Recently, I have received more frequent inquiries regarding the correct execution of a suicide by means of compression of the carotid arteries. While looking through the available literature on this method, I came across not only quite comprehensive explanations, but also instructions that propagate the method without going into the underlying pathophysiological aspects and the resulting necessities for practical implementation. For some people this might be enough - I want to express this without criticism, because it is my concern not to complicate methods for rational suicide by unnecessary theoretical explanations. However, I believe that more comprehensive information on the basics and on the practical implementation is needed to seriously address the question of whether interrupting the oxygen supply by compressing the carotid arteries is a suitable method for a painless and peaceful, self-determined death. This little book is therefore intended to provide interested parties with an opportunity to gain an overview of the "Carotid Artery" method, as I would like to call it here. The paper contains basic information on the principle of the method and its practical implementation, deals with possible sources of error and presents some options that could make the method safer and more reliable.

This report considers the biological and behavioral mechanisms that may underlie the pathogenicity of tobacco smoke. Many Surgeon General's reports have considered research findings on mechanisms in assessing the biological plausibility of associations observed in epidemiologic studies. Mechanisms of disease are important because they may provide plausibility, which is one of the guideline criteria for assessing evidence on causation. This report specifically reviews the evidence on the potential mechanisms by which smoking causes diseases and considers whether a mechanism is likely to be operative in the production of human disease by tobacco smoke. This evidence is relevant to understanding how smoking causes disease, to identifying those who may be particularly susceptible, and to assessing the potential risks of tobacco products.

Aneurysms-Osteoarthritis Syndrome: SMAD3 Gene Mutations is a first-of-its-kind compilation of the genetic discovery, research, and care associated with AOS. With the field of genetically triggered aortopathies growing, this important reference will compile the newest discoveries in this field, allowing cardiologists, cardio-thoracic surgeons, clinical geneticists, vascular surgeons, orthopedic surgeons, and researchers to gain the knowledge they need without having to gather the data from various sources. Coverage includes genotype and phenotype correlations, the functional role of SMAD3, and insights into the role of TGFbeta signaling in aortic disease. The book will increase knowledge about AOS, providing awareness and better patient care for this aggressive disease. - Covers Aneurysms-Osteoarthritis Syndrome, from genetic discovery to patient care - Contains clinical management guidance on optimal cardiovascular treatments and surgery - Explains the autosomal dominant syndromes caused by mutations in the SMAD3 gene - Identifies the key features of this syndrome, including arterial aneurysms and tortuosity, early onset arthritis, and mild craniofacial features

Clinical practice related to sleep problems and sleep disorders has been expanding rapidly in the last few years, but scientific research is not keeping pace. Sleep apnea, insomnia, and restless legs syndrome are three examples of very common disorders for which we have little biological information. This new book cuts across a variety of medical disciplines such as neurology, pulmonology, pediatrics, internal medicine, psychiatry, psychology, otolaryngology, and nursing, as well as other medical practices with an interest in the management of sleep pathology. This area of research is not limited to very young and old patientsâ€"sleep disorders reach across all ages and ethnicities. Sleep Disorders and Sleep Deprivation presents a structured analysis that explores the following: Improving awareness among the general public and health care professionals. Increasing investment in interdisciplinary somnology and sleep medicine research training and mentoring activities. Validating and developing new and existing technologies for diagnosis and treatment. This book will be of interest to those looking to learn more about the enormous public health burden of sleep disorders and sleep deprivation and the strikingly limited capacity of the health care enterprise to identify and treat the majority of individuals suffering from sleep problems.

Clinical Case Studies for the Family Nurse Practitioner is a key resource for advanced practice nurses and graduate students seeking to test their skills in assessing, diagnosing, and managing cases in family and primary care. Composed of more than 70 cases ranging from common to unique, the book compiles years of experience from experts in the field. It is organized chronologically, presenting cases from neonatal to geriatric care in a standard approach built on the SOAP format. This includes differential diagnosis and a series of critical thinking questions ideal for self-assessment or classroom use.

Racial and ethnic disparities in health care are known to reflect access to care and other issues that arise from differing socioeconomic conditions. There is, however, increasing evidence that even after such differences are accounted for, race and ethnicity remain significant predictors of the quality of health care received. In Unequal Treatment, a panel of experts documents this evidence and explores how persons of color experience the health care environment. The book examines how disparities in treatment may arise in health care systems and looks at aspects of the clinical encounter that may contribute to such disparities. Patients' and providers' attitudes, expectations, and behavior are analyzed. How to intervene? Unequal Treatment offers recommendations for improvements in medical care financing, allocation of care, availability of language translation, community-based care, and other arenas. The committee highlights the potential of cross-cultural education to improve provider-patient communication and offers a detailed look at how to integrate cross-cultural learning within the health professions. The book concludes with recommendations for data collection and research initiatives. Unequal Treatment will be vitally important to health care policymakers, administrators, providers, educators, and students as well as advocates for people of color.