bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Efficacy of Bioceramics for the Closure of Burr-Holes in Craniotomy: Case Studies on 14 Patients
Authors: Izci Yusuf , Seçer Halil Ibrahim , Ilica Ahmet Turan , Karaçalioğlu Ozgur , Onguru Onder , Timuçin Muharrem , Korkusuz Feza
Published: July 2012

Purpose

Bioceramics are currently in use to cover bone defects in orthopedics and craniofacial surgery. But their compatibility and efficacy in cranium were not investigated in detail. The aims of this study were to produce, characterize, and assess the biocompatibility and osteointegration of Si-HA, Si-Sr-HA, HA-Wollastonite, and HA-Wollastonite-Frit bioceramics.

Methods

Bioceramics were implanted into the burr holes of 14 craniotomy patients who were followed up from three to 24 months. Radiologic and scintigraphic examinations were performed.

Results

Osteoblastic activity quantified by scintigraphy increased from 6.865 to 22.991±1.682 from four to eight months in the HA-Woll group. Adding fritt into HA-Woll decreased osteoblastic activity at 10 months. Si-Sr-HA displayed significantly higher osteoblastic activity when compared to the craniotomy site at 12 months. The scintigraphic ratio of the bioceramic implanted regions to the craniotomy sites varied between 1.10 and 1.57. Osteoblast formation and establishment of the trabecular pattern of bone was observed in the surroundings of bioceramics in two patients.

Conclusion

These bioceramics can be safely used to cover the burr holes of craniotomy patients, as well as to close the cranial bone defects.
Hydrophilic Gelatin and Hyaluronic Acid-Treated PLGA Scaffolds for Cartilage Tissue Engineering
Authors: Chang Nai-Jen , Jhung Yi-Ru , Yao Chih-Kai , Yeh Ming-Long
Published: July 2012

Tissue engineering provides a new strategy for repairing damaged cartilage. Surface and mechanical properties of scaffolds play important roles in inducing cell growth.

Aim

The aim of this study was to fabricate and characterize PLGA and gelatin/hyaluronic acid-treated PLGA (PLGA-GH) sponge scaffolds for articular cartilage tissue engineering.

Methods

The PLGA-GH scaffolds were cross-linked with gelatin and hyaluronic acid. Primary chondrocytes isolated from porcine articular cartilages were used to assess cell compatibility. The characteristic PLGA-GH scaffold was higher in water uptake ratio and degradation rate within 42 days than the PLGA scaffold.

Results

The mean compressive moduli of PLGA and PLGA-GH scaffolds were 1.72±0.50 MPa and 1.86±0.90 MPa, respectively. The cell attachment ratio, proliferation, and extracellular matrix secretion on PLGA-GH scaffolds are superior to those of PLGA scaffolds.

Conclusions

In our study, PLGA-GH scaffolds exhibited improvements in cell biocompatibility, cell proliferation, extracellular matrix synthesis, and appropriate mechanical and structural properties for potential engineering cartilage applications.
Influence of Albumin on Mineralization of PMMA-Based/Glass Composites
Authors: Leite Ferreira Bárbara J.M. , Duarte Maria Gabriela G.M. , Gil Maria Helena , Fernandes Maria Helena V. , Correia Rui Nunes
Published: July 2012

Purpose

The formation of a calcium phosphate layer on the surface of bone tissue engineering biomaterials is crucial for their integration in bone. Simulated biological fluids used to study the in vitro formation of those layers do not usually contain important organic components present in vivo–-notably proteins. In this work the influence of bovine serum albumin on the mineralization process of poly(methylmethacrylate)-based composite was studied in vitro.

Methods

The effect of protein on calcium phosphate formation was followed by ion concentration analyses (ICP), x-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy coupled with x-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS).

Results and Conclusions

The results showed the precipitation of a calcium phosphate layer on the surface of composites immersed in SBF and SBFA. Further transformation and crystallization of this layer, initially amorphous, appears to be influenced by the presence of albumin.
Cuttlefish Bone Scaffold for Tissue Engineering: A Novel Hydrothermal Transformation, Chemical-Physical, and Biological Characterization
Authors: Battistella Elisa , Mele Silvia , Foltran Ismaela , Lesci Isidoro Giorgio , Roveri Norberto , Sabatino Piera , Rimondini Lia
Published: July 2012

Purpose

Natural resources are receiving growing interest because of their possible conversion from a cheap and easily available material into a biomedical product. Cuttlefish bone from Sepia Officinalis was investigated in order to obtain an hydroxyapatite porous scaffold using hydrothermal transformation.

Methods

Complete conversion of the previous calcium carbonate (aragonite) phase into a calcium phosphate (hydroxyapatite) phase was performed with an hydrothermal transformation at 200 °C (∼15 atm), for four hours, with an aqueous solution of KH2PO4 in order to set the molar ratio Ca/P = 10/6 in a reactor (Parr 4382). The complete conversion was then analyzed by TGA, ATR-FTIR, x-ray diffraction, and SEM. Moreover, the material was biologically investigated with MC3T3-E1 in static cultures, using both osteogenic and maintenance media. The expression of osteogenic markers as ALP and osteocalcin and the cell proliferation were investigated.

Results

Cuttlefish bone has been successfully transformed from calcium carbonate into calcium phosphate. Biological characterization revealed that osteogenic markers are expressed using both osteogenic and maintenance conditions. Cell proliferation is influenced by the static culture condition used for this three-dimensional scaffold.

Conclusions

The new scaffold composed by hydroxyapatite and derived for a natural source presents good biocompatibility and can be used for further investigations using dynamic cultures in order to improve cell proliferation and differentiation for bone tissue engineering.
The Effects of Different Articulate Curvature of Artificial Disc on Loading Distribution
Authors: Wei Hung-Wen , Chiang Yueh-Feng , Chen Yu-Wen , Cheng Cheng-Kung , Tsuang Yang-Hwei
Published: July 2012

Purpose

Deeper insights into the mechanical behavior of lumbar disc prostheses are required. Prior studies on the biomechanical performance of artificial discs were mostly performed with finite element analyses, but this has never been analyzed with altering articulate curvature. This study aimed to ascertain the influence of the geometry of a ball-and-socket disc prosthesis for the lumbar spine.

Materials and Methods

Three-dimensional finite element model of human L4–L5 was reconstructed. Convex, concave, and elliptic artificial disc models were also established with Computer-Aided-Design software. Simulations included: (1) three articulate types of polyethylene (PE) insert were implanted inferiorly and (2) concave and convex PE inserts were implanted on the superior or inferior sides in flexion/extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation in the lumbar spine. Shear stresses and von Mises stresses on PE insert were assessed for their loading distributions.

Results

High shear stresses of all articulate types occurred in flexion, and convex PE insert performed the maximum stress of 23.81 MPa. Under all conditions, stresses on concave PE inserts were distributed more evenly and lower than those on the convex type. Elliptic geometry enabled confining the rotation of the motion unit. The shear force on the convex PE insert on the inferior side could induce transverse crack because the shear stress exceeded yielding shear stress.

Conclusions

The concave PE insert on the inferior side not only decreased loading concentration but had relatively low stress. Such a design may be applicable for artificial discs.
Time-Dependent Adhesive Interaction of Osteoblastic Cells with Polished Titanium Alloyed Implant Surfaces
Authors: Fritsche Andreas , Luethen Frank , Lembke Ulrich , Zietz Carmen , Rychly Joachim , Mittelmeier Wolfram , Bader Rainer
Published: July 2012

Aim

Design optimization and surface modifications of orthopedic implants are focused on adhesive properties depending on specific applications. To obtain an in vitro understanding of the adhesion interaction of bone cells on implant surfaces the time-dependent adhesion behavior of osteoblastic cells was studied.

Materials and Methods

MG-63 osteoblastic cells were seeded on discs of polished titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) and allowed to adhere for various time periods (1 to 48 h). Using a spinning disc device and a confocal laser scanning microscope (LSM) the shear stress required to detach the bone cells from the substrate was determined. An approximation of the adhesion force was calculated from measurements of cell height and contact radius.

Results

Shear stress ranged from 40.4 N/m2 to 82.4 N/m2 showing an increase in cell adhesion reaching a maximum after 6 h before decreasing significantly. Using the cell height and contact radii, measured for the various time periods, the lowest adhesion force of 232 nN was approximated after 1 h cell adhesion and analogous to the adhesion strength measurements, the highest of 664 nN after 6 h. Generally, cell adhesion decreased at incubation times longer than 6 h before an increase after 48 h was observed once again.

Conclusions

differences in adhesion behavior over time indicate dynamic cell-substrate interactions because of cell migration and proliferation processes. The study stresses the importance of calculating the adhesion force rather than shear stress to gain more expressive data regarding cell adhesion.
The Effect of Stem Curvature on Torsional Stability of a Generalized Cemented Joint Replacement System
Authors: Hosein Yara K. , Clynick Meghan P. , McLachlin Stewart D. , King Graham J.W. , Dunning Cynthia E.
Published: July 2012

Purpose

Implant loosening is a common complication that compromises the stability of joint replacement systems. Stem geometry is particularly influential in the stability of cemented implants, both before and after debonding occurs at the stem-cement interface. There are few studies assessing the effect of stem longitudinal curvature as a geometric factor in cemented implant stability. The purpose of this study was to compare the torsional stability of four generalized cemented implant stems (i.e., non-specific to joint), with varying degrees of longitudinal curvatures - zero, two, four, and six degrees.

Methods

Twelve specimens of each curvature angle were potted to a depth of 20 mm using bone cement, given 24 hours to cure, and then tested in a materials testing machine. Torque was applied to the stems under monotonic loading at a rate of 2.5 degrees/min, until five degrees of rotation had occurred.

Results

There were no differences in torsional stability among the four stem curvature angles, when the magnitudes of peak torque (P=.72; 1-β = 0.13), rotation of the stem at peak torque (P=0.23; 1-β = 0.38) and work required for five degrees of stem rotation (P=.58; 1-β = 0.07) were compared.

Conclusions

The findings from this study demonstrate that for short stems, stem curvature angles up to six degrees does not improve torsional stability when compared to the straight stem design.
An Outline of the Islamic Maqasidi/Purpose-Based Approach
Authors: Auda Jasser
Published: July 2012

This paper explains the reasoning methodology generally utilized for an Islamic approach to “new” questions in bioethics. It is an approach based on maqasid al-Shariah (sing. maqsid) which are the purposes, objectives, principles, and ends of the Islamic jurisprudence. The paper explains various maqasid definitions, structures, dimensions, and outlines how they are integrated in the Islamic ethical approach. A few examples are introduced, such as: allowing organ transplantation based on the maqsid of preservation of life; placing conditions on IVF based on the maqsid of protecting family and progeny; promoting stem cell research based on the maqsid of promotion of knowledge; and prohibiting cloning based on the maqsid of preservation of the universal law of diversity.
Islamic bioethics’, religious authority and modernity: anthropological comments on Shi‘i responses to assisted conception in Lebanon
Authors: Clarke Morgan
Published: July 2012

Through ethnography of Islamic legal debates over assisted reproduction in Lebanon, this paper reaffirms the need to place discussions of ‘Islamic bioethics’ within particular intellectual, social and political contexts. ‘Islamic bioethics’, as most commonly employed in academic discourse at least, serves as a term of art for Islamic legal (fiqhi) discussions of biomedical ethical issues. Such discussions in the first place are, in the context of the Shi‘i debates focused on here, responses to particular cases and queries on the part of comprehensive religious authorities (maraji‘ al-taqlid). Relative expertise in responding to such ‘contemporary’ issues is, amongst other things, a source of prestige and advancement in the highly politicised and competitive field of Shi‘i religious authority in Lebanon.

Incorporating such Islamic legal discourse into medical institutional or state legal regulation has proved problematic in this area in Lebanon. Such incorporation has occurred in other medical ethical areas in Lebanon and elsewhere. There is, then, a varied institutional and political topography that needs to be considered in any investigation of a putative instance of ‘Islamic bioethics’. The paper thus concludes with some critical comments with regards to the category, ‘Islamic bioethics’ itself. ‘Bioethics’ is a specialised discourse distinctive to late modern societies, as manifested in a variety of institutions with particular genealogies. If ‘Islamic bioethics’ is to refer to anything at all, it must refer not to instances of casuistic Islamic legal discourse but to emergent constellations of interrelation between Islamic legal, medical and state legal institutions.
Symbolic Pluriformity in ‘Religion and Science’: Islam, Environmentalism, and Medical Ethics
Authors: Drees Willem
Published: July 2012

What is presented as discussions on religious faith in relation to science is often as much a podium for disagreements within religious traditions. As an example, in the United States controversies over evolution are primarily controversies among various attitudes within American protestant Christianity. In this context, ‘evolution’ has become a symbolic issue, with various steps removed from the science involved. When anti-evolution attitudes migrate to other contexts, also among Muslims, the symbolic issues may be different even if the same examples are used.

Attitudes regarding modern technology and medicine have a similar ‘symbolic’ dimension. Understanding attitudes with respect to bioethics and modern medicine may be served by paying attention to this symbolic dimension. As a contrast to medical technologies I Intend to discuss also some positions on “Islam and ecology”, drawing on works of a graduate student, A.M. Schwencke. Her study has illustrated the internal diversity in this field. However, by and large ‘religion and ecology’ tends to present a positive view of the natural world, which strengthens an alliance of secular and religious environmentalists.

In contrast, biotechnology and modern medicine may be seen as efforts to “improve nature”. Values that support an alliance in the environmentalist area might put positive collaboration of scientists, doctors and religious thinkers under pressure. In various traditions, religious authorities have dismissed modern technological options as hubris, as “playing God”. In contrast, scientists, doctors and other believers have spoken of a moral obligation to care for humans in need, and for that purpose the obligation to use the best techniques available.

Differences between technophobe attitudes and technophile attitudes are not merely a matter of different moral orientations, but often correlate with different orientations within religious traditions. Some emphasize “creation” as a God given, normative order. This often corresponds with an inclination to self-restraint with respect to medical and other technologies. For others, the religious call to serve God and hence the obligation to help people in need, strengthens a positive engagement with technology. Whereas the one might take the form of a “natural theology”, the moral stance seems to require a “theology of nature”.
Introduction: Teaching Music and the Moving Image and the Value of Praxis
Authors: Walker Elsie
Published: July 2012

The introduction begins by focusing on those presentations devoted to pedagogical practice at the Music and the Moving Image conference of 2011. (These presentations were the inspiration for creating this special issue.) Walker then summarizes her own pedagogical approach to teaching sound tracks by raising a series of questions with regard to a one minute music cue from Max Steiner’s score for The Searchers (1956). In the context of the long-standing visual bias within cinema studies, Walker argues that we can empower our students to help redefine the power of many films through analysis of their sound tracks.
Rivaroxaban in der Prävention und Therapie thromboembolischer Erkrankungen
Authors: Helbing T. , Bode C. , Moser M.
Published: July 2012

Rivaroxaban (Xarelto®) is a new anticoagulant for the prevention and treatment of thromboembolic disorders. Rivaroxaban inhibits coagulation factor Xa directly, has high oral bioavailability, shows low propensity for drug-drug interactions and requires no routine coagulation monitoring. In patients undergoing elective knee or hip replacement surgery rivaroxaban (10 mg/d) is highly effective to prevent venous thromboembolism. In patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation rivaroxaban (20 mg/d) has been approved to prevent stroke or systemic embolism. The favourable benefit-risk profile of rivaroxaban in the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) was shown in EINSTEIN-DVT and led to its clinical approval (twice daily 15 mg for 3 weeks, followed by 20mg/d). Based on ATLASACS-TIMI-51 which has shown that rivaroxaban (2.5 mg twice daily) reduced thrombotic cardiovascular events and mortality in patients with a recent acute coronary syndrome, the approval of low dose rivaroxaban has been submitted for this indication.

Taken together, rivaroxaban may become an effective alternative to standard anticoagulants in the prevention and treatment of thromboembolic disorders.
Vorapaxar expands antiplatelet options
Authors: Bode C. , Duerschmied D.
Published: July 2012

Vorapaxar is the first substance of a new class of antiplatelet drugs that has been tested in large clinical trials. The protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR-1) antagonist inhibits thrombin-induced platelet activation to prevent atherothrombosis. In the phase 3 trials TRACER (acute coronary syndrome) and TRA 2P-TIMI 50 (stable atherosclerosis) reducing ischemic events with vorapaxar came at the cost of bleeding.

TRACER compared vorapaxar to placebo in 12 944 patients who had non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndromes on top of contemporary treatment including dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin and clopidogrel). Vorapaxar reduced ischemic events non-significantly, but increased bleeding significantly, therefore not justifying triple antiplatelet therapy in this setting. Follow-up was stopped early because of bleeding. TRA 2P-TIMI 50 examined 26 449 patients who had a history of myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, or peripheral arterial disease. Vorapaxar reduced ischemic events and increased bleeding both significantly. Recruitment of patients with prior stroke was stopped early. Net clinical outcome and subgroup analyses suggested that vorapaxar could be beneficial for patients with prior myocardial infarction – but no history of stroke.
Prevalence of tinnitus in workers exposed to noise and organophosphates
Authors: de Freitas Thais Domingues , Frizzo Ana Claúdia Figueiredo , Cardoso Ana Claúdia Vieira , Delecrode Camila Ribas
Published: July 2012

Introduction: Research on the workplace has emphasized the effects of noise exposure on workers' hearing, but has not considered the effects of agrochemicals.

Aim: To evaluate and correlate the hearing level and tinnitus of workers exposed simultaneously to noise and organophosphates in their workplace and to measure tinnitus distress on their quality of life.

Method: A retrospective clinical study. We evaluated 82 organophosphate sprinklers from the São Paulo State Regional Superintendence who were active in the fight against dengue and who were exposed to noise and organophosphates. We performed pure tone audiometry and applied the translated THI (Tinnitus Handicap Inventory) questionnaire.

Results: Of the sample, 28.05% reported current tinnitus or had presented tinnitus, and the workers with tinnitus had an increased incidence of abnormal audiometry. The average hearing threshold for the 4–8-kHz frequency range of the workers with current tinnitus was higher than that of the others, and was most affected at the 4-kHz frequency. The THI score ranged 0–84, with an average score of 13.1. Twelve (52.17%) workers had THI scores consistent with discrete handicap.

Conclusion: There is an increased incidence of abnormal pure tone audiometry in workers with tinnitus, and its impact on the workers' quality of life was discrete. The correlation between average hearing threshold and tinnitus distress was weak.
Assessment of nasal patency after rhinoplasty through the Glatzel mirror
Authors: Alonso Nivaldo , Mendes Rogério Rafael da Silva , Gravina Paula Rocha , Cronenberg Eduardo Valente , Meneses José Valber Lima , de Pochat Victor Diniz
Published: July 2012

Introduction: Objective evaluation of nasal function is a constant challenge for plastic surgeons, otolaryngologists, and allergists. The modified Glatzel mirror can evaluate nasal expiratory flow; however, there is little information on this method and its use in the measurement of nasal patency after surgical procedures.

Objective: To compare, in a prospective study, the functional results before and after cosmetic rhinoplasty and evaluate the use of the Glatzel mirror as an objective method to assess nasal patency.

Methods: To achieve this objective, we analyzed the functional results of surgery through a subjective questionnaire and objective evaluation through a modified Glatzel mirror, and evaluated the correlation between the 2 methods. Twenty patients (14 women and 6 men) underwent aesthetic rhinoplasty using spreader grafts. Pre- and postoperative evaluation (90–120 days) included a respiratory quality score (subjective) and modified Glatzel mirror test (objective). Subsequently, the Spearman test was used to compare the pre- and postoperative subjective and objective data.

Results: The subjective evaluation demonstrated a statistical difference between pre- and postoperative scores (8 ± 2 and 9.4 ± 0.7, P ≤ 0.001). There was no statistical difference in mean nasal patency by modified Glatzel mirror. No statistically significant correlation was observed when comparing the modified Glatzel mirror values with the subjective scores reported by patients pre- or postoperatively.

Conclusion: The Glatzel method lacks sensitivity in detecting patient-reported improvements in breathing following rhinoplasty. This suggests that the method is a poor assessment tool to detect small, post-surgical changes in the nasal airways.
Proposed computerized protocol for epidemiological study of patients undergoing microsurgery of the larynx
Authors: Catani Guilherme Simas do Amaral , Filho Jorge Massaaki Ido , Filho Evaldo Dacheux de Macedo , Pinto José Simão de Paula , Malafaia Osvaldo , Stahlke Henrique Jorge , Carvalho Bettina
Published: July 2012

Introduction: The merging of medicine with information technology facilitates the retrieval of stored data, aiding the conduct of research with greater scientific rigor. Studies in the field of otorhinolaryngology, specifically in the area of laryngology and voice, are of fundamental importance, since 70% of the economically active need their voice to work.

Objective: To create a computerized protocol of the diseases of the larynx, apply and validate it, and use it to evaluate patients undergoing laryngoscopic microsurgery of the larynx.

Method: We created a database of ENT diseases through a literature review of textbooks and scientific articles. Next, we computerized the data and incorporated it into the SINPE©, creating a master protocol (ENT diseases) and a specific protocol (laryngeal diseases). Data were collected prospectively from patients undergoing laryngeal microsurgery in the ENT Hospital of Paraná. The collected data were analyzed with graphs through the SINPE© Analyzer module.

Results: We evaluated 245 patients aged 9–79 years, and determined that 36.61% (93 patients) underwent surgery for the presence of polyps on the vocal folds, 12.6% (32) underwent surgery for papillomatosis, and 11.83% (29) underwent surgery for intracordal cysts.

Conclusions: The creation of an electronic database of clinical ENT diseases was feasible. We were also able to implement and validate the protocol. The database may be released to physicians involved in clinical data collection and retrieval of information to conduct scientific research in an organized manner. The most common laryngeal disorders identified were polyps, papilloma, and intracordal cysts.
Middle ear resonance in infants: Age effects
Authors: André Karina Delgado , Sanches Seisse Gabriela Gandolfi , Carvallo Renata Mota Mamede
Published: July 2012

Introduction: The resonant frequency is the probe frequency in which susceptance is 0 due to the neutralization of the forces of mass and stiffness components that control the middle ear. This frequency can be evaluated by multifrequency tympanometry, and the normality value for adults ranges 800–1,200 Hz. Studies about resonant frequency in children are scarce.

Aim: Identify the variation of the resonant frequency in infants between the first days after birth and the third month of life.

Method: Prospective study. Thirty newborns were evaluated at 2 different times: at the neonatal phase up to 12 days of life, and between 72 and 84 days of life. In the first evaluation, we carried out otoacoustic emissions and identified the resonant frequency, and identified the resonant frequency again in the second evaluation.

Results: In the first evaluation, we determined a mean resonance value of 250 Hz for both ears, while that in the second evaluation was 385 Hz. In both assessments, we found no significant differences between the ears. There was a significant difference between the first and second evaluation.

Conclusion: The middle ear resonant frequency in infants is lower in the first days of life due to the influence of the mass component. The present study demonstrated that the resonance frequency increased in the first months of life.
Analysis of the masticatory process of asthmatic children: Clinical and electromyographic research
Authors: da Silva Hilton Justino , Nascimento Gerlane Karla Bezerra Oliveira , da Silva Elthon Gomes Fernandes , da Cunha Renata Andrade , Régis Renata Milena Freire Lima , de Castro Célia Maria Machado Barbosa , da Cunha Daniele Andrade
Published: July 2012

Introduction: The prevalence of asthma has grown considerably in recent decades, but some studies have shown stabilization of this trend. The masticatory process of asthmatic children may be altered due to asthma-related anatomo-functional changes.

Objective: The study objective was to determine the clinical and electromyographic characteristics of the masticatory process in asthmatic children and compare the electrical activities of their masseter and anterior temporal muscles (at rest and during maximal voluntary contraction and mastication) with those of non-asthmatic children.

Method: Case study. Asthmatic and non-asthmatic groups, each consisting of 30 children of both sexes between 6 and 10 years of age, were evaluated. Mastication was evaluated clinically and electromyographically in all subjects. RESULTS: The masticatory process did not differ significantly between asthmatic and non-asthmatic children.

Conclusion: Although the masticatory process did not differ significantly between asthmatic and non-asthmatic children, the masticatory process of asthmatic children may be altered because of anatomical changes of Asthma.
Remote hearing aid fitting: Tele-audiology in the context of Brazilian Public Policy
Authors: Penteado Silvio Pires , Ramos Sueli de Lima , Battistella Linamara Rizzo , Marone Silvio Antonio Monteiro , Bento Ricardo Ferreira
Published: July 2012

Introduction: Currently, the Brazilian government has certificated nearly 140 specialized centers in hearing aid fittings through the Brazilian National Health System (SUS). Remote fitting through the Internet can allow a broader and more efficient coverage with a higher likelihood of success for patients covered by the SUS, as they can receive fittings from their own homes instead of going to the few and distant specialized centers.

Aim: To describe a case of remote fitting between 2 cities, with revision of the literature.

Method: Computer gears, a universal interface, and hearing aids were used. Case study: An audiologist located in a specialized center introduced a new hearing aid and its fitting procedure to a remote center (200 km away). The specialized center helped the remote center in fitting a hearing aid in 2 patients, and performed fitting in one of its own patients. The whole process was done through the Internet with audio and video in real time.

Results: Three patients were fitted remotely. Three audiologists were remotely trained on how to fit the hearing aids.

Conclusions: Remote fitting of hearing aids is possible through the Internet, as well as further supplying technical training to a remote center about the fitting procedures. Such a technological approach can help the government advance public policies on hearing rehabilitation, as patients can be motivated about maintaining their use of hearing aids with the option to ask for help in the comfort of their own homes.
Pluralisme médical polarisé
Authors: Bujold Mathieu
Published: July 2012

La dernière décennie a vu apparaître, en Amérique du Nord, des cliniques de soins de santé intégrés (SSI) visant la coopération entre praticiens de différentes spécialités (alternatives et biomédicales) afin de fournir des soins holistiques centrés sur l’individu. Ce phénomène représente un défi pour l’anthropologue s’intéressant à l’analyse des interactions entre diverses formes de savoirs relatifs à la santé. Outre son volet ethnographique, l’objectif de cette étude était d’identifier et d’analyser les facteurs favorisant ou entravant l’articulation, voire la négociation, entre différents points de vue relatifs à un épisode de maladie. Un terrain dans une coopérative de SSI québécoise, a permis, entre autres, de suivre l’expérience thérapeutique de quinze individus. Le cadre conceptuel de cette étude, avec son utilisation novatrice du concept des modèles explicatifs individuels de la maladie (MEM), a permis d’analyser l’interaction entre les perceptions des acteurs impliqués dans les processus de soins (patient et thérapeutes). L’hypothèse suivante tend à émerger de l’analyse préliminaire des résultats : la représentation de la maladie du patient peut être un canal de communication favorisant l’articulation interdisciplinaire, entre autres en atténuant certaines barrières d’épistémologie et de langage. Tenir compte de la perspective du patient serait plus qu’une simple concordance avec un postulat de base des soins de santé intégrés ; cela faciliterait le passage de la multidisciplinarité à l’interdisciplinarité, processus fondamental pour le développement de ce nouveau paradigme de soins.
Le silence du figurant de sa propre histoire
Authors: Laliberté Annie
Published: July 2012

Une abondante cinématographie est née des cendres du génocide rwandais de 1994. En juin 2007, le cinéaste français Alain Tasma et son équipe ont parcouru le Rwanda dans le but de tourner un film sur l’Opération Turquoise, une action militaire organisée par la France vers la fin du génocide rwandais. L’équipe s’est arrêtée dans la ville de Butare, province très touché par les massacres : elle y a recruté des figurants parmi les Rwandais présents au moment du drame de 1994 et a procédé à une reconstitution du drame tandis que les habitants vaquaient à leurs occupations quotidiennes. Le tout treize ans après le drame. Une réflexion peut s’engager sur la perception de ces tournages chez les Rwandais. Nous avons choisi de mettre l’accent sur les intellectuels de Butare : dans le cadre de discussions avec les élèves et les enseignants et la présence sur les lieux du tournage de l’Opération Turquoise, nous avons constaté que ce tournage suscitait des attentes au sujet du déséquilibre dans les représentations, en particulier pour des raisons politiques. Ce point de vue des élites est aussi révélateur d’un rapport trouble avec la transparence, l’expression et la relation avec la paysannerie.
Pour une autre démarche anthropologique
Authors: Mouna Khalid
Published: July 2012

Nous souhaitons présenter dans cet article une réflexion anthropologique sur le Rif du Maroc. En effet, l’anthropologie maghrébine en général, et marocaine en particulier, est restée fortement marquée par les grands courants anthropologiques malgré des évolutions sociologiques récentes. Partant de la présentation des travaux de Hart et Jamous, cet article cherche à interroger cet héritage, toujours perceptible dans les études consacrées à la société maghrébine. À partir d’une lecture de notre matériel de terrain relatif à la société Ketama du Rif central, dont la principale activité économique réside dans la culture du cannabis et de ses dérivés, nous proposons ici une analyse de la société rifaine à partir de la démarche khaldounienne afin de nous atteler à une autre approche de l’anthropologie du Rif et du Maghreb.
Esquisse d’une nouvelle microstructure de dictionnaire spécialisé reflétant la variation en discours du terme syntagmatique1
Authors: Collet Tanja
Published: July 2012

Cet article s’attache à présenter une nouvelle microstructure qui se distancie du primat traditionnellement accordé à la dimension notionnelle du terme. De nature sémasiologique, cette microstructure s’intéresse, en effet, davantage à la représentation des caractéristiques lexico-syntaxiques des rapports du terme, spécialement du terme syntagmatique, au texte, tout en fournissant les renseignements notionnels qui s’imposent. L’article se penchera d’abord sur la mise en discours du terme et montrera comment celui-ci participe, par le biais de variantes formelles engendrées en discours par des opérations syntaxiques, à l’organisation de la cohésion du texte de spécialité. Il proposera ensuite une microstructure qui cherche à informer sur cet aspect du comportement discursif du terme, spécialement du terme syntagmatique.
Audesc: Translating Images into Words for Spanish Visually Impaired People
Authors: Hernández-Bartolomé1 Ana I. , Mendiluce-Cabrera1 Gustavo
Published: July 2012

Although audiovisual translation is a relatively new field within Translation Studies, it is widening its perspectives to recent areas. Some of them are particularly concerned with minority groups, such as sensory impaired people. Specifically, the blind and visually impaired constitute an unexplored group. In this paper we introduce the system of “audio description,” which translates images into words to make audiovisual products accessible to this special-needs social sector. Since not much literature on the topic is available, we will provide the background and some general procedures for this type of intersemiotic translation. However, our greatest interest will be Audesc, the Spanish audio descriptive project developed by ONCE (the Spanish Organisation for the Blind), mainly applied to the cinema and the theatre. Finally, our paper hints at attaching the audio describer’s role to the audiovisual translator’s.
Approche « terminométrique1 » du cycle économique : implications et prolongements
Authors: Resche Catherine
Published: July 2012

Cette étude vise à montrer que, particulièrement dans le domaine économique où la psychologie joue un rôle important et parallèlement aux modèles économétriques, une approche terminologique peut s’avérer utile en apportant un éclairage nouveau sur la situation économique et le degré de confiance en l’avenir des agents économiques. Selon qu’ils sont employés avec une fréquence plus ou moins grande dans la presse, les termes clés du cycle économique peuvent, en effet, constituer un baromètre de l’opinion en temps réel. Outre les données chiffrées, cette approche permet d’analyser les fluctuations des contenus sémantiques de ces termes à une époque de flottement : de la même manière que les repères traditionnels s’avèrent inadéquats pour analyser un environnement économique nouveau, la terminologie classique du cycle économique semble inadaptée et est appelée à être revue. Des termes apparemment courants reçoivent alors des connotations qui varient en fonction du contexte et la phraséologie contribue à nuancer les contenus sémantiques. D’où l’importance d’observer les termes en contexte.
A Methodological Proposal for the Study of Semantic Functions across Languages
Authors: Labrador De La Cruz Belén
Published: July 2012

After a brief revision of the major currents of thought and grammatical models in the history of CS (Contrastive Studies), a method of analysis suitable for corpus-based descriptive studies across languages is presented and discussed in this paper. As an alternative to translation corpora, the use of comparable corpora is advocated and put into practice in a large-scale research on a particular semantic function, quantification, and its expression in two languages, English and Spanish. The different phases of the process are explained and a summary of achievements is provided. The ultimate purpose of the paper is to contribute to the strengthening of the discipline by offering new results about one pair of languages and by suggesting a methodology that can be broadly applied to different semantic fields and pairs of languages.
Fantasme théâtralisé et théâtre baroque
Authors: Kozul Mladen
Published: July 2012

De nombreux textes théâtraux et érotiques de Sade partagent une forme historiquement spécifique de la codification du fantasme. La structure dramatique et spéculaire de celui-ci se prête particulièrement bien au procédé de l’enchâssement caractéristique du théâtre baroque. L’emboîtement théâtral structure deux textes matriciels de Sade,La ruse d’amouretLes 120 journées de Sodome, qui donnent à la cruauté et à l’érotisme des formes proprement théâtrales. L’omniprésence de la mise en abîme du metteur en scène et de la scène qu’il organise dans les pièces et dans les romans indique que certains aspects de la théâtralité baroque fournissent la matrice de base de l’invention sadienne.
La prose dramatique de Sade : Ce « dangereux supplément »?
Authors: Phillips John
Published: July 2012

John Phillips examine la dramatisation de la prose dans nombre d’écrits de Sade. Les contes du marquis empruntent à la tragédie classique une fascination pour l’inceste, et au drame contemporain un excès de violence et de sexe, mais c’est surtout la valorisation de la voix qui est théâtrale. La voix domine dans les formes dramatiques que favorise Sade dans sa fiction, des dialogues aux tirades jusqu’aux scènes de reconnaissance. Basant son analyse sur une lecture de Rousseau et de Derrida, Phillips montre que la présence et la plénitude du discours parlé s’avèrent particulièrement instables chez Sade, qui cherche à recréer au moyen de l’écriture un sentiment de permanence qui lui échappe dans la langue parlée.
La face cachée de la lune ou la face cachée du sujet
Authors: Hébert Chantal
Published: July 2012

Cet article examine le quatrième spectacle solo de Robert Lepage, La face cachée de la lune, d’un point de vue systémique et sur la base du paradigme de la complexité. En prenant appui entre autres sur la notion d’interactions, l’étude cherche à montrer comment Lepage parvient, d’une part, à représenter la figure composite du Sujet contemporain et, d’autre part, à lier le Soi et l’Autre, le passé et l’avenir, l’histoire et la mémoire, le temps et l’espace, l’universel et l’intime, autant de notions considérées comme antagonistes, dans un spectacle solo, qui, tout en étant ouvert sur le monde, invite le spectateur à un voyage intérieur.
La firme et l’environnement
Authors: Lanoie Paul , Laplante Benoît , Tanguay Georges A.
Published: July 2012

Ce court texte vise à présenter les articles qui composent ce numéro spécial ayant pour thème la firme et l’environnement. Nous les présentons tout en les situant autour des deux grands axes de la littérature sur l’intervention gouvernementale en matière d’environnement : le « comment » de l’intervention et ses effets.
Régulation et performances de l’activité de dépollution : une analyse économétrique sur données individuelles
Authors: Thomas Alban
Published: July 2012

Nous décrivons dans cet article le mode de relation contractuelle existant entre une Agence de Bassin et des industriels polluants, et portant sur le financement de stations d’épuration. L’Agence de Bassin agit comme un régulateur vis-à-vis des industriels en fixant une taxe Pigouvienne sur les niveaux de pollution et en subventionnant les équipements d’épuration. L’un des objectifs de cet article est de préciser de façon quantitative le gain apporté par une régulation utilisant comme instrument alternatif une taxe personnalisée non linéaire. La fonction de dépollution des industriels est estimée en prenant en compte l’hétérogénéité des entreprises en matière de coût variable de dépollution. Les paramètres structurels ainsi estimés fournissent le point de départ d’une simulation d’un contrat virtuel avec taxe non linéaire, l’approche principal-agent étant utilisée comme cadre théorique. Les performances du contrat virtuel sont comparées à celles effectivement obtenues par la politique de taxe uniforme de l’Agence de Bassin.
Permis d’émission négociables et réglementation dans des marchés de concurrence imparfaite
Authors: Sartzetakis Eftichios S.
Published: July 2012

Cette étude présente un duopole de Cournot soumis à une réglementation environnementale. Deux types d’approche sont étudiés : l’approche « ordre et contrôle » et les permis d’émission négociables. L’analyse démontre qu’un système de permis d’émission négociables est plus efficace que l’approche « ordre et contrôle » quand le marché des permis est concurrentiel, mais qu’il est moins efficace quand une des entreprises est capable de fixer le prix dans le marché des permis. Dans un duopole à la Cournot, l’entreprise capable de fixer le prix des permis cherche à faire augmenter les coûts de son concurrent afin d’augmenter sa part du marché des produits. Dans un système de permis d’émission négociables, l’État peut initialement vendre les permis aux enchères ou les distribuer sans frais (grandfathering). Il est démontré que lorsque le marché des permis est concurrentiel, les deux systèmes d’allocation initiale des permis sont efficaces, tandis que lorsqu’il y a pouvoir de marché, la vente aux enchères est plus efficace que la distribution gratuite des permis.
Les permis d’émission et les charges : efficacité et substituabilité
Authors: Grafton Quentin R. , Devlin Rose Anne
Published: July 2012

Cet article examine l’effet des technologies polluantes sur l’efficacité de l’échange des permis d’émissions. Nous démontrons que la capacité des entreprises à substituer les polluants, lorsqu’il y a absence de marché pour certains d’entre eux, fera probablement obstacle à l’efficacité dynamique normalement attribuée aux instruments de marché. Il est à noter que le régulateur dispose d’une mesure qui lui permet d’évaluer l’ampleur de ce problème. Par ailleurs, on examine la façon dont le gouvernement peut s’approprier la rente provenant de l’échange de permis alloués gratuitement. Nous comparons les effets de quatre méthodes d’appropriation de rente, soit une surcharge sur le prix des permis d’émission, une charge sur les profits, une charge sur le produit et une charge sur le transfert des permis d’émission. On démontre que ces méthodes d’appropriation de rente ont des effets différents sur l’efficacité des permis d’émission transférables. L’analyse de ces méthodes est faite dans un contexte où le régulateur fait face à de l’information imparfaite et où les entreprises peuvent substituer les polluants.
Dépenses publiques et taxation proportionnelle dans les modèles du cycle réel
Authors: Paquet Alain
Published: July 2012

Ce texte propose une revue des développements récents de la littérature macroéconomique inspirée de l’approche des modèles du cycle réel qui incorpore différentes facettes de l’activité gouvernementale. À l’aide d’un modèle typique du cycle réel avec gouvernement, nous identifions les canaux de transmission de la politique fiscale. Nous dégageons aussi l’intuition des effets de la politique fiscale suivant la nature et la durée de la politique de dépenses ou de taxation mise en oeuvre. En particulier, nous discutons de l’existence d’effets multiplicateurs et des questions reliées à l’endogénéisation de la politique fiscale.
Le rôle de la théorie de l’optimum du second rang en économie publique
Authors: Boadway Robin
Published: July 2012

Cette étude analyse l’évolution de la théorie de l’optimum du second rang en économie publique. Elle soutient qu’une partie importante de l’économie publique normative moderne peut être interprétée comme une analyse du second rang. La théorie originale du second rang, telle que l’ont exposée Lipsey et Lancaster (1956), supposait l’analyse de politiques dans une économie où il n’y a qu’un seul consommateur et une distorsion fixe. De plus, elle cherchait particulièrement à savoir si la tarification au coût marginal, ou la politique à la pièce, peut être maintenue. Cette analyse a ensuite été étendue aux économies constituées de plusieurs ménages, aux cas où l’on observe de multiples distorsions, aux environnements dynamiques, pour finalement constituer la base de la révolution dans le domaine de la taxation optimale en économie publique. Toutefois, il est particulièrement important de souligner que, dans le sillage de l’analyse de l’impôt optimal et de la théorie de la dualité, la distorsion du second rang a été efficacement rendue endogène, et le problème général de la politique gouvernementale a été posé comme un problème de principal-agent. La méthode la plus courante consiste à supposer qu’il est impossible d’observer le comportement des ménages ainsi que certaines de leurs caractéristiques importantes. Suite à ces développements, la plupart des problèmes de politique publique peuvent être perçus comme une application particulière de l’analyse du second rang. Par exemple, le choix entre l’efficacité et l’équité (le problème de « l’impôt sur le revenu optimal ») d’une part et la limite en matière de redistribution d’autre part, peuvent être considérés comme des problèmes du second rang. Considérer les problèmes de politique comme des problèmes du second rang présente des caractéristiques intéressantes. Tout d’abord, de simples recommandations de politiques ne sont plus possibles. De plus, des politiques en apparence variées, comme les restrictions sur les quantités, les transferts en nature et le financement public de l’assurance sociale deviennent, dans certaines circonstances, des instruments de politiques efficaces. Les ouvrages prétendent aussi que les politiques du second rang sont habituellement incohérentes à travers le temps. Ainsi, l’optimum du second rang standard ne peut être atteint. Des politiques optimales avec cohérence intertemporelle peuvent également inclure des instruments de politique inhabituels qui, autrement, auraient été éliminés dans un cadre du second rang.