Mutually exclusive disorder-dependent hearing discomfort in first-episode psychosis and panic disorder: two experiments using the same auditory stimulus set and two similar musical sequences.

We investigated the level of hearing tolerance in patients with first-episode psychosis (FEP) and panic disorder (PD) as compared to two different groups of healthy controls (HC, HC2), one for each experiment, because we used two distinct psychophysical paradigms. We evaluated auditory discomfort of 28 volunteers (14 with FEP and 14 HC) in the first study and of 42 volunteers (21 with PD and 21 HC2) in the second study. We presented 20 sounds: 16 pure-tone frequency sweeps (specially designed for use with FEP) and 11 s or 13 s musical sequences from the very beginning of the music "Play the Game" (PLAY) from Queen and its reverses. The first procedure used a Likert-like 0-10 scale ranging from "nothing bad" to "too bad" where volunteers made vertical marks along a horizontal line according to their discomfort. The second procedure involved subjective magnitude estimation online due to the SARS-COV-19 pandemic. Sounds were placed online and played by PD and HC2 volunteers themselves after having listened to the standard (the first 8 s from RADIO, "Radio Ga Ga" by Queen). Then, PD and HC2 volunteers were asked to assign values equal to, or multiples of 10 that felt like, or proportional to, their hearing "discomfort" in comparison with Sound 00 (RADIO). Our findings showed that FEP volunteers assign more discomfort to the 16 specially designed frequency sweep stimuli that appear not to affect HC, HC2, and PD. On the other hand, musical sequences from PLAY caused strong discomfort to PD in the reverse mode, but did not seem to affect HC, HC2, and FEP. Further experiments using the exact same paradigm with FEP and PD are needed to explore these findings.

Auditory perceptual discomfort and low-hearing tolerance in the first episode psychosis.

Awareness of perceptual and sensory changes that might occur in visual, auditory, proprioception, and other senses, in the early stages towards the First Episode Psychosis (FEP), and their subsequent sensorial evolution as the disturb progresses deeper into an acute episode, might be a key element for interrupting the process. In the present study, we investigated hearing discomfort/tolerance to 16 given sound streams. Sixteen people diagnosed with FEP, participated in the experiment. Sixteen frequency sweeps varying in modulation envelopes (sawtooth, sine), order (ascending, descending), duration (4s, 8s), and range (50-8000 Hz, 2-8 kHz) were presented randomly, but always in the same sequence, to FEP and healthy controls (HC). The level of discomfort was estimated by the participant by making a mark across a continuous line whose extremes read "nothing bad" (left) and "too bad" (right). Results showed that ascending sine pure frequency sweeps (p < 0.01) and descending sine pure frequencies sweeps (p < 0.01) caused the maximum discomfort in FEP. Other variables also showed differences between FEP and HC, and FEP were always more intolerant to such pure frequency sweeps than HC. We conclude that this might be useful for very early assessment of people at risk, people with FEP, and people with schizophrenia.

Auditory perceptual discomfort and low-hearing tolerance in the first episode psychosis

Awareness of perceptual and sensory changes that might occur in visual, auditory, proprioception, and other senses, in the early stages towards the First Episode Psychosis (FEP), and their subsequent sensorial evolution as the disturb progresses deeper into an acute episode, might be a key element for interrupting the process. In the present study, we investigated hearing discomfort/tolerance to 16 given sound streams. Sixteen people diagnosed with FEP, participated in the experiment. Sixteen frequency sweeps varying in modulation envelopes (sawtooth, sine), order (ascending, descending), duration (4s, 8s), and range (50­8000 Hz, 2­8 kHz) were presented randomly, but always in the same sequence, to FEP and healthy controls (HC). The level of discomfort was estimated by the participant by making a mark across a continuous line whose extremes read "nothing bad" (left) and "too bad" (right). Results showed that ascending sine pure frequency sweeps (p < 0.01) and descending sine pure frequencies sweeps (p < 0.01) caused the maximum discomfort in FEP. Other variables also showed differences between FEP and HC, and FEP were always more intolerant to such pure frequency sweeps than HC. We conclude that this might be useful for very early assessment of people at risk, people with FEP, and people with schizophrenia. (AU)

Pictorial size perception in schizophrenia.

In this study, we compared visual pictorial size perception between healthy volunteers (CG) and an experimental group (EG) of people diagnosed with schizophrenia. We have been using paintings by Salvador Dalí and Rorschach plates to estimate visual pictorial size perception. In this transversal, ex post facto, and quasi-experimental study, we observed differences between EG and CG. Schizophrenic in-patients perceived sizes about 1.3-fold greater than healthy volunteers (p=0.006), implying that pictorial size perception is altered in some way in schizophrenia. Considering the present and previous results, this measurement of diameter size of first pictorial perception may be a useful estimate of some aspects of perceptual alterations that may be associated with psychotic symptoms in prodromal and acute schizophrenic episodes and other related mental states. Eventually, this may help in preventing people from evolving to acute episodes.

Pictorial size perception in schizophrenia

In this study, we compared visual pictorial size perception between healthy volunteers (CG) and an experimental group (EG) of people diagnosed with schizophrenia. We have been using paintings by Salvador Dalí and Rorschach plates to estimate visual pictorial size perception. In this transversal, ex post facto, and quasi-experimental study, we observed differences between EG and CG. Schizophrenic in-patients perceived sizes about 1.3-fold greater than healthy volunteers (p=0.006), implying that pictorial size perception is altered in some way in schizophrenia. Considering the present and previous results, this measurement of diameter size of first pictorial perception may be a useful estimate of some aspects of perceptual alterations that may be associated with psychotic symptoms in prodromal and acute schizophrenic episodes and other related mental states. Eventually, this may help in preventing people from evolving to acute episodes.

Changes in visual size perception in schizophrenia and depression / Alterações na percepção visual de tamanho na esquizofrenia e depressão / Cambios en la percepción del tamaño en la esquizofrenia y la depressión

The objective of this research was to measure possible changes in visual size perception of patients with depression and schizophrenia. Three groups were compared: Control Group (CG), Schizophrenia Group (SchG) and Depression Group (DepG). The diameter of the first figure seen by the participants in each painting was recorded in degrees of visual angle. The SchG perceived images 1.47 larger than CG and the DepG 1.28 larger than CG, whereas SchG selected images 1.15 larger than DepG, F (2, 57) = 17.677, p < .0001. These findings suggest there are changes in visual size perception related to depression and schizophrenia.

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi medir possíveis alterações na percepção visual do tamanho de pacientes com depressão e esquizofrenia. Três grupos foram comparados: Grupo Controle (GC), Grupo Esquizofrenia (SchG) e Grupo Depressão (DepG). O diâmetro da primeira figura vista pelos participantes em cada pintura foi registrado em graus de ângulo visual. O SchG percebeu imagens 1.47 maiores que o GC e o DepG 1.28 maior que o GC, enquanto SchG selecionou imagens 1.15 maiores que DepG, F (2, 57) = 17.677, p < .0001. Esses achados sugerem que há alterações na percepção visual de tamanho relacionadas à depressão e esquizofrenia.

El objetivo de esta investigación fue medir posibles cambios en la percepción del tamaño de pacientes con depresión y esquizofrenia. Se compararon tres grupos: Grupo de control (CG), Grupo de esquizofrenia (SchG) y Grupo de depresión (DepG). El diámetro de la primera figura vista por los participantes se registró en grados de ángulo visual. SchG percibió imágenes 1.47 más grandes que CG y DepG 1.28 más grandes que CG, mientras que SchG seleccionó imágenes 1.15 más grandes que DepG, F (2, 57) = 17.677, p < .0001. Hay cambios en la percepción del tamaño relacionados con depresión y esquizofrenia.

Consequências da ingestão moderada de etanol na discriminação de notas musicais / Consequences of moderate intake of ethanol in the perception of musical notes

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar se existe relação entre a ingestão moderada de etanol e a discriminação das notas musicais RÉ, FÁ, e LÁ, em adultos jovens. Essas notas apresentam frequências fundamentais respectivamente de 293,665 Hz, 349,228 Hz e 440 Hz, de temperamento igual, escolhidas devido estarem em localização central na escala musical ocidental padrão. Participaram do estudo 40 voluntários de 18 a 29 anos, não músicos, saudáveis, não usuários de fármacos ou outras substâncias tóxicas, exceto o etanol de forma moderada e aguda. Por meio do software "Psysounds", criado especificamente para esse estudo, esses voluntários tiveram de escolher, entre duas notas musicais, uma das notas teste apresentada inicialmente. Os dados foram tratados com um teste X2 de aderência para comparar as frequências de acertos das notas musicais de teste nas condições de ingestão e de não ingestão de álcool. As análises mostraram diferenças significantes nas frequências de acertos para todas as notas utilizadas, sugerindo que a ingestão de etanol prejudica a discriminação das notas musicais RÉ, FÁ e LÁ.

The aim of this study was to evaluate if there is relationship between moderate intake of ethanol and the perception of the musical notes D, F, and A in young adults. These notes have fundamental frequencies of 293.665 Hz, 349.228 Hz, and 440 Hz, respectively, equal temperament and were chosen because they are in the central location in the standard western musical scale. The study included 40 volunteers from 18 to 29 years old, non-musicians, healthy, non-users of drugs or other toxic substances, except moderate and acute intake of ethanol. By the "Psysounds" software, created specifically for this study, the volunteers had to choose between two musical notes one of the test notes initially presented. The data were treated with X2 test of adherence to compare the frequency of correct answers regarding the musical notes in the conditions of intake and non-intake of alcohol. The analysis showed significant differences in the frequencies of correct answers for all the notes used, suggesting that ethanol ingestion impairs the discrimination of musical notes D, F and A.

Consequências da ingestão moderada de etanol na discriminação de notas musicais / Consequences of moderate intake of ethanol in the perception of musical notes

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar se existe relação entre a ingestão moderada de etanol e a discriminação das notas musicais RÉ, FÁ, e LÁ, em adultos jovens. Essas notas apresentam frequências fundamentais respectivamente de 293,665 Hz, 349,228 Hz e 440 Hz, de temperamento igual, escolhidas devido estarem em localização central na escala musical ocidental padrão. Participaram do estudo 40 voluntários de 18 a 29 anos, não músicos, saudáveis, não usuários de fármacos ou outras substâncias tóxicas, exceto o etanol de forma moderada e aguda. Por meio do software "Psysounds", criado especificamente para esse estudo, esses voluntários tiveram de escolher, entre duas notas musicais, uma das notas teste apresentada inicialmente. Os dados foram tratados com um teste X2 de aderência para comparar as frequências de acertos das notas musicais de teste nas condições de ingestão e de não ingestão de álcool. As análises mostraram diferenças significantes nas frequências de acertos para todas as notas utilizadas, sugerindo que a ingestão de etanol prejudica a discriminação das notas musicais RÉ, FÁ e LÁ.(AU)

The aim of this study was to evaluate if there is relationship between moderate intake of ethanol and the perception of the musical notes D, F, and A in young adults. These notes have fundamental frequencies of 293.665 Hz, 349.228 Hz, and 440 Hz, respectively, equal temperament and were chosen because they are in the central location in the standard western musical scale. The study included 40 volunteers from 18 to 29 years old, non-musicians, healthy, non-users of drugs or other toxic substances, except moderate and acute intake of ethanol. By the "Psysounds" software, created specifically for this study, the volunteers had to choose between two musical notes one of the test notes initially presented. The data were treated with X2 test of adherence to compare the frequency of correct answers regarding the musical notes in the conditions of intake and non-intake of alcohol. The analysis showed significant differences in the frequencies of correct answers for all the notes used, suggesting that ethanol ingestion impairs the discrimination of musical notes D, F and A.(AU)

Contrast sensitivity in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis assessed by sine-wave gratings and angular frequency stimuli.

Previous studies have shown that multiple sclerosis (MS) affects the visual system, mainly by reducing contrast sensitivity (CS), a function that can be assessed by measuring contrast sensitivity function (CSF). To this end, we measured both the CSF for sine-wave gratings and angular frequency stimuli with 20 participants aged between 21 and 44 years, of both genders, with normal or corrected to normal visual acuity. Of these 20 participants, there were 10 volunteers with clinically defined MS of the relapsing-remitting clinical form, with no history of optic neuritis (ON), as well as 10 healthy volunteers who served as the control group (CG). We used a forced-choice detection paradigm. The results showed reduced CS to both classes of stimuli. Differences were found for sine-wave gratings at spatial frequencies of 0.5, 1.25, and 2.5 cycles per degree (cpd) (P < 0.002) and for angular frequency stimuli of 4, 24, and 48 cycles/360° (P < 0.05). On the one hand, comparing the maxima of the respective CSFs, the CS to angular frequency stimuli (24 cycles/360°) was 1.61-fold higher than that of the CS to vertical sine-wave gratings (4.0 cpd) in the CG; for the MS group, these values were 1.55-fold higher. On the other hand, CS in the MS group attained only 75% for 24 cycles/360° and 78% for 4.0 cpd of the 100% CS estimates found for the CG at the peak frequencies. These findings suggest that MS affects the visual system, mostly at its maximum contrast sensitivities. Also, since angular frequencies and sine-wave gratings operate at distinct levels of contrast in the visual system, MS seems to affect CS at both high and low levels of contrast.

O uso de pinturas de Dalí como ferramenta para avaliação das alterações na percepção de forma e tamanho em pacientes esquizofrênicos / Dali paintings as a tool for assessing altered form and size perception in schizophrenic patients / L'Utilizacion des paintures de Dalí pour avaliacion de la percepcion de forme et grandeur dans la esquizofrenie / El uso de las pinturas de Dalí como un instrumento para evaluar los cambios en la percepción de la forma y el tamaño en los pacientes esquizofrénicos

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(AU)

A variety of studies involving schizophrenic patients have shown the occurrence of severe disabilities related to perception and cognition. Most diagnostics rely on alterations that reveal faulty reasoning. Our studies evaluate altered visual form and size perception in schizophrenic and major depression patients using 24 paintings by Salvador Dalí. We conducted two studies comparing experimental and control groups and found in both cases that schizophrenic patients first saw forms 1.5-3.0 times larger than controls. In another study with major depression patients, we show the absence of alterations in size perception during aggravated depressive symptoms. These effects on size perception can contribute as markers in the precocious diagnostic of the onset of positive symptoms in schizophrenia. We suggest that these paintings by Dalí can be employed as a tool to assess the state of visual form and size perception in schizophrenic patients, and therefore prevent cognitive deterioration by introducing early treatment(AU)

Les études de patients schizophrènes ont montré d'importantes modifications dans la perception et la cognition. La plupart des diagnostics, toutefois, est basé sur l'évaluation des processus cognitifs. Nous avons utilisé 24 tableaux de Salvador Dalí pour étudier les modifications en la perception de forme et dimension des patients schizophrènes et de patients souffrant de dépression majeure. Ici sont présentés deux études comparant des groupes expérimental et de contrôle. Dans les deux, patients schizophrènes ont vu les images présentées comme étant de 1,5 et 3,0 fois plus grand par rapport au groupe contrôle. Dans une autre étude, les patients souffrant de dépression majeure n'ont montré aucune changement en dimension perçue en comparaison au groupe de contrôle. Nous concluons que les changements dans la perception de forme et dimension peuvent servir de marqueur pour le diagnostic précoce des symptômes positifs de la schizophrénie. Nous suggérons que ces peintures de Salvador Dalí sont utilisés comme un instrument pour évaluer les changements dans la perception de formes et de dimensions des patients schizophrènes et d'éviter ainsi l'aggravation des symptômes cognitifs(AU)

Estudios con pacientes con esquizofrenia han mostrado cambios severos en la percepción y la cognición. La mayoría de los diagnósticos, sin embargo, se basa en la evaluación de los procesos cognitivos. Hemos utilizado 24 pinturas de Salvador Dalí para investigar los cambios en la percepción de la forma y el tamaño en los pacientes esquizofrénicos y con depresión mayor. Aquí se presentan dos estudios que compararon grupos experimental y control. En ambos, observamos que los pacientes con esquizofrenia vieron las imágenes presentadas como 1.5 y 3.0 veces mayores en comparación con los grupos control. En otro estudio, los pacientes con depresión mayor no mostraron cambios en el tamaño percibido en comparación con el grupo control. Se concluye que los cambios en la percepción de la forma y el tamaño pueden servir como un marcador para el diagnóstico precoz de los síntomas positivos en la esquizofrenia. Sugerimos que estas pinturas de Salvador Dalí sean utilizadas como un instrumento para evaluar los cambios en la percepción de formas y tamaños en los pacientes esquizofrénicos y así prevenir el agravamiento de los síntomas cognitivos(AU)

Avaliação da sensibilidade ao contraste em pacientes com migrânea / Avaluation of contrast sensitivity among patients with migrânea / Évaluation de sensibilité au contraste chez des patients avec de migrânea / Evaluación de la sensibilidad al contraste en pacientes con migrânea

O objetivo foi medir a Função de Sensibilidade ao Contraste (FSC) de pacientes com migrânea e de voluntários saudáveis sem a patologia. Participaram dos testes 12 voluntários do sexo feminino, seis com migrânea e seis sem migrânea na faixa etária de 20 a 37 anos. As medidas de FSC foram realizadas utilizando estímulos visuais estáticos de grades senoidais angulares com frequências espaciais de 2, 3, 4, 24 e 64 ciclos/360º Foi utilizado o método psicofísico da escolha forçada entre duas alternativas temporais, condições de luminância fotópica (luminância média da tela de 41 cd/m²) e visão binocular com pupila natural. Os resultados demonstram que a percepção visual de contraste dos voluntários com migrânea foi menor nas frequências de 2, 3, 4 e 64 ciclos/360º. Esses achados preliminares sugerem alterações na FSC relacionadas a essa patologia(AU)

In this work, the aim was to measure the Contrast Sensitivity Function (CSF) among patients with, and healthy volunteers without this pathology. The subjects of the tests were 12 female volunteers, aged 20-37 years, six of them with migraine, and six other ones without migraine. CSF measurements were performed using static visual stimuli of angular sine-wave gratings, with spatial frequencies of 2, 3, 4, 24 and 64 cycles/360º. Method used was the psychophysical one, with forced choice between two temporal alternatives, conditions of photopic luminance (screen average luminance of 41 cd/m²), and binocular vision with natural pupil. The results demonstrate that visual perception of contrast by the volunteers with migraine was lower in the frequencies of 2, 3, 4 and 64 cycles/360°. These preliminary findings suggest changes in the CSF related to this pathology(AU)

Dans ce travail, l'objectif était celui de mesurer la Fonction de Sensibilité au Contraste (FSC) chez des patients souffrant de migraine et des volontaires sains sans cette pathologie. Ont participé des tests 12 volontaires du sexe féminin, âgées de 20-37 ans, six avec de la migraine et six sans migraine. Les mesures de FSC ont été réalisées avec des stimuli visuels statiques des grilles d'ondes sinusoïdales angulaires, avec des fréquences spatiales de 2, 3, 4, 24 et 64 cycles/360º. La méthode utilisée a été la psychophysique, avec choix forcé entre deux alternatives temporelles, les conditions de luminosité photopique (luminance moyenne par écran de 41 cd/m²) et la vision binoculaire avec des pupilles naturelles. Les résultats démontrent que la perception visuelle de contraste par les volontaires souffrant de migraine a été plus faible dans les fréquences de 2, 3, 4 et 64 cycles/360°. Ces résultats préliminaires suggèrent des changements dans le FSC liés à cette pathologie(AU)

En este trabajo, el objetivo era medir la función de sensibilidad al contraste (CSF) en pacientes con y voluntarios sanos sin esta patología. Los sujetos de los ensayos fueron 12 mujeres voluntarias, con edades entre 20-37 años - seis de ellos con la migraña, y seis otros sin migraña. Mediciones LCR se realizaron mediante estímulos visuales estáticos de rejilla angular de onda sinusoidal, con frecuencias espaciales de 2, 3, 4, 24 y 64º cycles/360. El método utilizado fue el psicofísico con elección forzada entre dos alternativas temporales, las condiciones de luminosidad fotópica (luminancia de pantalla media de 41 cd / m²) y la visión binocular con pupila natural. Los resultados demuestran que la percepción visual de contraste por los voluntarios con migraña fue menor en las frecuencias de 2, 3, 4 y 64 cycles/360°. Estos hallazgos preliminares sugieren cambios en el LCR en relación aesta patología(AU)

Percepção visual de grade senoidal radial após o consumo de álcool / Visual perception of radial sine-wave grating after the alcohol consumption / Sur la perception visuelle de la grille sinusoïdale radiale après la consommation d'alcool / Percepción visual de una reja de una onda senoidal radial después del consumo de alcohol

O objetivo deste trabalho foi comparar a percepção visual de contraste de adultos sem a ingestão de álcool e após a ingestão moderada de álcool – 0,09% Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC), através da Função de Sensibilidade ao Contraste (FSC). Participaram dos experimentos cinco voluntárias, na faixa etária de 21 a 30 anos, com acuidade visual normal ou corrigida. Para medir a FSC, foram usados estímulos de grade senoidal radial de frequências de 0,25; 2 e 8 ciclos por grau de ângulo visual. Utilizou-se um delineamento experimental com medidas repetidas e o método psicofísico da escolha forçada. Os resultados demonstraram efeito significante de participantes (F4, 55 = 25,518; p < 0,001), de frequências (F2, 110 = 172,288; p < 0,001) e de interação entre frequências x condições x participantes (F8, 110 = 26,806; p < 0,001). Este estudo preliminar sugere alterações na FSC relacionadas à ingestão moderada de álcool(AU)

The aim of this study was to compare the visual perception of contrast in adults with no alcohol intake, and after moderate consumption of alcohol by them – 0.09% Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC), through the Contrast Sensitivity Function (CSF). Participated in the experiments five volunteers, aged 21-30 years, with normal or corrected visual acuity. To measure the CSF, we used radial sine-wave grating stimuli of frequencies of 0.25; 2 e 8 cycles per degree of visual angle. We used an experimental design or sketch, with repeated measures, and a forced-choice psychophysical method. The results showed significant effect of subjects (F4, 55 = 25,518; p < 0,001), of frequencies (F2, 110 = 172,288; p < 0,001), and of the interaction between frequencies versus conditions versus subjects (F8, 110 = 26,806; p < 0,001). This preliminary study suggests changes in CSF, related to moderate alcohol consumption(AU)

L'objectif de cette étude était comparer la perception visuelle de contraste chez des adultes sans consommation d'alcool et, dans le cas d'autres, après une consommation modérée d'alcool – 0,09% taux d'alcoolémie (TA), grâce à la fonction de sensibilité au contraste (FSC). Cinq volontaires — âgés de 21-30 ans et avec d'acuité visuelle normale ou corrigée — ont participé aux expériences. Pour mesurer la FSC, nous avons utilisé la grille sinusoïdale radiale de 0,25; 2 et 8 cycles par degré de l'angle visuel. Nous avons utilisé aussi un modèle expérimental, avec des mesures répétées, et une méthode psychophysique de choix forcé. Les résultats ont montré d'effet significatif dans les sujets (F4, 55 = 25,518; p < 0,001), dans les fréquences (F2, 110 = 172,288; p < 0,001) et dans l'interaction entre les fréquences, les conditions et les sujets (F8, 110 = 26,806; p < 0,001). Cette étude préliminaire suggère des changements dans la FSC, liés à la consommation modérée d'alcool(AU)

El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar la percepción visual de contraste en los adultos, sin consumo de alcohol y después de un consumo moderado de alcohol por parte de ellos – 0,09% de concentración de alcohol en sangre (BAC), a través de la función de sensibilidad al contraste (CSF). Participaron en los experimentos cinco voluntarias, con edades entre 21 y 30 años, con valores normales de agudeza visual. Para medir la CSF, se utilizaron radiales de onda sinusoidal rejilla de estímulos de frecuencias de 0,25, 2 e 8 ciclos por grado de ángulo visual. Se utilizó un diseño experimental o croquis, con medidas repetidas y un método psicofísico de la elección forzada. Los resultados mostraron efecto significativo de sujetos (F4, 55 = 25.518, p < 0.001), de las frecuencias (F2, 110 = 172.288, p < 0,001) y de la interacción entre las frecuencias en comparación con las condiciones en comparación con sujetos (F8, 110 = 26,806; p < 0,001). Este estudio preliminar sugiere cambios en el LCR, relacionados con el consumo moderado de alcohol(AU)

O uso de pinturas de Dalí como ferramenta para avaliação das alterações na percepção de forma e tamanho em pacientes esquizofrênicos / Dali paintings as a tool for assessing altered form and size perception in schizophrenic patients / L’Utilizacion des paintures de Dalí pour avaliacion de la percepcion de forme et grandeur dans la esquizofrenie / El uso de las pinturas de Dalí como un instrumento para evaluar los cambios en la percepción de la forma y el tamaño en los pacientes esquizofrénicos

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.

A variety of studies involving schizophrenic patients have shown the occurrence of severe disabilities related to perception and cognition. Most diagnostics rely on alterations that reveal faulty reasoning. Our studies evaluate altered visual form and size perception in schizophrenic and major depression patients using 24 paintings by Salvador Dalí. We conducted two studies comparing experimental and control groups and found in both cases that schizophrenic patients first saw forms 1.5-3.0 times larger than controls. In another study with major depression patients, we show the absence of alterations in size perception during aggravated depressive symptoms. These effects on size perception can contribute as markers in the precocious diagnostic of the onset of positive symptoms in schizophrenia. We suggest that these paintings by Dalí can be employed as a tool to assess the state of visual form and size perception in schizophrenic patients, and therefore prevent cognitive deterioration by introducing early treatment.

Les études de patients schizophrènes ont montré d'importantes modifications dans la perception et la cognition. La plupart des diagnostics, toutefois, est basé sur l'évaluation des processus cognitifs. Nous avons utilisé 24 tableaux de Salvador Dalí pour étudier les modifications en la perception de forme et dimension des patients schizophrènes et de patients souffrant de dépression majeure. Ici sont présentés deux études comparant des groupes expérimental et de contrôle. Dans les deux, patients schizophrènes ont vu les images présentées comme étant de 1,5 et 3,0 fois plus grand par rapport au groupe contrôle. Dans une autre étude, les patients souffrant de dépression majeure n'ont montré aucune changement en dimension perçue en comparaison au groupe de contrôle. Nous concluons que les changements dans la perception de forme et dimension peuvent servir de marqueur pour le diagnostic précoce des symptômes positifs de la schizophrénie. Nous suggérons que ces peintures de Salvador Dalí sont utilisés comme un instrument pour évaluer les changements dans la perception de formes et de dimensions des patients schizophrènes et d'éviter ainsi l'aggravation des symptômes cognitifs.

Estudios con pacientes con esquizofrenia han mostrado cambios severos en la percepción y la cognición. La mayoría de los diagnósticos, sin embargo, se basa en la evaluación de los procesos cognitivos. Hemos utilizado 24 pinturas de Salvador Dalí para investigar los cambios en la percepción de la forma y el tamaño en los pacientes esquizofrénicos y con depresión mayor. Aquí se presentan dos estudios que compararon grupos experimental y control. En ambos, observamos que los pacientes con esquizofrenia vieron las imágenes presentadas como 1.5 y 3.0 veces mayores en comparación con los grupos control. En otro estudio, los pacientes con depresión mayor no mostraron cambios en el tamaño percibido en comparación con el grupo control. Se concluye que los cambios en la percepción de la forma y el tamaño pueden servir como un marcador para el diagnóstico precoz de los síntomas positivos en la esquizofrenia. Sugerimos que estas pinturas de Salvador Dalí sean utilizadas como un instrumento para evaluar los cambios en la percepción de formas y tamaños en los pacientes esquizofrénicos y así prevenir el agravamiento de los síntomas cognitivos.

Percepção visual de grade senoidal radial após o consumo de álcool / Visual perception of radial sine-wave grating after the alcohol consumption / Sur la perception visuelle de la grille sinusoïdale radiale après la consommation d'alcool / Percepción visual de una reja de una onda senoidal radial después del consumo de alcohol

O objetivo deste trabalho foi comparar a percepção visual de contraste de adultos sem a ingestão de álcool e após a ingestão moderada de álcool - 0,09 por cento Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC), através da Função de Sensibilidade ao Contraste (FSC). Participaram dos experimentos cinco voluntárias, na faixa etária de 21 a 30 anos, com acuidade visual normal ou corrigida. Para medir a FSC, foram usados estímulos de grade senoidal radial de frequências de 0,25; 2 e 8 ciclos por grau de ângulo visual. Utilizou-se um delineamento experimental com medidas repetidas e o método psicofísico da escolha forçada. Os resultados demonstraram efeito significante de participantes (F4, 55 = 25,518; p < 0,001), de frequências (F2, 110 = 172,288; p < 0,001) e de interação entre frequências x condições x participantes (F8, 110 = 26,806; p < 0,001). Este estudo preliminar sugere alterações na FSC relacionadas à ingestão moderada de álcool.

The aim of this study was to compare the visual perception of contrast in adults with no alcohol intake, and after moderate consumption of alcohol by them - 0.09 percent Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC), through the Contrast Sensitivity Function (CSF). Participated in the experiments five volunteers, aged 21-30 years, with normal or corrected visual acuity. To measure the CSF, we used radial sine-wave grating stimuli of frequencies of 0.25; 2 e 8 cycles per degree of visual angle. We used an experimental design or sketch, with repeated measures, and a forced-choice psychophysical method. The results showed significant effect of subjects (F4, 55 = 25,518; p < 0,001), of frequencies (F2, 110 = 172,288; p < 0,001), and of the interaction between frequencies versus conditions versus subjects (F8, 110 = 26,806; p < 0,001). This preliminary study suggests changes in CSF, related to moderate alcohol consumption.

L'objectif de cette étude était comparer la perception visuelle de contraste chez des adultes sans consommation d'alcool et, dans le cas d'autres, après une consommation modérée d'alcool - 0,09 percent taux d'alcoolémie (TA), grâce à la fonction de sensibilité au contraste (FSC). Cinq volontaires —âgés de 21-30 ans et avec d'acuité visuelle normale ou corrigée —ont participé aux expériences. Pour mesurer la FSC, nous avons utilisé la grille sinusoïdale radiale de 0,25; 2 et 8 cycles par degré de l'angle visuel. Nous avons utilisé aussi un modèle expérimental, avec des mesures répétées, et une méthode psychophysique de choix forcé. Les résultats ont montré d'effet significatif dans les sujets (F4, 55 = 25,518; p < 0,001), dans les fréquences (F2, 110 = 172,288; p < 0,001) et dans l'interaction entre les fréquences, les conditions et les sujets (F8, 110 = 26,806; p < 0,001). Cette étude préliminaire suggère des changements dans la FSC, liés à la consommation modérée d'alcool.

El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar la percepción visual de contraste en los adultos, sin consumo de alcohol y después de un consumo moderado de alcohol por parte de ellos - 0,09 por ciento de concentración de alcohol en sangre (BAC), a través de la función de sensibilidad al contraste (CSF). Participaron en los experimentos cinco voluntarias, con edades entre 21 y 30 años, con valores normales de agudeza visual. Para medir la CSF, se utilizaron radiales de onda sinusoidal rejilla de estímulos de frecuencias de 0,25, 2 e 8 ciclos por grado de ángulo visual. Se utilizó un diseño experimental o croquis, con medidas repetidas y un método psicofísico de la elección forzada. Los resultados mostraron efecto significativo de sujetos (F4, 55 = 25.518, p < 0.001), de las frecuencias (F2, 110 = 172.288, p < 0,001) y de la interacción entre las frecuencias en comparación con las condiciones en comparación con sujetos (F8, 110 = 26,806; p < 0,001). Este estudio preliminar sugiere cambios en el LCR, relacionados con el consumo moderado de alcohol.

Avaliação da sensibilidade ao contraste em pacientes com migrânea / Avaluation of contrast sensitivity among patients with / Évaluation de sensibilité au contraste chez des patients avec de / Evaluación de la sensibilidad al contraste en pacientes con

O objetivo foi medir a Função de Sensibilidade ao Contraste (FSC) de pacientes com migrânea e de voluntários saudáveis sem a patologia. Participaram dos testes 12 voluntários do sexo feminino, seis com migrânea e seis sem migrânea na faixa etária de 20 a 37 anos. As medidas de FSC foram realizadas utilizando estímulos visuais estáticos de grades senoidais angulares com frequências espaciais de 2, 3, 4, 24 e 64 ciclos/360º Foi utilizado o método psicofísico da escolha forçada entre duas alternativas temporais, condições de luminância fotópica (luminância média da tela de 41 cd/m²) e visão binocular com pupila natural. Os resultados demonstram que a percepção visual de contraste dos voluntários com migrânea foi menor nas frequências de 2, 3, 4 e 64 ciclos/360º. Esses achados preliminares sugerem alterações na FSC relacionadas a essa patologia.

In this work, the aim was to measure the Contrast Sensitivity Function (CSF) among patients with, and healthy volunteers without this pathology. The subjects of the tests were 12 female volunteers, aged 20-37 years - six of them with migraine, and six other ones without migraine. CSF measurements were performed using static visual stimuli of angular sine-wave gratings, with spatial frequencies of 2, 3, 4, 24 and 64 cycles/360º. Method used was the psychophysical one, with forced choice between two temporal alternatives, conditions of photopic luminance (screen average luminance of 41 cd/m²), and binocular vision with natural pupil. The results demonstrate that visual perception of contrast by the volunteers with migraine was lower in the frequencies of 2, 3, 4 and 64 cycles/360°. These preliminary findings suggest changes in the CSF related to this pathology.

Dans ce travail, l'objectif était celui de mesurer la Fonction de Sensibilité au Contraste (FSC) chez des patients souffrant de migraine et des volontaires sains sans cette pathologie. Ont participé des tests 12 volontaires du sexe féminin, âgées de 20-37 ans, six avec de la migraine et six sans migraine. Les mesures de FSC ont été réalisées avec des stimuli visuels statiques des grilles d'ondes sinusoïdales angulaires, avec des fréquences spatiales de 2, 3, 4, 24 et 64 cycles/360º. La méthode utilisée a été la psychophysique, avec choix forcé entre deux alternatives temporelles, les conditions de luminosité photopique (luminance moyenne par écran de 41 cd/m²) et la vision binoculaire avec des pupilles naturelles. Les résultats démontrent que la perception visuelle de contraste par les volontaires souffrant de migraine a été plus faible dans les fréquences de 2, 3, 4 et 64 cycles/360°. Ces résultats préliminaires suggèrent des changements dans le FSC liés à cette pathologie.

En este trabajo, el objetivo era medir la función de sensibilidad al contraste (CSF) en pacientes con y voluntarios sanos sin esta patología. Los sujetos de los ensayos fueron 12 mujeres voluntarias, con edades entre 20-37 años - seis de ellos con la migraña, y seis otros sin migraña. Mediciones LCR se realizaron mediante estímulos visuales estáticos de rejilla angular de onda sinusoidal, con frecuencias espaciales de 2, 3, 4, 24 y 64º cycles/360. El método utilizado fue el psicofísico con elección forzada entre dos alternativas temporales, las condiciones de luminosidad fotópica (luminancia de pantalla media de 41 cd / m²) y la visión binocular con pupila natural. Los resultados demuestran que la percepción visual de contraste por los voluntarios con migraña fue menor en las frecuencias de 2, 3, 4 y 64 cycles/360°. Estos hallazgos preliminares sugieren cambios en el LCR en relación aesta patología.

The multiple-faces configuration illusion in schizophrenic patients

The Multiple-Faces Configuration Illusion is observed by staring at a black dot while paying attention to a face in the peripheral visual field (Simas, 2000). Changes of facial expressions, movements, depth (EMF) or different face identities (MF) are observed in this illusion. Forty participants took part in the study: 20 outpatients diagnosed with schizophrenia, and 20 people helping friends or relatives in a hospital clinic. The face-stimulus was placed in a partition stand and participants instructed to describe any visual event occurring during 90 s, one eye at a time. Results showed that 100 percent of women in the experimental group (EG) reported perceiving events related to MF with the left eye. Significantly fewer women saw these events with the right eye. Also, fewer men in the experimental group and men and women in the control group saw these events with either eye.(AU)

The multiple-faces configuration illusion in schizophrenic patients

The Multiple-Faces Configuration Illusion is observed by staring at a black dot while paying attention to a face in the peripheral visual field (Simas, 2000). Changes of facial expressions, movements, depth (EMF) or different face identities (MF) are observed in this illusion. Forty participants took part in the study: 20 outpatients diagnosed with schizophrenia, and 20 people helping friends or relatives in a hospital clinic. The face-stimulus was placed in a partition stand and participants instructed to describe any visual event occurring during 90 s, one eye at a time. Results showed that 100 percent of women in the experimental group (EG) reported perceiving events related to MF with the left eye. Significantly fewer women saw these events with the right eye. Also, fewer men in the experimental group and men and women in the control group saw these events with either eye.

Sensibilidade ao contraste de freqüências radiais em crianças de 4 a 7 anos e adultos / Radial frequency contrast sensitivity in children of 4 to 7 years old and adults

O objetivo deste trabalho foi medir a sensibilidade ao contraste para freqüências radiais (FSCr) de 0,25 a 2 cpg em crianças (4 a 7 anos) e adultos. Foram estimados limiares de contraste para 25 participantes (vinte crianças e cinco adultos jovens), utilizando o método psicofísico da escolha forçada. Os participantes apresentavam acuidade visual normal. Os resultados mostraram que as curvas (FSCr) de crianças de 4 a 7 anos melhoraram de forma significativa com a idade. Os resultados mostraram ainda que a FSCr de crianças de 7 anos é mais baixa do que a de adultos jovens. Estes resultados sugerem que o desenvolvimento da percepção visual de contraste para estímulos radiais ocorre gradualmente se prolongando além dos 7 anos.(AU)

The aim of this work was to measure contrast sensitivity for radial frequencies (rCSF) in the range between 0.25-2 cpd in children (4 to 7 years of age) and young adults. Contrast thresholds were estimated for 25 participants (twenty children and five adults) using the psychophysical forced-choice method at low luminance levels. All the cts participants had normal acuity. The results showed that the curves (rCSF) of the 4, 5, 6 and 7 years old improved significantly with age. The results also showed that the rCSF for 7 year old children was lower than in young adults. These results suggest that the development of contrast sensitivity for radial stimuli increases gradually even after turning 7 years old.(AU)