudo com tensor de difusão / The cerebellum and its main connections: a diffusion tensor study

O cerebelo representa cerca de um décimo do volume encefálico, possuindo, entretanto, cerca da metade dos seus neurônios e amplas conexões de feixes de fibras nervosas, intrínsecas e extrínsecas. As fibras extrínsecas são componentes essenciais de redes neurais subjacentes às variadas funções cerebrais. Estudos anatômicos clássicos (dissecção de cérebros humanos pós-morte, técnicas de rastreio de fibras pós-lesão cerebral ou de utilização de rastreadores isotópicos ou virais em primatas não humanos) permitiram identificar e obter detalhes sobre essas conexões. Técnicas novas permitiram o mapeamento da substância branca de modo detalhado através de imagem com tensor de difusão (DTI) e suas derivadas, a anisotropia fracionada direcional e a tratografia. É apresentada uma descrição dos principais feixes extrínsecos cerebelares, compreendendo os pedúnculos cerebelares (inferior, médio, superior), os feixes córtico-ponto-cerebelares (Arnold e Türck), as projeções dos núcleos cerebelares profundos e as relacionadas aos núcleos vermelho e olivar inferior, acompanhada por imagens representativas de mapas direcionais e tratogramas. O recurso técnico representado pela DTI permite estudar de modo detalhado in vivo os feixes relacionados ao cerebelo, em condições normais e patológicas, com a possibilidade de contribuirde modo importante para um entendimento melhor das funções cerebelares motoras, cognitivas e afetivas, assim como para obter correlações anátomo-clínicas mais detalhadas.

The cerebellum represents about a tenth of the encephalic volume, containing about a half of its neurons, and wide connections of intrinsic and extrinsic nervous fiber tracts. The extrinsic fibers are essential components of the neural nets that underlie varied brain functions. Classical anatomic studies (dissection of post-mortem human brains, tracing of fibers techniques post brain lesions or use of isotopic or viral tracers in non-human primates) permitted to identify and to obtain details about these connections. New techniques permitted mapping the white matter in a detailed way with the use of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and its derivatives, directional fractional anisotropy and tractography. A description of the main extrinsic cerebellar tracts is presented, including the cerebellar peduncles (inferior, middle, superior), the cortico-ponto-cerebellar tracts (Arnold and Türck), the projections from the deep cerebellar nuclei and those related to red and inferior olivary nuclei, accompanied by representative images of directional maps and tractograms. The technical resource represented by DTI has made possible to perform in vivo detailed studies of the cerebellum-related white matter tracts, in normal and pathological conditions, with the possibility to contribute in an important way for a better understanding of the motor, cognitive and affective cerebellar functions, as well as for obtaining more detailed anatomical-clinical correlations.

Sinus Pericranii: A Case Report and the Literature Review / 대한뇌혈관외과학회지

Sinus pericranii is a rare vascular anomaly that's characterized by an extracranial vascular mass with anastomotic connections between the intracranial and extracranial systems via the diploic veins of the skull. Preoperative evaluations for making the diagnosis are important to help prevent unexpected intraoperative bleeding. We report here on a case of surgically treated sinus pericranii in a 20-year-old female following minor head trauma. The clinical manifestations, pathogenesis and managements are discussed, and we also review the relevant literature.

THE CENTRAL CONNECTIONS AND FUNCTIONAL CONSIDERATIONS OF THE DORSAL COMMISSURAL NUCLEUS OF THE RAT——A HRP METHOD STUDY / 解剖学报

HRP solution was injected into the dorsal commissural nucleus (DCN) of segment L_6 or S_1 of the spinal cord and laterodorsal tegmental area(TLD)——take the Barrington's nucleus as its center and lateral parabrachial nucleus (PBL) of the rostral pons in different individuals of the rats. After HRP was injected into the DCN, labelled neurons and dense terminals were found in Barrington's nucleus, and labelled terminals appeared in the PBL. When the unilateral TLD was injected the labelled cells and terminals were found in the DCN and bilateral intermediate zone (IM), and formed a band of labelled neurons and terminals. When the PBL was injected the labelled neurons were observed in the DCN and bilateral IM. A few labelled neurons were found in lamina Ⅰ in the latter two experimental groups.Based on the present and previous studies, the authors got the following understandings:1. Morphylogically, the present study for the first time demonstrated that, the micturition reflex arch through the pontine consists of following parts: the primary afferent neurons of the bladder→secondary relay neurons of DCN→Barrington's nucleus→IM (mainly IML) parasympathetic preganglionic neurons→parasympathetic postganglionic neurons.2. According to the present and previous researches, the authors conjecture that, the secondary fibers of visceral sensation of the pelvic organs originate from the neurons of DCN, IM and lamina I and project into the PBL.3. According to the facts mentioned above, we presume that the DCN and bilateral IM constitute a complex and named it the 'visceral field', and which is closely associated with the pelvic organs. This field has widespread connections with the peripheral efferent and afferent nerves. On the other hand, i t contains a lot of relay neurons projecting into Barrington's nucleus and PBL and receives the terminals of descending fibers of the neurons of the Barrington's nucleus. The descending fibers also project into the Onuf's nucleus.In addition, the present study disscussed the complicated functions of the DCN systematically.

CONNECTIONS OF THE OVAL NUCLEUS AND ITS ADJACENT AREAS OF THE BED NUCLEI OF THE STRIA TERMINALIS IN THE RAT. AFFERENT CONNECTIONS——A FLUOROGOLD AND WGA-HRP RETROGRADE TRACT-TRACING STUDY / 解剖学报

The present experiments were designed to study the afferent connections of the oval nucleus (Ov) of the bed nuclei of the stria terminalis (BST) using fluoro-gold (FG) and WGA-HRP as retrograde tracers. After injection of FG or WGA-HRP into the Ov area of the male SpragueDawley rats, a number of retrogradely labeled neurons were observed in the piriform cortex, fundus striati, subiculum, preoptie areas, horizontal limb of the diagonal band, ventral pallidum, magnocellular preoptic area, central (Ce), medial and cortical nuclei of the amygdala. A few neurons in the midline nuclei of the thalamus. were labeled. Many labeled neurons were found in the anterior, dorsal and lateral hypothalamic areas, ventral medial, arcuate and premammillary nuclei of the hypo thalamus. In the brainstem many labeled neurons were seen in the ventral part of the midbrain central gray, dorsal raphe nucleus, pedunculopontine tegmental nucleus, ventral tegmental area, compact zone of the substantia nigra, interpeduncular nuclei, interfascicular nucleus, raphe nuclei, parabrachial nuclei, locus coeruleus, mesencephalie trigeminal nucleus, dorsal vagal complex, A_5 and A_1 cell groups.In general, the distribution patterns of the labeled neurons of both tracers were quite similar except that FG labeled neurons showed much longer processes than WGA-HRP's, and some FG labeled neurons were also found in a few contralateral structures, such as central and medial nuclei of the amygdala and the horizontal limb of the diagonal band, where no WGA-HRP labeled neurons were observed.The results of this retrograde tract-tracing study together with our previous. anterograde tract-tracing study indicate that there are reciprocal connections between the Ov and the Ce, posterior part of the lateral hypothalamus and several brainstem structures.

THE AFFERENT PROJECTIONS OF THE HABENULAR NUCLEI IN THE RAT——A WGA-HRP STUDY / 解剖学报

WGA-HRP was iontophoretically delivered into the habenular nuclei in 40 rats to observe the distribution of the retrograde labeled cells; and into the entopeduncular nucleus(EPN), lateral preoptic area(LPO), medial preoptic area(MPO), nucleus septalis fimbriatis(SF), nucleus triangularis septi(TS), nucleus tractus diagonalis (Broca)(DBN)and lateral hypothalamic area(LHA) in 12 rats to observe the distribution of the orthograde labeled fibers in the habenular nuclei. It was found that the afferents of various parts of the habenular nuclei were different.The lateral habenular nucleus mainly recieves the afferents from the EPN, LPO and LHA, and the medial habenular nucleus from the SF, TS and LHA. Furthermore, the lateral habenular nucleus can be divided into medial and lateral parts, the medial habenular nucleus can be divided into medial and lateral parts as well, their afferent connections are also different.

AFFERENT CONNECTIONS OF THE PERIAQUEDUCTAL GRAY AT THE SUPERIOR COLLICULAR LEVEL IN THE RAT HRP METHOD / 解剖学报

0.05～0.2?l of HRP (Sigma Ⅵ) were introduced into the periaqueduetal gray (PAG) of 45 rats at the superior collicular level, each brain was sectioned and processed with DAB, BDHC, O-D and TMB reactions. 29 were chosen for analysis and according to the locations of the injection center and the extent of reaction, were divided into 3 groups:1. The injection center was found in the lateral part of PAG; the reaction only involved a small area within PAG (11 rats), labeled cells were seen in PAG, tectum, reticular formation (RF) and dorsal raphe nucleus.2. The injection center was in the dorsolateral part of PAG; the reaction area extended out of PAG to the nearby RF and tectum (9 rats); labeled cells were seen in the structures mentioned in group 1 as well as in habenular nucleus (hn), parafascicular nucleus (PFN), hypothalamic nuclei (anterior, posterior, ventromedial, dorsomedial, lateral), thalamic nuclei (lateral, reticular, medial part of ventral nucleus), paraventricular gray (PVG), nucleus of the optic tract, nucleus of posterior commissure (NPC), parabigeminal nucleus (PBN), locus ceruleus, ventral nucleus of lateral geniculate body, entopeduncular nucleus.3. The injection center was in the lateral or ventrolateral part of PAG, the reaction area extended to the nearby RF, tegmentum and part of tectum (9 rats), labeled cells were seen in the structures mentioned in group 1 as well as in substantia nigra, H_1, H_2, zona inserta, HN, PFN, PVG, NPC, PBN, locus ceruleus, pretectral area and nuclei of hypothalamus. In this group 3 rats were processed with TMB reaction. Labeled cells were seen not only in the above-mentioned structures but also in the deep layers of anterior cingulate cortex (areas 23 and 24), nucleus raphe magnus, nucleus reticularis gigantocellularis, periventricular gray of 4th ventricle, dentate nucleus of cerebellum, lamina Ⅴ～Ⅶ of cervical spinal cord (the other segments were left out), preoptic and supraoptic nuclei, suprachiasmatic nucleus, anterior nucleus of mammillary body, medial nucleus of amygdaloid nucleus, spinal nucleus of nerve Ⅴ. The labelled cells were seen chiefly in the ipsilateral side. Neuronal connections also were analysed according to the disparity in labelled structures.

RECIPROCAL PROJECTION BETWEEN THE HYFOTHALAMUS AND THE SPINAL CORD INNERVATING PELVIC ORGANS OF THE RABBIT——HRP ANTEROGRADE AND RETROGRADE METHODS / 解剖学报

46 rabbits were divided into two groups. HRP was injected into one of the 7 segments of spinal cord (T_(11,12)、L_(1,2)、S(2～4)) unilaterally in 42 adult rabbits in the experimental group. HRP was also injected into the vein of the ear (2 cases) and cerebrospinal fluid (2 cases) as the control group. The hypothalamus were cut at 40 ?m. The sections were incubated with BDHC and OD by Mesulam's 8th and Edward's procedures. Labeled cell were found in the medial basal hypothalamus (MBH), ventromedial nucleus (VM), paraventricular nucleus (PV), dorsomedial nucleus (DM), posterior nucleus (PN), supraoptic nucleus (SN), lateral nucleus (LN), anterior nucleus (AN), perifornical nucleus and zona incerta in all cases. The PV was most heavily labeled. The LN, PN and DM were less so. Some labeled cells were found in the MBH, VM and AN. A few labeled cells were present in the SN. Labeled terminal and preterminal axons were found in the dorsolateral margin of the PV and in the LN、PN and MBH.Labeled terminals of the hypothalamus, which were discovered in this study, has not mentioned in the literature available to us. This study demonstrated reciprocal projection between the hypothalamus and the segments of the spinal cord innervating pelvic organs.