Point absorbers in Advanced LIGO.

Small, highly absorbing points are randomly present on the surfaces of the main interferometer optics in Advanced LIGO. The resulting nanometer scale thermo-elastic deformations and substrate lenses from these micron-scale absorbers significantly reduce the sensitivity of the interferometer directly though a reduction in the power-recycling gain and indirect interactions with the feedback control system. We review the expected surface deformation from point absorbers and provide a pedagogical description of the impact on power buildup in second generation gravitational wave detectors (dual-recycled Fabry-Perot Michelson interferometers).

Anterolateral S1 screw malposition detected with intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring during posterior lumbosacral fusion.

Background: The standard of care is to utilize intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IOM) of triggered electromyography (tEMG) during posterior lumbosacral instrumented-fusion surgery. IOM should theoretically signal misplacement of S1 screws into the neural L5-S1 foramen or spinal canal, utilizing screw stimulation, and recording of the lower limb muscles and the anal sphincter. Here, we evaluated when and whether anterolateral S1 screw malposition could be detected by IOM/tEMG during open posterior lumbosacral instrumented fusion surgery.

Traumatic spondyloptosis of L3 with incomplete neurological involvement: A case report.

Unlabelled: High-energy traumas frequently result in lumbar spine fractures such as spondyloptosis is the maximum expression of instability and severity. The management of spondyloptosis is complex and, essentially, surgical. It usually presents with irreversible neurological compromise.

Women's Choice Regarding Breastfeeding and Its Effect on Well-Being.

Because of the many known maternal and neonatal health benefits of breastfeeding, there have been significant efforts to encourage exclusive breastfeeding, and many hospitals follow the guidelines of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative. However, even with the right support, many women are unable to exclusively breastfeed, which may make them feel anxious and/or depressed. Psychological pressure to exclusively breastfeed has the potential to contribute to postpartum depression symptoms in new mothers who are unable to achieve their breastfeeding intentions.

Upper thoracic dumbbell-shaped tumor resected in one stage posterior approach: case report.

Upper thoracic tumors may develop spinal cord compression. By surgery at the time of diagnosis, a neurological deficit can be avoided. However, this particular localization requires a double approach to decompress the spinal cord and thoracic structures.

Knowledge and Competency of Nursing Faculty Regarding Evidence-Based Practice.

The Institute of Medicine recommended that 90% of clinical decisions should be evidenced based by 2020. Both the IOM and the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses identified evidenced-based practice (EBP) as a core competency for practice. EBP can reduce costs, improve patient outcomes, and ensure optimal nursing interventions.

An assessment of CPR skills using simulation: Are first responders prepared to save lives?

The American Heart Association's (AHA) recommendation for biyearly recertification and annual mandatory CPR training may be suboptimal for first responders (nurses and technicians) working in outpatient clinics (American Heart Association, 2013). To determine the efficacy of the AHA guidelines, 40 simulated sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) encounters were conducted followed by debriefing and a subsequent SCA to determine a basic level of CPR proficiency. First responders' CPR skills were evaluated using a 19-item assessment form to quantify the event.

The influence of high fidelity simulation on first responders retention of CPR knowledge.

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to identify the impact of high-fidelity simulation on the retention of basic life support cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) knowledge among a group of healthcare providers (HCPs).

Methods: A twenty-five question exam was completed by nurses and nurse technicians over a two-year period before and after mandatory CPR training with high-fidelity simulation.

Results: Most HCPs scored near 50% or below the passing score (80%) with a mean range of scores between 28% and 84%.

Using simulation technology to identify gaps between education and practice among new graduate nurses.

Applied knowledge was observed among nurse groups from a medical-surgical residency program to measure clinical performance during simulation training. Twenty groups of new graduate nurses were observed during five simulated clinical scenarios, and their performances were scored on a 24-item checklist. Nurse groups showed significant improvement (p < 0.