bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avaliação das alterações hemostáticas e do risco tromboembólico em cães com AHIM
Authors: Moraes Lívia F. , Takahira Regina K. , Golim Marjorie de A. , Baggio Márcia S.
Published: July 2016

Resumo: A anemia hemolítica imuno-mediada (AHIM) é a causa mais comum dentre as anemias hemolíticas e a doença imuno-mediada de maior prevalência em cães, incluindo causas primárias e secundárias. As AHIM tem sido associadas a estados de hipercoagulabilidade, sendo o tromboembolismo a complicação mais comum. Este estudo teve como objetivo correlacionar as possíveis alterações hemostáticas e o risco tromboembólico nas AHIM e nas anemias por outras etiologias. Para tanto, foram selecionados 76 cães anêmicos (hematócrito ≤ 20%) somados ao menos um sinal clínico comumente associado à AHIM ou possuir pré-disposição racial. Foram realizados os seguintes testes para os animais selecionados: teste de citometria de fluxo e avaliação do perfil hemostático (contagem de plaquetas, TP, TTPA, TT, AT, PDF e Dímeros D); além de hemograma com contagem de reticulócitos, pesquisa de hematozoários em sangue periférico, PCR para Ehrlichia sp. e sorologia para leptospirose. 59 cães foram positivos para AHIM. O estado tromboembólico foi caracterizado pela presença de alteração em três ou mais testes do perfil hemostático. 74,6% casos de AHIM foram atribuídos às doenças infecciosas, sendo em sua maioria associados à Ehrlichia sp. (88,6%). 72,1% apresentaram trombocitopenia e 57,6% apresentaram anemia regenerativa com valores significativamente maiores de metarrubrícitos e contagem de reticulócitos. Não houve diferença estatística entre os grupos de cães anêmicos (positivos e negativos para AHIM). Os cães anêmicos apresentaram valores médios maiores de TTPA e menores de AT e contagem de plaquetas quando comparados aos cães saudáveis (p < 0,05). 25 cães positivos e sete negativos apresentaram estado tromboembólico. A especificidade de PDF foi menor (30,2%) quando comparada outros estudos. A escolha da classe de Ig não interfere no diagnóstico de AHIM. Não houve correlação entre a presença de anticorpos ligados às hemácias e as variáveis hemostáticas, porém houve uma fraca correlação (p<0,05) entre o hematócrito e os valores de TTPA (r=-0,2621), AT (r=0,4297) e contagem de plaquetas (r=0,5349). A anemia está associada a alterações hemostáticas e ao risco tromboembólico, no entanto a natureza imuno-mediada não é o fator determinante para esta condição. Em parte, estas alterações podem ser atribuídas ao quadro infeccioso observado em ambos os grupos (positivos e negativos para AHIM). O risco tromboembólico semelhante evidenciado nos dois grupos de cães anêmicos não exclui a relação do envolvimento imuno-mediado, mas atenta para uma possibilidade do tromboembolismo em cães anêmicos com Ehrlichia sp. (negativos para AHIM). Desta forma, cães anêmicos que apresentam sinais clínicos associados ao risco tromboembólico devem ser avaliados para tal complicação, hoje pouco investigada na rotina clínica. A alta frequência de alterações hemostáticas sustenta a importância de um diagnóstico precoce, efetivo e mais acurado, juntamente com uma estratégia de prevenção e tratamento.
A reabilitação profissional no INSS: caminhos da terapia ocupacional
Authors: Bregalda Marília Meyer , Lopes Roseli Esquerdo
Published: July 2016

Resumo Este texto traz dados de uma pesquisa que objetivou identificar e compreender práticas e concepções delineadas pela terapia ocupacional no Serviço de Reabilitação Profissional no Instituto Nacional do Seguro Social (INSS), no estado de São Paulo. Compreende-se que a reabilitação profissional, que visa a proporcionar aos segurados os meios para reingresso no mercado de trabalho e que é atribuída oficialmente ao Ministério da Previdência Social, dialoga com a saúde, com a educação e com as políticas e ações de trabalho e emprego. Os dados foram coletados por meio de um questionário encaminhado às terapeutas ocupacionais do INSS no referido estado, bem como por entrevistas realizadas com parte delas, abordando temáticas que foram categorizadas para a análise do que relatam acerca de suas práticas e concepções, enfatizando pontos reflexivos sobre limites, possibilidades e desafios nessa atuação e ampliando a discussão para a estrutura do Serviço. É apontada uma série de fatores que implicariam uma avaliação mais negativa que positiva de sua atuação no Instituto, os quais estariam mais vinculados a questões estruturais do Serviço. Creem, todavia, na melhoria dessa estrutura, indicando a necessidade do incremento das possibilidades oferecidas, de uma maior participação e responsabilização por parte das empresas, da construção de um trabalho articulado com os demais setores governamentais e da sociedade civil, além da ampliação e da reformulação da legislação que trata da reabilitação profissional no Brasil.
O Banco Mundial e o Sistema Único de Saúde brasileiro no início do século XXI
Authors: Rizzotto Maria Lucia Frizon , Campos Gastão Wagner de Sousa
Published: July 2016

Resumo Este ensaio tem o objetivo de atualizar as discussões sobre a perspectiva política e o papel desempenhado pelo Banco Mundial na elaboração de políticas públicas de saúde no Brasil, procurando identificar continuidades e mudanças no modo de agir dessa instituição e sugerir hipóteses sobre as estratégias de ação neste início de século. Para isso, analisam-se dois documentos, um de 2007 e outro de 2013, publicados por essa instituição, e levantam-se dados sobre projetos financiados pelo Banco no período de 2000 a 2015 no Brasil, com destaque para o setor de saúde. Conclui-se que os mecanismos tradicionais de intervenção não se alteraram em relação aos utilizados nas décadas de 1980 e 1990, tampouco mudaram os princípios orientadores: o que se observa é um deslocamento das ações do Banco da esfera nacional para as esferas estadual e municipal. Aponta-se a necessidade de estudos específicos dos contratos firmados entre o Banco e os governos subnacionais, uma vez que o modelo federativo brasileiro e o próprio sistema nacional de saúde permitem implementar mecanismos de gestão descentralizados que podem alterar a configuração do Sistema Único de Saúde.
Phonological analysis of substitution errors of patients with apraxia of speech
Authors: Cera Maysa Luchesi , Ortiz Karin Zazo
Published: July 2016

Abstract The literature on apraxia of speech describes the types and characteristics of phonological errors in this disorder. In general, phonemes affected by errors are described, but the distinctive features involved have not yet been investigated. Objective: To analyze the features involved in substitution errors produced by Brazilian-Portuguese speakers with apraxia of speech. Methods: 20 adults with apraxia of speech were assessed. Phonological analysis of the distinctive features involved in substitution type errors was carried out using the protocol for the evaluation of verbal and non-verbal apraxia. Results: The most affected features were: voiced, continuant, high, anterior, coronal, posterior. Moreover, the mean of the substitutions of marked to markedness features was statistically greater than the markedness to marked features. Conclusions: This study contributes toward a better characterization of the phonological errors found in apraxia of speech, thereby helping to diagnose communication disorders and the selection criteria of phonemes for rehabilitation in these patients.
Episodic memory, concentrated attention and processing speed in aging: A comparative study of Brazilian age groups
Authors: Fonseca Rochele Paz , Zimmermann Nicolle , Scherer Lilian Cristine , Parente Maria Alice de Mattos Pimenta , Ska Bernadette
Published: July 2016

Abstract Neuropsychological studies on the processing of some specific cognitive functions throughout aging are essential for the understanding of human cognitive development from ages 19 to 89. Objectives: This study aimed to verify the occurrence of differences in the processing of episodic memory, concentrated attention and speed of attentional processing among four age groups of adults. Methods: A total of 136 neurologically healthy adults, aged 19-89, with 9 or more years of schooling, took part in the study. Participants were divided according to four age groups: young, middle-aged, elderly and oldest old adults. Subtests of the Brief Neuropsychological Evaluation Instrument (NEUPSILIN) were applied for the cognitive assessment. Mean score of corrected answers and of response times were compared between groups by means of a one-way ANOVA test with post-hoc Scheffe procedures and ANCOVA including the co-variables of years of schooling and socio-economical scores. Results: In general, differences in performance were observed from 60 years old on. Only the episodic memory task of delayed recall reflected differences from the age of around 40 onwards and processing speed from around the age of 70 onwards. Thus, differences were found between the age groups regarding their cognitive performance, particularly between young adults and elderly adults, and young adults and oldest old adults. Conclusions: Our research indicates that the middle-aged group should be better analyzed and that comparative cross-sectional studies including only extreme groups such as young and elderly adults are not sufficient.
Effects of cognitive training based on metamemory and mental images
Authors: Lima-Silva Thaís Bento , Ordonez Tiago Nascimento , Santos Glenda Dias dos , Fabrício Aline Teixeira , Aramaki Flávia Ogava , Almeida Evany Bettine de , Vianna-Paulo Débora Lee , Malagutti Mayne Patrício , Valente-Oliveira Ana Carolina , Iwasaki Amanda , Souza Gisele dos Santos , Yassuda Mônica Sanches
Published: July 2016

Abstract There is scant research evidence regarding training effects among elderly with limited educational experience. Research indicating an association between metamemory and memory performance is based on samples of older adults with at least 12 years of education. Objectives: To test the efficacy of a cognitive training program based on the creation of mental images and changes in specific aspects of metamemory in individuals with 3 to 15 years of education (M=8.38, SD=4.24). Methods: 37 older adults participated in five training sessions (Training Group (TG)) and 32 control subjects completed only pre and post test assessments (Control Group (CG)) including the Mini Mental Status Examination (MMSE), the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), the Brief Cognitive Screening Battery (BCSB) (naming and memorization of 10 pictures, animal category verbal fluency test, the Clock Drawing Test (CDT)), the Story subtest from the Rivermead Behavioural Memory Test (RBMT), the Memory Complaint Questionnaire (MAC-Q), and the Picture and Story domains from the Memory Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (MSEQ). Results: The TG showed significant improvement between pre and post tests on the delayed recall of the 10 pictures and in self-efficacy for the memorization of stories. These same changes were not found in the CG . Conclusions: Five-session cognitive training may lead to significant improvements in episodic memory and memory self-efficacy, an aspect of metamemory, in individuals with an average of 8 years of education.
Post-Mortem diagnosis of dementia by informant interview
Authors: Ferretti Renata Eloah de Lucena , Damin Antonio Eduardo , Brucki Sonia Maria Dozzi , Morillo Lilian Schafirovits , Perroco Tibor Rilho , Campora Flávia , Moreira Eliza Guccione , Balbino Érika Silvério , Lima Maria do Carmo de Ascenção , Battela Camila , Ruiz Lumena , Grinberg Lea Tenenholz , Farfel José Marcelo , Leite Renata Elaine Paraiso , Suemoto Claudia Kimie , Pasqualucci Carlos Augusto , Rosemberg Sérgio , Saldiva Paulo Hilário Nascimento , Jacob-Filho Wilson , Nitrini Ricardo
Published: July 2016

Abstract The diagnosis of normal cognition or dementia in the Brazilian Brain Bank of the Aging Brain Study Group (BBBABSG) has relied on postmortem interview with an informant. Objectives: To ascertain the sensitivity and specificity of postmortem diagnosis based on informant interview compared against the diagnosis established at a memory clinic. Methods: A prospective study was conducted at the BBBABSG and at the Reference Center for Cognitive Disorders (RCCD), a specialized memory clinic of the Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo Medical School. Control subjects and cognitively impaired subjects were referred from the Hospital das Clínicas to the RCCD where subjects and their informants were assessed. The same informant was then interviewed at the BBBABSG. Specialists' panel consensus, in each group, determined the final diagnosis of the case, blind to other center's diagnosis. Data was compared for frequency of diagnostic equivalence. For this study, the diagnosis established at the RCCD was accepted as the gold standard. Sensitivity and specificity were computed. Results: Ninety individuals were included, 45 with dementia and 45 without dementia (26 cognitively normal and 19 cognitively impaired but non-demented). The informant interview at the BBBABSG had a sensitivity of 86.6% and specificity of 84.4% for the diagnosis of dementia, and a sensitivity of 65.3% and specificity of 93.7% for the diagnosis of normal cognition. Conclusions: The informant interview used at the BBBABSG has a high specificity and sensitivity for the diagnosis of dementia as well as a high specificity for the diagnosis of normal cognition.
Reviewing the limb apraxia concept: From definition to cognitive neuropsychological models
Authors: Mantovani-Nagaoka Joana , Ortiz Karin Zazo
Published: July 2016

Abstract Apraxia is a disorder of learned skilled movements, in the absence of elementary motor or sensory deficits and general cognitive impairment such as inattention to commands, object-recognition deficits or poor oral comprehension. The first studies on apraxia were performed between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, however controversy remains in praxis literature concerning apraxia types, neuroanatomical and functional correlates, as well as assessment and treatment of apraxia. Thus, a critical review of the literature was conducted searching the literature for evidence contributing to a more detailed description of apraxia and its clinical patterns, physiopathology and clinico-anatomical correlations, as well as apraxia assessment.
History, citoarchitecture and neurophysiology of human and non human primates' parietal lobe: A review
Authors: Aversi-Ferreira Tales Alexandre , Araújo Mariana Ferreira Pereira de , Lopes Danielly Bandeira , Nishijo Hisao
Published: July 2016

Abstract This strict localizationism had and still has its importance for the development of Neurosciences, since the analysis of changes in mental processes resulting from brain damage became the basis for understanding the brain organization. The human parietal cortex is a highly differentiated structure, consisting of citoarchitectonically defined subareas that are connected to other cortical and subcortical areas. Patients with lesions in the parietal cortex develop various types of neuropsychological manifestations, depending on the specific location of the lesion and the corresponding hemisphere and these lesions in this lobe do not cause modal specific disturbances. The establishment of homologies between the parietal region in humans and primates can be of great contribution in trying to unravel the various functions and complexity of this area.
Verbal behavior in Alzheimer disease patients: Analysis of phrase repetition
Authors: Cecato Juliana Francisca , Martinellil José Eduardo , Bartholomeu Luana Luz , Basqueira Ana Paula , Yassuda Mônica Sanches , Aprahamian Ivan
Published: July 2016

Abstract Language problems in the elderly with AD are due to the fact that deterioration occurs not only in semantic memory, but in a group of cognitive factors, evidenced by a deficiency in search strategies for linguistic information. Objectives: To evaluate phrase repetition in two cognitive tests, the MMSE and MoCA, in a group of Alzheimer disease patients (AD) and normal controls. Methods: A Cross-sectional study was conducted involving 20 patients who sought medical assistance at a geriatric institute in Jundiaí, São Paulo. The subjects underwent a detailed clinical examination and neuropsychometric evaluation. All subjects with AD met DSM-IV and NINCDS-ADRDA criteria. Ten patients received a diagnosis of AD and 10 were healthy subjects, forming the control group (CG). Results: All participants correctly answered the phrase from the MMSE (phrase 1). The MoCA phrases (phrases 2 and 3) were correct in 80% and 90%, respectively in the CG and in 40% and 50%, respectively in the AD group. Conclusions: The MoCA test proved more effective in evaluating the echoic behavior in AD patients compared to the MMSE. The simpler phrase repetition task in the MMSE was found to be less sensitive in detecting mild language decline in AD patients.
Naming abilities: Differentiation between objects and verbs in aphasia
Authors: Spezzano Luisa Carmen , Radanovic Márcia
Published: July 2016

Abstract Cognitive Neuropsychology aims to understand the processing mechanisms of normal and injured brain, by means of functional architectural models of information processing. Naming is one of the most important abilities in linguistic processing. Naming of different semantic and grammatical categories differ in their lexical properties and have distinct neuroanatomical substrates. We reviewed literature data on the differences between nouns and verbs in aphasic subjects reported by scientific publications in the form of indexed articles. Studies on naming abilities tended to emphasize the differentiation between nouns and verbs both in their lexical properties and neuroanatomical substrates. Functional neuroimaging studies have improved the state of knowledge regarding category-specific naming abilities, but further studies on different types of aphasia and the use of naming abilities in different contexts are warranted.
Body mass index, cognitive deficit and depressive symptoms in high cardiovascular risk patients
Authors: Costa Amanda Lucas da , Varela Juliana Santos , Cruz Matheus Roriz , Costa Andry Fitterman , Picon Paulo Dornelles , Moriguch Emilio , Chaves Márcia L.F.
Published: July 2016

Abstract To evaluate the relationship of obesity, cognitive impairment and depressive symptoms in patients with high cardiovascular risk. Methods: A sample of 93 patients aged 50 years or older was selected from the Center of Dyslipidemia and High Cardiovascular Risk from Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA). Patients with stroke were excluded. For cognitive evaluation, the MMSE (Mini Mental State Examination) was used. A score of 24 or less was considered as cognitive impairment, and for those who had 4 years or less of education, the cutoff point was 17. The GDS-15 (Geriatric Depression Scale) was also used, with the cutoff of 6 for presence of depressive symptoms. Results: Obese patients showed lower mean MMSE scores compared to non-obese patients (p=0.0012). Additionally, for every one point increase in BMI above 30 there was a 27% increase in the chances of the patient having cognitive impairment. The obese patients presented 31% chance of having cognitive impairment compared with overweight subjects. Conclusions: Our findings corroborated the association between obesity and cognitive impairment in high cardiovascular risk patients. This association however, was not observed for depressive symptoms.
Antipsychotics in Alzheimer's disease: A critical analysis
Authors: Silva Eduardo Marques da , Braga Rafaela de Castro Oliveira Pereira , Avelino-Silva Thiago Junqueira , Gil Junior Luiz Antonio
Published: July 2016

Abstract The estimated worldwide prevalence of dementia among adults older than 60 years of age was 3.9% in 2005. About 90% of demented patients will develop neuropsychiatric symptoms (NS) such as delirium, delusion, aggressiveness and agitation. The treatment of NS involves non-pharmacologic strategies (with varying degrees of success according to the scientific literature) and pharmacologic treatment (PT). The present review of literature examined the current role of AP in the management of NS in dementia. Methods: A thematic review of medical literature was carried out. Results: 313 articles were found, 39 of which were selected for critical analysis. Until 2005, the best evidence for PT had supported the use of selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs), anticholinesterases, memantine and antipsychotics (AP). In 2005, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) disapproved the use of atypical APs to treat neuropsychiatric symptoms in individuals with dementia (the same occurred with the typical APs in 2008). After this, at least two important randomized placebo-controlled multicenter trials were published examining the effectiveness of atypical APs in Alzheimer's disease (CATIE-AD) and the effects of interrupting AP treatment (DART-AD). Conclusions: Based on the current evidence available, APs still have a place in treatment of the more serious psychotic symptoms, after the failure of non-pharmacological treatment and of an initial approach with selective inhibitors of serotonin uptake, anticholinesterases and memantine.
Cognitive training based on metamemory and mental images: Follow-up evaluation and booster training effects
Authors: Aramaki Flávia Ogava , Yassuda Mônica Sanches
Published: July 2016

Abstract In the second semester of 2008, 37 seniors participated in five cognitive training sessions based on creation of imagery and modification of self-efficacy for memory tasks. Objective: To carry out a follow-up evaluation after 18 months in order to detect possible maintenance of gains reported in the first post-test, namely, in measures of self-efficacy and episodic memory, and to evaluate the impact of a training booster, that is, test whether there are additional gains when training is offered for the second time to the same participants. Methods: 16 older adults agreed to participate in five training sessions for the second time. Participants were evaluated with the Mini Mental Status Examination - MMSE, the Geriatric Depression Scale - GDS, the Brief Cognitive Screening Battery - BCSB (naming and memorization of 10 pictures, animal category verbal fluency test, the Clock Drawing Test - CDT), the Story subtest from the Rivermead Behavioural Memory Test - RBMT, the Memory Complaint Questionnaire - MAC-Q, and the Picture and Story domains from the Memory Self-Efficacy Questionnaire - MSEQ used to evaluate the effectiveness of the first intervention. Results: This study reports the maintenance of the effects generated by the original training conducted in 2008, and follow-up evaluations detected the presence of potential additional gains in some aspects of memory. Conclusions: Training boosters may help maintain cognitive stability in adulthood and old age.
Trichotillomania in a dementia case
Authors: Caixeta Leonardo , Lopes Danielly Bandeira
Published: July 2016

Abstract We report an 87-year-old male case of hair pulling associated with a white-matter vascular dementia (Binswanger's disease). Trichotillomania in our case did not resolve using mirtazapine or anticholinesterasic medication. Trichotillomania seems to be related to a form of perseveration associated with dementia. The findings in this case suggest the abnormality involving white matter in the pathogenesis of trichotillomania, may constitute a defect in connectivity in the right frontal-subcortical circuit.
Briefing: The importance of field-based vibro stone column research
Authors: Serridge Colin J.
Published: July 2016

In seeking to increase the understanding of vibro stone column (VSC) behaviour and to improve current design methods, the importance of field-based VSC research, particularly in soft soils, cannot be underestimated. Some limitations of laboratory-based modelling research are highlighted here. Research should therefore ultimately include a field-based component if valid conclusions, applicable at the field scale, are to be drawn. Also highlighted is the need for greater consistency in the type and quality of data obtained and recorded at the field scale, in order to permit more effective comparisons of published field data, the need for better coordination within the research community and also the need for its engagement with industry to target the ‘unknowns’ while avoiding unnecessary repetition.
Earliest hominin cancer: 1.7-million-year-old osteosarcoma from Swartkrans Cave, South Africa
Authors: Odes Edward J. , Randolph-Quinney Patrick S. , Steyn Maryna , Throckmorton Zach , Smilg Jacqueline S. , Zipfel Bernhard , Augustine Tanya N. , De Beer Frikkie , Hoffman Jakobus W. , Franklin Ryan D. , Berger Lee R.
Published: July 2016

The reported incidence of neoplasia in the extinct human lineage is rare, with only a few confirmed cases of Middle or Later Pleistocene dates reported. It has generally been assumed that pre-modern incidence of neoplastic disease of any kind is rare and limited to benign conditions, but new fossil evidence suggests otherwise. We here present the earliest identifiable case of malignant neoplastic disease from an early human ancestor dated to 1.8–1.6 million years old. The diagnosis has been made possible only by advances in 3D imaging methods as diagnostic aids. We present a case report based on re-analysis of a hominin metatarsal specimen (SK 7923) from the cave site of Swartkrans in the Cradle of Humankind, South Africa. The expression of malignant osteosarcoma in the Swartkrans specimen indicates that whilst the upsurge in malignancy incidence is correlated with modern lifestyles, there is no reason to suspect that primary bone tumours would have been any less frequent in ancient specimens. Such tumours are not related to lifestyle and often occur in younger individuals. As such, malignancy has a considerable antiquity in the fossil record, as evidenced by this specimen.
multi-disciplinary review of late Quaternary palaeoclimates and environments for Lesotho
Authors: Fitchett Jennifer M. , Grab Stefan W. , Bamford Marion K. , Mackay Anson W.
Published: July 2016

Lesotho provides a unique context for palaeoclimatic research. The small country is entirely landlocked by South Africa, yet has considerable variation in topography, climate, and associated vegetation over an approximate east–west transect. The region has been of archaeological interest for over a century, and hosts many Early to Late Stone Age sites with occupation preceding 80 000 years before present. The eastern Lesotho highlands are of interest to periglacial and glacial geomorphologists because of their well-preserved relict landforms and contentious evidence for permafrost and niche glaciation during the late Quaternary. However, continuous proxy records for palaeoenvironmental reconstructions for Lesotho are scarce and hampered by a range of methodological shortfalls. These challenges include uncertain ages, poor sampling resolution, and proxies extracted from archaeological excavations for which there may be bias in selection. Inferences on palaeoclimates are thus based predominantly on archaeological and palaeogeomorphological evidence for discrete periods during the late Quaternary. This review paper presents a more detailed multidisciplinary synthesis of late Quaternary conditions in Lesotho. We simultaneously considered the varying data that contribute to the under-studied palaeoenvironmental record for southern Africa. The collective palaeoenvironmental data for eastern Lesotho were shown to be relatively contradictory, with considerable variations in contemporaneous palaeoclimatic conditions within the study area. We argue that although methodological challenges may contribute to this variation, the marked changes in topography result in contrasting late Quaternary palaeoenvironments. Such environments are characterised by similar contrasting microclimates and niche ecologies as are witnessed in the contemporary landscape. These spatial variations within a relatively small landlocked country are of importance in understanding broader southern African palaeoenvironmental change.
Genesis of the karelian birch. an ecogenetic hypothesis
Authors: Vetchinnikova Lidya V , Titov Alexander F
Published: July 2016

Relying on the analysis of data from the literature and own findings the authors develop and specify the previously postulated ecological-genetic hypothesis of the curly birch origins, which is based on the concept of interactions between specific natural-climatic factors and conditions in the north-western continental Europe during so-called Little Ice Age (LIA), the high genetic polymorphism, and the adaptive nature of many anatomical-morphological traits and physiological-biochemical characteristics of the representatives of the genus Betula L. growing in the area. The various facts and observations in favour of the ecological-genetic hypothesis of the origins of curly birch are reported.
THE ULCEROGENIC EFFECT OF NON-STEROID ANTI-INFLAMMATORy DRUGS AND HEPATOTOXICITy OF NIMESULIDE IN EXPERIMENT ON RATS
Authors: Proshin Sergei Nikolayevich , Makarov Valerii Gennad’evich , Makarova Marina Nikolaevna , Kryshen Kirill Leonidovich , Kovshin Artem Viktorovich , Samusenko Igor Alekseevich
Published: July 2016

In animal experimental model the ulcerogenic effect of non-selective and selective inhibitors of cyclooxigenase has been estimated. The all tested remedies influenced morphology of liver and mucosa of stomach. Meanwhile the reaction of each animal on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs was individual. It has been elucidated that ketorolac significantly down-regulated prostaglandin E2 production in gut mucosa. Nimesulide (selective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) significantly up-regulated the activity of aspartat-aminotransferase in serum of experimental rats. The mechanism of nimesulide hepatotoxicity is being discussed.
Concepts on Assessment Practices in Institutions of Higher Education as perceived by BA ISAGO Undergraduate Students
Authors: O.O. Adedoyin
Published: July 2016

This is a quantitative study regarding the concept on assessment practices in higher institutions of learning as perceived by BA ISAGO undergraduate students. A questionnaire was developed on the concept regarding assessment practices on a four likert scale and administered to a convenience random sample of 400 undergraduate students at BA ISAGO University in Botswana. Out of which 365 undergraduate students studying varying degree programmes responded to the questionnaire and their responses were coded, analysed using exploratory factor analytic method (available on the SPSS computer package). SPSS software produced the descriptive statistics (means and standard deviations) and factor analysis. The Principal factor with iteration was employed and varimax rotation method was also used to extract the perceived constructs on the concept on assessment practices at institutions of higher education. Seven constructs with eigen values greater than one, emerged from the factor analysis. Results revealed seven (7) main concept on assessment practices were perceived by BA ISAGO University undergraduate students. The seven main constructs were to: determine students’ higher level of thinking/ cognitive abilities; provide constructive feedback for effective students’ learning outcomes; allow for students’ self-reflection and peer assessment of learning outcomes; use of different alternative modes of assessing learning outcomes; maintain quality assurance processes in form of assessment criteria; modify learning outcomes using formal and informal assessment procedures; identify students prior knowledge before beginning instruction. The study further determined if gender and faculty of study of students have significant influence on students’ perceived concept on assessment practices at higher education. It was found that gender and faculty of study had significant influence on students’ perceptions with regards to some assessment practices All these perceived assessment practices by the undergraduates would inform institutions of higher education on how to appraise undergraduate students’ cognitive abilities.
Equilibrium Model of Movable Elements of Micromechanical Devices with Internal Suspensions
Authors: Ezhova Olga , Lysenko Igor , Konoplev Boris , Bondarev Filipp
Published: July 2016

In this work model of mirror elements equilibrium of the micromechanical components is developed, the behavior analysis of the mirror element of micromechanical mirrors in case changing of control voltages of electrostatic actuators is carried out, an expression for determining the maximum value of deflection voltage at which the snap-down effect will take the following form is obtained in case of the influence of the coefficient of the electrostatic rigidity of electrostatic actuators. The developed equilibrium model of mirror elements and the obtained results of modeling can be used at design of micromechanical mirrors with internal suspensions.
Comparing impacts of parameter and spatial data uncertainty for a grid-based distributed watershed model
Authors: Her Younggu , Heatwole Conrad
Published: July 2016

Parameter uncertainty in hydrologic modeling is commonly evaluated, but assessing the impact of spatial input data uncertainty in spatially descriptive ‘distributed’ models is not common. This study compares the significance of uncertainty in spatial input data and model parameters on the output uncertainty of a distributed hydrology and sediment transport model, HYdrology Simulation using Time-ARea method (HYSTAR). The Shuffled Complex Evolution Metropolis (SCEM-UA) algorithm was used to quantify parameter uncertainty of the model. Errors in elevation and land cover layers were simulated using the Sequential Gaussian/Indicator Simulation (SGS/SIS) techniques and then incorporated into the model to evaluate their impact on the outputs relative to those of the parameter uncertainty. This study demonstrated that parameter uncertainty had a greater impact on model output than did errors in the spatial input data. In addition, errors in elevation data had a greater impact on model output than did errors in land cover data. Thus, for the HYSTAR distributed hydrologic model, accuracy and reliability can be improved more effectively by refining parameters rather than further improving the accuracy of spatial input data and by emphasizing the topographic data over the land cover data.
Drought class transition analysis through different models: a case study in North China
Authors: Zhang Ting , Li Jianzhu , Hu Rong , Wang Yixuan , Feng Ping
Published: July 2016

The standardized precipitation index (SPI) and standardized runoff index (SRI) are computed for several gauge stations in Panjiakou Reservoir catchment of Luanhe Basin, a drought prone region of North China. Based on the SPI and SRI time series, two different models, a weighted Markov chain model and a Volterra adaptive filter model for chaotic time series, were established to predict drought classes and achieve both short- and long-term drought forecasting. These approaches were compared with a three-dimensional (3D) loglinear model, reported in our previous work. It was observed that all the three models have pros and cons when applied to drought prediction in Panjiakou Reservoir catchment. The 3D loglinear model is able to forecast drought class within 1 month. However, its predicting accuracy declines with the increase of prediction time scale, and this confines its application. The weighted Markov chain model is a useful tool for drought early warning. Its precision, which is significantly related to the stable condition of drought classes, is highest for Non-drought, followed by Moderate and Severe/Extreme drought, and lowest for Near-normal. The Volterra adaptive filter model for chaotic time series combined the phase space reconstruction technique, Volterra series expansion technique and adaptive filter optimization technique, and was for the first time used in a drought class transition study. This model is effective and highly precise in long-term drought prediction (for example, 12 months). It is able to provide reliable information for the medium- and long-term decisions and plans for water resources systems.
Jean-Claude COQUET. A busca do sentido: a linguagem em questão. Tradução de Dilson Ferreira Cruz. São Paulo: WMF Martins Fontes, 2013, 360 p. [Biblioteca do Pensamento Moderno]
Authors: Merçon Francisco Elias Simão
Published: July 2016

A busca do sentido, de Jean-Claude Coquet (2013), reúne num único volume uma série de artigos do autor publicados entre 1985 e 1991. Os artigos, num total de dezessete, são antecedidos por um prólogo do próprio autor, cujo título “O poder da fenomenologia” baliza o território de realização da busca do sentido anunciada pela expressão que dá nome à obra. A inflexão fenomenológica do autor é a tônica também dessa obra que nos chega agora em língua portuguesa. Já no Prólogo, o autor deixa bem claro que o ponto de vista a ser apresentado é “o da fenomenologia aplicada à linguística e semiótica” (COQUET, 2013, p. 1, grifo nosso). Trata-se, sem dúvida, de um ponto de vista a princípio inusitado diante do espaço e das conquistas que a Linguística e a Semiótica adquiriram no século XX como disciplinas autônomas, já que a formulação que acabamos de mencionar subordina ambas, Linguística e Semiótica, à Fenomenologia. Se o leitor entender essa subordinação como perda de princípios, não perceberá a atitude de Coquet, que na época procurava abrir um novo campo de investigação para os estudos linguísticos e semióticos. Os propósitos dessa resenha é mostrar um pouco desse novo campo de investigação.
TEIXEIRA, Lucia; CARMO JR., José Roberto do (Org.). Linguagens na cibercultura. São Paulo: Estação das Letras e Cores, 2013, 327p.
Authors: Schwartzmann Matheus Nogueira
Published: July 2016

Linguagens na cibercultura, livro organizado por Lucia Teixeira e José Roberto do Carmo Jr., foi publicado em 2013 pela editora Estação das Letras e Cores com apoio da FAPERJ – Fundação Carlos Chagas de Amparo à Pesquisa do Rio de Janeiro. O volume surge no cenário dos estudos do discurso brasileiro, e especialmente no campo da semiótica de orientação francesa, como contribuição inédita e, ao mesmo tempo, já há muito esperada, na medida em que reúne trabalhos de autores que têm, de um lado, desenvolvido pesquisas sobre objetos multifacetados construídos em ambiente on-line, e, de outro, proposto reflexões teóricas que buscam repensar ou mesmo distender a fronteira entre os estudos do discurso e da linguagem e o que se convencionou chamar cibercultura.
ESPAÇO SEMIÓTICO EM DIÁLOGOS E FRONTEIRAS
Authors: Machado Irene de Araújo
Published: July 2016

Nada traduz de modo mais efetivo a noção de ambiente cultural do que o processo de continuidade. Nada materializa de modo mais radical o continuum semiótico do que a fronteira que une e situa em diálogo os sistemas culturais em confronto. No contexto do pensamento semiótico da cultura, a dialogia se desenvolve na arena dos espaços de confronto em que os sistemas de signos se encarregam de promover os contatos e encontros culturais. Ainda que os conceitos de fronteira e dialogia, quando inseridos no processo da semiose cultural, explicitem potências de intensidades equivalentes, o ambiente conceitual de Lótman não conta diretamente com os pressupostos de Bakhtin para a conceptualização do espaço semiótico da semiosfera. Que linhas conceituais se encarregaram de aproximar e distanciar tais conceitos e até que ponto nos é lícito operar a continuidade? Tais são os pontos que se espera examinar no estudo.
NATUREZA E CULTURA NA FOTOGRAFIA DE TIAGO SANTANA
Authors: Lemos Tércia Montenegro
Published: July 2016

Nosso artigo, resultado de uma recente pesquisa em semiótica visual, pretende investigar a construção do sentido em imagens de autoria do fotógrafo cearense Tiago Santana. A semiótica, como teoria da relação, une termos – que podem ser unidades significantes de qualquer grandeza – do ponto de vista da significação. Assim, os componentes visuais de uma foto podem ser entendidos como termos constituintes de um sentido, na medida em que se põem numa dimensão relacional. Tais relações se articulam em diferentes níveis de análise, conforme sabemos pelo modelo da semiótica greimasiana, que indica procedimentos que vão desde a construção de um programa narrativo num percurso global (capaz de simular a geração de sentido da estrutura profunda à estrutura de superfície) até abrir espaço, mais recentemente, para as aplicações da semiótica tensiva, utilizada em nossa análise. Com fundamentação teórica também respaldada pelos estudos de Floch (1985), Pietroforte (2007) e Dondero (2008 e 2011), obtivemos resultados esclarecedores em torno da oposição fundamental humano/cultura vs. animal/natureza, observada na construção de um universo sertanejo em cinco fotografias de nosso corpus de base.
REPRÉSENTATIONS DISCURSIVES DE L’HOMOSEXUALITÉ ET DE L’HOMOPHOBIE AU BRÉSIL: ANALYSE DE LA VIDÉO « MEDO DE QUÊ ? »
Authors: Felicíssimo Manuella , Lara Glaucia Muniz
Published: July 2016

À la lumière de l’Analyse du Discours française dans son dialogue avec les sciences sociales, nous analysons la vidéo Medo de quê ? (Peur de quoi ?), qui s’intègre, avec d’autres vidéos, au « Kit antihomophobie », qui compose une série d’outils pédagogiques destinés aux conseillers d’éducation de l’enseignement secondaire, créé en 2004 par l’organisation ECOS – Communication sur la Sexualité –, avec l’appui du Ministère de l’Éducation du Brésil. Le Kit, qui avait l’objectif de promouvoir le respect de la diversité sexuelle dans le cadre scolaire et d’éradiquer toute forme de violence vécue par les élèves homosexuels au cours de leur vie scolaire, a été interdit par la présidente Dilma Rousseff en 2011. Nous cherchons ainsi à détecter certaines des représentations (socio)discursives de l’homosexualité – et de l’homophobie – présentes dans la vidéo analysée, a fin de vérifier comment ces notions circulent dans l’imaginaire brésilien.
ESPACES WEB POUR UNE SÉMIOTIQUE VISUELLE NUMÉRIQUE
Authors: Reyes Everardo
Published: July 2016

Dans cette contribution nous proposons de regarder le web comme un environnement approprié à la recherche en sémiotique visuelle. Nous pensons à l’emploi de récents développements en traitement et visualisation de données sur le web. En effet, le web est devenu une plateforme puissante pour concevoir des espaces interactifs. On peut identifier ces espaces à des genres et types de sites web, mais nous croyons qu’il est possible de créer des espaces originaux inspirés directement des pratiques et méthodologies sémiotiques. Un tel espace s’avère complexe dans la mesure où il sert comme interface utilisateur pour manipuler les contenus, mais aussi, dans un deuxième temps, comme contenu lui-même. Nous évoquons la nécessité de construire une sémiotique numérique, c’est-à-dire une sémiotique qui utilise les technologies numériques comme objet d’étude, comme espace d’énonciation, et comme environnement pour créer des nouvelles interfaces graphiques inspirées des méthodes sémiotiques.
DE L’HYPERTEXTE AU DESIGN MONOPAGE: UNE TRANSITION SÉMIOTIQUE
Authors: Lloveria Vivien
Published: July 2016

Dans la communauté des concepteurs de site web (webdesigners), le design de site dit monopage (single-page design, one-page design ou pageless design) apparaît comme la révolution de ces dernières années, au point de prétendre détrôner le genre numérique de l’hypertexte. Dans la mesure où elle expose une transition entre tradition hypertextuelle et nouveauté du design monopage, cette période offre l’opportunité d’étudier la relation entre l’émergence d’un dispositif techno-sémiotique et les systèmes de valeurs mobilisés jusque-là par les concepteurs et les lecteurs de sites web. Nous chercherons notamment à démontrer comment l’abandon de l’hypertexte, au profit du design monopage, reflète un souci de concevoir l’hypertexte non plus comme le monde interconnecté décrit par les scientifiques, mais comme une expérience de lecture/écriture singulière commentée par les usagers.
PERCURSOS DE VISITA EM SITES DA INTERNET
Authors: Teixeira Lucia
Published: July 2016

O artigo analisa três modalidades de sites de acervos de arte disponíveis na internet: sites de museus que replicam museus físicos, sites de museus digitais e sites de acervos específicos de arte, usando como exemplos os sites do Louvre, do MASP, do Museu Virtual de Ouro Preto e da Brasiliana Fotográfica. Apresenta características dos sites e descreve seus modos de funcionamento, utilizando a base teórica da semiótica discursiva. A análise discute, inicialmente, a questão do suporte e do plano da expressão e, em seguida, descreve a práxis enunciativa, o sincretismo de linguagens e o ritmo, como procedimentos discursivos que diferenciam e aproximam os três tipos de sites estudados.
Aspergiloma Pulmonar em Paciente Portadora de HIV: Relato de Caso
Authors: Martines Leandro Altrão , Oliveira Daniel Pio de , Mexas Pedro Paulo
Published: July 2016

Relata-se o caso de uma paciente de 45 anos portadora de síndrome da imunodeficiência adquirida (SIDA), não aderente ao tratamento para tuberculose pulmonar, que evoluiu com hemoptise importante. Aos exames de imagem, evidenciavam-se cavernas pulmonares com presença, no interior destas, de estruturas de partes sólidas. Foram obtidos, no lavado broncoalveolar, Aspergillus sp. Devido às repetidas hemoptises, a paciente foi submetida à cirurgia. Porém, apresentou má evolução no pós-operatório e apresentou como desfecho o óbito.
Avaliação da Prevalência de Nefropatia pelo Uso de Contraste Iodado em Pacientes Diabéticos no Serviço de Hemodinâmica do Hospital Universitário Sul Fluminense (Husf), de Vassouras-RJ
Authors: Oliveira Mariane De Moura , Pássaro Fábio Cavalheira , Oliveira Marcelo Augusto Paiva Rio de , Costa Marcio José Montenegro da , Faviere Wiliam
Published: July 2016

A nefropatia por contraste iodado (NCI) consiste numa complicação importante e freqüente nos centros de hemodinâmica. Objetivo: Definir a prevalência de NCI nos pacientes diabéticos que passaram por procedimentos que utilizaram contraste iodado no laboratório de Hemodinâmica do HUSF, no período de Junho a Agosto, de 2009. Metodologia: Preenchimento de ficha de identificação dos pacientes admitidos no setor, coleta de amostra sanguínea para detecção de glicemia e creatinina sérica, e aferição da pressão arterial. Resultados: Durante o período pesquisado, foram estudados 245 pacientes com idade entre 33 a 90 anos. Dos 150 indivíduos que foram acompanhados, sendo que 35 pacientes desenvolveram NCI (27%). Evidenciou-se 38 eram portadores de DM (29,23%), e destes, 8 indivíduos (21,05%) desenvolveram NCI. Conclusão: Como visto nos resultados expostos, 21,05% dos pacientes diabéticos desenvolveram NCI, configurando incidência média 11 vezes maior quando comparado à população geral.
O Enfrentamento dos Acadêmicos de Medicina da Universidade Severino Sombra Frente ao Processo Morte-Morrer
Authors: Jr João Carlos De Souza Côrtes , Rosa Diego Santa , Lopes Tiago Souza , Côrtes Paula Pitta de Resende
Published: July 2016

Em relação ao processo morte-morrer, cada sociedade tem sua própria cultura, hábitos, crenças e valores, que aproxima ou a diferencia de outras, oferecendo aos indivíduos uma orientação de como devem se comportar e o que devem ou não fazer diante deste fato. Os profissionais de saúde são os que mais lutam contra a morte, mas sua formação e sua carreira são marcadas pelo afastamento dela. Esta pesquisa teve como objetivos: reconhecer se os acadêmicos do último período do curso de Medicina da Universidade Severino Sombra se sentem preparados para o enfrentamento do processo morte-morrer em sua prática formativa e conhecer como estes percebem que a graduação os preparou para este enfrentamento. É um estudo de natureza qualitativa, realizado através de 20 entrevistas semi-estruturadas com acadêmicos de Medicina do 12o período. Os resultados apontam que, apesar da maioria dos acadêmicos se julgarem preparados para lidar com o processo morte-morrer, não foi observada, durante a graduação em Medicina, fundamentação teórico-prática adequada para este preparo. Concluímos que o preparo para o enfrentamento do processo morte-morrer dos acadêmicos de Medicina não ocorreu de forma adequada e o que ocorre não é o enfrentamento, mas sim a fuga através da criação de uma armadura protetora em que o acadêmico sente a necessidade de se transformar em uma pessoa fria, com poucos sentimentos.