Bibliometric indexes, databases and impact factors in cardiology.

Bibliometry is a quantitative statistical technique to measure levels of production and dissemination of knowledge, as well as a useful tool to track the development of an scientific area. The valuation of production required for recognition of researchers and magazines is accomplished through tools called bibliometric indexes, divided into quality indicators and scientific impact. Initially developed for monographs of statistical measures especially in libraries, today bibliometrics is mainly used to evaluate productivity of authors and citation repercussion. However, these tools have limitations and sometimes provoke controversies about indiscriminate application, leading to the development of newer indexes. It is important to know the most common search indexes and use it properly even acknowledging its limitations as it has a direct impact in their daily practice, reputation and funds achievement.

Derrame pleural / Pleural effusion

Doenças que envolvem direta ou indiretamento a pleura podem resultar em acúmulo de líquido pleural. Cerca de 90 por cento dos derrames pleurais são causados por insuficiência cardíaca, cirrose com ascite, infecções pleuropulmonares, neoplasias e emobolia pulmonar. A história do paciente pode sugerir a presença de derrame. Uma vez diagnosticado e localizado o derrame, deve-se tentar definir a etiologia do líquido plural