ELECTROCUTION A M EDICAL D ICTIONARY , B IBLIOGRAPHY , AND A NNOTATED R ESEARCH G UIDE TO I NTERNET R E FERENCES
J AMES N. P ARKER , M.D. AND P HILIP M. P ARKER , P H .D., E DITORS
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ICON Health Publications ICON Group International, Inc. 4370 La Jolla Village Drive, 4th Floor San Diego, CA 92122 USA Copyright 2004 by ICON Group International, Inc. Copyright 2004 by ICON Group International, Inc. All rights reserved. This book is protected by copyright. No part of it may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without written permission from the publisher. Printed in the United States of America. Last digit indicates print number: 10 9 8 7 6 4 5 3 2 1
Publisher, Health Care: Philip Parker, Ph.D. Editor(s): James Parker, M.D., Philip Parker, Ph.D. Publisher's note: The ideas, procedures, and suggestions contained in this book are not intended for the diagnosis or treatment of a health problem. As new medical or scientific information becomes available from academic and clinical research, recommended treatments and drug therapies may undergo changes. The authors, editors, and publisher have attempted to make the information in this book up to date and accurate in accord with accepted standards at the time of publication. The authors, editors, and publisher are not responsible for errors or omissions or for consequences from application of the book, and make no warranty, expressed or implied, in regard to the contents of this book. Any practice described in this book should be applied by the reader in accordance with professional standards of care used in regard to the unique circumstances that may apply in each situation. The reader is advised to always check product information (package inserts) for changes and new information regarding dosage and contraindications before prescribing any drug or pharmacological product. Caution is especially urged when using new or infrequently ordered drugs, herbal remedies, vitamins and supplements, alternative therapies, complementary therapies and medicines, and integrative medical treatments. Cataloging-in-Publication Data Parker, James N., 1961Parker, Philip M., 1960Electrocution: A Medical Dictionary, Bibliography, and Annotated Research Guide to Internet References / James N. Parker and Philip M. Parker, editors p. cm. Includes bibliographical references, glossary, and index. ISBN: 0-497-00395-3 1. Electrocution-Popular works. I. Title.
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Disclaimer This publication is not intended to be used for the diagnosis or treatment of a health problem. It is sold with the understanding that the publisher, editors, and authors are not engaging in the rendering of medical, psychological, financial, legal, or other professional services. References to any entity, product, service, or source of information that may be contained in this publication should not be considered an endorsement, either direct or implied, by the publisher, editors, or authors. ICON Group International, Inc., the editors, and the authors are not responsible for the content of any Web pages or publications referenced in this publication.
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Acknowledgements The collective knowledge generated from academic and applied research summarized in various references has been critical in the creation of this book which is best viewed as a comprehensive compilation and collection of information prepared by various official agencies which produce publications on electrocution. Books in this series draw from various agencies and institutions associated with the United States Department of Health and Human Services, and in particular, the Office of the Secretary of Health and Human Services (OS), the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), the Administration on Aging (AOA), the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Healthcare Financing Administration (HCFA), the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the Indian Health Service (IHS), the institutions of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Program Support Center (PSC), and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). In addition to these sources, information gathered from the National Library of Medicine, the United States Patent Office, the European Union, and their related organizations has been invaluable in the creation of this book. Some of the work represented was financially supported by the Research and Development Committee at INSEAD. This support is gratefully acknowledged. Finally, special thanks are owed to Tiffany Freeman for her excellent editorial support.
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About the Editors James N. Parker, M.D. Dr. James N. Parker received his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychobiology from the University of California, Riverside and his M.D. from the University of California, San Diego. In addition to authoring numerous research publications, he has lectured at various academic institutions. Dr. Parker is the medical editor for health books by ICON Health Publications. Philip M. Parker, Ph.D. Philip M. Parker is the Eli Lilly Chair Professor of Innovation, Business and Society at INSEAD (Fontainebleau, France and Singapore). Dr. Parker has also been Professor at the University of California, San Diego and has taught courses at Harvard University, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University, and UCLA. Dr. Parker is the associate editor for ICON Health Publications.
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About ICON Health Publications To discover more about ICON Health Publications, simply check with your preferred online booksellers, including Barnes&Noble.com and Amazon.com which currently carry all of our titles. Or, feel free to contact us directly for bulk purchases or institutional discounts: ICON Group International, Inc. 4370 La Jolla Village Drive, Fourth Floor San Diego, CA 92122 USA Fax: 858-546-4341 Web site: www.icongrouponline.com/health
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Table of Contents FORWARD .......................................................................................................................................... 1 CHAPTER 1. STUDIES ON ELECTROCUTION....................................................................................... 3 Overview........................................................................................................................................ 3 Federally Funded Research on Electrocution ................................................................................. 3 The National Library of Medicine: PubMed .................................................................................. 4 CHAPTER 2. ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE AND ELECTROCUTION ...................................................... 17 Overview...................................................................................................................................... 17 National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.................................................. 17 Additional Web Resources ........................................................................................................... 18 General References ....................................................................................................................... 18 CHAPTER 3. PATENTS ON ELECTROCUTION ................................................................................... 21 Overview...................................................................................................................................... 21 Patents on Electrocution.............................................................................................................. 21 Patent Applications on Electrocution .......................................................................................... 48 Keeping Current .......................................................................................................................... 54 CHAPTER 4. BOOKS ON ELECTROCUTION ....................................................................................... 55 Overview...................................................................................................................................... 55 Book Summaries: Online Booksellers........................................................................................... 55 APPENDIX A. PHYSICIAN RESOURCES ............................................................................................ 59 Overview...................................................................................................................................... 59 NIH Guidelines............................................................................................................................ 59 NIH Databases............................................................................................................................. 61 Other Commercial Databases....................................................................................................... 63 APPENDIX B. PATIENT RESOURCES ................................................................................................. 65 Overview...................................................................................................................................... 65 Patient Guideline Sources............................................................................................................ 65 Finding Associations.................................................................................................................... 67 APPENDIX C. FINDING MEDICAL LIBRARIES .................................................................................. 69 Overview...................................................................................................................................... 69 Preparation................................................................................................................................... 69 Finding a Local Medical Library.................................................................................................. 69 Medical Libraries in the U.S. and Canada ................................................................................... 69 ONLINE GLOSSARIES.................................................................................................................. 75 Online Dictionary Directories ..................................................................................................... 75 ELECTROCUTION DICTIONARY.............................................................................................. 77 INDEX ................................................................................................................................................ 91
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FORWARD In March 2001, the National Institutes of Health issued the following warning: "The number of Web sites offering health-related resources grows every day. Many sites provide valuable information, while others may have information that is unreliable or misleading."1 Furthermore, because of the rapid increase in Internet-based information, many hours can be wasted searching, selecting, and printing. Since only the smallest fraction of information dealing with electrocution is indexed in search engines, such as www.google.com or others, a non-systematic approach to Internet research can be not only time consuming, but also incomplete. This book was created for medical professionals, students, and members of the general public who want to know as much as possible about electrocution, using the most advanced research tools available and spending the least amount of time doing so. In addition to offering a structured and comprehensive bibliography, the pages that follow will tell you where and how to find reliable information covering virtually all topics related to electrocution, from the essentials to the most advanced areas of research. Public, academic, government, and peer-reviewed research studies are emphasized. Various abstracts are reproduced to give you some of the latest official information available to date on electrocution. Abundant guidance is given on how to obtain free-of-charge primary research results via the Internet. While this book focuses on the field of medicine, when some sources provide access to non-medical information relating to electrocution, these are noted in the text. E-book and electronic versions of this book are fully interactive with each of the Internet sites mentioned (clicking on a hyperlink automatically opens your browser to the site indicated). If you are using the hard copy version of this book, you can access a cited Web site by typing the provided Web address directly into your Internet browser. You may find it useful to refer to synonyms or related terms when accessing these Internet databases. NOTE: At the time of publication, the Web addresses were functional. However, some links may fail due to URL address changes, which is a common occurrence on the Internet. For readers unfamiliar with the Internet, detailed instructions are offered on how to access electronic resources. For readers unfamiliar with medical terminology, a comprehensive glossary is provided. For readers without access to Internet resources, a directory of medical libraries, that have or can locate references cited here, is given. We hope these resources will prove useful to the widest possible audience seeking information on electrocution. The Editors
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From the NIH, National Cancer Institute (NCI): http://www.cancer.gov/cancerinfo/ten-things-to-know.
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CHAPTER 1. STUDIES ON ELECTROCUTION Overview In this chapter, we will show you how to locate peer-reviewed references and studies on electrocution.
Federally Funded Research on Electrocution The U.S. Government supports a variety of research studies relating to electrocution. These studies are tracked by the Office of Extramural Research at the National Institutes of Health.2 CRISP (Computerized Retrieval of Information on Scientific Projects) is a searchable database of federally funded biomedical research projects conducted at universities, hospitals, and other institutions. Search the CRISP Web site at http://crisp.cit.nih.gov/crisp/crisp_query.generate_screen. You will have the option to perform targeted searches by various criteria, including geography, date, and topics related to electrocution. For most of the studies, the agencies reporting into CRISP provide summaries or abstracts. As opposed to clinical trial research using patients, many federally funded studies use animals or simulated models to explore electrocution. The following is typical of the type of information found when searching the CRISP database for electrocution: •
Project Title: A DEVICE ELIMINATING ELECTROCUTIONS BY MOBILE CRANES Principal Investigator & Institution: Mohan, Satish B.; Vitech Systems, Inc. 126 Viscount Dr Williamsville, Ny 14221 Timing: Fiscal Year 2002; Project Start 30-SEP-2000; Project End 29-SEP-2004 Summary: The objective of this project is to develop and field-test an electronic sensor system that will detect the voltage-intensity, and the distance of overhead high-voltage
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Healthcare projects are funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA), Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP), Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), and Office of Assistant Secretary of Health (OASH).
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power lines from mobile cranes. The system will alarm the crane operator when the crane boom gets excessively close to a power line, and if the boom gets dangerously close, the system will trigger a loud alarm and a flashing light to warn the crane operator and those working in the vicinity of the crane. A number of sensors attached to the crane boom will be connected together by a powered sensor bus and then to a microprocessor located in the operator's cabin. A smaller system using similar design will also be developed for conductive scaffolds, aerial man-lifts, boom trucks, and other self-propelled machinery that make physical contact to a power line. The system will be field-tested on the Operating Engineers, Local #17, training grounds. Several crane manufacturers will later be approached for testing the system on construction work sites. In 1981, for which a complete data is available, there were approximately 2300 lost workday mobile crane injuries due to contact with power lines including 115 fatalities and 200 permanent total disabilities. Also, metal and conductive scaffolds killed 47 workers in similar accidents in 1991; and 7 workers are electrocuted every year in aerial lifts during tree trimming. The 1999 cost of these injuries estimates to $259 million. It is expected that at least 50% of the crane manufacturers and rental companies will install this system on their cranes, resulting in a saving of $130 million per year, besides saving 85 lives, 100 permanent total disabilities, and 993 severe injuries. Two companies, both located in Buffalo area, will work in consortium to develop the proposed system. The full objectives of the project will be accomplished in three years at a total direct cost of $494,647. Website: http://crisp.cit.nih.gov/crisp/Crisp_Query.Generate_Screen
The National Library of Medicine: PubMed One of the quickest and most comprehensive ways to find academic studies in both English and other languages is to use PubMed, maintained by the National Library of Medicine.3 The advantage of PubMed over previously mentioned sources is that it covers a greater number of domestic and foreign references. It is also free to use. If the publisher has a Web site that offers full text of its journals, PubMed will provide links to that site, as well as to sites offering other related data. User registration, a subscription fee, or some other type of fee may be required to access the full text of articles in some journals. To generate your own bibliography of studies dealing with electrocution, simply go to the PubMed Web site at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed. Type “electrocution” (or synonyms) into the search box, and click “Go.” The following is the type of output you can expect from PubMed for electrocution (hyperlinks lead to article summaries): •
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A case of accidental electrocution. A clinical pathological report. Author(s): Lindenmayer JP, Pappenheim E. Source: The Psychiatric Quarterly. 1973; 47(2): 218-27. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=4752536
PubMed was developed by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) at the National Library of Medicine (NLM) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The PubMed database was developed in conjunction with publishers of biomedical literature as a search tool for accessing literature citations and linking to full-text journal articles at Web sites of participating publishers. Publishers that participate in PubMed supply NLM with their citations electronically prior to or at the time of publication.
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A case of electrocution during illegal fishing activities. Author(s): Di Nunno N, Vimercati L, Viola L, Vimercati F. Source: The American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology : Official Publication of the National Association of Medical Examiners. 2003 June; 24(2): 164-7. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=12773854
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A case of fatal electrocution during an unusual autoerotic practice. Author(s): Tan CT, Chao TC. Source: Med Sci Law. 1983 April; 23(2): 92-5. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=6865704
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Abdominal wall and stomach perforation following accidental electrocution with high tension wire: a unique case. Author(s): Kumar S, Thomas S, Lehri S. Source: The Journal of Emergency Medicine. 1993 March-April; 11(2): 141-5. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=8505515
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Accidental electrocution during autoeroticism: a shocking case. Author(s): Schott JC, Davis GJ, Hunsaker JC 3rd. Source: The American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology : Official Publication of the National Association of Medical Examiners. 2003 March; 24(1): 92-5. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=12605007
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Accidental high voltage electrocution: a rare neurosurgical problem. Author(s): Iob I, Salar G, Ori C, Mattana M, Casadei A, Peserico L. Source: Acta Neurochirurgica. 1986; 83(3-4): 151-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=3812040
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Alternating current electrocution detection and termination by an implantable cardioverter defibrillator. Author(s): Mehdirad A, Love C, Nelson S, Schaal S, Collins J, Huffman K. Source: Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology : Pace. 1997 July; 20(7): 1885-6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=9249849
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An electrocution death of an infant who had received an electric shock from an uncovered oval shaped lamp switch in his mouth while in a hospital. Author(s): Yamazaki M, Bai H, Tun Z, Ogura Y, Wakasugi C. Source: J Forensic Sci. 1997 January; 42(1): 151-4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=8988592
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An electrocution death of an infant who had received an electrical shock from an uncovered oval shaped lamp switch in his mouth while in the hospital. Author(s): Wright RK. Source: J Forensic Sci. 1997 September; 42(5): 963-5. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=9379158
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An unusual mechanism of electrocution via a spray of aluminum paint. Author(s): Still JM Jr, Madison SA, Law EJ, Pickens H. Source: The Journal of Burn Care & Rehabilitation. 1995 March-April; 16(2 Pt 1): 141-2. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=7775508
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An unusual occurrence of electric burns in a case of fatal electrocution. Author(s): Adjutantis G, Dritsas C, Iordanidis P. Source: Forensic Sci. 1973 May; 2(2): 255-7. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=4696525
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Another electrocution from overhead cables. Author(s): Ennis JE. Source: Med Sci Law. 1968 January; 8(1): 53-4. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=5661228
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Are babies dying of electrocution? Author(s): Edwards NK, Edwards DS. Source: Nurs Clin North Am. 1971 March; 6(1): 81-92. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=5204957
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Attempted homicide by electrocution. Author(s): Pfeiffer H, Karger B. Source: International Journal of Legal Medicine. 1998; 111(6): 331-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=9826095
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Attempted suicide by electrocution. Review and case report. Author(s): Grumet GW. Source: Bulletin of the Menninger Clinic. 1989 November; 53(6): 512-21. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=2819293
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Bilateral fracture of the femoral neck as a direct result of electrocution shock. Author(s): Nyoni L, Saunders CR, Morar AB. Source: Cent Afr J Med. 1994 December; 40(12): 355-6. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=7882418
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Bilateral scapular fractures after electrocution. Author(s): Kotak BP, Haddo O, Iqbal M, Chissell H. Source: Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine. 2000 March; 93(3): 143-4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=10741316
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Cardiac abnormalities demonstrated postmortem in four cases of accidental electrocution and their potential significance relative to nonfatal electrical injuries of the heart. Author(s): James TN, Riddick L, Embry JH. Source: American Heart Journal. 1990 July; 120(1): 143-57. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=2360499
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Cardiac injury and electrocution. Author(s): Forrest FC, Saunders PR, McSwinney M, Tooley MA. Source: Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine. 1992 October; 85(10): 642-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=1433052
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Controlling the electrocution hazard in the hospital. Author(s): Arbeit SR, Parker B, Rubin IL. Source: Jama : the Journal of the American Medical Association. 1972 June 19; 220(12): 1581-4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=5067735
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Curiosum eroticum--a case of fatal electrocution during auto-erotic practice. Author(s): Sivaloganathan S. Source: Med Sci Law. 1981 January; 21(1): 47-50. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=7219117
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Death due to electrocution in childhood and early adolescence. Author(s): Byard RW, Hanson KA, Gilbert JD, James RA, Nadeau J, Blackbourne B, Krous HF. Source: Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health. 2003 January-February; 39(1): 46-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=12542812
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Death from electrocution during autoerotic practice: case report and review of the literature. Author(s): Klintschar M, Grabuschnigg P, Beham A. Source: The American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology : Official Publication of the National Association of Medical Examiners. 1998 June; 19(2): 190-3. Review. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=9662120
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Death from electrocution during auto-erotic procedures. Author(s): Cairns FJ, Rainer SP. Source: N Z Med J. 1981 October 14; 94(693): 259-60. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=6948177
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Death or injury caused by electrocution. Author(s): Wright RK. Source: Clin Lab Med. 1983 June; 3(2): 343-53. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=6617121
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Discussion of "Electrocution by Street Lighting". Author(s): Beland B. Source: J Forensic Sci. 1985 April; 30(2): 311-5. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=3998688
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Electrical treatment of electrocution. Author(s): Schechter DC. Source: Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology : Pace. 1978 January; 1(1): 114-6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=83606
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Electrocution at high power with suggestions for a protective relay. Author(s): Trethewie ER. Source: The Medical Journal of Australia. 1970 May 16; 1(20): 1003-6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=5427649
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Electrocution by dielectric breakdown (arcing) from overhead high tension cables. Author(s): Chandrasiri N. Source: Med Sci Law. 1988 July; 28(3): 237-40. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=3173028
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Electrocution by street lighting. Author(s): Mitchell EK, Davis JH. Source: J Forensic Sci. 1984 July; 29(3): 836-42. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=6747585
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Electrocution due to contact of industrial equipment with power lines. Author(s): Still J, Orlet H, Law E, Wheeler M, Pickens H. Source: Burns : Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries. 1997 NovemberDecember; 23(7-8): 573-5. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=9568326
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Electrocution during anaesthesia. Author(s): Chambers JJ, Saha AK. Source: Anaesthesia. 1979 February; 34(2): 173-5. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=443513
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Electrocution during sexual activity. Author(s): Ditto EW 3rd. Source: The American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology : Official Publication of the National Association of Medical Examiners. 1981 September; 2(3): 271-2. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=7325139
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Electrocution hazards in x-ray installations. Author(s): Sprawls P Jr. Source: Radiology. 1971 July; 100(1): 157-62. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=5147025
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Electrocution hazards with transvenous pacemaker electrodes. Author(s): Merkel R, Sovie MD. Source: The American Journal of Nursing. 1968 December; 68(12): 2560-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=5188862
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Electrocution in South Delhi: a retrospective study. Author(s): Rautji R, Rudra A, Behera C, Dogra TD. Source: Med Sci Law. 2003 October; 43(4): 350-2. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=14655966
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Electrocution in the horse. Author(s): Novales M, Hernandez E, Lucena R. Source: The Veterinary Record. 1998 January 17; 142(3): 68. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=9481845
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Electrocution in Western Australia, 1976-1990. Author(s): Fatovich DM. Source: The Medical Journal of Australia. 1992 December 7-21; 157(11-12): 762-4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=1454003
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Electrocution injuries. A case report. Author(s): Addante JB, Chin M, Eto J, Baker RE. Source: Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association. 1991 January; 81(1): 3941. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=1772475
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Electrocution injury. Author(s): Oliva FJ. Source: Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association. 1991 June; 81(6): 328-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=1681080
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Electrocution on a haystack. Author(s): Ennis JE. Source: Med Sci Law. 1967 July; 7(3): 142-4. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=6052207
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Electrocution, drowning, and burns. Author(s): Fraser-Darling A. Source: British Medical Journal (Clinical Research Ed.). 1981 February 14; 282(6263): 5301. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=6780115
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Electrocution. Author(s): Harvey-Sutton P. Source: The Medical Journal of Australia. 1993 March 15; 158(6): 435. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=8479365
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Electrocution. Author(s): Rogado AZ. Source: Headache. 1976 September; 16(4): 139-44. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=965228
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Electrocution. A reminder of the deadly hazard. Author(s): Burchell HB. Source: Postgraduate Medicine. 1986 October; 80(5): 21, 24, 26. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=3763524
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Electrocution: a review of 155 cases with emphasis on human factors. Author(s): Mellen PF, Weedn VW, Kao G. Source: J Forensic Sci. 1992 July; 37(4): 1016-22. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=1506824
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Electrocution: an ever-present hazard. Author(s): Burchell HB. Source: Postgraduate Medicine. 1977 May; 61(5): 127-30, 133. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=854485
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Electrocution--autopsy study with emphasis on "electrical petechiae". Author(s): Karger B, Suggeler O, Brinkmann B. Source: Forensic Science International. 2002 May 23; 126(3): 210-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=12062943
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Electroencephalogram changes and its improvement with sodium valproate in a patient with electrocution-induced chronic mania. Author(s): Ameen S, Dutta S, Sinha VK. Source: Bipolar Disorders. 2003 June; 5(3): 228-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=12780877
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Experimental evaluation of rigor mortis. VII. Effect of ante- and post-mortem electrocution on the evolution of rigor mortis. Author(s): Krompecher T, Bergerioux C. Source: Forensic Science International. 1988 July-August; 38(1-2): 27-35. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=3192134
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Farm workers electrocuted when irrigation pipes contact powerlines. Author(s): Helgerson SD, Milham S Jr. Source: Public Health Reports (Washington, D.C. : 1974). 1985 May-June; 100(3): 325-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=3923542
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Focal lingual dystonia, urinary incontinence, and sensory deficits secondary to low voltage electrocution: case report and literature review. Author(s): Baskerville JR, McAninch SA. Source: Emergency Medicine Journal : Emj. 2002 July; 19(4): 368-71. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=12101168
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Helicopter wire strike accident and high voltage electrocution: a case report. Author(s): Posey DM, Wagner GN, McMillin SE, Ruehle CJ, Schell BE, Pinho RJ. Source: Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine. 1989 October; 60(10 Pt 2): B29-34. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=2818383
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Homicide by electrocution. Author(s): al-Alousi LM. Source: Med Sci Law. 1990 July; 30(3): 239-46. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=2398802
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Idiopathic persistent atrial fibrillation precipitated by electrocution in a 40-year-old man. Author(s): Cotoi S, Dragulescu SI. Source: G Ital Cardiol. 1974; 4(1): 80-3. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=4824629
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Insomnia-coma and auto-electrocution complicating general anesthesia. Incidental factors which also cause cerebral, respiratory and cardiac arrest. Author(s): Baggot MG. Source: Medical Hypotheses. 1992 March; 37(3): 179-85. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=1584108
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Internal current mark in a case of suicide by electrocution. Author(s): Anders S, Matschke J, Tsokos M. Source: The American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology : Official Publication of the National Association of Medical Examiners. 2001 December; 22(4): 370-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=11764904
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Judicial electrocution and the prison doctor. Author(s): Jones GR. Source: Lancet. 1990 March 24; 335(8691): 713-4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=1969071
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Microampere electrocution during haemodialysis -- an unrecognised cause of sudden death. Author(s): Gotloib L, Servadio C. Source: Proc Eur Dial Transplant Assoc. 1975; 11: 210-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=1197255
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Mondor's disease and electrocution. Author(s): Randell P. Source: The Australasian Journal of Dermatology. 2003 February; 44(1): 75-6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=12581089
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Monitors, connectors, and electrocution. Author(s): Bruner JM, Leonard PF. Source: Med Instrum. 1987 October; 21(5): 288. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=3683256
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Myocardial haemorrhagic necrosis in delayed death from electrocution. Author(s): Colonna M, Caruso G, Nardulli F, Altamura B. Source: Acta Med Leg Soc (Liege). 1989; 39(1): 145-7. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=2520682
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Myocardial infarction after electrocution. Author(s): Andrews CJ. Source: The Medical Journal of Australia. 1988 September 19; 149(6): 342-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=3419387
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Myocardial infarction after electrocution. Author(s): Walton AS, Harper RW, Coggins GL. Source: The Medical Journal of Australia. 1988 April 4; 148(7): 365-7. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=3367842
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Myocardial injury in electrocution. Author(s): Xenopoulos N, Movahed A, Hudson P, Reeves WC. Source: American Heart Journal. 1991 November; 122(5): 1481-4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=1951020
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Myocardial necrosis by electrocution: evaluation of noninvasive methods. Author(s): Romero B, Candell-Riera J, Gracia RM, Fernandez MA, Aguade S, Peracaula R, Soler-Soler J. Source: Journal of Nuclear Medicine : Official Publication, Society of Nuclear Medicine. 1997 February; 38(2): 250-1. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=9025748
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Post mortem caesarean section following death by electrocution. Author(s): Toongsuwan S. Source: The Australian & New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology. 1972 November; 12(4): 265-6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=4512388
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Prediction of outcome after resuscitation in a case of electrocution. Author(s): Veneman TF, van Dijk GW, Boereboom E, Joore H, Savelkoul TJ. Source: Intensive Care Medicine. 1998 March; 24(3): 255-7. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=9565809
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Prevalence of potential risk factors in victims of electrocution. Author(s): Bailey B, Forget S, Gaudreault P. Source: Forensic Science International. 2001 November 15; 123(1): 58-62. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=11731198
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Proceedings: Patient monitoring equipment: problems of interference and electrical safety. Electrocution. Author(s): Dobbie AK. Source: Proc R Soc Med. 1973 October; 66(10): 981-2. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=4759745
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Protection against electrocution. Author(s): Jackson OR. Source: Postgraduate Medicine. 1987 April; 81(5): 47. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=3562379
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Radiofrequency electrocution (196 MHz). Author(s): Hocking B, Westerman R. Source: Occupational Medicine (Oxford, England). 1999 September; 49(7): 459-61. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=10665149
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Rare electrocution due to powerline contact in a hot-air balloon: comparison with fatalities from blunt trauma. Author(s): McConnell TS, Zumwalt RE, Wahe J, Haikal NA, McFeeley PJ. Source: J Forensic Sci. 1992 September; 37(5): 1393-400. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=1402763
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Recovery of myocardial electrocution after injury by ordinary electric current. Author(s): Kiblawi S, Jubran F. Source: J Med Liban. 1972; 25(4): 285-9. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=4657411
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Risk perception following exposure to a job-related electrocution accident: the mediating role of perceived control. Author(s): Greening L. Source: Acta Psychologica. 1997 April; 95(3): 267-77. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=9112805
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Significance of skin metallization in the diagnosis of electrocution. Author(s): Marcinkowski T, Pankowski M. Source: Forensic Science International. 1980 July-August; 16(1): 1-6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=7399376
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Stimulation causing the double effect as in dyspraxia, a universal mechanism of disease, and auto-electrocution, the fatal factor. Author(s): Baggot MG. Source: Medical Hypotheses. 1993 May; 40(5): 269-74. Review. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=8350777
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Study on electrocution death by low-voltage. Author(s): Zhang P, Cai S. Source: Forensic Science International. 1995 December 18; 76(2): 115-9. Review. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=8566912
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Suicidal electrocution in a bathtub. Author(s): Lawrence RD, Spitz WU, Taff ML. Source: The American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology : Official Publication of the National Association of Medical Examiners. 1985 September; 6(3): 276-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=3870683
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Suicide by electrocution with low-voltage current. Author(s): Marc B, Baudry F, Douceron H, Ghaith A, Wepierre JL, Garnier M. Source: J Forensic Sci. 2000 January; 45(1): 216-22. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=10641944
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Suicide by electrocution. Author(s): Fernando R, Liyanage S. Source: Med Sci Law. 1990 July; 30(3): 219-20. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=2398798
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Tachycardia following low-tension electrocution. Author(s): Orme S, Channer KS. Source: Postgraduate Medical Journal. 1999 July; 75(885): 439-40. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=10474737
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The demonstrative value of the radiography of shoes in cases of electrocution. Author(s): Kunnen M, Thomas F, Van de Velde E. Source: Med Sci Law. 1970 January; 10(1): 45-6. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=5504137
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The hazard of electrocution during patient monitoring. Author(s): Lee WR. Source: Postgraduate Medical Journal. 1970 June; 46(536): 355-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=5476132
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The survival of ingested Serratia marcescens in houseflies (Musca domestica L.) after electrocution with electric fly killers. Author(s): Cooke EA, O'Neill G, Anderson M. Source: Current Microbiology. 2003 February; 46(2): 151-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=12520372
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Things are not always what they seem! Joule burns in electrocution--a report of four cases. Author(s): Odesanmi WO. Source: Med Sci Law. 1987 January; 27(1): 63-7. No Abstract Available. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=3821445
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Torticollis after electrocution. Author(s): Colosimo C, Kocen RS, Powell M, Lees AJ, Abdallat A. Source: Movement Disorders : Official Journal of the Movement Disorder Society. 1993; 8(1): 117-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=8419795
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Usefulness of elastica-van Gieson stain for the pathomorphological diagnosis of a cutaneous electric mark--a fatal electrocution case during arc welding. Author(s): Imamura T, Tokunaga H, Ise H, Jitsufuchi N, Kudo K. Source: Fukuoka Igaku Zasshi. 1997 February; 88(2): 23-6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=9071051
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CHAPTER
2.
ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE ELECTROCUTION
AND
Overview In this chapter, we will begin by introducing you to official information sources on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) relating to electrocution. At the conclusion of this chapter, we will provide additional sources.
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) of the National Institutes of Health (http://nccam.nih.gov/) has created a link to the National Library of Medicine’s databases to facilitate research for articles that specifically relate to electrocution and complementary medicine. To search the database, go to the following Web site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/nccam/camonpubmed.html. Select “CAM on PubMed.” Enter “electrocution” (or synonyms) into the search box. Click “Go.” The following references provide information on particular aspects of complementary and alternative medicine that are related to electrocution: •
Electrical shock injury. Author(s): Rose KA. Source: Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 1994 March-April; 17(3): 174-6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=8006532
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Electrocution in a bath. Author(s): Mackenzie EC. Source: Sci Justice. 1995 October-December; 35(4): 253-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=7496826
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Electrocution in the operating room. Author(s): Atkin DH, Orkin LR.
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Source: Anesthesiology. 1973 February; 38(2): 181-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=4684516 •
Intestinal injury associated with low-voltage electrocution. Author(s): Williams DB, Karl RC. Source: The Journal of Trauma. 1981 March; 21(3): 246-50. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=7218389
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Ventricular fibrillation. Author(s): Surawicz B. Source: Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 1985 June; 5(6 Suppl): 43B-54B. Review. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=A bstract&list_uids=3889113
Additional Web Resources A number of additional Web sites offer encyclopedic information covering CAM and related topics. The following is a representative sample: •
Alternative Medicine Foundation, Inc.: http://www.herbmed.org/
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AOL: http://search.aol.com/cat.adp?id=169&layer=&from=subcats
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Chinese Medicine: http://www.newcenturynutrition.com/
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drkoop.com: http://www.drkoop.com/InteractiveMedicine/IndexC.html
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Family Village: http://www.familyvillage.wisc.edu/med_altn.htm
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Google: http://directory.google.com/Top/Health/Alternative/
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Healthnotes: http://www.healthnotes.com/
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MedWebPlus: http://medwebplus.com/subject/Alternative_and_Complementary_Medicine
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Open Directory Project: http://dmoz.org/Health/Alternative/
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HealthGate: http://www.tnp.com/
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WebMDHealth: http://my.webmd.com/drugs_and_herbs
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WholeHealthMD.com: http://www.wholehealthmd.com/reflib/0,1529,00.html
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Yahoo.com: http://dir.yahoo.com/Health/Alternative_Medicine/
General References A good place to find general background information on CAM is the National Library of Medicine. It has prepared within the MEDLINEplus system an information topic page dedicated to complementary and alternative medicine. To access this page, go to the MEDLINEplus site at http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/alternativemedicine.html.
Alternative Medicine 19
This Web site provides a general overview of various topics and can lead to a number of general sources.
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CHAPTER 3. PATENTS ON ELECTROCUTION Overview Patents can be physical innovations (e.g. chemicals, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment) or processes (e.g. treatments or diagnostic procedures). The United States Patent and Trademark Office defines a patent as a grant of a property right to the inventor, issued by the Patent and Trademark Office.4 Patents, therefore, are intellectual property. For the United States, the term of a new patent is 20 years from the date when the patent application was filed. If the inventor wishes to receive economic benefits, it is likely that the invention will become commercially available within 20 years of the initial filing. It is important to understand, therefore, that an inventor’s patent does not indicate that a product or service is or will be commercially available. The patent implies only that the inventor has “the right to exclude others from making, using, offering for sale, or selling” the invention in the United States. While this relates to U.S. patents, similar rules govern foreign patents. In this chapter, we show you how to locate information on patents and their inventors. If you find a patent that is particularly interesting to you, contact the inventor or the assignee for further information. IMPORTANT NOTE: When following the search strategy described below, you may discover non-medical patents that use the generic term “electrocution” (or a synonym) in their titles. To accurately reflect the results that you might find while conducting research on electrocution, we have not necessarily excluded nonmedical patents in this bibliography.
Patents on Electrocution By performing a patent search focusing on electrocution, you can obtain information such as the title of the invention, the names of the inventor(s), the assignee(s) or the company that owns or controls the patent, a short abstract that summarizes the patent, and a few excerpts from the description of the patent. The abstract of a patent tends to be more technical in nature, while the description is often written for the public. Full patent descriptions contain much more information than is presented here (e.g. claims, references, figures, diagrams, etc.). We will tell you how to obtain this information later in the chapter. The following is an 4Adapted
from the United States Patent and Trademark Office: http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/pac/doc/general/whatis.htm.
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example of the type of information that you can expect to obtain from a patent search on electrocution: •
Alarm system for detecting hazards due to power transmission lines Inventor(s): Cawley; James C. (Venetia, PA), Homce; Gerald T. (Pittsburgh, PA), Sacks; H. Kenneth (McMurray, PA), Yenchek; Michael R. (Bethel Park, PA) Assignee(s): The United States of America as represented by the Department of Health and (Washington, DC) Patent Number: 6,600,426 Date filed: September 25, 2000 Abstract: An alarm system for detecting and warning of the risk of shock and electrocution is provided. The alarm system is adapted for use with mobile construction equipment, e.g., cranes, trucks, etc., that can be used around overhead power transmission lines. The present alarm system has a sensor that detects the presence of outside power at the equipment where current is flowing therethrough to ground. The sensor preferably includes a conductor and an inductive sensor such as a current transformer which limits the output signal on its low side that is sent to an alarm unit. In this manner, the system herein continues to properly function despite the presence of large voltages at the equipment such as when the equipment contacts a high voltage power transmission line. The sensor can include a cable that provides a path of least resistance for current flowing through the equipment which can be detected by the sensor. Preferably, the cable is attached across a moving joint of the equipment where potential differences readily can be found. Alternatively, the conductor can be a portion of the equipment itself through which current flows with the sensor detecting the flow through the equipment portion. Excerpt(s): The invention relates to alarm systems and, more particularly, to an alarm system for mobile construction equipment to detect potential hazards due to overhead power transmission lines. Overhead electric power lines present a serious electrocution hazard to personnel in a variety of industries. Overhead lines, typically uninsulated conductors supported on towers or poles, are the most common means of electric power transmission and distribution, and are exposed to contact by mobile equipment such as cranes and trucks. Equipment contacting energized overhead lines becomes elevated to a high voltage, and simultaneous contact by personnel to the "hot" frame and ground can cause serious electrical shock and burns. Industries where risk of these accidents is greatest include construction, mining, agriculture, and communications/public utilities. An estimated 2300 accidental overhead line contacts occur each year in the U.S. Construction activities present the most obvious potential for line contact accidents, and a recent study estimated that in 1993 alone, at least 26 electrocutions in this industry were a result of heavy equipment or hoisted loads contacting overhead lines. Mobile cranes (including boom trucks) were involved in most of these incidents (57%), with drill rigs (8%), dump bed trucks (7%), and manlifts (7%) also common. Detailed and more comprehensive statistics are available for the mining industry, which represents a smaller work force than the construction industry, but has a similar electrocution rate, and like construction uses heavy equipment extensively. From 1980 to 1997, at least 94 mobile equipment overhead line contact accidents were reported in the U.S. mining industry, with 114 injuries, 33% of them fatal. Most involved cranes (47%), dump bed trucks (24%), and drills (14%). Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US06600426__
Patents 23
•
Device for attracting and electrocuting flying insects Inventor(s): Chane; It S. (10716 E. 29th Ave., Spokane, WA 99206), Swanson; Ernest B. (S. 3701 Loretta, Spokane, WA 99206) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 4,852,296 Date filed: December 8, 1988 Abstract: A device to attract flying insects and cause their demise by electrocution provides two spaced cylindrical grids that are oppositely charged electrically in such fashion and so spaced that an insect coming in contact therewith or passing therebetween causes an electric discharge between the grids that kills the insect. The device provides a light to aid in attracting insects primarily during hours of darkness and an openable container for olfactory attractants such as food stuffs and pheromones. The attractant container, if opened during use of the device, deactivates the electrical circuitry to avoid operator injury. Excerpt(s): There are no applications related hereto heretofore filed in this or any foreign country. Our invention generally relates to devices for attracting and electrocuting flying insects and more particularly to use of and a container for olfactory attractants in such devices. The riddance of human environments of flying insects is an ancient problem existent undoubtedly as long as both the insects and humans have occupied the same environ. Many and various solutions have been proposed and heretofore become known for such purposes, but none seem to have completely and satisfactorily resolved the problem. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US04852296__
•
Device of a plug and socket Inventor(s): Meir; Amiram (Nof Ramot 73/14, Jerusalem, IL) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 5,645,437 Date filed: February 3, 1994 Abstract: The invention discloses an electrical plug and socket. The socket is an elongated body made of rigid non-conductive material with two or three grooves along its body. A conductor connected to a power source passes inside, along and through every groove. This socket has at least one "station" for insertion or removal of the plug which is located along said socket. The plug is comprised of e cover and a body both made from non-conductive rigid material. Two or three rigid conductive bodies are located at the underbody of the plug and connected to an electrical cable passing through the cover. Said conductive bodies are contoured and located such that they fit for entry, sliding and grasping of the socket's grooves while continuously touching the sockets conductors inside said grooves. The advantage of the particular feature of the plug end socket according to the invention is that it minimizes the risk o electrocution by preventing foreign bodies from being inserted and touching the electric conductors. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates to a device of a plug and socket wherein the socket is used at a line for plugs that can slide and be located at any point along it's length. The standard known plug and sockets have many disadvantages. Every country has is own standard, and there are differences in the countries in the various standards
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such as, shape of the pins the holes, and their sizes. These differences cause aggravation to electric appliance users who want to use their appliances in different countries. Another disadvantage relating to the well-known standard plug and socket mentioned above is the fact that it is connected only to a specific point which doesn't allow the appliance to be moved to another point in the wall while in use. Furthermore, plugging in and pulling out the standard plug is inconvenient. Sometimes, in a dark room, it is especially difficult to insert the plug in the socket. One has to feel around for the holes of the socket while trying to plug in something, taking extreme care not to touch the pins of the plug by mistake. Pulling out he plug is also no convenient and occasionally necessitates the rotating and maneuvering of the plug while pulling it out of the socket. While removing one plug, other plugs may be moved and separated from their sockets and fall to the floor and also the socket may be separated from the wall. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05645437__ •
Electric insect killer Inventor(s): Pfeffer, Jr.; Harry L. (Box 584, Bryon, TX 77805), Pfeffer, Sr.; Harry L. (Rte. 2 Box 170, Caldwell, TX 77836) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 4,635,393 Date filed: June 17, 1985 Abstract: The disclosure relates to a device for killing ants and other insects by electrocution. The device includes an elongated shaft or probe for insertion into the anthill and an adapter for connecting the device to an electrical source. A charge ring is spaced from a charge plate between which ants can pass. When ants attack the device having been inserted into the anthill, those that find themselves between the charge plate and the charge ring will short circuit the device causing the ants to be electrocuted. Excerpt(s): A problem which is confronted by farmers and those who raise livestock is the attack of livestock by ants or other insects. When this is done in sufficient numbers, the ants can actually kill the livestock. The invention relates to a device for electrocuting these insects, particularly ants by utilizing sources other than a typical 120 Volt electrical source. The land or grazing area for livestock is often confined by an electrified fence to keep the livestock within the owners property. The invention relates to a device which utilizes the electrified fence as a source of electric current for eradicating insects. Electrocuting devices have been used before to destroy insects on grazing land but these have suffered from many deficiencies. Some have required transformers, because they are ultimately attached to high voltage sources. Even when this has been done, the voltage has been such that various protectors are needed to insure that other larger animals are not electrocuted when the device is energized to kill insects in the vicinity. Furthermore, some devices do not have any type of apparatus for fixing the device in place adjacent to a ground to effect insect movement, among other things. Other devices do not have large areas on which the insects can move and facilitate attraction to the vicinity where they will be electrocuted. In addition, a number of these devices have been relatively complex in configuration increasing their cost where they are rendered uneconomical for use in large numbers over a large area of fenced grazing land. Applicant's invention has overcome many of these problems. The apparatus of the invention has a configuration which is relatively simple and therefore can be produced in economic quantities. It involves the use of electric fences as a source and therefore does not produce electric currents which can be detrimental to humans and other large
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animals. A feature of the invention is that the insects are actually drawn to the device when a probe is inserted into an anthill, for example. This enhances the ability to destroy a large number of insects in a relatively short period of time. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US04635393__ •
Electrical apparatus for the electrocution of cattle Inventor(s): Thacker; Fred E. (91113 Sunderman Rd., Springfield, OR 97477) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 4,747,185 Date filed: January 12, 1987 Abstract: An apparatus including a handheld tool having a pair of jaws at one end operated by an air cylinder and linkage for penetrating engagement with the animal's skull. The linkage is coupled to jaws intermediate the pivoted and distal ends of the jaws. A current flow is imparted to each jaw. Control means includes a tool mounted switch which closes relay means in a control box to initiate timer operation for a selected period during which a solenoid air valve pressurizes the tool cylinder. During this period a transformer provides increased voltage to the tool jaws and to a mat on which the animal stands. A tether on the tool is automatically retracted at the end of an electrocution cycle. Excerpt(s): The present invention pertains generally to equipment used in slaughter houses for the killing of cattle. In the processing of cattle for market it is highly desirable that the animals be killed in a quick and humane manner which objectives are currently not being realized with known killing methods and equipment. A second consideration is that the method used should be such as to cause minimal damage to and waste of the consumable portions of the animal. A still further consideration is that the equipment not constitute a hazard to the operator and that the animal be killed quickly to prevent the animal being a threat to the operator. Additionally desirable is that such equipment be adaptable to the size and specie of animal being processed to avoid premature rigor mortis which impedes later processing. Such equipment is subject to federal regulation. In the prior art are tongs having electrodes at their distal ends for application to the animal to cause an electrical current flow to be completed through a portion of the animal's body with the circuit being completed through one of the electrodes or, in other systems, through the animal's feet in place on an isolated grounded surface. Some examples of the foregoing prior art equipment are found in the following U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,553,135; 1,949,985; 2,002,755; 3,163,884; 3,314,103. A specific problem exists in establishing good electrical conduction between the electrical apparatus electrodes and the animal. Typically the animal when subjected to existing equipment will move in a dynamic fashion ofttimes disrupting the conduction of current to the animal. Accordingly, a manually held apparatus incurs the severe drawback of the operator necessarily keeping the electrodes embedded within the animal for the duration necessary to cause fibrillation. Any interruption in the current flow through the animal inhumanely prolongs the animal's condition. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US04747185__
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Electrical plug removal device Inventor(s): Haluska; John S. (6436 S. Ingalls, Littleton, CO 80123) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 5,516,305 Date filed: December 6, 1994 Abstract: An electrical plug removal device for use with electrical plugs of the type having an electrical cord, a cord cap or plug, and electrically conductive spaced apart blades or prongs, the electrically conductive spaced apart blades being plugged into an electrical outlet or receptacle. Many people remove an electrical plug from an electrical outlet by simply taking hold of the electrical cord and pulling on the electrical cord to remove the electrical plug from the electrical outlet. This action results in damage to the electrical cord or to the electrical plug itself that may lead to electric shock or electrocution of the person removing an electrical plug in this manner, or may lead to an electrical fire. The electrical plug removal device is constructed from thin nonconductive semi-flexible material designed to be used with a variety of electrical plugs having different types of cord caps and different shapes, configurations and numbers of electrically conductive spaced apart blades or prongs. Electrical plug blade receiving means formed in a central portion of an elongated main body accept the electrically conductive blades of the electrical plug. Other portions of the elongated main body are folded over the electrical plug and are removably joined thereby encompassing the electrical plug and the electrical cord. The end of the electrical plug removal device also has continuously formed thereon a gripping means. A users can easily and safely grasp the gripping means of the electrical plug removal device to effect the safe removal of an electrical plug from electrical outlets or receptacles without causing damage to the electrical cord or to the electrical plug. Excerpt(s): This invention relates generally to electrical plug removal devices that may be used to remove electrical plugs from an electrical outlet and more specifically to a new and novel electrical plug removal device for use with electrical plugs having an electrical cord, a cord cap or plug and electrically conductive spaced apart blades or prongs. The new and novel electrical plug removal device is designed to be used with a variety of electrical plugs having different types of cord caps and different shapes, configurations and numbers of electrically conductive spaced apart blades or prongs and particularly designed to surely and easily remove such electrical plugs from electrical outlets or receptacles. There are many different styles and configurations of electrical plugs or cord caps. However, there are certain basic elements common to electrical plugs. Specifically, electrical plugs have an electrical cord entering a rear portion of a cord cap body and electrically conductive spaced apart blades or prongs protruding from a front portion of the cord cap body. The cord cap body may also have cupped areas or other gripping areas to aid a person in removing an electrical plug from an electrical outlet or receptacle. Some electrical outfits or receptacles often grip the electrically conductive spaced apart blades of an electrical plug so tightly that it is difficult to remove the electrical plug from the outlet. It is especially difficult for the elderly, handicapped and others who may have disabilities or a nervous or muscular disease to easily remove an electrical plug from an electrical outlet. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05516305__
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Electricity shunting and rerouting device and method Inventor(s): Kirschner; Garry William (109 Killarney Place, London, Ontario, CA) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 6,147,854 Date filed: January 29, 1999 Abstract: An electricity shunting and rerouting device designed as forming an integral part of a garment comprising conductive metal bracelets (and/or waistbands and/or anklets) joined by an insulated conductor, the size and type of which may vary depending on the application, thereby allowing the potentially harmful electrical current to flow through the insulated conductor/wire and rerouting the current away from the worker's inner parts, such as vital organs and muscles, thereby minimizing the health risk of electrocution. Excerpt(s): This invention relates to an electrically conductive device and more particularly to an electrically conductive device suitable for use by workers working in the vicinity of live electrical equipment and designed to be adapted as part of a garment. Typically, electrical line workers, maintenance workers and construction workers working in the vicinity of live electrical equipment including transmission lines, substations, generating stations, and general construction sites where contact with live electrical equipment is common have been susceptible to electrocution as a result of malfunction or mistake which may lead to severe discomfort or even death in some circumstances. Various articles have been used in order to avoid the potentially undesirable effects of electrical current running through one's body. Some of the more traditional articles for eliminating electrical current have included grounded wrist straps, grounded smocks, grounded footwear and gloves constructed of electrically conductive material. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US06147854__
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Female terminal for distribution of electrical current and provided with electrocutionpreventing means Inventor(s): Richier; Paul (les Amandiers No.10, Neoules 83136, FR) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 5,044,969 Date filed: March 12, 1990 Abstract: The terminal comprises a casing with an anterior mounting plate having two through-bores; a contact support facing the anterior wall having on the one hand two primary contacts having two primary contact surfaces connected to a secondary contact surface, and on the other hand two secondary contacts having a secondary contact surface, assembled to register with a secondary surface of the primary contacts, and a terminal; an insulating connecting blade comprising two pins contacting said secondary contact surfaces, when the blade is in a working position, a cavity enabling the passage of the primary contact surfaces, the latter together with the cavities being radially exteriorly oriented, an abutment area comprising, in register with a through-bore a radially exteriorly inclined surface; a spring outwardly biasing said blade from its working position until a male plug is connected.
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Excerpt(s): The invention relates to a female terminal for electrical current distribution, being provided with electrocution preventing means. Such a terminal may exist in the shape of a wall plug, of an adaptor for wall plug, of an extension, or of any electrical current distribution device comprising, broadly stated, at least one assembly of at least two female sockets destined to receive as many male parallel pins belonging to an electrical male plug having a predetermined spacing. In its (published) French patent application No 77 39232, in its (published) certificates of addition based thereon No 78 16340 and 78 34279, and also in its (published) French patent application No 81 01011, the applicant has already described an electrocution preventing electric current plug. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05044969__ •
Infrared insect/mosquito killing system Inventor(s): Wilbanks; Alvin D. (3519 W. County Rd. #668, Osceola, AR 72370) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 6,050,025 Date filed: December 6, 1996 Abstract: An insect killing system optimized for mosquitoes uses multiple thermal gradients to simulate the breathing and body heat from animals, including human beings and fowl, to attract insects for subsequent electrocution. The system comprises an elongated, generally parallelepiped housing supported upon a lower base. A heating tower shrouded by the housing supports a spaced apart, generally pyramidal roof. Several slits penetrate the base to permit air entry. An internal fan draws air into the base where the air mixes with scent and pheromones. Mixed air is blown into and through the heating tower. An internal baffle divides the tower interior into separate, spaced apart compartments. A lower compartment houses a heater, and an adjacent upper compartment vents warmed air to atmosphere, creating numerous separate streams of warmed air that, to an insect, emulate human breathing. The baffle restricts air flow to create a pressure differential while ensuring adequate residence time to sufficiently warm the air. Heated air traversing the upper compartment is expelled through a plurality of discharge orifices. The resulting multitude of warm air currents creates an infrared signature emulating human breathing. Thermal and pressure differential gradients established by the baffle enhance the infrared illusion. Attracted mosquitoes are electrocuted by a high voltage grid. Several adjustable braces may be manually manipulated to clean the grid. A safety mesh extends between the base and the roof to prevent accidental shock. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates to a new and improved insect/mosquito killing system. More particularly, my invention relates to a portable insect killing system that attracts insects (preferably mosquitoes) to an electrified killing zone by emulating human, animal or fowl breathing, to simulate an infrared signature of it. Known prior art may be found in U.S. Class 43, subclasses 112, 113 and 139. Within the recent past the use of mosquito killing devices has become well known in the prior art. Known insect or mosquito attracting and killing devices typically use light for attracting target insects. Target insects drawn towards the apparatus contact an electrocution grid for subsequent eradication. By way of example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,182,069, 4,523,404 and 5,301,458 as well as U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,020,270, 3,319,374, 3,041,773, 4,454,677 and 4,852,296 all employ light for attracting insects towards an electrocution grid. U.S. Pat. No. 5,255,468 issued to Cheshire, Jr. discloses an insect tracking and capturing apparatus having a light source to attract insects and a fan to create an air current for capturing the
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insects in the air current created and delivering the insects to a electrified grid for electrocution. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US06050025__ •
Insect attracting and capturing apparatus Inventor(s): Cheshire, Jr.; Joseph M. (Riverdale, GA) Assignee(s): Bugvac U.S.A., Inc. (Atlanta, GA) Patent Number: 5,255,468 Date filed: July 26, 1991 Abstract: An insect attracting and capturing apparatus particularly suitable for capturing and killing mosquitoes. The apparatus has a light source for attracting insects. A fan establishes an air current into an insect receiving opening, and establishes turbulent air flows in the vicinity of the apparatus. An air flow directing flange directs air into the insect receiving opening and into the fan. The insect receiving opening leads to a narrow channel that directs air into the fan. Insects having an upward flight reflex to sensed changes in air flow direction and/or velocity will detect the air flow created by the fan, fly upwardly, and be captured in the air flow. An electrified grid is provided inside the passageway for electrocuting admitted insects. The position of the electrified grid inside the channel and in the inward air flow muffles sound from electrocution of insects. One embodiment uses ultraviolet light as an attractant, and another embodiment uses light, heat and motion to attract insects. The apparatus has the appearance of a conventional outdoor lighting fixture, and therefore is aesthetically attractive and relatively quiet compared to conventional insect electrocution devices. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates generally to insect attracting and capturing apparatus such as insect traps, and more particularly relates to an insect trap and exterminating device particularly suitable for use in attracting and killing harmful weak flying insects such as species of Anopheles and Aedes mosquitoes. There are many known devices designed to attract and capture and/or kill insects. Devices for trapping insects for research purposes are typically referred to as "traps", while devices that also kill the insects have various names, including the PG,3 colloquial terms "bug killer" and "bug zapper". The motivation for the latter devices is generally to destroy insects that are pests to humans, such as members of the Anopheles and Aedes species of mosquitoes, which are both known to be disease carriers. Entomological research suggests that members of various species of mosquitoes are attracted to light in various wavelengths. It is well known that light attracts many types of insects, including mosquitoes, so most of the prior devices include a light source as an attractant or lure. Such devices sometimes take advantage of the discovery that some species of mosquitoes are attracted to light in a range of ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths, and possibly certain infrared wavelengths. Fluorescent lights, sometimes with special phosphors to enhance the ultraviolet spectral content of the emitted light, are often used as the light source, but some older devices relied upon incandescent bulbs. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05255468__
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Insect electrocution apparatus and method of operation Inventor(s): Stevens; David P. (Billerica, MA) Assignee(s): Armatron Internation, Inc. (Melrose, MA) Patent Number: 4,807,390 Date filed: March 4, 1988 Abstract: An insect electrocution apparatus and method of operation utilizing a series connected, dual coil primary of a ballast/step-up transformer to provide increased impedance only during the starting of the insect attracting fluorescent tube. The fluorescent tube is connected between the two primary coils with the fluorescent tube starter and one of the primary coils connected in series with the fluorescent tube filaments. Upon starting, both coils are energized and provide the desired amount of impedance. Once the fluorescent tube ignites, the starter and the second primary coil are operationally removed from the circuit leaving only the first primary coil to provide ballast for the fluorescent tube. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates to insect electrocution products and, more particularly, to an improved insect electrocution product utilizing a switchable, dual primary coil combination high voltage transformer and flourescent tube ballast. Conventional electric insect killers generally require the use of two devices working in concert: a flourescent tube with suitable phosphors to attract the insects, and a source of high voltage electricity to destroy them. The flourescent tube and high voltage power supply both employ a similar inductive component in their circuits. The flourescent tube or lamp requires a ballast to control the magnitude of the electric current flowing through the tube. The most common ballast is a simple inductor consisting of a laminated steel core surrounded by one or more windings of varnished copper wire. The required level of control is determined by three parameters: (a) the number of turns of wire, (b) the amount of iron or steel in the core, and (c) the dimension of a "gap" across the magnetic lines of flux. There are many different designs of ballast circuits, but they generally fall into one of three categories depending on the means used to "flash" or ignite the tube when first turned on. The simplest of these, called the "preheat" circuit, is commonly used for the smaller flourescent tubes found on desk lamps and bathroom cabinets. In this circuit, a manually-operated switch or automatic device called a starter is used to create a momentary current through the filaments at each end of the tube. This heats the filaments, producing a "space charge" of electrons which lights the lamp when this preheat current is interrupted. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US04807390__
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Insect electrocution device Inventor(s): Yavnieli; Mordechai (Ramat Hasharon, IL) Assignee(s): Amcor Ltd. (Tel Aviv, IL) Patent Number: 4,486,974 Date filed: September 27, 1982 Abstract: An insect electrocution device comprising a lamp and an insect electrocution assembly disposed in generally surrounding relationship with at least a portion of the lamp. In particular, an insect electrocution device comprising a lamp for attracting insects and an insect electrocution assembly disposed about the lamp, the insect
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electrocution assembly comprising an outer apertured plate, the area of the apertures being substantially less than the remaining area of the plate, and inner electrode apparatus spaced from the outer apertured plate. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates to insect electrocution devices generally. Various types of insect electrocution devices are known both in the patent literature and in the marketplace. Most of the insect electrocution devices presently in use employ an ultraviolet lamp, typically of the fluorescent type, for attracting insects to the vicinity of the electrocution region. One type of insect electrocution device using an ultraviolet lamp is described in applicants' U.S. Pat. No. 4,109,408. The present invention seeks to provide an insect electrocution device which provides greatly enhanced insect killing efficiency as compared with conventional devices. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US04486974__ •
Insect extermination and illumination device and operating circuit therefor Inventor(s): Willis; Candler A. (Zirconia, NC) Assignee(s): Regent Lighting Corporation (Burlington, NC) Patent Number: 5,272,831 Date filed: September 2, 1992 Abstract: An electrical circuit is provided for operating a combination insect electrocution grid and outdoor lamp. The circuit of the invention utilizes a high leakage reactance transformer in which a primary coil and two secondary coils are wound on a common core, the primary coil is centrally situated and the two secondaries are situated on opposite ends of the primary. A magnetic shunt is provided in the transformer between the primary and the high voltage secondary coil. A peaking capacitor, selected to induce the power frequency to resonate at the third harmonic, is connected to the high voltage secondary coil to generate the high voltage which energizes the electrocution grid. The other secondary coil is a ballast secondary which energizes the illumination means. Excerpt(s): This invention relates to a combination insect extermination and illumination device and, particularly, to an electric circuit capable of concurrently operating both a device for killing insects by electrocution and a lamp providing both an insect luring light and continuous illumination of an area around the device. Electrical devices for killing insects by electrocution have been known and sold commercially. These devices incorporate a high voltage electrocution grid and a low power light source means for attracting the insects both of which are mounted in a suitable housing. The typical insect exterminator light source is of a form primarily designed to attract insects and while some illumination is produced, such illumination is at a relatively low level. Existing electric insect exterminators generally utilize lighting means in the form of relatively low power fluorescent tubes and a ballast transformer which controls the current flowing through the fluorescent tubes. For example, the apparatus for electrically exterminating insects of De Yoreo (U.S. Pat. No. 4,182,069), the electric insect trap of Hamid et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 3,935,662) and the electric insect killer of Hedstrom (U.S. Pat. No. 4,248,005) utilize such an arrangement. Other devices, for example the insect exterminator of Rittenhouse (U.S. Pat. No. 1,982,123), have been designed to incorporate a simple incandescent filament lamp fixture which is powered independently of the electrocution device circuitry. Such illumination arrangements are sufficient for attracting insects; however, these prior art arrangements do not provide relatively high
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level illumination and therefore one or more additional lighting fixtures such as a mercury vapor lamp need to be used concurrently with the exterminating device when a relatively high level of illumination is needed at the site of the device, whether in an indoor or outdoor environment. The insect exterminator of Folmer et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 1,962,439) teaches the use of a mercury vapor lamp. The use of such a lamp is attractive as a mercury vapor bulb provides the benefit of an ultraviolet light which has been known to attract insects. In addition, the mercury vapor bulb has a long service life and produces a high level of light output. Additional useful background information on the relation of light wave length to attracting insects can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,540,145 and 4,157,629. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05272831__ •
Locking electrical adapter Inventor(s): Phillips; Duane A. (617 Chestnut St., Aiken, SC 29803) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 6,171,129 Date filed: April 23, 1999 Abstract: An electrical adapter with dual, user-operable locking mechanisms for attachment to a standard electrical plug and outlet, one for securing the prongs of the adapter into a socket or wall-mounted outlet or receptacle and the other for securing a standard electrical plug thereto. The two mechanisms work independently of each other to secure the male and female sides of a conventional plug-and-socket combination together. The adapter can be used with existing appliances, hand tools, extension cords, and electrical outlets without the need for rewiring. The male and female ends of the adapter may be connected by an electrical cord to replace a conventional extension cord; alternatively, the locking mechanism can be built into replacement electrical plugs or a wall outlet having approximately the same dimensions as conventional outlets. Use of the invention eliminates the annoying problem of power interruptions to appliances, hand tools, and the like that occur when a plug is accidentally pulled loose from its socket. The invention also provides extra safety from electrocution and reduces spark hazards by locking the plug and socket together to help prevent accidental dislodging. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates to a locking connector and adapter for interfacing a standard electrical plug to a receptacle. In particular, the present invention relates to an adapter having two independent, releasable locking mechanisms, the first mechanism for securing the prongs of an electrical plug therein and the second mechanism for securing the adapter to a standard receptacle. Inadvertent removal of an electrical plug from a socket, outlet strip, or wall-mounted receptacle has been a matter of concern since electrical appliances became common. Almost everyone who has ever used a hand mixer, vacuum cleaner, power tool, or other hand-manipulated electrical appliance has accidentally pulled the plug out of a wall outlet. At best, such interruptions are annoying and inconvenient for the user, who has to stop work to reinsert the plug into the outlet before he can continue. In some situations, replacing the plug significantly disrupts work in progress, as when a construction worker has to climb down a ladder to replace the plug, then climb back up to resume work. Over time, repeated stress on the plug may damage the conductors to the point that the power cord must be replaced. In some situations, damaged plugs and loose connections can lead to potentially dangerous sparking and electrical shorts. A wide variety of locking electrical adapters and connectors, for wall outlets, plugs, sockets, extension cords and the like,
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have been developed in response to these concerns. Many of these devices have slidable actuators and/or locking blocks for securing the prongs of an electrical plug into a wall outlet. Burkhart, Sr. provides such a device, which has a lockable, spring-loaded socket with a pair of hinged jaws for retaining an electrical plug in place (U.S. Pat. No. 5,551,884). The plug can be released from the socket by simply pushing it inwards, then allowing it to be thrust out under spring pressure. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US06171129__ •
Mosquito control Inventor(s): Balfour; Robert S. (133 Defense Hwy., Suite 103, Annapolis, MD 21401) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 4,907,366 Date filed: September 27, 1989 Abstract: A way is provided for controlling mosquitoes within the human being is simulated to attract mosquitoes away from areas of human gatherings, such as backyards and the like. A solution of lactic acid in water is prepared and heated to simulate the body temperature of a human being, and a fan or blower is provided to direct the lactic acid molecules away from the areas of human habitation so that mosquitoes or other pests can be subsequently destroyed by heat, electrocution or the like. Excerpt(s): The present invention generally appertains to improvements in mosquito control, and more particularly to a method and means for simulating a human being so that mosquitoes can be attracted away from areas of human gatherings whereby the mosquitoes or other insects or pests can be subsequently destroyed in any suitable manner. Insect and mosquito extermination and control devices have been provided,as have methods of producing lactic acid, as for example as shown in prior U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,631,857; 4,662,103; 4,698,303; 4,749,652; 4,771,001; and 4,817,329. However, neither these prior patents nor any others known to applicant achieve the results accomplished by the present invention. A primary object of the present invention is to provide a method and means for controlling or exterminating insects such as mosquitoes, and wherein the present invention provides a quick and simple method and apparatus for attracting mosquitoes away from areas of human gatherings such as backyards or the like, whereby the mosquitoes can be easily destroyed by heat, electrocution, or by other means. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US04907366__
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Mouse and rat trap Inventor(s): Kim; Bok M. (37-15 72 St. #5, Jackson Heights, NY 11372) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 5,953,853 Date filed: March 31, 1997 Abstract: A mouse and rat trap that can be used to trap and rapidly kill at least one mouse, rat, rodent, and the like in a humane way, can be used multiple times in heavily infested areas, is inexpensive, easy to operate, durable, and allows for sanitary disposal
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of a plurality of the trapped and dead mice, rats, rodents, and the like without contact to humans who are required to dispose of the dead mice, rats, rodents, and the like. The mouse and rat trap has at least one entrance for at least one mouse, rat, rodent, and the like to enter therethrough, a bait container for attracting mice, rats, rodents, and the like, and an activation sensor for detecting presence of the mice, rats, rodents, and the like having entered the mouse and rat trap; a moveable partition for pushing and entrapping the mouse, rat, rodent, and the like past the entrance to an electrocution platform. Further, the activation sensor for signalling the moveable partition drive means to commence pushing; means for reversably driving the moveable partition; further the moveable partition for pushing the mouse, rat, rodent, and the like into a holding container has an optional bag is provided for sanitary removal and disposal of the mice, rats, rodents, and the like. An activation switch for signalling the moveable partition to reverse drive motion and return to a resting starting position. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates generally to animal traps and more particularly to traps for mice, rats, rodents, and the like. Mice and rats are destructive pests and vectors for a variety of diseases. Rats harbor and transmit a number of serious diseases, carrying fleas, lice, and ticks, and have been responsible for Bubonic Plague, known as the Black Death, which is usually transmitted to humans by fleas from rats. The first of the well known recurrent bubonic and pneumonic plagues beset Western Europe in 1348 A.D. and recurred until the 1730's, having catastrophic effects by wiping out what is estimated to be 50 per cent of the populations of that time. Female Norway Rats can breed and have four to seven litters per year, producing from eight to twelve young per litter. Rats damage structures, chew electrical wiring and cause electrical fires, eat, urinate on and deposit feces on human and animal food, and carry many diseases. Thousands of rat bites are reported each year in the U.S. alone, and many rat bites go unreported. Mice are also a significant nuisance and source of danger, and can invade a home or commercial establishment, seeking food, water, and warmth. Mice have also been responsible for electrical fires by chewing through electrical wires. In six months, one pair of mice can eat about four pounds of food and produce approximately 18,000 fecal droppings, contaminating and spreading disease to humans and animals with these droppings. Each mouse can contaminate ten times more food than it eats, and each pair of mice can produce as many as 200 offspring in four months. Because of the proliferation of both rats and mice, each is difficult to control. Both rats and mice proliferate in large numbers rapidly, and because of the disease carrying characteristics of both mice and rats, there is a need for sanitary removal of each, obviating the need for human contact with both rats and mice. Once a home, warehouse, restaurant, hotel, supermarket, farm, or commercial establishment is infested with rats or mice, control of the population of such mice and rats becomes extremely difficult and dangerous to the human population. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05953853__ •
Multifunction cap structure Inventor(s): Su; Ming-Shu (18F-2, No. 2, Lane 175, Sect. 3, Shiou-Lang Road, Chung-Ho City, Taipei Hsien 235, TW) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 6,167,570 Date filed: August 16, 1999
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Abstract: An improved structure multifunction cap comprised of cap having a placement section on the front surface with incisions on two sides and capable of accommodating the insertion and mounting of a luminescent picture as well as isolating the forehead of the user from direct contact with the luminescent picture, thereby preventing electrocution. Furthermore, there is a containment section on the side that provides for the insertion of a controller circuit which switches the power source to the luminescent picture on and off. As such, the structure of the present invention allows the multifunction cap to be worn in the day for general use, but is capable of enhanced visual attractiveness when worn at night and, furthermore, prevents electrical shock to the user while the cap is worn to ensure physical safety. Excerpt(s): The invention herein relates to an improved structure of a multifunction cap that can be utilized during the day or night because the cap is designed with a placement section and a containment section. The cap of the present invention may be worn in the day for general use, but is capable of enhanced visual attractiveness when worn at night and, furthermore, prevents electrical shock to the user while the cap is worn to ensure physical safety. In view of the shortcomings of the conventional luminescent cap, the inventor of the invention herein, based on many years of experience in the related industry and with the specialized technology, completed the research and development of the improved structure multifunction cap of the invention herein. The primary objective of the invention herein is to provide an improved structure of a multifunction cap having a placement section on the front surface with incisions on two sides and capable of accommodating the insertion of a luminescent picture as well as isolating the forehead of the user from direct contact with the luminescent picture, thereby precluding the hazard of electrocution and, furthermore, any pattern can be drawn or mounted on the said placement section. The multifunction cap of the present invention also has a containment section on the side that provides for the insertion of a controller circuit which switches the power source to the said luminescent picture on and off. As such, the structure of the present invention allows the multifunction cap to be worn in the day for general use, but is capable of enhanced visual attractiveness when worn at night and, furthermore, prevents electrical shock to the user while the cap is worn to ensure physical safety. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US06167570__ •
Musical electronic insect killer Inventor(s): Aicher; Steve A. (5405 Pearlstone Dr., Antelope, CA 95834) Assignee(s): Aicher; Steve A. (Antelope, CA) Patent Number: 6,195,932 Date filed: August 17, 1999 Abstract: An electronic insect killer apparatus which generates a musical song, noise or display in response to detecting the electrocution of an insect. The apparatus provides a light source for attracting insects to a pair of electrodes which electrocute insects which come in close proximity thereto. The apparatus monitors the load current delivered to the apparatus and activates a music player when the detected load current exceeds a predefined threshold associated with electrocution of an insect. Excerpt(s): This invention pertains generally to insect killing devices, and more particularly to a musical electronic insect killing device which plays a song or musical melody when an insect is electrocuted by the device. The insect killing device monitors
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and senses the current load delivered to the device to ascertain frequency responses in the current load signal associated with electrostatic discharges used to electrocute insects. When the device determines an insect has been electrocuted from the current load signal, the device plays a song or musical melody. Electrical insect killers have been in use for many years for killing insects within an area or proximity. The modem day electronic insect killer typically includes a set of electrodes for electrocuting insects and one or more fluorescent lamps for attracting the insects to the electrodes. Normally, a transformer or electronic circuit converts conventional line voltage to a higher voltage which is provided across the electrodes for electrocuting the insects. The fluorescent lamps, electrodes and transformer are normally housed within a protective screen to protects users from potential electrical shock from the electrodes. As an insect flies toward the fluorescent lamps and comes into contact or into close proximity with the electrodes, an electrostatic discharge is provided across the electrodes through the insect, and the insect is killed thereby. These insect killers continue to kill additional insects which come into contact or into close proximity to the electrodes, but otherwise do not perform additional functions. Accordingly, there is a need for an electronic insect killing apparatus which provides for means for monitoring and sensing when an insect is killed by the apparatus and means for activating a music player when an insect is determined to be killed by the apparatus. The present invention satisfies these needs, as well as others, and generally overcomes the deficiencies found in the background art. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US06195932__ •
Opto-electronic system for the acquisition of signals indicating the presence of a voltage and its phase Inventor(s): Fava; Natale (Corso Antony 11, I-10093 Collegno (Torino) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 5,751,143 Date filed: November 29, 1995 Abstract: An opto-electronic system for the acquisition of signals indicating the presence of a voltage and its phase in distribution boards, and generally in any medium voltage or high voltage installation by means of the use of optical fibers of PVC with consequent elimination of the risks of electrocution and of the problems of transmission of the signals themselves. The system employs an electro-optical convertor connected to a capacitive shunt for generating light signals indicative of the presence of a voltage and the phase angle on a conductor without making use of auxiliary sources of supply. The system can also be integrated in an insulating rod for checking overhead conductors. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates in general to systems for the acquisition of signals indicating the presence of a voltage and its phase in medium and high voltage apparatus, and more specifically refers to an opto-electronic system for the acquisition of such signals. At present in many medium and/or high voltage systems the signal necessary for phase determination and for indicating the presence of a voltage is taken off, by means of an electric circuit, via a capacitive shunt applied externally or internally to the insulating support and/or to an insulator through which the conductor passes, or to the terminal of the cable and/or to the female coupling insulator thereof. informing a voltage-presence indicator device of electronic type provided with an autonomous auxiliary supply source. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05751143__
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Portable electronic insect controller Inventor(s): Millard; Lance L. (2820 E. 36th Ct., Des Moines, IA 50317) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 4,962,611 Date filed: November 22, 1988 Abstract: A portable insect electrocutor trap is provided wherein an electrified alternately polarized grid assembly detachably connects to a liquid fuel lantern. The grid assembly includes a top and bottom ring spaced apart and parallel to each other. Bars connected to the rings extend downward from the top ring and upward from the bottom ring in a spaced arrangement and are insulated from each other. A grid bracket operatively engages the rings and bars in a fixed position and attaches to the lantern's frame bottom. The grid bracket includes braces which function to support a globe surrounding the light emitting region of the lantern and connects the grid to the lantern in a spaced relationship. A base is provided which attaches to the lantern and into which is housed a power supply for electrification of the grid. The power supply steps up the voltage from a direct current source to a high enough voltage to stun or kill an insect when the insect passes near the bars. An interconnect strap connects the power supply to the grid and its length is only sufficient to extend between the power supply and grid, thereby requiring that the grid be disconnected from the power supply prior to removing the grid assembly from the lantern, thus preventing the accidental electrocution of people attempting to remove an electrically charged grid to service the lantern in the region that the grid assembly surrounds. Excerpt(s): In my prior patents, U.S. Pat. No. 4,785,573, application No. 893,003, filed on Aug. 1, 1986, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,603,505, application No. 498,925, filed on May 26, 1983, I disclosed an insect electrocutor system detachably connected to a liquid fuel lantern. One component of the system was a safety electrical interconnect which functions to prevent refueling of the lantern without first disconnecting the power supply from the grid. Another component was the grid bracket which held the grid in a fixed position to the lantern. The grid bracket includes posts that extend downward to engage a collar which is pulled together by buckle connectors thereby securing the grid assembly to the lantern. It is believed that additional improvements associated with this basic system will improve its ease of use by making it safer and more economically produced. A portable insect electrocutor including an electrified alternately polarized grid surrounding the light emitting region of a liquid fuel lantern. Top and bottom rings, spaced apart including bars connecting to the top ring that are insulated from the bottom ring and bars connecting to the bottom ring that are insulated from the top ring comprise the grid. A grid bracket engages the rings and bars in a fixed position and attaches to the lantern's frame bottom, thereby utilizing the compression created between the lantern's frame bottom and chimney to secure the grid to the lantern, thus eliminating the grid bracket posts, collar, buckle connectors, and the additional costs associated thereof. The grid bracket includes members that support a globe surrounding the light emitting region of the lantern and simultaneously connects the grid to the lantern in a spaced and insulated relation. The bars insert through orifices provided in the grid bracket and connect to their proper ring. A base is provided which attaches to the lantern and into which is housed a power supply for electrification of the grid. A conventional converter steps up the voltage from a direct current power source to a high enough voltage to stun or kill an insect when the insect passes near or comes into contact with the electrically charged grid. An interconnect device transfers the electricity from the power supply to the grid and is of the length which is only sufficient to extend
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between the power supply and the grid, thereby requiring that the grid be disconnected from the power supply prior to removing the grid assembly from the lantern. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US04962611__ •
Portable pest electrocution device Inventor(s): Johnson; William L. (Somis, CA), Luther; William R. (Santa Paula, CA), Noe; Robert G. (Ojai, CA) Assignee(s): Agrizap, Inc. (Ojai, CA) Patent Number: 5,269,091 Date filed: April 29, 1992 Abstract: A pest electrocution device includes a mechanical portion and an electronic portion. The mechanical portion includes a base member with sidewalls defining a basin, a flexible sheet member secured on the base member, and a conductive plate member which is attached on the top face of the flexible sheet member and has at least part of it not overlapping the shoulder of the sidewalls. A pair of opposing metal contacts are respectively fastened on the bottom face of the flexible sheet member and on the base member. The metal contacts are coupled to the trigger input of the electronic circuit portion while the conductive plate member is coupled to the high voltage output of the electronic circuit portion. The electronic circuit portion includes a timer for producing a timing and control signal and a high voltage generator for generating a high voltage current. The electronic circuit portion further includes a latch circuit which records the status of the device for the user to check the status at any time. The electronic circuit portion also includes a pulse generation circuit for generating a high voltage, low current pulse train. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates to a device for eliminating pests, and more particularly, to a pest electrocution device for effectively electrocuting pests, such as rodents and the like. Residential areas and other places are often disturbed by pests, such as gophers and other burrowing animals which cause large amounts of damage to grounds, lawns and gardens. Numerous traps have been designed in the past for eliminating these animals. However, many of these conventional rodent traps have complicated structures in that they are either hard to manufacture or are inconvenient to use. Some of these conventional traps are large and thus the places of their use are limited. Available conventional traps are not 100% effective, thus leaving considerable room for improvement. A preliminary patentability search was conducted by the applicant which reveals a number of U.S. patents. None of the prior art patents show or suggest applicant's device, especially the features and advantages of the present invention. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05269091__
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Portable pest electrocution device with resistive switch trigger Inventor(s): Johnson; William L. (Somis, CA), Luther; William R. (Santa Paula, CA), Noe; Robert (Ojai, CA) Assignee(s): Agrizap, Inc. (Ventura, CA) Patent Number: 5,949,636 Date filed: March 4, 1997 Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for electrocuting pests such as gophers, rats and the like. The present invention employs a resistive switch that uses the same electrodes to sense the presence of a pest therebetween as are used to electrocute the pest. The resistive switch senses a leakage current flowing through the pest and into the reference electrode of its electronic circuit and uses the presence of this current to trigger the generation of a high voltage and current that is of sufficient magnitude to dispatch the pest. A timer deactivates the generator after a predetermined time has elapsed to save battery power. A status indicator is provided that does not consume power unless activated by a user. The invention will not retrigger until reset by turning it off and then on again, thereby activating the power on reset circuit. The generator is battery powered and has been designed to collapse the output voltage if more current than is necessary to electrocute a rodent is attempted to be drawn from it. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates to a device for dispatching pests through electrocution; more particularly the present invention uses a resistive switch, coupled to a conductive plate, to detect the presence of a pest between the plate and ground, and to trigger a high voltage and current which is supplied through the same electrodes used to sense the pest of sufficient amplitude to electrocute the pest. Residential areas, farms and ranches are often disrupted by burrowing pests such as gophers and the like, which can cause large amounts of physical and economic damage to such grounds. Urban areas, industrial plants and large food manufacturing and preparation facilities are often plagued by the presence of rats and mice. Numerous traps have been designed in the past for eliminating such pests by various means including electrocution. Prior art traps, however, suffer from various deficiencies. Existing devices typically have very complicated structures that are costly to manufacture. Further, these designs are not conveniently employed without disruption of the rodent's natural environment, making it more likely that rodents will seek to avoid them as foreign because of their disruptive nature. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05949636__
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Power distribution box with surge suppressor Inventor(s): Lewis; Keith A. (1700 Crisp Rd., Ennis, TX 75119) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 5,627,720 Date filed: August 11, 1995 Abstract: A power distribution box is provided with built in surge suppression capabilities that can be service without interrupting power to downline circuits powered from the power distribution box. A socket is wired directly to the busses supplying power to the circuit breakers in the power distribution box. The socket is designed to accept a surge suppression module that can be removed and replaced while the
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electrical connections in the socket are "hot." To prevent accidental electrocution the electrical contacts of the socket are place below the surface of the socket. Additionally, the stab-in connectors of the socket and the corresponding stabs of the surge suppression module are arranged in such a way as to ensure that the module is properly polarized when inserted into the socket. Excerpt(s): The invention relates to power distribution boxes, and more specifically to power distribution boxes with surge suppression capabilities. Power distribution boxes, or panel boards, are used to provide electrical power to buildings and other installations. The incoming power lines are routed through the box and more particularly through the circuit breakers housed in the box. The circuit breakers direct the power from the power source to individual circuits inside the building or installation and provide some protection to the circuit by disconnecting the circuit from the power source when the circuit draws more current than it was designed for. In addition to the circuit breakers, the panel board can be expanded to hold other electrical equipment. Panel boards have been extended to house such things as shunt trips, relays, transformer and monitoring equipment. Surge suppressors have also been added to circuit breakers to provide protection against voltage spikes and surges which are capable of damaging electrical equipment connected to the power distribution box. The surge suppressors protect against these voltage transients by absorbing the excess energy and slowly discharging it to ground. In order for this type of surge suppression to be effective the surge suppression circuitry must be located as close to the circuit breakers as possible because every 12 inches of conductor length between the circuit breakers and the surge suppressors results in 170 volts of let-through voltage, severely compromising the performance and effectiveness of the system. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05627720__ •
Process and apparatus for reducing the difference in electric potential between a flying hovercraft and earth ground Inventor(s): Honigsbaum; Richard F. (A-21 Barry Gardens, 245 Passaic Ave., Passaic, NJ 07055) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 5,208,724 Date filed: June 11, 1991 Abstract: The risk of electrocution by first contact with a hovercraft is eliminated by first establishing an alternate path for electric charge between the hovercraft and earth ground via an electrically conducting liquid stream. Excerpt(s): This invention relates to conductive charge removal from hovercraft and more particularly to conductive charge removal via a liquid stream that completes a conductive path between the hovercraft and earth ground. The risk of electrocution from first contact with a hovercraft by persons at earth ground is well known, and actual potentials and charging rates have been measured and are detailed in (U.S.) Naval Research Laboratories Memorandum Report Number 5676, Electrostatic Charging of the CH-53E Helicopter, Pechacek et al. Eisenhauer, U.S. Pat. No. 4,059,846, describes a sea-rescue arrangement in which a raft is lowered to and raised from the sea surface by a helicopter, and in which the potential difference between the raft and the sea is eliminated by a weighted grounding wire that hangs below, and makes first contact with, the water. While Eisenhauer's arrangement is quite satisfactory for its
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intended purpose of stand-by rescue at power boat races, it is an impractical arrangement for rescue in combat situations where rafts are not generally used and the weight can injure victims and/or the rescuers that enter the water to assist them, and the wire can become entangled in helicopter rotor blades. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05208724__ •
Programmable safety electrical socket controller Inventor(s): Hendel; Mordechai (Kibbutz Mishmar Hasharon, IL), Villaret; Yves (Kibbutz Ein Hachoresh, IL) Assignee(s): Nero Technologies Ltd. (IL) Patent Number: 5,003,486 Date filed: February 24, 1989 Abstract: Programmable safety electrical socket controller apparatus for controlling operation of an electrical socket by distinguishing between an actual electrical load and a false load created by human contact, thereby substantially eliminating the risk of electrocution. The controller initially operates in a standby mode wherein the rated voltage of the electrical power system is effectively disconnected from the socket terminals. A data value group representing the electrical characteristics of the connected load is obtained at safe voltage levels and these are examined by a microprocessor, in which there is stored a set of electrical characteristics based on known physiological data relating to the human body. By comparison of the data value group with the stored characteristics, the microprocessor is able to determine whether any of the data value group parameters are inconsistent with those of an actual electrical load, before applying electrical system power in an energization mode, thus reducing hazards caused by accidental contact of a human being. After it has been determined that an actual load is connected and power has been applied, additional protection is provided in the energization mode against leakage current conditions, overload overvoltage, and overheating. Remote communication and monitoring functions are also provided. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates to electrical connectors, receptacles and sockets which provide protection against electrical shock, and more particularly, to a safety electrical socket which can be programmed via a controller to distinguish between possible electrocution hazards and normal operating loads before power is applied. U.S. Pat. No. 2,735,906 to Avrunin. Another design also intended for shock-proof operation is that disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 4,647,120 to Karabakakis, in which an electrical safety plug carries a small magnet which magnetically activates an internal switch within a socket upon insertion. A variation of this design is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,616,285 to Sackett in which the magnetically operated switch is accessible from outside the socket. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05003486__
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Prong for adapter plug for international use Inventor(s): Baxter; Charles S. (Lawrenceville, GA), Lloyd; Grant H. (Lawrenceville, GA) Assignee(s): Motorola, Inc. (Schaumburg, IL) Patent Number: 6,109,977 Date filed: August 11, 1998
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Abstract: Described is a plug prong comprising a blade and an anchor where the blade has a section cut from one or both sides of the blade. The cut out section is replaced by plastic and the anchor is covered by plastic except for the electrical contact area. The invention provides increased protection against electrocution of a child. Excerpt(s): This invention relates in general to power transformers and more particularly to power transformers of the type used with power supplies found in different regions of the world. Power transformers are used to convert an alternating current power supply of the type available in homes, offices, hotels, and the like, via an ordinary wall outlet, to a direct current power supply compatible with electronic devices. These power transformers are used to reduce dependence upon batteries, or to provide charging energy for rechargeable batteries from available alternating current power sources. To provide the regulated power supply, the transformer includes a power converting circuit within the housing having a male connector positioned thereon. The male connector is for connection to a female connector of a main power supply wall outlet. A difficulty encountered by international travelers is powering their electronic equipment from the main power supplies found in different regions of the world. This difficulty arises because power supplies in different countries have different voltages, currents, and supply frequency characteristics. They also have different wall outlet female connector configurations. Although power converter circuits have been developed which produce a regulated direct current voltage from most main power supply signals found throughout the world, accommodating different female connectors have been more difficult. Therefore, there is a need for an improved international power transformer adapter transfiguration. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US06109977__ •
Protection technique for exposed conductor Inventor(s): Seitz; John R. (New London Township, Chester County, PA) Assignee(s): American Antigravity Co., Inc. (Great Neck, NY) Patent Number: 4,630,161 Date filed: October 1, 1984 Abstract: A technique is disclosed for protecting against electrocution or shock resulting from contacting an exposed conductor which is connected to a power supply. The flow of power to the conductor, whether DC or AC, is periodically interrupted and during the interruption, contact between a body and the conductor is sensed. If the body is not contacting the conductor, power is restored, but if the body is contacting, the interruption is maintained. The circuit may also distinguish between contact with the body and contact with an electrical device which receives power from the conductor. The electrical device includes a barrier circuit, such as a diode, which switches to an electrical state, such as a high impedance state, when power is interrupted. Because the electrical characteristics of the barrier circuit, such as its capacitance, differ from those of a body, the circuit is able to detect contact with a body. Excerpt(s): The invention relates to a technique for protecting against electrocution or shock. More specifically, the invention relates to a circuit and method for terminating the supply of power to an exposed conductor when a part of a human body contacts the conductor. A number of known circuits interrupt the supply of power to a normallyenergized conductor when the conductor is contacted by a part of a human body. U.S. Pat. No. 3,997,818, issued to L. E. Bodkin, discloses a circuit for protecting against
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electrocution by switching off the supply of power whenever a body or other improper load permits current to flow in a direction opposite the normal current direction. The normal current direction is maintained by a rectifier such as a diode. By doubling the circuit, an alternating current may be used. When a current flow in the reverse direction is detected, a thyristor or silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR) is turned off, switching off the flow of power. U.S. Pat. No. 3,781,608, issued to E. Geiger, discloses a similar circuit which detects a short circuit through the discharge of a capacitor. Upon detection of a short circuit, a thyristor is disabled, and a reduced current flows. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US04630161__ •
Protective device in electrically-powered apparatus and equipment Inventor(s): Grove; Manfred (Dreieich, DE) Assignee(s): Intermacom A.G. (Zuerich, CH) Patent Number: 5,341,266 Date filed: April 12, 1993 Abstract: A protective device for an externally powered electrical apparatus is disclosed. The protective device is designed to prevent accidental electrocution of the user if the power supply is subject to a short circuit. The protective device is an electromechanical device incorporating a device for detecting current differentials between non-ground electrical conductors, a normally closed switch in association with a fuse device, and a trigger circuit for terminating the current flow through the electrical apparatus when a short circuit is detected. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates to a protective device for electrically-powered apparatus and equipment to prevent accidental electrocution of a user. Such a protective device is especially suitable for portable equipment powered by a power line through a power cord connection. There have been many attempts in the prior art to produce a device which will prevent accidental electrocution. These devices work in a number of ways. Some operate by quickly detecting and reacting to a resultant overload. Others react to a short between a supply conductor and an external ground. Another type of device detects a short occurring in the load where a person may be connected between the shorted load and ground. Finally, there have also been many attempts to provide overload and/or over-voltage protection for circuits. There are two types of prior art devices of particular interest in relation to the present invention. First, there is the Immersion Detection Circuit Interrupter ("IDCI"). Second, there is the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter ("GFCI"). Both of these types of devices can be physically located in either the power outlet, in the plug, or in the apparatus itself. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05341266__
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Rodent electrocution trap Inventor(s): Lee; Dug G. (2606 W. 8th St., Los Angeles, CA 90057-3810) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 5,369,907 Date filed: January 24, 1994
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Abstract: A rodent trap operates by electrocuting the animal as it moves to steal the bait from a space above a depressible platform. The platform includes a downwardly swingable plate that is covered by a woven fabric panel. Edge areas of the fabric panel hang downwardly into a water bath located below the platform; water is drawn upwardly by wick action so that the platform fabric surface is wet. As the animal moves along the platform its feet and body become wet due to contact with the wet platform surface. The weight of the animal depresses the platform, which activates a hidden switch, thereby completing an electric circuit which electrocutes the animal while it is on the platform. The wetting of the platform surface facilitates the electrocution process. Excerpt(s): This invention relates to a rodent trap that utilizes electricity to kill the rodent. The trap is especially design to trap and kill rats and mice. Various trap devices have been proposed for trapping and killing rats and mice. Some of the proposed devices utilize electricity to kill the trapped animal. U.S. Pat. No. 2,471,640, issued to L. McFadden on May 31, 1949, discloses a rodent trap that includes a dome-shaped cage having a top access opening for entry of the rodent into the cage interior space. The floor of the cage has a second opening that overlies a fluid container equipped with two vertically-extending electrodes. When the rodent falls through the second opening into the fluid it is electrocuted by current flowing across the water through the fluid body. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05369907__ •
Safety night light system and method of manufacture thereof Inventor(s): Meehan; James E. (Ste. Veronique, CA), Parsolano; Veronica (Floral Park, NY) Assignee(s): Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc. (Little Neck, NY) Patent Number: 5,339,231 Date filed: November 10, 1992 Abstract: An improved night light incorporating effective safety features that greatly reduce the risk of electrocution by small children. The housing of the night light flares out towards its back surface to prevent an adult's or child's fingers from accidently contacting electrically live blades while inserting or removing it from an electrical receptacle. The blades are constructed so that their length is a function of the distance the blades are below the surface of a receptacle, the distance from the side of the blade where it protrudes from the back surface of the housing to the side edge of the housing and the distance from the bottom edge of the blade to the bottom edge of the back surface of the housing. A toggle provides on and off control of the night light. An open loop of spring metal provides the toggle with a snap action feel when operated. A snap on shade prevents glare to a user from direct exposure to the illuminating bulb. Excerpt(s): Night lights for residential use are well known in the art. They are used primarily to dimly illuminate corridors and rooms in order to ease a child's fear of darkness, or to aid a person walking around at night in an otherwise dark environment. Night lights are especially common in children's rooms and in bathrooms to provide dim illumination. Traditionally, night lights have utilized standard length blades in their construction. Such a length is considered necessary to accommodate the electrical current needed by the night light, to secure the night light physically in the receptacle, and to ensure a secure electrical connection when the night light is fully plugged in. However, a night light with standard length blades unexpectedly exposes a gap between the body of the night light and the receptacle, whereby small children can
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insert their fingers into the gap while the night light is still plugged in, and thereby suffer an electrical shock. Historically, this issue was not known or utilized in the design of night lights. Some have been designed with flared bases that lie flush against the wall when inserted in a standard duplex wall receptacle. The aim is to reduce the risk of a child or adult grasping the blades while inserting or removing the night light. However, there still remains a relatively small risk that the night light will be pulled out enough so that a small child's fingers can be inserted in the gap created between the wall and the back of the night light while the blades remain physically and electrically connected to the conductor in the receptacle. Therefore, a long felt need has existed for a safe night light designed such that, at all points including those where the blades make relatively minor contact with the conductor in the receptacle, it is impossible for a child's fingers to contact the live blades. The blades must be long enough to ensure a proper electrical connection and to securely support the night light in the receptacle. With the foregoing considerations in mind, the present invention teaches an improved night light which incorporates the advantages discussed, without any of the disadvantages. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05339231__ •
Self-supporting nonconductive cable stand Inventor(s): Thomason; Sandra Ellen (17420 Meridian Rd., Lucerne Valley, CA 92356) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 5,752,679 Date filed: November 5, 1992 Abstract: A stand, comprised of adjustable parts provides a structure for utility cables to be set upon so they can be spliced or repaired. The stand is designed to be placed on flat or semi-flat surfaces without additional support. Constructed primarily from nonconductive material, such as plastic or fiberglass, the stand is lightweight and provides excellent protection from electrocution and gas explosions that may occur from adjacent utilities if disturbed. The stand does not have to be driven into the ground to gain support. It features horizontal and vertical adjustments that conform to cable levels at trench or manhole depths and also to size availability of potholes or pits making it a very productive tool in most situations. Excerpt(s): The invention relates generally to a device for supporting outside plant direct buried cable, as opposed to other devices which are specifically for use in overhead installations, such as U.S. Pat. No. 5,042,767. Outside plant direct buried cable can be described as power transmission cable, telecommunication cable television cable, and fiber optic cable. Cable supports are used by outside plant utility companies to support cable while splicing or repairing. The problem with currently used supports is that when they are placed or assembled for use, they can be dangerous and unsafe. Cable supports are generally used in pits dug by back-hoes to expose underground facilities for customer service or repair projects. If cable supports are made out of metallic conductive material, the user will be subject to possible electrical shock from power induced through the metallic material. If the pit has water on the bottom, then electrocution from existing direct buried power is very probable. There are cable supports that have to be driven into the ground, to achieve stability, in order to support the direct buried cable being spliced or repaired. This is extremely hazardous to not only the user, but to others nearby. Pounding a metallic support through a direct buried power line or a large gas line is certain danger. Nonconductive supports that have to be driven into the ground are no less dangerous. They can damage other direct buried
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facilities as they are being driven into the ground below work level. These damages are left undetected until service is later restored and a technician has to be subjected to it during trouble shooting to isolate that damage. A nonconductive cable support can crack or penetrate gas lines that while being driven can push rocks or stones together causing sparks enough to ignite the gas. This invention eliminates those hazards. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05752679__ •
Water container with floating electrocution device equipped trap for killing gravid mosquitoes Inventor(s): Hsu; Gene C. (1511 Palm Ave. #E, San Gabriel, CA 91776) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 6,665,979 Date filed: February 11, 2003 Abstract: A trap for killing gravid mosquitoes which includes a vessel containing water, an electrocution device with a rough inner surfaced frame supported by a floating ring floating above the water, and a walled structure with an opening on the upper 1/2 portion of one side of the walls. The vessel with the floating electrocution device is arranged inside of the walled structure to form a tree hole-like trap. The present invention provides an apparatus to kill the gravid mosquitoes, also a method to control the mosquitoes by providing an environment to accommodate the mosquitoes' favored breeding behavior needs and uses water as an attractant to lure the mosquitoes into attempting to land or breed on the rough surface of the electrocution device and be killed. This method can kill the gravid mosquitoes before they lay eggs without any use of chemical poisons. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates to a water container with a floating electrocution device equipped trap for killing gravid mosquitoes. The present invention also relates to a controlling method for mosquito populations without any use of chemical poisons. During summer season, governments ask people to drain the water in tires and containers, to deprive mosquitoes of a place to breed. This method does not work well because the gravid mosquitoes are still alive to breed elsewhere. However, it shows that water in containers form a suitable environment for gravid mosquitoes to breed. If we can take advantage of the mosquitoes' natural breeding behavior, mosquito control would be much more effective and more efficient. Various traps have been developed based on this idea. U.S. Pat. No. 5,123,201 describes a sensor-triggered suction trap for collecting live gravid mosquitoes. When a fan is triggered by a mosquito interrupted an infrared beam, it blows the mosquito into a container for collection. Such a trap does not kill mosquitoes and is relatively complicated and not economically sufficient. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US06665979__
•
Water purifier Inventor(s): Sherman; Mark (St. Louis, MO) Assignee(s): Floatron, Inc. (St. Louis, MO) Patent Number: 5,085,753 Date filed: April 17, 1990
Patents 47
Abstract: A water purifier has a buoyant housing for supporting a purification cell below the water's surface and for supporting a solar cell array for providing power for the purification cell. The purification cell preferably has a solid cylindrical anode and a coiled wire cathode. The water purification cell operation includes electrolytic processes, electrocution and oxidation to destroy bacteria and algae in the water. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates in general to a self-contained, portable water purification device, more particularly, to a completely self-contained, integrated, and portable water purifier incorporating an electrolytic purification cell placed within a housing and further providing for water transportation through and in operative contact with the purification cell. The purification device of this invention is an improvement over conventional water purification devices and methods. It is known to use chlorine as a sanitation agent, however, chlorine is neither an efficient, healthful, nor a particularly economical sanitation agent. Furthermore, due to the continuing popularity of swimming pools, spas and hot tubs, there is an increasing public awareness of the dangers of handling, storing and using chlorine for water sanitation. It is known that metallic ions kill or control algae and bacteria. It is also known that copper ions kill or otherwise prevent the growth of algae and that silver ions kill bacteria, especially e. coli. It is further known that zinc, aluminum, and gold ions, to name just a few can be used for the same or similar purposes. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05085753__ •
Water-safe hair dryer circuit Inventor(s): Aragaki; Tsunehide (c/o 122 E. 42nd St., New York, NY 10017), Noguchi; Yukio (3F, 22-5, Ching-Chung St., Taichung, TW) Assignee(s): none reported Patent Number: 4,464,582 Date filed: October 12, 1982 Abstract: An automatic power shut-off circuit for a wide variety of electrical appliances, such as hand-held hair dryers, razors, irons, hair curlers, etc. which pose a risk of electrocution when used around water. Thus, said circuit avoids the risk of dangerous shocks or even death, if the appliance should fall into a tub of water in which someone is bathing or if someone reaches or steps into water containing a plugged-in appliance, regardless of whether the switch of the appliance is on or off. Excerpt(s): In the field of electrical appliances that are used around water, there is an inherent problem of submitting the user to the risk of electrocution or serious shock or even death. Thus, there is a need to avoid the risk of dangerous shocks or even death if the appliance falls into a tub of water in which someone is bathing or if someone reaches or steps into water containing a plugged-in appliance regardless of whether the switch thereof is on or off. In particular, for example, in view of the fact that the great majority of hair dryers today stay in the bathroom, these appliances pose a serious risk hazard. There is a device called a "ground-fault circuit interruptor (GFCI)" which, by law in some states, must be installed in bathrooms of all new homes. But this protects the user from electrocution only when the electric appliance he is using is leaking electricity or is short-circuited. It does not protect the user without fail in such conditions as described above. This invention overcomes the problems known heretofore by providing an automatic power shut-off circuit and an electrical apparatus in combination with an automatic power shut-off circuit. The power shut-off circuit has a water sensing means
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having spaced apart conductors adapted to be bridged by water for causing the automatic power shut-off circuit to operate. In one embodiment, the water sensing means comprises equally spaced conductors forming a labyrinth adjacent the air inlet and outlet of an electric hair dryer. Web site: http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US04464582__
Patent Applications on Electrocution As of December 2000, U.S. patent applications are open to public viewing.5 Applications are patent requests which have yet to be granted. (The process to achieve a patent can take several years.) The following patent applications have been filed since December 2000 relating to electrocution: •
ANIMAL TRAP Inventor(s): Anderson, David L.; (Lititz, PA), Gehret, Michael J.; (Lititz, PA), Rich, Christopher T.; (Lititz, PA), Swift, David W.; (Lititz, PA) Correspondence: Jacobson Holman Pllc; 400 Seventh Street N.W.; Suite 600; Washington; DC; 20004; US Patent Application Number: 20040111952 Date filed: November 12, 2003 Abstract: An electric or electronic animal trap wherein the housing includes a pair of spaced electrodes or charge plates in a killing chamber intermediate the trap entrance and a source of bait. Interposed in the pathway to the electrodes is at least one diverter which discourages a target animal from reversing direction before it is electrocuted. In one embodiment, juxtaposed to the entrance are at least two diverter members angularly offset relative to each other to define a maze-like path to lead a target animal to the charge plates for electrocution while discouraging reversal of direction and protecting against direct access to the charge plates through the entrance opening by children, pets or non-target species. A diverter or barrier plate may be carried by the housing cover to extend into the space between the electrodes when the cover is closed, the lower edge of the barrier being spaced from the housing floor a limited distance to force a target animal to squeeze under the barrier as it passes to the second electrode making escape before electrocution difficult. This design may be utilized in combination with a spaced, upwardly extending diverter or barrier plate to block direct access to the pair of electrodes from the entrance opening. The effectiveness of an inclined plane trap assembly may also be enhanced by a plate carried by the cover which forces a target animal to stretch itself out before engaging the second electrode. Excerpt(s): This invention relates to electric or electronic animal traps, and relates more particularly to an animal trap adapted to catch and electrocute a targeted animal simultaneously stepping on a pair of spaced electrodes, with means designed to direct a targeted animal entering the trap housing into and through a pathway leading to a source of bait beyond the electrodes while minimizing the likelihood that the animal will back out or escape from the trap before engaging the electrodes, and while precluding accidental contact with the electrodes by a user, a pet or non-targeted animal that could inadvertently fire the trap. Although the concepts of the instant invention are
5
This has been a common practice outside the United States prior to December 2000.
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equally applicable to traps for animals of any size, devices of this type are primarily utilized in connection with the trapping of rodents such as mice and rats and the description will, therefore, focus on this application. Animal traps have been around for hundreds of years and include many different designs. Most common is the typical rodent snap trap that utilizes a spring and a snapping bar to kill the target animal. These designs can be unpleasant to handle and pose a danger to the consumer setting the trap. Web site: http://appft1.uspto.gov/netahtml/PTO/search-bool.html •
Attracting mosquitoes for electrocution and/or trapping Inventor(s): Wilbanks, Alvin D.; (Holts Summit, MO) Correspondence: Banner & Witcoff, LTD.; Ten South Wacker Drive; Suite 3000; Chicago; IL; 60606; US Patent Application Number: 20030192229 Date filed: May 27, 2003 Abstract: An insect killing system optimized for mosquitoes uses multiple thermal gradients to simulate the breathing of, and body heat emitted by, animals, including human beings and fowl, to attract insects for subsequent electrocution and/or trapping. Mosquitoes are attracted to a mosquito-killing device for electrocution and/or trapping. Heat is generated within the device such that a heat gradient between an outer surface of the device and the atmosphere surrounding the device is created thereby emulating emission of body heat by an animal. At least one mosquito attractant, such as an aromatic, a pheromone, or moisture, is emitted from the device. And an airflow is created that sucks mosquitoes, which have been attracted to the outside of the device, into the device for electrocution and/or trapping by the device. Excerpt(s): This is a continuation of pending application Ser. No. 09/009,122, filed Jan. 20, 1998, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 08/761,282, filed Dec. 6, 1996, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,050,025, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 08/395,910, filed Feb. 28, 1995, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,595,018. The invention relates generally to attracting and exterminating harmful insects, in particular mosquitoes, and in particular relates to emulating certain characteristics of a mammal to attract insects for electrocution and/or trapping. Insect killing devices are known in the art, see e.g. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,255,468, 4,852,296, 4,891,904, 5,205,064, 5,020,270, 4,696,126 and 5,301,458. Web site: http://appft1.uspto.gov/netahtml/PTO/search-bool.html
•
Electric shock alert watch Inventor(s): Golub, Joseph James; (Lyme, CT) Correspondence: Joseph J. Golub; 51 Norwich Salem Road; Lyme; CT; 06371; US Patent Application Number: 20040080320 Date filed: October 23, 2002 Abstract: This wrist technology invention uses the latest miniature state of the art electronics to gather, process and display electromagnetic data in order to warn industrial, recreational and environmental health concerned individuals of electric shock, electrocution and biological hazards. It is run by a highly sophisticated custom
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software controlled microcontroller that is able to quickly measure, process and present data to a user in a form that will allow quick determination of possible surrounding electrical hazards. This technology used is the key in being able to produce this invention in a unique miniature battery operated package the size of a wristwatch. Sophisticated software controlled electronic circuitry relieves the user of complicated setup, calibration, battery/operational checks, processing and operation as this device can literally be run by the push of one button! This device displays its electrical hazard data on a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) but also has separate audio/visual alarms for special applications. It can be custom tailored to specific market applications by component selection, software reconfiguration and utilizing the appropriate miniature signal pickup. Excerpt(s): Personal Electrical Shock/Electromagnetic Hazard detection and warning device. Electrical hazards can be detected by direct contact to the electrical source or by sensing the electromagnetic fields that they produce. Prior state of technology uses direct or very close proximity contact to electrical hazard devices as the primary electrical hazard-warning tool. The potential for electrocution increases just employing these devices and their size makes them even more inconvenient. Research indicates that present devices, which employ proximity pickups, use absolute electromagnetic field measurements. Absolute electromagnetic field devices yield results that are difficult to interpret under certain conditions (i.e. linemen working on street power lines crossing under high power lines) and may require calibration to a standard and periodic recalibration, which is costly and inconvenient. Most electrocution deaths occur upon contact with low frequency time varying Alternating Current (AC) sources. However, Direct Current (DC) electrostatic discharges also can cause death. Prior state of technology does not provide a convenient, personal method of sensing both AC and DC electrical hazards. Prior state of technology relies on large fixed electrostatic discharge (lightning) detection devices (i.e. lightning detectors on large golf courses). This technology does not warn other more mobile outdoor activity participants like fishermen, boaters, and hikers. Prior state of technology electromagnetic field measuring devices are not made in personal, watch size packages providing electrical hazard warning at all times. Prior state of technology does not allow for personal, convenient detection of low frequency electromagnetic fields now suspect in causing biological harm (cancer). By utilizing a miniature, personal device that collects, processes, interprets, and displays electromagnetic hazard information in an easy to use package, industrial and recreational injuries/deaths by electrocution/resultant cancers will be reduced and may be eliminated. Its size and its package offers great advantages for industrial, recreactional, and residential users as potential electrical shock/biological hazards can be checked easily and quickly without need for any additional special test equipment or knowledge. Simultaneous AC and DC electric field displays alert users of alternating (AC) and electrostatic (DC) electrical hazards. An ultra high input sensitivity amplifier is automatically adjusted to measure the hazard produced electromagnetic fields within a large dynamic range to insure reliable operation for linemen, electrical contractors, construction workers, fire & rescue workers, golfers, boaters, fishermen, hikers, biological hazard concerned individuals, and other users. Web site: http://appft1.uspto.gov/netahtml/PTO/search-bool.html
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•
Electrical ground protection device and method Inventor(s): Silverman, Arthur A.; (Pittsburgh, PA) Correspondence: Metz Lewis Llc; 18th Floor; 11 Stanwix Street; Pittsburgh; PA; 15222; US Patent Application Number: 20040070896 Date filed: October 11, 2002 Abstract: An apparatus and method for protecting against electrocution hazards that arise when an appliance is electrically connected to a miswired single-phase AC electrical source are described. Protection is provided against miswiring conditions that causes the putative ground line of the electrical source to be either electrically energized or to be electrically open. The apparatus includes one or more sensors that detect if the electrical source is miswired and operate one or more switches which preclude electrical continuity to one or more of the electrical lines of the appliance if a miswiring is detected. The method includes the steps of detecting if the putative ground of the electrical source is electrically energized, and if it is, then precluding electrical continuity between the putative ground of the electrical source and the ground of the appliance. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for providing protection against an electrocution hazard in an appliance arising from a miswiring condition in an electrical source that is to electrically supply the appliance. In particular, the present invention provides such protection where the putative ground line of the electrical supply is improperly electrically charged or is not properly connected. Modern single-phase, alternating current (AC) electrical wiring employs a three wire or line configuration. A first wire is an ungrounded conductor that is commonly referred to as the "hot" wire. A second wire is a grounded conductor that is commonly referred to as the "neutral" wire. The third wire is a grounding conductor that is commonly referred to as the "ground" wire. The ground wire is typically a bare wire, whereas the hot and neutral wires are sheathed in color-coded insulation, the hot wire insulation typically being black and the neutral wire insulation typically being white. Despite these conventions, miswirings occur with alarming frequency, especially where the wiring has been installed by an inexperienced person, such as a homeowner. A miswiring may occur at an electrical outlet, at the electrical panel to which the electrical outlet is connected, or somewhere between the electrical outlet and the electrical panel, for example, at a switch or at a connection or work box. The miswiring may consist of the swapping of two or all three of the wires, a failure to connect a wire properly, or the omission of a wire. Web site: http://appft1.uspto.gov/netahtml/PTO/search-bool.html
•
ELECTRONIC ANIMAL TRAP Inventor(s): Rich, Christopher T.; (Lancaster, PA), Swift, David W.; (Lititz, PA) Correspondence: Jacobson Holman Pllc; 400 Seventh Street N.W.; Suite 600; Washington; DC; 20004; US Patent Application Number: 20030131522 Date filed: January 14, 2002 Abstract: An electronic animal trap incorporating an inclined plane trap assembly is capable to preclude an animal on the tilting floor member of the trap assembly from
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engaging the top and/or side edges of the door member of the trap assembly in an attempt to escape from the trap by pulling the door member down to thereby unblock access to the entrance opening. An electronic circuit is connected to a bottom plate so that when animal's weight causes the inclined ramp to lower and contact the bottom plate the circuit is completed and the animal receives a charge of sufficient power to cause electrocution. A plastic version of the electronic animal trap assembly enables many of the structural elements to be economically manufactured and easily assembled. Excerpt(s): The invention relates electric or electronic animal traps, and relates more particularly to an animal trap of the inclined plane type adapted to catch and electrocute a targeted animal. Although the concepts of the instant invention are equally applicable to traps for animals of any size, devices of this type are primarily utilized in connection with the trapping of rodents such as mice and rats and, therefore, further discussion herein will be primarily directed to this application. Inclined plane animal traps have been available for over one hundred years. The commercial embodiments of such traps currently available commonly comprise a housing defining an enlarged enclosure with one, or perhaps two, inclined plane trap assemblies communicating the interior of the enclosure with the exterior of the housing via an elongated passageway. An inclined plane tilting floor member is positioned in the passageway of each trap assembly and is adapted to lift a door to block an entrance opening when the rodent passes beyond a pivot point thereby limiting escape from the enclosure. When the rodent exits the passageway into the enclosure the door falls by gravity on the entrance end of the tilting floor to reset the trap and the raised end of the tilting floor limits the ability of a captured rodent to return to the passageway. Web site: http://appft1.uspto.gov/netahtml/PTO/search-bool.html •
Method and apparatus for eradicating soil borne pests Inventor(s): Flagler, David; (Selma, CA), Flagler, George; (Parlier, CA) Correspondence: Mark D Miller; Kimble, Macmichael & Upton; 5260 North Palm Avenue; Suite 221; Fresno; CA; 93704; US Patent Application Number: 20030150156 Date filed: February 11, 2003 Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for eradicate nematodes and other soilborne organisms to a depth of up to several feet that uses specially-shaped electrically conductive metal shanks that are pulled through the soil profile by a tractor or other vehicle. The source of the electric charge is a generator and transformer connected to each conductive shank. Electric current passes through the soil between the shanks resulting in the electrocution of unwanted soil borne pests such as nematodes. Two rows of downwardly pointing generally vertical parallel shanks are provided, the leading row being a plurality of ripper shanks, and the trailing row being parallel electrically-conductive stinger shanks. The stinger shanks are wedge shaped from front to back to compress the soil between them so as to provide a more uniform electrical charge. Excerpt(s): This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application No. 60/356,501 filed on Feb. 11, 2002. The present invention relates to improving agricultural soils for planting, and more particularly to a method and apparatus that uses electricity for eradicating harmful soft nematodes and other soil-borne pests and organisms from soils prior to planting, thereby protecting cultivated farm crops from
Patents 53
the deleterious effects caused by these pests. It is important to eradicate soil borne pests from agricultural fields prior to planting. Without such eradication, nematodes and other organisms may affect, delay or even prevent the subsequently introduced plants from proper growth. The deeper the eradication treatment, the longer the head start given to the plants that are subsequently introduced. Conventional methods of pest eradication involve spraying or fumigating the soil using methyl bromide or other similar toxic chemicals. Application of such toxic materials has become highly restricted and/or illegal such that other alternatives for pre-planting eradication must be found. Web site: http://appft1.uspto.gov/netahtml/PTO/search-bool.html •
MICROBE-MEDIATED MOSQUITOES
METHOD
AND
APPARATUS
FOR
ATTRACTING
Inventor(s): Chen, Kuang-Shing; (Taipei, TW), Lin, Hao-Jan; (Taipei, TW), Lin, Yi-Hung; (Taipei, TW) Correspondence: J.C. Patents, INC.; 4 Venture Suite 250; 1340 Reynolds AVE.; Irvine; CA; 92618; US Patent Application Number: 20020116863 Date filed: December 27, 2000 Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for generating the mosquito bait as well as simulating the human body's surface temperature and emanated odor. A well-controlled heating assembly can be used to generate a suitable thermal gradient for incubating both microorganisms and evaporating the bait. The bait comprises at least the bacterial decomposition and the yeast fermentation solution. The bait is not poisonous to human beings and produces mosquito attractants from natural products of fermentation or decomposition. The apparatus according to this invention comprises at least an upper compartment for trapping mosquitoes and a bottom compartment including the bait and the heating assembly. This invention can also combine with electrocution grids or insecticide webs to destroy attracted mosquitoes. Excerpt(s): The present invention relates to means for insect control. More particularly, the present invention relates to a microbe-mediated method of attracting mosquitoes for control purposes or for destroying mosquitoes. Insect control has been in great demand throughout human history. It is necessary to control harmful insects like mosquitoes, to prevent the spread of disease, such as malaria and yellow fever. Public health authorities everywhere have expended intense effort on eliminating mosquito-related disease; however, this effort has not been wholly successful, largely because of the difficulty of eliminating mosquitoes. In addition to eliminating mosquito-related disease, another reason for eliminating mosquitoes is abatement of the nuisance caused by mosquito bites. Therefore, there has been a perennial call for means of effective mosquito control, including means to attract, capture, or destroy active mosquitoes. Female mosquitoes seek a human host from which they obtain a blood meal for egg development. Mosquitoes locate hosts through a combination of chemicals characteristic of the hosts. It is believed that the volatiles emanating from the human host are responsible for the attractant. These volatiles contain 300-400 compounds and originate from either the secretions of skin glands, or the decomposition of the skin microflora, or both. The mosquitoes use their olfactory structures to detect the attractant from as far away as 90 meters. Web site: http://appft1.uspto.gov/netahtml/PTO/search-bool.html
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Keeping Current In order to stay informed about patents and patent applications dealing with electrocution, you can access the U.S. Patent Office archive via the Internet at the following Web address: http://www.uspto.gov/patft/index.html. You will see two broad options: (1) Issued Patent, and (2) Published Applications. To see a list of issued patents, perform the following steps: Under “Issued Patents,” click “Quick Search.” Then, type “electrocution” (or synonyms) into the “Term 1” box. After clicking on the search button, scroll down to see the various patents which have been granted to date on electrocution. You can also use this procedure to view pending patent applications concerning electrocution. Simply go back to http://www.uspto.gov/patft/index.html. Select “Quick Search” under “Published Applications.” Then proceed with the steps listed above.
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CHAPTER 4. BOOKS ON ELECTROCUTION Overview This chapter provides bibliographic book references relating to electrocution. In addition to online booksellers such as www.amazon.com and www.bn.com, excellent sources for book titles on electrocution include the Combined Health Information Database and the National Library of Medicine. Your local medical library also may have these titles available for loan.
Book Summaries: Online Booksellers Commercial Internet-based booksellers, such as Amazon.com and Barnes&Noble.com, offer summaries which have been supplied by each title’s publisher. Some summaries also include customer reviews. Your local bookseller may have access to in-house and commercial databases that index all published books (e.g. Books in Print). IMPORTANT NOTE: Online booksellers typically produce search results for medical and non-medical books. When searching for “electrocution” at online booksellers’ Web sites, you may discover non-medical books that use the generic term “electrocution” (or a synonym) in their titles. The following is indicative of the results you might find when searching for “electrocution” (sorted alphabetically by title; follow the hyperlink to view more details at Amazon.com): •
Worker deaths by electrocution (SuDoc HE 20.7129:W 89/CD) by U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services; ISBN: B0001135QE; http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0001135QE/icongroupinterna
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APPENDICES
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APPENDIX A. PHYSICIAN RESOURCES Overview In this chapter, we focus on databases and Internet-based guidelines and information resources created or written for a professional audience.
NIH Guidelines Commonly referred to as “clinical” or “professional” guidelines, the National Institutes of Health publish physician guidelines for the most common diseases. Publications are available at the following by relevant Institute6: •
Office of the Director (OD); guidelines consolidated across agencies available at http://www.nih.gov/health/consumer/conkey.htm
•
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS); fact sheets available at http://www.nigms.nih.gov/news/facts/
•
National Library of Medicine (NLM); extensive encyclopedia (A.D.A.M., Inc.) with guidelines: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/healthtopics.html
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National Cancer Institute (NCI); guidelines available at http://www.cancer.gov/cancerinfo/list.aspx?viewid=5f35036e-5497-4d86-8c2c714a9f7c8d25
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National Eye Institute (NEI); guidelines available at http://www.nei.nih.gov/order/index.htm
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National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI); guidelines available at http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/guidelines/index.htm
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National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI); research available at http://www.genome.gov/page.cfm?pageID=10000375
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National Institute on Aging (NIA); guidelines available at http://www.nia.nih.gov/health/
6
These publications are typically written by one or more of the various NIH Institutes.
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•
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA); guidelines available at http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/publications.htm
•
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID); guidelines available at http://www.niaid.nih.gov/publications/
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National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS); fact sheets and guidelines available at http://www.niams.nih.gov/hi/index.htm
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National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD); guidelines available at http://www.nichd.nih.gov/publications/pubskey.cfm
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National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD); fact sheets and guidelines at http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/
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National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR); guidelines available at http://www.nidr.nih.gov/health/
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National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK); guidelines available at http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health/health.htm
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National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA); guidelines available at http://www.nida.nih.gov/DrugAbuse.html
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National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS); environmental health information available at http://www.niehs.nih.gov/external/facts.htm
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National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH); guidelines available at http://www.nimh.nih.gov/practitioners/index.cfm
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National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS); neurological disorder information pages available at http://www.ninds.nih.gov/health_and_medical/disorder_index.htm
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National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR); publications on selected illnesses at http://www.nih.gov/ninr/news-info/publications.html
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National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering; general information at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/becon/becon_info.htm
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Center for Information Technology (CIT); referrals to other agencies based on keyword searches available at http://kb.nih.gov/www_query_main.asp
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National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM); health information available at http://nccam.nih.gov/health/
•
National Center for Research Resources (NCRR); various information directories available at http://www.ncrr.nih.gov/publications.asp
•
Office of Rare Diseases; various fact sheets available at http://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/html/resources/rep_pubs.html
•
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; various fact sheets on infectious diseases available at http://www.cdc.gov/publications.htm
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NIH Databases In addition to the various Institutes of Health that publish professional guidelines, the NIH has designed a number of databases for professionals.7 Physician-oriented resources provide a wide variety of information related to the biomedical and health sciences, both past and present. The format of these resources varies. Searchable databases, bibliographic citations, full-text articles (when available), archival collections, and images are all available. The following are referenced by the National Library of Medicine:8 Bioethics: Access to published literature on the ethical, legal, and public policy issues surrounding healthcare and biomedical research. This information is provided in conjunction with the Kennedy Institute of Ethics located at Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/databases/databases_bioethics.html HIV/AIDS Resources: Describes various links and databases dedicated to HIV/AIDS research: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/pubs/factsheets/aidsinfs.html NLM Online Exhibitions: Describes “Exhibitions in the History of Medicine”: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/exhibition/exhibition.html. Additional resources for historical scholarship in medicine: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/hmd/hmd.html Biotechnology Information: Access to public databases. The National Center for Biotechnology Information conducts research in computational biology, develops software tools for analyzing genome data, and disseminates biomedical information for the better understanding of molecular processes affecting human health and disease: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ Population Information: The National Library of Medicine provides access to worldwide coverage of population, family planning, and related health issues, including family planning technology and programs, fertility, and population law and policy: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/databases/databases_population.html Cancer Information: Access to cancer-oriented databases: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/databases/databases_cancer.html Profiles in Science: Offering the archival collections of prominent twentieth-century biomedical scientists to the public through modern digital technology: http://www.profiles.nlm.nih.gov/ Chemical Information: Provides links to various chemical databases and references: http://sis.nlm.nih.gov/Chem/ChemMain.html Clinical Alerts: Reports the release of findings from the NIH-funded clinical trials where such release could significantly affect morbidity and mortality: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/databases/alerts/clinical_alerts.html Space Life Sciences: Provides links and information to space-based research (including NASA): http://www.nlm.nih.gov/databases/databases_space.html MEDLINE: Bibliographic database covering the fields of medicine, nursing, dentistry, veterinary medicine, the healthcare system, and the pre-clinical sciences: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/databases/databases_medline.html
7
Remember, for the general public, the National Library of Medicine recommends the databases referenced in MEDLINEplus (http://medlineplus.gov/ or http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/databases.html). 8 See http://www.nlm.nih.gov/databases/databases.html.
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Toxicology and Environmental Health Information (TOXNET): Databases covering toxicology and environmental health: http://sis.nlm.nih.gov/Tox/ToxMain.html Visible Human Interface: Anatomically detailed, three-dimensional representations of normal male and female human bodies: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/research/visible/visible_human.html
The NLM Gateway9 The NLM (National Library of Medicine) Gateway is a Web-based system that lets users search simultaneously in multiple retrieval systems at the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM). It allows users of NLM services to initiate searches from one Web interface, providing one-stop searching for many of NLM’s information resources or databases.10 To use the NLM Gateway, simply go to the search site at http://gateway.nlm.nih.gov/gw/Cmd. Type “electrocution” (or synonyms) into the search box and click “Search.” The results will be presented in a tabular form, indicating the number of references in each database category. Results Summary Category Journal Articles Books / Periodicals / Audio Visual Consumer Health Meeting Abstracts Other Collections Total
Items Found 536 7 2 0 1 546
HSTAT11 HSTAT is a free, Web-based resource that provides access to full-text documents used in healthcare decision-making.12 These documents include clinical practice guidelines, quickreference guides for clinicians, consumer health brochures, evidence reports and technology assessments from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), as well as AHRQ’s Put Prevention Into Practice.13 Simply search by “electrocution” (or synonyms) at the following Web site: http://text.nlm.nih.gov.
9
Adapted from NLM: http://gateway.nlm.nih.gov/gw/Cmd?Overview.x.
10
The NLM Gateway is currently being developed by the Lister Hill National Center for Biomedical Communications (LHNCBC) at the National Library of Medicine (NLM) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). 11 Adapted from HSTAT: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/pubs/factsheets/hstat.html. 12 13
The HSTAT URL is http://hstat.nlm.nih.gov/.
Other important documents in HSTAT include: the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Consensus Conference Reports and Technology Assessment Reports; the HIV/AIDS Treatment Information Service (ATIS) resource documents; the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (SAMHSA/CSAT) Treatment Improvement Protocols (TIP) and Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (SAMHSA/CSAP) Prevention Enhancement Protocols System (PEPS); the Public Health Service (PHS) Preventive Services Task Force's Guide to Clinical Preventive Services; the independent, nonfederal Task Force on Community Services’ Guide to Community Preventive Services; and the Health Technology Advisory Committee (HTAC) of the Minnesota Health Care Commission (MHCC) health technology evaluations.
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Coffee Break: Tutorials for Biologists14 Coffee Break is a general healthcare site that takes a scientific view of the news and covers recent breakthroughs in biology that may one day assist physicians in developing treatments. Here you will find a collection of short reports on recent biological discoveries. Each report incorporates interactive tutorials that demonstrate how bioinformatics tools are used as a part of the research process. Currently, all Coffee Breaks are written by NCBI staff.15 Each report is about 400 words and is usually based on a discovery reported in one or more articles from recently published, peer-reviewed literature.16 This site has new articles every few weeks, so it can be considered an online magazine of sorts. It is intended for general background information. You can access the Coffee Break Web site at the following hyperlink: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/Coffeebreak/.
Other Commercial Databases In addition to resources maintained by official agencies, other databases exist that are commercial ventures addressing medical professionals. Here are some examples that may interest you: CliniWeb International: Index and table of contents to selected clinical information on the Internet; see http://www.ohsu.edu/cliniweb/. Medical World Search: Searches full text from thousands of selected medical sites on the Internet; see http://www.mwsearch.com/.
14 Adapted 15
from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/Coffeebreak/Archive/FAQ.html.
The figure that accompanies each article is frequently supplied by an expert external to NCBI, in which case the source of the figure is cited. The result is an interactive tutorial that tells a biological story. 16 After a brief introduction that sets the work described into a broader context, the report focuses on how a molecular understanding can provide explanations of observed biology and lead to therapies for diseases. Each vignette is accompanied by a figure and hypertext links that lead to a series of pages that interactively show how NCBI tools and resources are used in the research process.
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APPENDIX B. PATIENT RESOURCES Overview Official agencies, as well as federally funded institutions supported by national grants, frequently publish a variety of guidelines written with the patient in mind. These are typically called “Fact Sheets” or “Guidelines.” They can take the form of a brochure, information kit, pamphlet, or flyer. Often they are only a few pages in length. Since new guidelines on electrocution can appear at any moment and be published by a number of sources, the best approach to finding guidelines is to systematically scan the Internet-based services that post them.
Patient Guideline Sources The remainder of this chapter directs you to sources which either publish or can help you find additional guidelines on topics related to electrocution. Due to space limitations, these sources are listed in a concise manner. Do not hesitate to consult the following sources by either using the Internet hyperlink provided, or, in cases where the contact information is provided, contacting the publisher or author directly. The National Institutes of Health The NIH gateway to patients is located at http://health.nih.gov/. From this site, you can search across various sources and institutes, a number of which are summarized below. Topic Pages: MEDLINEplus The National Library of Medicine has created a vast and patient-oriented healthcare information portal called MEDLINEplus. Within this Internet-based system are “health topic pages” which list links to available materials relevant to electrocution. To access this system, log on to http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/healthtopics.html. From there you can either search using the alphabetical index or browse by broad topic areas. Recently, MEDLINEplus listed the following when searched for “electrocution”:
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Child Safety http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/childsafety.html Farm Safety http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/farmsafety.html Fire Safety http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/firesafety.html Safety Issues http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/safetyissues.html Water Safety http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/watersafetyrecreational.html You may also choose to use the search utility provided by MEDLINEplus at the following Web address: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/. Simply type a keyword into the search box and click “Search.” This utility is similar to the NIH search utility, with the exception that it only includes materials that are linked within the MEDLINEplus system (mostly patient-oriented information). It also has the disadvantage of generating unstructured results. We recommend, therefore, that you use this method only if you have a very targeted search. The NIH Search Utility The NIH search utility allows you to search for documents on over 100 selected Web sites that comprise the NIH-WEB-SPACE. Each of these servers is “crawled” and indexed on an ongoing basis. Your search will produce a list of various documents, all of which will relate in some way to electrocution. The drawbacks of this approach are that the information is not organized by theme and that the references are often a mix of information for professionals and patients. Nevertheless, a large number of the listed Web sites provide useful background information. We can only recommend this route, therefore, for relatively rare or specific disorders, or when using highly targeted searches. To use the NIH search utility, visit the following Web page: http://search.nih.gov/index.html. Additional Web Sources A number of Web sites are available to the public that often link to government sites. These can also point you in the direction of essential information. The following is a representative sample: •
AOL: http://search.aol.com/cat.adp?id=168&layer=&from=subcats
•
Family Village: http://www.familyvillage.wisc.edu/specific.htm
•
Google: http://directory.google.com/Top/Health/Conditions_and_Diseases/
•
Med Help International: http://www.medhelp.org/HealthTopics/A.html
•
Open Directory Project: http://dmoz.org/Health/Conditions_and_Diseases/
•
Yahoo.com: http://dir.yahoo.com/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/
•
WebMDHealth: http://my.webmd.com/health_topics
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Finding Associations There are several Internet directories that provide lists of medical associations with information on or resources relating to electrocution. By consulting all of associations listed in this chapter, you will have nearly exhausted all sources for patient associations concerned with electrocution. The National Health Information Center (NHIC) The National Health Information Center (NHIC) offers a free referral service to help people find organizations that provide information about electrocution. For more information, see the NHIC’s Web site at http://www.health.gov/NHIC/ or contact an information specialist by calling 1-800-336-4797. Directory of Health Organizations The Directory of Health Organizations, provided by the National Library of Medicine Specialized Information Services, is a comprehensive source of information on associations. The Directory of Health Organizations database can be accessed via the Internet at http://www.sis.nlm.nih.gov/Dir/DirMain.html. It is composed of two parts: DIRLINE and Health Hotlines. The DIRLINE database comprises some 10,000 records of organizations, research centers, and government institutes and associations that primarily focus on health and biomedicine. To access DIRLINE directly, go to the following Web site: http://dirline.nlm.nih.gov/. Simply type in “electrocution” (or a synonym), and you will receive information on all relevant organizations listed in the database. Health Hotlines directs you to toll-free numbers to over 300 organizations. You can access this database directly at http://www.sis.nlm.nih.gov/hotlines/. On this page, you are given the option to search by keyword or by browsing the subject list. When you have received your search results, click on the name of the organization for its description and contact information. The Combined Health Information Database Another comprehensive source of information on healthcare associations is the Combined Health Information Database. Using the “Detailed Search” option, you will need to limit your search to “Organizations” and “electrocution”. Type the following hyperlink into your Web browser: http://chid.nih.gov/detail/detail.html. To find associations, use the drop boxes at the bottom of the search page where “You may refine your search by.” For publication date, select “All Years.” Then, select your preferred language and the format option “Organization Resource Sheet.” Type “electrocution” (or synonyms) into the “For these words:” box. You should check back periodically with this database since it is updated every three months.
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The National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc. The National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc. has prepared a Web site that provides, at no charge, lists of associations organized by health topic. You can access this database at the following Web site: http://www.rarediseases.org/search/orgsearch.html. Type “electrocution” (or a synonym) into the search box, and click “Submit Query.”
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APPENDIX C. FINDING MEDICAL LIBRARIES Overview In this Appendix, we show you how to quickly find a medical library in your area.
Preparation Your local public library and medical libraries have interlibrary loan programs with the National Library of Medicine (NLM), one of the largest medical collections in the world. According to the NLM, most of the literature in the general and historical collections of the National Library of Medicine is available on interlibrary loan to any library. If you would like to access NLM medical literature, then visit a library in your area that can request the publications for you.17
Finding a Local Medical Library The quickest method to locate medical libraries is to use the Internet-based directory published by the National Network of Libraries of Medicine (NN/LM). This network includes 4626 members and affiliates that provide many services to librarians, health professionals, and the public. To find a library in your area, simply visit http://nnlm.gov/members/adv.html or call 1-800-338-7657.
Medical Libraries in the U.S. and Canada In addition to the NN/LM, the National Library of Medicine (NLM) lists a number of libraries with reference facilities that are open to the public. The following is the NLM’s list and includes hyperlinks to each library’s Web site. These Web pages can provide information on hours of operation and other restrictions. The list below is a small sample of
17
Adapted from the NLM: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/psd/cas/interlibrary.html.
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libraries recommended by the National Library of Medicine (sorted alphabetically by name of the U.S. state or Canadian province where the library is located)18: •
Alabama: Health InfoNet of Jefferson County (Jefferson County Library Cooperative, Lister Hill Library of the Health Sciences), http://www.uab.edu/infonet/
•
Alabama: Richard M. Scrushy Library (American Sports Medicine Institute)
•
Arizona: Samaritan Regional Medical Center: The Learning Center (Samaritan Health System, Phoenix, Arizona), http://www.samaritan.edu/library/bannerlibs.htm
•
California: Kris Kelly Health Information Center (St. Joseph Health System, Humboldt), http://www.humboldt1.com/~kkhic/index.html
•
California: Community Health Library of Los Gatos, http://www.healthlib.org/orgresources.html
•
California: Consumer Health Program and Services (CHIPS) (County of Los Angeles Public Library, Los Angeles County Harbor-UCLA Medical Center Library) - Carson, CA, http://www.colapublib.org/services/chips.html
•
California: Gateway Health Library (Sutter Gould Medical Foundation)
•
California: Health Library (Stanford University Medical Center), http://wwwmed.stanford.edu/healthlibrary/
•
California: Patient Education Resource Center - Health Information and Resources (University of California, San Francisco), http://sfghdean.ucsf.edu/barnett/PERC/default.asp
•
California: Redwood Health Library (Petaluma Health Care District), http://www.phcd.org/rdwdlib.html
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California: Los Gatos PlaneTree Health Library, http://planetreesanjose.org/
•
California: Sutter Resource Library (Sutter Hospitals Foundation, Sacramento), http://suttermedicalcenter.org/library/
•
California: Health Sciences Libraries (University of California, Davis), http://www.lib.ucdavis.edu/healthsci/
•
California: ValleyCare Health Library & Ryan Comer Cancer Resource Center (ValleyCare Health System, Pleasanton), http://gaelnet.stmarysca.edu/other.libs/gbal/east/vchl.html
•
California: Washington Community Health Resource Library (Fremont), http://www.healthlibrary.org/
•
Colorado: William V. Gervasini Memorial Library (Exempla Healthcare), http://www.saintjosephdenver.org/yourhealth/libraries/
•
Connecticut: Hartford Hospital Health Science Libraries (Hartford Hospital), http://www.harthosp.org/library/
•
Connecticut: Healthnet: Connecticut Consumer Health Information Center (University of Connecticut Health Center, Lyman Maynard Stowe Library), http://library.uchc.edu/departm/hnet/
18
Abstracted from http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/libraries.html.
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•
Connecticut: Waterbury Hospital Health Center Library (Waterbury Hospital, Waterbury), http://www.waterburyhospital.com/library/consumer.shtml
•
Delaware: Consumer Health Library (Christiana Care Health System, Eugene du Pont Preventive Medicine & Rehabilitation Institute, Wilmington), http://www.christianacare.org/health_guide/health_guide_pmri_health_info.cfm
•
Delaware: Lewis B. Flinn Library (Delaware Academy of Medicine, Wilmington), http://www.delamed.org/chls.html
•
Georgia: Family Resource Library (Medical College of Georgia, Augusta), http://cmc.mcg.edu/kids_families/fam_resources/fam_res_lib/frl.htm
•
Georgia: Health Resource Center (Medical Center of Central Georgia, Macon), http://www.mccg.org/hrc/hrchome.asp
•
Hawaii: Hawaii Medical Library: Consumer Health Information Service (Hawaii Medical Library, Honolulu), http://hml.org/CHIS/
•
Idaho: DeArmond Consumer Health Library (Kootenai Medical Center, Coeur d’Alene), http://www.nicon.org/DeArmond/index.htm
•
Illinois: Health Learning Center of Northwestern Memorial Hospital (Chicago), http://www.nmh.org/health_info/hlc.html
•
Illinois: Medical Library (OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, Peoria), http://www.osfsaintfrancis.org/general/library/
•
Kentucky: Medical Library - Services for Patients, Families, Students & the Public (Central Baptist Hospital, Lexington), http://www.centralbap.com/education/community/library.cfm
•
Kentucky: University of Kentucky - Health Information Library (Chandler Medical Center, Lexington), http://www.mc.uky.edu/PatientEd/
•
Louisiana: Alton Ochsner Medical Foundation Library (Alton Ochsner Medical Foundation, New Orleans), http://www.ochsner.org/library/
•
Louisiana: Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Medical LibraryShreveport, http://lib-sh.lsuhsc.edu/
•
Maine: Franklin Memorial Hospital Medical Library (Franklin Memorial Hospital, Farmington), http://www.fchn.org/fmh/lib.htm
•
Maine: Gerrish-True Health Sciences Library (Central Maine Medical Center, Lewiston), http://www.cmmc.org/library/library.html
•
Maine: Hadley Parrot Health Science Library (Eastern Maine Healthcare, Bangor), http://www.emh.org/hll/hpl/guide.htm
•
Maine: Maine Medical Center Library (Maine Medical Center, Portland), http://www.mmc.org/library/
•
Maine: Parkview Hospital (Brunswick), http://www.parkviewhospital.org/
•
Maine: Southern Maine Medical Center Health Sciences Library (Southern Maine Medical Center, Biddeford), http://www.smmc.org/services/service.php3?choice=10
•
Maine: Stephens Memorial Hospital’s Health Information Library (Western Maine Health, Norway), http://www.wmhcc.org/Library/
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•
Manitoba, Canada: Consumer & Patient Health Information Service (University of Manitoba Libraries), http://www.umanitoba.ca/libraries/units/health/reference/chis.html
•
Manitoba, Canada: J.W. Crane Memorial Library (Deer Lodge Centre, Winnipeg), http://www.deerlodge.mb.ca/crane_library/about.asp
•
Maryland: Health Information Center at the Wheaton Regional Library (Montgomery County, Dept. of Public Libraries, Wheaton Regional Library), http://www.mont.lib.md.us/healthinfo/hic.asp
•
Massachusetts: Baystate Medical Center Library (Baystate Health System), http://www.baystatehealth.com/1024/
•
Massachusetts: Boston University Medical Center Alumni Medical Library (Boston University Medical Center), http://med-libwww.bu.edu/library/lib.html
•
Massachusetts: Lowell General Hospital Health Sciences Library (Lowell General Hospital, Lowell), http://www.lowellgeneral.org/library/HomePageLinks/WWW.htm
•
Massachusetts: Paul E. Woodard Health Sciences Library (New England Baptist Hospital, Boston), http://www.nebh.org/health_lib.asp
•
Massachusetts: St. Luke’s Hospital Health Sciences Library (St. Luke’s Hospital, Southcoast Health System, New Bedford), http://www.southcoast.org/library/
•
Massachusetts: Treadwell Library Consumer Health Reference Center (Massachusetts General Hospital), http://www.mgh.harvard.edu/library/chrcindex.html
•
Massachusetts: UMass HealthNet (University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worchester), http://healthnet.umassmed.edu/
•
Michigan: Botsford General Hospital Library - Consumer Health (Botsford General Hospital, Library & Internet Services), http://www.botsfordlibrary.org/consumer.htm
•
Michigan: Helen DeRoy Medical Library (Providence Hospital and Medical Centers), http://www.providence-hospital.org/library/
•
Michigan: Marquette General Hospital - Consumer Health Library (Marquette General Hospital, Health Information Center), http://www.mgh.org/center.html
•
Michigan: Patient Education Resouce Center - University of Michigan Cancer Center (University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ann Arbor), http://www.cancer.med.umich.edu/learn/leares.htm
•
Michigan: Sladen Library & Center for Health Information Resources - Consumer Health Information (Detroit), http://www.henryford.com/body.cfm?id=39330
•
Montana: Center for Health Information (St. Patrick Hospital and Health Sciences Center, Missoula)
•
National: Consumer Health Library Directory (Medical Library Association, Consumer and Patient Health Information Section), http://caphis.mlanet.org/directory/index.html
•
National: National Network of Libraries of Medicine (National Library of Medicine) provides library services for health professionals in the United States who do not have access to a medical library, http://nnlm.gov/
•
National: NN/LM List of Libraries Serving the Public (National Network of Libraries of Medicine), http://nnlm.gov/members/
Finding Medical Libraries
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•
Nevada: Health Science Library, West Charleston Library (Las Vegas-Clark County Library District, Las Vegas), http://www.lvccld.org/special_collections/medical/index.htm
•
New Hampshire: Dartmouth Biomedical Libraries (Dartmouth College Library, Hanover), http://www.dartmouth.edu/~biomed/resources.htmld/conshealth.htmld/
•
New Jersey: Consumer Health Library (Rahway Hospital, Rahway), http://www.rahwayhospital.com/library.htm
•
New Jersey: Dr. Walter Phillips Health Sciences Library (Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, Englewood), http://www.englewoodhospital.com/links/index.htm
•
New Jersey: Meland Foundation (Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, Englewood), http://www.geocities.com/ResearchTriangle/9360/
•
New York: Choices in Health Information (New York Public Library) - NLM Consumer Pilot Project participant, http://www.nypl.org/branch/health/links.html
•
New York: Health Information Center (Upstate Medical University, State University of New York, Syracuse), http://www.upstate.edu/library/hic/
•
New York: Health Sciences Library (Long Island Jewish Medical Center, New Hyde Park), http://www.lij.edu/library/library.html
•
New York: ViaHealth Medical Library (Rochester General Hospital), http://www.nyam.org/library/
•
Ohio: Consumer Health Library (Akron General Medical Center, Medical & Consumer Health Library), http://www.akrongeneral.org/hwlibrary.htm
•
Oklahoma: The Health Information Center at Saint Francis Hospital (Saint Francis Health System, Tulsa), http://www.sfh-tulsa.com/services/healthinfo.asp
•
Oregon: Planetree Health Resource Center (Mid-Columbia Medical Center, The Dalles), http://www.mcmc.net/phrc/
•
Pennsylvania: Community Health Information Library (Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey), http://www.hmc.psu.edu/commhealth/
•
Pennsylvania: Community Health Resource Library (Geisinger Medical Center, Danville), http://www.geisinger.edu/education/commlib.shtml
•
Pennsylvania: HealthInfo Library (Moses Taylor Hospital, Scranton), http://www.mth.org/healthwellness.html
•
Pennsylvania: Hopwood Library (University of Pittsburgh, Health Sciences Library System, Pittsburgh), http://www.hsls.pitt.edu/guides/chi/hopwood/index_html
•
Pennsylvania: Koop Community Health Information Center (College of Physicians of Philadelphia), http://www.collphyphil.org/kooppg1.shtml
•
Pennsylvania: Learning Resources Center - Medical Library (Susquehanna Health System, Williamsport), http://www.shscares.org/services/lrc/index.asp
•
Pennsylvania: Medical Library (UPMC Health System, Pittsburgh), http://www.upmc.edu/passavant/library.htm
•
Quebec, Canada: Medical Library (Montreal General Hospital), http://www.mghlib.mcgill.ca/
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•
South Dakota: Rapid City Regional Hospital Medical Library (Rapid City Regional Hospital), http://www.rcrh.org/Services/Library/Default.asp
•
Texas: Houston HealthWays (Houston Academy of Medicine-Texas Medical Center Library), http://hhw.library.tmc.edu/
•
Washington: Community Health Library (Kittitas Valley Community Hospital), http://www.kvch.com/
•
Washington: Southwest Washington Medical Center Library (Southwest Washington Medical Center, Vancouver), http://www.swmedicalcenter.com/body.cfm?id=72
75
ONLINE GLOSSARIES The Internet provides access to a number of free-to-use medical dictionaries. The National Library of Medicine has compiled the following list of online dictionaries: •
ADAM Medical Encyclopedia (A.D.A.M., Inc.), comprehensive medical reference: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/encyclopedia.html
•
MedicineNet.com Medical Dictionary (MedicineNet, Inc.): http://www.medterms.com/Script/Main/hp.asp
•
Merriam-Webster Medical Dictionary (Inteli-Health, Inc.): http://www.intelihealth.com/IH/
•
Multilingual Glossary of Technical and Popular Medical Terms in Eight European Languages (European Commission) - Danish, Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish: http://allserv.rug.ac.be/~rvdstich/eugloss/welcome.html
•
On-line Medical Dictionary (CancerWEB): http://cancerweb.ncl.ac.uk/omd/
•
Rare Diseases Terms (Office of Rare Diseases): http://ord.aspensys.com/asp/diseases/diseases.asp
•
Technology Glossary (National Library of Medicine) - Health Care Technology: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/nichsr/ta101/ta10108.htm
Beyond these, MEDLINEplus contains a very patient-friendly encyclopedia covering every aspect of medicine (licensed from A.D.A.M., Inc.). The ADAM Medical Encyclopedia can be accessed at http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/encyclopedia.html. ADAM is also available on commercial Web sites such as drkoop.com (http://www.drkoop.com/) and Web MD (http://my.webmd.com/adam/asset/adam_disease_articles/a_to_z/a).
Online Dictionary Directories The following are additional online directories compiled by the National Library of Medicine, including a number of specialized medical dictionaries: •
Medical Dictionaries: Medical & Biological (World Health Organization): http://www.who.int/hlt/virtuallibrary/English/diction.htm#Medical
•
MEL-Michigan Electronic Library List of Online Health and Medical Dictionaries (Michigan Electronic Library): http://mel.lib.mi.us/health/health-dictionaries.html
•
Patient Education: Glossaries (DMOZ Open Directory Project): http://dmoz.org/Health/Education/Patient_Education/Glossaries/
•
Web of Online Dictionaries (Bucknell University): http://www.yourdictionary.com/diction5.html#medicine
77
ELECTROCUTION DICTIONARY The definitions below are derived from official public sources, including the National Institutes of Health [NIH] and the European Union [EU]. Abdominal: Having to do with the abdomen, which is the part of the body between the chest and the hips that contains the pancreas, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and other organs. [NIH] Acceptor: A substance which, while normally not oxidized by oxygen or reduced by hydrogen, can be oxidized or reduced in presence of a substance which is itself undergoing oxidation or reduction. [NIH] Adolescence: The period of life beginning with the appearance of secondary sex characteristics and terminating with the cessation of somatic growth. The years usually referred to as adolescence lie between 13 and 18 years of age. [NIH] Affinity: 1. Inherent likeness or relationship. 2. A special attraction for a specific element, organ, or structure. 3. Chemical affinity; the force that binds atoms in molecules; the tendency of substances to combine by chemical reaction. 4. The strength of noncovalent chemical binding between two substances as measured by the dissociation constant of the complex. 5. In immunology, a thermodynamic expression of the strength of interaction between a single antigen-binding site and a single antigenic determinant (and thus of the stereochemical compatibility between them), most accurately applied to interactions among simple, uniform antigenic determinants such as haptens. Expressed as the association constant (K litres mole -1), which, owing to the heterogeneity of affinities in a population of antibody molecules of a given specificity, actually represents an average value (mean intrinsic association constant). 6. The reciprocal of the dissociation constant. [EU] Aggravation: An increasing in seriousness or severity; an act or circumstance that intensifies, or makes worse. [EU] Algorithms: A procedure consisting of a sequence of algebraic formulas and/or logical steps to calculate or determine a given task. [NIH] Alternative medicine: Practices not generally recognized by the medical community as standard or conventional medical approaches and used instead of standard treatments. Alternative medicine includes the taking of dietary supplements, megadose vitamins, and herbal preparations; the drinking of special teas; and practices such as massage therapy, magnet therapy, spiritual healing, and meditation. [NIH] Aluminum: A metallic element that has the atomic number 13, atomic symbol Al, and atomic weight 26.98. [NIH] Anaesthesia: Loss of feeling or sensation. Although the term is used for loss of tactile sensibility, or of any of the other senses, it is applied especially to loss of the sensation of pain, as it is induced to permit performance of surgery or other painful procedures. [EU] Anemia: A reduction in the number of circulating erythrocytes or in the quantity of hemoglobin. [NIH] Anesthesia: A state characterized by loss of feeling or sensation. This depression of nerve function is usually the result of pharmacologic action and is induced to allow performance of surgery or other painful procedures. [NIH] Anions: Negatively charged atoms, radicals or groups of atoms which travel to the anode or positive pole during electrolysis. [NIH]
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Ankle: That part of the lower limb directly above the foot. [NIH] Anklets: Brace that supports the ankle. [NIH] Anode: Electrode held at a positive potential with respect to a cathode. [NIH] Aqueous: Having to do with water. [NIH] Artery: Vessel-carrying blood from the heart to various parts of the body. [NIH] Astringents: Agents, usually topical, that cause the contraction of tissues for the control of bleeding or secretions. [NIH] Atrial: Pertaining to an atrium. [EU] Atrial Fibrillation: Disorder of cardiac rhythm characterized by rapid, irregular atrial impulses and ineffective atrial contractions. [NIH] Atrium: A chamber; used in anatomical nomenclature to designate a chamber affording entrance to another structure or organ. Usually used alone to designate an atrium of the heart. [EU] Autopsy: Postmortem examination of the body. [NIH] Bacteria: Unicellular prokaryotic microorganisms which generally possess rigid cell walls, multiply by cell division, and exhibit three principal forms: round or coccal, rodlike or bacillary, and spiral or spirochetal. [NIH] Base: In chemistry, the nonacid part of a salt; a substance that combines with acids to form salts; a substance that dissociates to give hydroxide ions in aqueous solutions; a substance whose molecule or ion can combine with a proton (hydrogen ion); a substance capable of donating a pair of electrons (to an acid) for the formation of a coordinate covalent bond. [EU] Beta Rays: A stream of positive or negative electrons ejected with high energy from a disintegrating atomic nucleus; most biomedically used isotopes emit negative particles (electrons or negatrons, rather than positrons). Cathode rays are low-energy negative electrons produced in cathode ray tubes, also called television tubes or oscilloscopes. [NIH] Biotechnology: Body of knowledge related to the use of organisms, cells or cell-derived constituents for the purpose of developing products which are technically, scientifically and clinically useful. Alteration of biologic function at the molecular level (i.e., genetic engineering) is a central focus; laboratory methods used include transfection and cloning technologies, sequence and structure analysis algorithms, computer databases, and gene and protein structure function analysis and prediction. [NIH] Bladder: The organ that stores urine. [NIH] Blood pressure: The pressure of blood against the walls of a blood vessel or heart chamber. Unless there is reference to another location, such as the pulmonary artery or one of the heart chambers, it refers to the pressure in the systemic arteries, as measured, for example, in the forearm. [NIH] Body Fluids: Liquid components of living organisms. [NIH] Breeding: The science or art of changing the constitution of a population of plants or animals through sexual reproduction. [NIH] Cadaver: A dead body, usually a human body. [NIH] Caesarean section: A surgical incision through the abdominal and uterine walls in order to deliver a baby. [NIH] Calibration: Determination, by measurement or comparison with a standard, of the correct value of each scale reading on a meter or other measuring instrument; or determination of the settings of a control device that correspond to particular values of voltage, current,
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frequency, or other output. [NIH] Cardiac: Having to do with the heart. [NIH] Cardiac arrest: A sudden stop of heart function. [NIH] Case report: A detailed report of the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of an individual patient. Case reports also contain some demographic information about the patient (for example, age, gender, ethnic origin). [NIH] Cathode: An electrode, usually an incandescent filament of tungsten, which emits electrons in an X-ray tube. [NIH] Cations: Postively charged atoms, radicals or groups of atoms which travel to the cathode or negative pole during electrolysis. [NIH] Cell: The individual unit that makes up all of the tissues of the body. All living things are made up of one or more cells. [NIH] Cell Division: The fission of a cell. [NIH] Cerebral: Of or pertaining of the cerebrum or the brain. [EU] Cerebrospinal: Pertaining to the brain and spinal cord. [EU] Cerebrospinal fluid: CSF. The fluid flowing around the brain and spinal cord. Cerebrospinal fluid is produced in the ventricles in the brain. [NIH] Cerebrum: The largest part of the brain. It is divided into two hemispheres, or halves, called the cerebral hemispheres. The cerebrum controls muscle functions of the body and also controls speech, emotions, reading, writing, and learning. [NIH] Chlorine: A greenish-yellow, diatomic gas that is a member of the halogen family of elements. It has the atomic symbol Cl, atomic number 17, and atomic weight 70.906. It is a powerful irritant that can cause fatal pulmonary edema. Chlorine is used in manufacturing, as a reagent in synthetic chemistry, for water purification, and in the production of chlorinated lime, which is used in fabric bleaching. [NIH] Chromosome: Part of a cell that contains genetic information. Except for sperm and eggs, all human cells contain 46 chromosomes. [NIH] Chronic: A disease or condition that persists or progresses over a long period of time. [NIH] Clinical trial: A research study that tests how well new medical treatments or other interventions work in people. Each study is designed to test new methods of screening, prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of a disease. [NIH] Cloning: The production of a number of genetically identical individuals; in genetic engineering, a process for the efficient replication of a great number of identical DNA molecules. [NIH] Collapse: 1. A state of extreme prostration and depression, with failure of circulation. 2. Abnormal falling in of the walls of any part of organ. [EU] Complement: A term originally used to refer to the heat-labile factor in serum that causes immune cytolysis, the lysis of antibody-coated cells, and now referring to the entire functionally related system comprising at least 20 distinct serum proteins that is the effector not only of immune cytolysis but also of other biologic functions. Complement activation occurs by two different sequences, the classic and alternative pathways. The proteins of the classic pathway are termed 'components of complement' and are designated by the symbols C1 through C9. C1 is a calcium-dependent complex of three distinct proteins C1q, C1r and C1s. The proteins of the alternative pathway (collectively referred to as the properdin system) and complement regulatory proteins are known by semisystematic or trivial names. Fragments resulting from proteolytic cleavage of complement proteins are designated with
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lower-case letter suffixes, e.g., C3a. Inactivated fragments may be designated with the suffix 'i', e.g. C3bi. Activated components or complexes with biological activity are designated by a bar over the symbol e.g. C1 or C4b,2a. The classic pathway is activated by the binding of C1 to classic pathway activators, primarily antigen-antibody complexes containing IgM, IgG1, IgG3; C1q binds to a single IgM molecule or two adjacent IgG molecules. The alternative pathway can be activated by IgA immune complexes and also by nonimmunologic materials including bacterial endotoxins, microbial polysaccharides, and cell walls. Activation of the classic pathway triggers an enzymatic cascade involving C1, C4, C2 and C3; activation of the alternative pathway triggers a cascade involving C3 and factors B, D and P. Both result in the cleavage of C5 and the formation of the membrane attack complex. Complement activation also results in the formation of many biologically active complement fragments that act as anaphylatoxins, opsonins, or chemotactic factors. [EU] Complementary and alternative medicine: CAM. Forms of treatment that are used in addition to (complementary) or instead of (alternative) standard treatments. These practices are not considered standard medical approaches. CAM includes dietary supplements, megadose vitamins, herbal preparations, special teas, massage therapy, magnet therapy, spiritual healing, and meditation. [NIH] Complementary medicine: Practices not generally recognized by the medical community as standard or conventional medical approaches and used to enhance or complement the standard treatments. Complementary medicine includes the taking of dietary supplements, megadose vitamins, and herbal preparations; the drinking of special teas; and practices such as massage therapy, magnet therapy, spiritual healing, and meditation. [NIH] Compress: A plug used to occludate an orifice in the control of bleeding, or to mop up secretions; an absorbent pad. [NIH] Computational Biology: A field of biology concerned with the development of techniques for the collection and manipulation of biological data, and the use of such data to make biological discoveries or predictions. This field encompasses all computational methods and theories applicable to molecular biology and areas of computer-based techniques for solving biological problems including manipulation of models and datasets. [NIH] Conduction: The transfer of sound waves, heat, nervous impulses, or electricity. [EU] Consciousness: Sense of awareness of self and of the environment. [NIH] Contraindications: Any factor or sign that it is unwise to pursue a certain kind of action or treatment, e. g. giving a general anesthetic to a person with pneumonia. [NIH] Cutaneous: Having to do with the skin. [NIH] Diagnostic procedure: A method used to identify a disease. [NIH] Diffusion: The tendency of a gas or solute to pass from a point of higher pressure or concentration to a point of lower pressure or concentration and to distribute itself throughout the available space; a major mechanism of biological transport. [NIH] Digestion: The process of breakdown of food for metabolism and use by the body. [NIH] Diploid: Having two sets of chromosomes. [NIH] Direct: 1. Straight; in a straight line. 2. Performed immediately and without the intervention of subsidiary means. [EU] Distal: Remote; farther from any point of reference; opposed to proximal. In dentistry, used to designate a position on the dental arch farther from the median line of the jaw. [EU] Drive: A state of internal activity of an organism that is a necessary condition before a given stimulus will elicit a class of responses; e.g., a certain level of hunger (drive) must be present before food will elicit an eating response. [NIH]
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Duodenum: The first part of the small intestine. [NIH] Dystonia: Disordered tonicity of muscle. [EU] Electric shock: A dangerous patho-physiological effect resulting from an electric current passing through the body of a human or animal. [NIH] Electrode: Component of the pacing system which is at the distal end of the lead. It is the interface with living cardiac tissue across which the stimulus is transmitted. [NIH] Electrolyte: A substance that dissociates into ions when fused or in solution, and thus becomes capable of conducting electricity; an ionic solute. [EU] Electromagnetic Fields: Fields representing the joint interplay of electric and magnetic forces. [NIH] Electrons: Stable elementary particles having the smallest known negative charge, present in all elements; also called negatrons. Positively charged electrons are called positrons. The numbers, energies and arrangement of electrons around atomic nuclei determine the chemical identities of elements. Beams of electrons are called cathode rays or beta rays, the latter being a high-energy biproduct of nuclear decay. [NIH] Elementary Particles: Individual components of atoms, usually subatomic; subnuclear particles are usually detected only when the atomic nucleus decays and then only transiently, as most of them are unstable, often yielding pure energy without substance, i.e., radiation. [NIH] Embolus: Bit of foreign matter which enters the blood stream at one point and is carried until it is lodged or impacted in an artery and obstructs it. It may be a blood clot, an air bubble, fat or other tissue, or clumps of bacteria. [NIH] Endemic: Present or usually prevalent in a population or geographical area at all times; said of a disease or agent. Called also endemial. [EU] Environmental Health: The science of controlling or modifying those conditions, influences, or forces surrounding man which relate to promoting, establishing, and maintaining health. [NIH]
Enzyme: A protein that speeds up chemical reactions in the body. [NIH] Esophagus: The muscular tube through which food passes from the throat to the stomach. [NIH]
Ethanol: A clear, colorless liquid rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and distributed throughout the body. It has bactericidal activity and is used often as a topical disinfectant. It is widely used as a solvent and preservative in pharmaceutical preparations as well as serving as the primary ingredient in alcoholic beverages. [NIH] Exhaustion: The feeling of weariness of mind and body. [NIH] Extracellular: Outside a cell or cells. [EU] Family Planning: Programs or services designed to assist the family in controlling reproduction by either improving or diminishing fertility. [NIH] Feces: The excrement discharged from the intestines, consisting of bacteria, cells exfoliated from the intestines, secretions, chiefly of the liver, and a small amount of food residue. [EU] Femoral: Pertaining to the femur, or to the thigh. [EU] Femur: The longest and largest bone of the skeleton, it is situated between the hip and the knee. [NIH] Fence: A hearing threshold level above which degrees of hearing handicap (or disability) are deemed to exist. [NIH]
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Fermentation: An enzyme-induced chemical change in organic compounds that takes place in the absence of oxygen. The change usually results in the production of ethanol or lactic acid, and the production of energy. [NIH] Fibrillation: A small, local, involuntary contraction of muscle, invisible under the skin, resulting from spontaneous activation of single muscle cells or muscle fibres. [EU] Flatus: Gas passed through the rectum. [NIH] Fleas: Parasitic, blood-sucking, wingless insects comprising the order Siphonaptera. [NIH] Gas: Air that comes from normal breakdown of food. The gases are passed out of the body through the rectum (flatus) or the mouth (burp). [NIH] Gene: The functional and physical unit of heredity passed from parent to offspring. Genes are pieces of DNA, and most genes contain the information for making a specific protein. [NIH]
Generator: Any system incorporating a fixed parent radionuclide from which is produced a daughter radionuclide which is to be removed by elution or by any other method and used in a radiopharmaceutical. [NIH] Glare: Scatter from bright light that decreases vision. [NIH] Governing Board: The group in which legal authority is vested for the control of healthrelated institutions and organizations. [NIH] Haemodialysis: The removal of certain elements from the blood by virtue of the difference in the rates of their diffusion through a semipermeable membrane, e.g., by means of a haemodialyzer. [EU] Handicap: A handicap occurs as a result of disability, but disability does not always constitute a handicap. A handicap may be said to exist when a disability causes a substantial and continuing reduction in a person's capacity to function socially and vocationally. [NIH] Haploid: An organism with one basic chromosome set, symbolized by n; the normal condition of gametes in diploids. [NIH] Heartbeat: One complete contraction of the heart. [NIH] Homicide: The killing of one person by another. [NIH] Houseflies: Flies of the species Musca domestica (family muscidae), which infest human habitations throughout the world and often act as carriers of pathogenic organisms. [NIH] Hydrogen: The first chemical element in the periodic table. It has the atomic symbol H, atomic number 1, and atomic weight 1. It exists, under normal conditions, as a colorless, odorless, tasteless, diatomic gas. Hydrogen ions are protons. Besides the common H1 isotope, hydrogen exists as the stable isotope deuterium and the unstable, radioactive isotope tritium. [NIH] Illusion: A false interpretation of a genuine percept. [NIH] Incision: A cut made in the body during surgery. [NIH] Incontinence: Inability to control the flow of urine from the bladder (urinary incontinence) or the escape of stool from the rectum (fecal incontinence). [NIH] Infarction: A pathological process consisting of a sudden insufficient blood supply to an area, which results in necrosis of that area. It is usually caused by a thrombus, an embolus, or a vascular torsion. [NIH] Insect Control: The reduction or regulation of the population of noxious, destructive, or dangerous insects through chemical, biological, or other means. [NIH] Insulator: Material covering the metal conductor of the lead. It is usually polyurethane or
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silicone. [NIH] Intestines: The section of the alimentary canal from the stomach to the anus. It includes the large intestine and small intestine. [NIH] Involuntary: Reaction occurring without intention or volition. [NIH] Ions: An atom or group of atoms that have a positive or negative electric charge due to a gain (negative charge) or loss (positive charge) of one or more electrons. Atoms with a positive charge are known as cations; those with a negative charge are anions. [NIH] Irrigation: The washing of a body cavity or surface by flowing solution which is inserted and then removed. Any drug in the irrigation solution may be absorbed. [NIH] Kb: A measure of the length of DNA fragments, 1 Kb = 1000 base pairs. The largest DNA fragments are up to 50 kilobases long. [NIH] Labyrinth: The internal ear; the essential part of the organ of hearing. It consists of an osseous and a membranous portion. [NIH] Lice: A general name for small, wingless, parasitic insects, previously of the order Phthiraptera. Though exact taxonomy is still controversial, they can be grouped in the orders Anoplura (sucking lice), Mallophaga (biting lice), and Rhynchophthirina (elephant lice). [NIH] Linkage: The tendency of two or more genes in the same chromosome to remain together from one generation to the next more frequently than expected according to the law of independent assortment. [NIH] Litter: Appliance consisting of an oblong frame over which is stretched a canvas or other material, used for carrying an injured or disabled person. [NIH] Liver: A large, glandular organ located in the upper abdomen. The liver cleanses the blood and aids in digestion by secreting bile. [NIH] Localized: Cancer which has not metastasized yet. [NIH] Locomotion: Movement or the ability to move from one place or another. It can refer to humans, vertebrate or invertebrate animals, and microorganisms. [NIH] Loop: A wire usually of platinum bent at one end into a small loop (usually 4 mm inside diameter) and used in transferring microorganisms. [NIH] Malaria: A protozoan disease caused in humans by four species of the genus Plasmodium (P. falciparum (malaria, falciparum), P. vivax (malaria, vivax), P. ovale, and P. malariae) and transmitted by the bite of an infected female mosquito of the genus Anopheles. Malaria is endemic in parts of Asia, Africa, Central and South America, Oceania, and certain Caribbean islands. It is characterized by extreme exhaustion associated with paroxysms of high fever, sweating, shaking chills, and anemia. Malaria in animals is caused by other species of plasmodia. [NIH] Malaria, Falciparum: Malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum. This is the severest form of malaria and is associated with the highest levels of parasites in the blood. This disease is characterized by irregularly recurring febrile paroxysms that in extreme cases occur with acute cerebral, renal, or gastrointestinal manifestations. [NIH] Malaria, Vivax: Malaria caused by Plasmodium vivax. This form of malaria is less severe than malaria, falciparum, but there is a higher probability for relapses to occur. Febrile paroxysms often occur every other day. [NIH] Mania: Excitement of psychotic proportions manifested by mental and physical hyperactivity, disorganization of behaviour, and elevation of mood. [EU] Medical Records: Recording of pertinent information concerning patient's illness or
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illnesses. [NIH] MEDLINE: An online database of MEDLARS, the computerized bibliographic Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System of the National Library of Medicine. [NIH] Membrane: A very thin layer of tissue that covers a surface. [NIH] Mental: Pertaining to the mind; psychic. 2. (L. mentum chin) pertaining to the chin. [EU] Mercury: A silver metallic element that exists as a liquid at room temperature. It has the atomic symbol Hg (from hydrargyrum, liquid silver), atomic number 80, and atomic weight 200.59. Mercury is used in many industrial applications and its salts have been employed therapeutically as purgatives, antisyphilitics, disinfectants, and astringents. It can be absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes which leads to mercury poisoning. Because of its toxicity, the clinical use of mercury and mercurials is diminishing. [NIH] Microbe: An organism which cannot be observed with the naked eye; e. g. unicellular animals, lower algae, lower fungi, bacteria. [NIH] Mitochondrial Swelling: Increase in volume of mitochondria due to an influx of fluid; it occurs in hypotonic solutions due to osmotic pressure and in isotonic solutions as a result of altered permeability of the membranes of respiring mitochondria. [NIH] Molecular: Of, pertaining to, or composed of molecules : a very small mass of matter. [EU] Molecule: A chemical made up of two or more atoms. The atoms in a molecule can be the same (an oxygen molecule has two oxygen atoms) or different (a water molecule has two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom). Biological molecules, such as proteins and DNA, can be made up of many thousands of atoms. [NIH] Mosquito Control: The reduction or regulation of the population of mosquitoes through chemical, biological, or other means. [NIH] Muscidae: A family of the order Diptera with over 700 species. Important species that may be mechanical vectors of disease include Musca domesticus (houseflies), Musca autumnalis (face fly), Stomoxys calcitrans (stable fly), Haematobia irritans (horn fly) and Fannia spp. [NIH]
Necrosis: A pathological process caused by the progressive degradative action of enzymes that is generally associated with severe cellular trauma. It is characterized by mitochondrial swelling, nuclear flocculation, uncontrolled cell lysis, and ultimately cell death. [NIH] Nuclear: A test of the structure, blood flow, and function of the kidneys. The doctor injects a mildly radioactive solution into an arm vein and uses x-rays to monitor its progress through the kidneys. [NIH] Nuclei: A body of specialized protoplasm found in nearly all cells and containing the chromosomes. [NIH] Oxidation: The act of oxidizing or state of being oxidized. Chemically it consists in the increase of positive charges on an atom or the loss of negative charges. Most biological oxidations are accomplished by the removal of a pair of hydrogen atoms (dehydrogenation) from a molecule. Such oxidations must be accompanied by reduction of an acceptor molecule. Univalent o. indicates loss of one electron; divalent o., the loss of two electrons. [EU]
Pacemaker: An object or substance that influences the rate at which a certain phenomenon occurs; often used alone to indicate the natural cardiac pacemaker or an artificial cardiac pacemaker. In biochemistry, a substance whose rate of reaction sets the pace for a series of interrelated reactions. [EU] Parasitic: Having to do with or being a parasite. A parasite is an animal or a plant that lives on or in an organism of another species and gets at least some of its nutrients from it. [NIH]
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Perception: The ability quickly and accurately to recognize similarities and differences among presented objects, whether these be pairs of words, pairs of number series, or multiple sets of these or other symbols such as geometric figures. [NIH] Perennial: Lasting through the year of for several years. [EU] Perforation: 1. The act of boring or piercing through a part. 2. A hole made through a part or substance. [EU] Petechiae: Pinpoint, unraised, round red spots under the skin caused by bleeding. [NIH] Pharmacologic: Pertaining to pharmacology or to the properties and reactions of drugs. [EU] Pheromone: A substance secreted externally by certain animal species, especially insects, to affect the behavior or development of other members of the species. [NIH] Plants: Multicellular, eukaryotic life forms of the kingdom Plantae. They are characterized by a mainly photosynthetic mode of nutrition; essentially unlimited growth at localized regions of cell divisions (meristems); cellulose within cells providing rigidity; the absence of organs of locomotion; absense of nervous and sensory systems; and an alteration of haploid and diploid generations. [NIH] Pneumonia: Inflammation of the lungs. [NIH] Poisoning: A condition or physical state produced by the ingestion, injection or inhalation of, or exposure to a deleterious agent. [NIH] Power Sources: Devices that supply energy. [NIH] Practice Guidelines: Directions or principles presenting current or future rules of policy for the health care practitioner to assist him in patient care decisions regarding diagnosis, therapy, or related clinical circumstances. The guidelines may be developed by government agencies at any level, institutions, professional societies, governing boards, or by the convening of expert panels. The guidelines form a basis for the evaluation of all aspects of health care and delivery. [NIH] Probe: An instrument used in exploring cavities, or in the detection and dilatation of strictures, or in demonstrating the potency of channels; an elongated instrument for exploring or sounding body cavities. [NIH] Progressive: Advancing; going forward; going from bad to worse; increasing in scope or severity. [EU] Protein S: The vitamin K-dependent cofactor of activated protein C. Together with protein C, it inhibits the action of factors VIIIa and Va. A deficiency in protein S can lead to recurrent venous and arterial thrombosis. [NIH] Protozoan: 1. Any individual of the protozoa; protozoon. 2. Of or pertaining to the protozoa; protozoal. [EU] Proximal: Nearest; closer to any point of reference; opposed to distal. [EU] Public Policy: A course or method of action selected, usually by a government, from among alternatives to guide and determine present and future decisions. [NIH] Pulmonary: Relating to the lungs. [NIH] Pulmonary Edema: An accumulation of an excessive amount of watery fluid in the lungs, may be caused by acute exposure to dangerous concentrations of irritant gasses. [NIH] Pulse: The rhythmical expansion and contraction of an artery produced by waves of pressure caused by the ejection of blood from the left ventricle of the heart as it contracts. [NIH]
Radiation: Emission or propagation of electromagnetic energy (waves/rays), or the
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waves/rays themselves; a stream of electromagnetic particles (electrons, neutrons, protons, alpha particles) or a mixture of these. The most common source is the sun. [NIH] Radiography: Examination of any part of the body for diagnostic purposes by means of roentgen rays, recording the image on a sensitized surface (such as photographic film). [NIH] Radiopharmaceutical: Any medicinal product which, when ready for use, contains one or more radionuclides (radioactive isotopes) included for a medicinal purpose. [NIH] Reagent: A substance employed to produce a chemical reaction so as to detect, measure, produce, etc., other substances. [EU] Rectum: The last 8 to 10 inches of the large intestine. [NIH] Refer: To send or direct for treatment, aid, information, de decision. [NIH] Reflex: An involuntary movement or exercise of function in a part, excited in response to a stimulus applied to the periphery and transmitted to the brain or spinal cord. [NIH] Rescue Work: Activities devoted to freeing persons or animals from danger to life or wellbeing in accidents, fires, bombings, floods, earthquakes, other disasters and life-threatening conditions. While usually performed by team efforts, rescue work is not restricted to organized services. [NIH] Respiration: The act of breathing with the lungs, consisting of inspiration, or the taking into the lungs of the ambient air, and of expiration, or the expelling of the modified air which contains more carbon dioxide than the air taken in (Blakiston's Gould Medical Dictionary, 4th ed.). This does not include tissue respiration (= oxygen consumption) or cell respiration (= cell respiration). [NIH] Resuscitation: The restoration to life or consciousness of one apparently dead; it includes such measures as artificial respiration and cardiac massage. [EU] Retina: The ten-layered nervous tissue membrane of the eye. It is continuous with the optic nerve and receives images of external objects and transmits visual impulses to the brain. Its outer surface is in contact with the choroid and the inner surface with the vitreous body. The outer-most layer is pigmented, whereas the inner nine layers are transparent. [NIH] Retrospective: Looking back at events that have already taken place. [NIH] Retrospective study: A study that looks backward in time, usually using medical records and interviews with patients who already have or had a disease. [NIH] Rigidity: Stiffness or inflexibility, chiefly that which is abnormal or morbid; rigor. [EU] Rigor Mortis: Muscular rigidity which develops in the cadaver usually from 4 to 10 hours after death and lasts 3 or 4 days. [NIH] Risk factor: A habit, trait, condition, or genetic alteration that increases a person's chance of developing a disease. [NIH] Rod: A reception for vision, located in the retina. [NIH] Sanitary: Relating or belonging to health and hygiene; conductive to the restoration or maintenance of health. [NIH] Sanitation: The development and establishment of environmental conditions favorable to the health of the public. [NIH] Screening: Checking for disease when there are no symptoms. [NIH] Sensibility: The ability to receive, feel and appreciate sensations and impressions; the quality of being sensitive; the extend to which a method gives results that are free from false negatives. [NIH] Sensor: A device designed to respond to physical stimuli such as temperature, light,
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magnetism or movement and transmit resulting impulses for interpretation, recording, movement, or operating control. [NIH] Sex Characteristics: Those characteristics that distinguish one sex from the other. The primary sex characteristics are the ovaries and testes and their related hormones. Secondary sex characteristics are those which are masculine or feminine but not directly related to reproduction. [NIH] Shock: The general bodily disturbance following a severe injury; an emotional or moral upset occasioned by some disturbing or unexpected experience; disruption of the circulation, which can upset all body functions: sometimes referred to as circulatory shock. [NIH]
Shunt: A surgically created diversion of fluid (e.g., blood or cerebrospinal fluid) from one area of the body to another area of the body. [NIH] Side effect: A consequence other than the one(s) for which an agent or measure is used, as the adverse effects produced by a drug, especially on a tissue or organ system other than the one sought to be benefited by its administration. [EU] Silicon: A trace element that constitutes about 27.6% of the earth's crust in the form of silicon dioxide. It does not occur free in nature. Silicon has the atomic symbol Si, atomic number 14, and atomic weight 28.09. [NIH] Silicon Dioxide: Silica. Transparent, tasteless crystals found in nature as agate, amethyst, chalcedony, cristobalite, flint, sand, quartz, and tridymite. The compound is insoluble in water or acids except hydrofluoric acid. [NIH] Skeleton: The framework that supports the soft tissues of vertebrate animals and protects many of their internal organs. The skeletons of vertebrates are made of bone and/or cartilage. [NIH] Skull: The skeleton of the head including the bones of the face and the bones enclosing the brain. [NIH] Sodium: An element that is a member of the alkali group of metals. It has the atomic symbol Na, atomic number 11, and atomic weight 23. With a valence of 1, it has a strong affinity for oxygen and other nonmetallic elements. Sodium provides the chief cation of the extracellular body fluids. Its salts are the most widely used in medicine. (From Dorland, 27th ed) Physiologically the sodium ion plays a major role in blood pressure regulation, maintenance of fluid volume, and electrolyte balance. [NIH] Somatic: 1. Pertaining to or characteristic of the soma or body. 2. Pertaining to the body wall in contrast to the viscera. [EU] Sound wave: An alteration of properties of an elastic medium, such as pressure, particle displacement, or density, that propagates through the medium, or a superposition of such alterations. [NIH] Specialist: In medicine, one who concentrates on 1 special branch of medical science. [NIH] Species: A taxonomic category subordinate to a genus (or subgenus) and superior to a subspecies or variety, composed of individuals possessing common characters distinguishing them from other categories of individuals of the same taxonomic level. In taxonomic nomenclature, species are designated by the genus name followed by a Latin or Latinized adjective or noun. [EU] Spinal cord: The main trunk or bundle of nerves running down the spine through holes in the spinal bone (the vertebrae) from the brain to the level of the lower back. [NIH] Steel: A tough, malleable, iron-based alloy containing up to, but no more than, two percent carbon and often other metals. It is used in medicine and dentistry in implants and
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instrumentation. [NIH] Stimulus: That which can elicit or evoke action (response) in a muscle, nerve, gland or other excitable issue, or cause an augmenting action upon any function or metabolic process. [NIH] Stomach: An organ of digestion situated in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen between the termination of the esophagus and the beginning of the duodenum. [NIH] Stool: The waste matter discharged in a bowel movement; feces. [NIH] Stress: Forcibly exerted influence; pressure. Any condition or situation that causes strain or tension. Stress may be either physical or psychologic, or both. [NIH] Subspecies: A category intermediate in rank between species and variety, based on a smaller number of correlated characters than are used to differentiate species and generally conditioned by geographical and/or ecological occurrence. [NIH] Suction: The removal of secretions, gas or fluid from hollow or tubular organs or cavities by means of a tube and a device that acts on negative pressure. [NIH] Sudden death: Cardiac arrest caused by an irregular heartbeat. The term "death" is somewhat misleading, because some patients survive. [NIH] Suppression: A conscious exclusion of disapproved desire contrary with repression, in which the process of exclusion is not conscious. [NIH] Thermal: Pertaining to or characterized by heat. [EU] Thigh: A leg; in anatomy, any elongated process or part of a structure more or less comparable to a leg. [NIH] Threshold: For a specified sensory modality (e. g. light, sound, vibration), the lowest level (absolute threshold) or smallest difference (difference threshold, difference limen) or intensity of the stimulus discernible in prescribed conditions of stimulation. [NIH] Ticks: Blood-sucking arachnids of the order Acarina. [NIH] Tissue: A group or layer of cells that are alike in type and work together to perform a specific function. [NIH] Tonicity: The normal state of muscular tension. [NIH] Torsion: A twisting or rotation of a bodily part or member on its axis. [NIH] Toxic: Having to do with poison or something harmful to the body. Toxic substances usually cause unwanted side effects. [NIH] Toxicity: The quality of being poisonous, especially the degree of virulence of a toxic microbe or of a poison. [EU] Toxicology: The science concerned with the detection, chemical composition, and pharmacologic action of toxic substances or poisons and the treatment and prevention of toxic manifestations. [NIH] Trace element: Substance or element essential to plant or animal life, but present in extremely small amounts. [NIH] Transfection: The uptake of naked or purified DNA into cells, usually eukaryotic. It is analogous to bacterial transformation. [NIH] Trauma: Any injury, wound, or shock, must frequently physical or structural shock, producing a disturbance. [NIH] Tungsten: A metallic element with the atomic symbol W, atomic number 74, and atomic weight 183.85. It is used in many manufacturing applications, including increasing the hardness, toughness, and tensile strength of steel; manufacture of filaments for incandescent light bulbs; and in contact points for automotive and electrical apparatus. [NIH]
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Urinary: Having to do with urine or the organs of the body that produce and get rid of urine. [NIH] Urinate: To release urine from the bladder to the outside. [NIH] Urine: Fluid containing water and waste products. Urine is made by the kidneys, stored in the bladder, and leaves the body through the urethra. [NIH] Vascular: Pertaining to blood vessels or indicative of a copious blood supply. [EU] Ventricle: One of the two pumping chambers of the heart. The right ventricle receives oxygen-poor blood from the right atrium and pumps it to the lungs through the pulmonary artery. The left ventricle receives oxygen-rich blood from the left atrium and pumps it to the body through the aorta. [NIH] Veterinary Medicine: The medical science concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases in animals. [NIH] Virus: Submicroscopic organism that causes infectious disease. In cancer therapy, some viruses may be made into vaccines that help the body build an immune response to, and kill, tumor cells. [NIH] X-ray: High-energy radiation used in low doses to diagnose diseases and in high doses to treat cancer. [NIH] Yellow Fever: An acute infectious disease primarily of the tropics, caused by a virus and transmitted to man by mosquitoes of the genera Aedes and Haemagogus. [NIH]
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INDEX A Abdominal, 5, 77, 78 Acceptor, 77, 84 Adolescence, 7, 77 Affinity, 77, 87 Aggravation, 24, 77 Algorithms, 77, 78 Alternative medicine, 77 Aluminum, 6, 47, 77 Anaesthesia, 9, 77 Anemia, 77, 83 Anesthesia, 12, 77 Anions, 77, 83 Ankle, 78 Anklets, 27, 78 Anode, 47, 77, 78 Aqueous, 78 Artery, 78, 81, 85, 89 Astringents, 78, 84 Atrial, 12, 78 Atrial Fibrillation, 12, 78 Atrium, 78, 89 Autopsy, 11, 78 B Bacteria, 47, 78, 81, 84 Base, 28, 37, 38, 78, 83 Beta Rays, 78, 81 Biotechnology, 4, 61, 78 Bladder, 78, 82, 89 Blood pressure, 78, 87 Body Fluids, 78, 87 Breeding, 46, 78 C Cadaver, 78, 86 Caesarean section, 13, 78 Calibration, 50, 78 Cardiac, 7, 12, 78, 79, 81, 84, 86, 88 Cardiac arrest, 12, 79, 88 Case report, 6, 7, 9, 11, 79 Cathode, 47, 78, 79, 81 Cations, 79, 83 Cell, 47, 78, 79, 80, 81, 84, 85, 86 Cell Division, 78, 79, 85 Cerebral, 12, 79, 83 Cerebrospinal, 79, 87 Cerebrospinal fluid, 79, 87 Cerebrum, 79 Chlorine, 47, 79
Chromosome, 79, 82, 83 Chronic, 11, 79 Clinical trial, 3, 61, 79 Cloning, 78, 79 Collapse, 39, 79 Complement, 79, 80 Complementary and alternative medicine, 17, 18, 80 Complementary medicine, 17, 80 Compress, 52, 80 Computational Biology, 61, 80 Conduction, 25, 80 Consciousness, 80, 86 Contraindications, ii, 80 Cutaneous, 16, 80 D Diagnostic procedure, 21, 80 Diffusion, 80, 82 Digestion, 80, 83, 88 Diploid, 80, 85 Direct, iii, 4, 6, 33, 35, 37, 40, 42, 44, 45, 48, 50, 80, 86 Distal, 25, 80, 81, 85 Drive, ii, vi, 34, 80 Duodenum, 81, 88 Dystonia, 11, 81 E Electric shock, 5, 26, 49, 81 Electrode, 31, 39, 48, 78, 79, 81 Electrolyte, 81, 87 Electromagnetic Fields, 50, 81 Electrons, 30, 78, 79, 81, 83, 84, 86 Elementary Particles, 81 Embolus, 81, 82 Endemic, 81, 83 Environmental Health, 49, 60, 62, 81 Enzyme, 81, 82 Esophagus, 81, 88 Ethanol, 81, 82 Exhaustion, 81, 83 Extracellular, 81, 87 F Family Planning, 61, 81 Feces, 34, 81, 88 Femoral, 6, 81 Femur, 81 Fence, 24, 81 Fermentation, 53, 82
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Fibrillation, 18, 25, 82 Flatus, 82 Fleas, 34, 82 G Gas, 45, 79, 80, 82, 88 Gene, 46, 78, 82 Generator, 38, 39, 52, 82 Glare, 44, 82 Governing Board, 82, 85 H Haemodialysis, 12, 82 Handicap, 81, 82 Haploid, 82, 85 Heartbeat, 82, 88 Homicide, 6, 11, 82 Houseflies, 16, 82, 84 Hydrogen, 77, 78, 82, 84 I Illusion, 28, 82 Incision, 78, 82 Incontinence, 11, 82 Infarction, 13, 82 Insect Control, 37, 53, 82 Insulator, 36, 82 Intestines, 77, 81, 83 Involuntary, 82, 83, 86 Ions, 47, 78, 81, 82, 83 Irrigation, 11, 83 K Kb, 60, 83 L Labyrinth, 48, 83 Lice, 34, 83 Linkage, 25, 83 Litter, 34, 83 Liver, 77, 81, 83 Localized, 83, 85 Locomotion, 83, 85 Loop, 44, 83 M Malaria, 53, 83 Malaria, Falciparum, 83 Malaria, Vivax, 83 Mania, 11, 83 Medical Records, 83, 86 MEDLINE, 61, 84 Membrane, 80, 82, 84, 86 Mental, iv, 3, 60, 62, 83, 84 Mercury, 32, 84 Microbe, 53, 84, 88 Mitochondrial Swelling, 84 Molecular, 61, 63, 78, 80, 84
Molecule, 78, 80, 84 Mosquito Control, 33, 46, 53, 84 Muscidae, 82, 84 N Necrosis, 13, 82, 84 Nuclear, 13, 81, 84 Nuclei, 81, 84 O Oxidation, 47, 77, 84 P Pacemaker, 9, 84 Parasitic, 82, 83, 84 Perception, 14, 85 Perennial, 53, 85 Perforation, 5, 85 Petechiae, 11, 85 Pharmacologic, 77, 85, 88 Pheromone, 49, 85 Plants, 39, 53, 78, 85 Pneumonia, 80, 85 Poisoning, 84, 85 Power Sources, 42, 85 Practice Guidelines, 62, 85 Probe, 24, 25, 85 Progressive, 84, 85 Protein S, 78, 85 Protozoan, 83, 85 Proximal, 80, 85 Public Policy, 61, 85 Pulmonary, 78, 79, 85, 89 Pulmonary Edema, 79, 85 Pulse, 38, 85 R Radiation, 81, 85, 89 Radiography, 15, 86 Radiopharmaceutical, 82, 86 Reagent, 79, 86 Rectum, 82, 86 Refer, 1, 79, 83, 86 Reflex, 29, 86 Rescue Work, 50, 86 Respiration, 86 Resuscitation, 13, 86 Retina, 86 Retrospective, 9, 86 Retrospective study, 9, 86 Rigidity, 85, 86 Rigor Mortis, 11, 25, 86 Risk factor, 14, 86 Rod, 36, 86 S Sanitary, 33, 34, 86
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Sanitation, 47, 86 Screening, 79, 86 Sensibility, 77, 86 Sensor, 3, 22, 34, 46, 86 Sex Characteristics, 77, 87 Shock, 6, 17, 22, 28, 35, 36, 41, 42, 45, 47, 50, 87, 88 Shunt, 31, 36, 40, 87 Side effect, 87, 88 Silicon, 43, 87 Silicon Dioxide, 87 Skeleton, 81, 87 Skull, 25, 87 Sodium, 11, 87 Somatic, 77, 87 Sound wave, 80, 87 Specialist, 67, 87 Species, 29, 48, 82, 83, 84, 85, 87, 88 Spinal cord, 79, 86, 87 Steel, 30, 87, 88 Stimulus, 80, 81, 86, 88 Stomach, 5, 77, 81, 83, 88 Stool, 82, 88 Stress, 32, 88 Subspecies, 87, 88 Suction, 46, 88 Sudden death, 12, 88 Suppression, 39, 40, 88
T Thermal, 28, 49, 53, 88 Thigh, 81, 88 Threshold, 35, 81, 88 Ticks, 34, 88 Tissue, 81, 84, 86, 87, 88 Tonicity, 81, 88 Torsion, 82, 88 Toxic, iv, 53, 88 Toxicity, 84, 88 Toxicology, 62, 88 Trace element, 87, 88 Transfection, 78, 88 Trauma, 14, 18, 84, 88 Tungsten, 79, 88 U Urinary, 11, 82, 89 Urinate, 34, 89 Urine, 78, 82, 89 V Vascular, 82, 89 Ventricle, 85, 89 Veterinary Medicine, 61, 89 Virus, 89 X X-ray, 9, 79, 84, 89 Y Yellow Fever, 53, 89
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