Reply to Moser and Röggla

Intensive Care Medicine, 2007

Background: This essay provides an ethical and conceptual argument for the use of informed consent prior to the diagnosis of brain death. It is meant to enable the family to make critical end-of-life decisions, particularly withdrawal of life support system and organ donation, before brain death is diagnosed, as opposed to the current practice of making such decisions after the diagnosis of death. The recent tragic case of a 13-year-old brain-dead patient in California who was maintained on a ventilator for over 2 years illustrates how such a consent would have made a crucial difference.

Qualitative Health Research, 2001

This article provides a frank discussion of the practical and ethical issues that emerged during the process of setting up and conducting a participant observation study within an inpatient hospice.A general overview of the participant observation approach is used to prefigure a discussion of its strengths and weaknesses when employed as a research and evaluation tool among palliative care populations. Although participant observation provided a flexible and viable means of collecting data in the hospice, it also created a number of dilemmas that in many cases could not be satisfactorily resolved. Difficulties arose, in particular, with obtaining informed consent from patients and assuming that consent remained valid after patients had deteriorated physically and mentally. Further complications stemmed from the role conflict and ambiguity inherent within an approach that requires a researcher to work simultaneously as a participant and as an observer.

Crit Care, 2003

Internal Medicine Journal, 2019

Critical care (London, England), 2003

Intensivists have the potential to maintain vital signs almost indefinitely, but not necessarily the potential to make moribund patients whole. Current ethical and legal mandates push patient autonomy to the forefront of care plans. When patients are incapable of expressing their preferences, surrogates are given proxy. It is unclear how these preferences extend to the very brink of inevitable death. Some say that patients should have the opportunity and authority to direct their death spiral. Others say it would be impossible for them to do so because an inevitable death spiral cannot be effectively palliated. Humane principles dictate they be spared the unrelenting discomfort surrounding death. The present case examines such a patient and the issues surrounding a unique end-of-life decision.

HEC Forum, 2004

The 27th annual Conference of The International Society for the Philosophy of Chemistry, 2024

In this communication, starting from the relationship between chemistry and biology, I would like to show that the chemical explanation of the material world is today universal and this deserves some philosophical consideration.

New York + London The MacMillan COMPANY , 1899

Is a exploration of myths, legends, and folklore associated with the mysterious islands of the Atlantic Ocean. The book delves into the enchanting narratives of legendary places such as Atlantis, Antillia, and the Seven Cities of Cibola, weaving together a tapestry of early explorations, maritime history, and cultural heritage. Higginson's work captures the imagination with tales of fabled lands (some that cant be proved to be myth or truth), ancient mariners, and mystical voyages, offering readers a rich historical narrative that blends historical fact with speculative mythology. This text serves as both a historical account and a literary exploration of the human fascination with the unknown, highlighting the intersection of romanticism, exploration, and the enduring allure of mythical islands. Book Overview: This writing is a seminal work that examines the lore and legends surrounding the enigmatic islands purported to exist in the Atlantic Ocean. Higginson, a respected historian and author, compiles various accounts and myths, presenting them in a narrative that is both scholarly and engaging. The book explores a range of legendary islands, starting with the well-known myth of Atlantis, described by Plato as a powerful and advanced civilization that mysteriously disappeared beneath the waves. Higginson provides an analysis of the historical and cultural impact of the Atlantis myth, considering its influence on subsequent explorations and its enduring presence in popular imagination. Another focal point is the legend of Antillia, an island said to be discovered by Portuguese sailors in the 15th century. This myth, rooted in the Age of Discovery, reflects the era's spirit of exploration and the hope of finding new lands and untold riches. Higginson discusses the cartographic evidence and the varying accounts from sailors and explorers who claimed to have sighted Antillia, adding a layer of historical context to the legend. The Seven Cities of Cibola, another fascinating tale, is linked to the Spanish expeditions in the New World. These cities were rumored to be made of gold, enticing explorers like Francisco Vásquez de Coronado to embark on perilous journeys in search of wealth and glory. Higginson examines the origins of this legend and its consequences for indigenous populations and European settlers. Higginson also delves into Norse sagas, which recount the voyages of Vikings to lands such as Vinland, thought to be part of North America. These sagas blend historical events with mythic elements, providing a unique perspective on early transatlantic voyages and their impact on European understanding of the world .Throughout the book, Higginson maintains an academic tone, meticulously referencing historical documents, maps, and previous scholarly work. He offers critical insights into the ways these myths have shaped human curiosity and driven exploration. By interweaving historical facts with speculative storytelling, (This Book ) "Tales of the Enchanted Islands of the Atlantic" serves as a enduring power of myth and legend in the context of Atlantic exploration. Chapter contents- The Story of Atlantis: This chapter delves into the myth of Atlantis, originally described by Plato. Higginson explores the historical context of the legend, the descriptions of the advanced civilization, and the various theories about its possible locations and eventual disappearance. - PAGE - 1 Taliessin of the Radiant Brow: This chapter focuses on Taliessin, a legendary bard of Welsh mythology. Higginson discusses Taliessin's supposed abilities, his association with King Arthur's court, and his role in Welsh literary tradition. PAGE-5 The Swan-Children of Lir: The chapter recounts the Irish legend of the children of Lir, who were transformed into swans by their jealous stepmother. Higginson examines the themes of transformation, loss, and redemption in this enduring TALE ! PAGE- 17 Usheen in the Island of Youth: This chapter narrates the story of Usheen (Oisín), a hero in Irish mythology, and his journey to the magical island of Tír na nÓg. Higginson explores the themes of eternal youth, love, and the passage of time. PAGE-25 Bran the Blessed: Higginson explores the legend of Bran the Blessed, a giant and king in Welsh mythology. The chapter covers Bran's voyages, his mystical cauldron, and his role in the Mabinogion, a collection of Welsh tales. PAGE - 32 The Castle of the Active Door: This chapter examines the tale of the Castle of the Active Door, a mythical fortress with a constantly moving entrance. Higginson discusses the symbolism and significance of this legend in Celtic mythology. PAGE 39 Merlin the Enchanter: Higginson delves into the life and legend of Merlin, the enigmatic wizard associated with King Arthur. The chapter explores Merlin's magical abilities, his prophetic powers, and his influence on Arthurian lore. PAGE 48 Sir Lancelot of the Lake: This chapter focuses on Sir Lancelot, one of the most famous knights of the Round Table. Higginson examines Lancelot's origins, his chivalric deeds, and his complex relationship with Queen Guinevere. PAGE- 63 The Half-Man: Higginson explores the legend of the Half-Man, a mythical figure from Celtic folklore. The chapter discusses the various interpretations and representations of this enigmatic character in mythological narratives. - PAGE 74 King Arthur at Avalon: This chapter covers the legendary account of King Arthur's final journey to Avalon. Higginson discusses the symbolism of Avalon, its association with immortality, and its role in Arthurian legend. PAGE 83 Maelduin’s Voyage: Higginson narrates the epic voyage of Maelduin, an Irish hero, who undertakes a journey across the sea encountering various fantastical islands. The chapter explores the allegorical nature of his adventures and their significance in Irish mythology. PAGE 96 The Voyage of St. Brandan: This chapter recounts the legendary voyage of St. Brandan, an Irish monk, in search of the Isle of the Blessed. Higginson examines the hagiographic elements of the tale and its impact on medieval exploration narratives. PAGE 108 Kirwan’s Search for Hy-Brasail: Higginson explores the legend of Hy-Brasail, a mythical island said to appear once every seven years. The chapter covers Kirwan's search for this elusive island and its place in Irish folklore. PAGE 125 The Isle of Satan’s Hand: This chapter discusses the mysterious Isle of Satan’s Hand, a place of dark legend. Higginson examines the origins of the tale, its chilling descriptions, and its role in the broader context of mythical islands. PAGE 134 Antillia, the Island of the Seven Cities: Higginson explores the legend of Antillia, an island purportedly discovered by Portuguese sailors. The chapter delves into the historical accounts, cartographic evidence, and the enduring allure of this fabled island. PAGE 143 Harald the Viking: This chapter covers the exploits of Harald, a Viking explorer. Higginson examines his voyages, his encounters with mythical lands, and the blend of historical and legendary elements in Viking sagas. PAGE 168 The Search for Norumbega: Higginson discusses the quest for Norumbega, a legendary city of riches in North America. The chapter explores the historical expeditions, the various descriptions of the city, and its impact on European exploration. PAGE 186 The Guardians of the St. Lawrence: This chapter explores the legends surrounding the St. Lawrence River and its mythical guardians. Higginson examines the indigenous lore, European interpretations, and the blending of myth and reality. PAGE 196 The Island of Demons: Higginson recounts the tales of the Island of Demons, a place feared by sailors. The chapter delves into the terrifying legends, their origins, and their psychological impact on explorers. PAGE 205 Bimini and the Fountain of Youth: This chapter explores the legend of Bimini, an island rumored to contain the Fountain of Youth. Higginson examines the historical expeditions, the myth's origins, and its influence on explorers like Ponce de León. PAGE 220 NOTES - PAGE 229 TAGS BELOW - Atlantis, lost city, advanced civilization, ancient mystery, Plato, Timaeus, Critias, Atlantic Ocean, Taliessin, Welsh bard, King Arthur, Celtic myth, prophetic bard, magic powers, children of Lir, swan transformation, Irish legend, eternal youth, Usheen, Tír na nÓg, paradise isle, Bran the Blessed, Welsh giant, mystical cauldron, Mabinogion, enchanted castle, active door, moving fortress, Merlin, enchanter, Arthurian myth, magical wizard, Sir Lancelot, Round Table, chivalric knight, Guinevere, tragic romance, heroic deeds, Half-Man, dual nature, hybrid creature, King Arthur, Avalon, mystical island, final journey, Maelduin, epic voyage, fantastical islands, Irish hero, St. Brandan, blessed isle, hagiographic tale, medieval monk, Hy-Brasail, elusive island, seven-year appearance, Kirwan, Isle of Satan’s Hand, dark isle, fearsome legend, Antillia, Portuguese myth, cartographic mystery, mythical city, Harald, Viking explorer, Norse saga, seafaring adventurer, Norumbega, legendary riches, North American city, lost expeditions, St. Lawrence River, mythical guardians, indigenous lore, European myths, Island of Demons, sailors' fear, supernatural isle, psychological terror, Bimini, Fountain of Youth, quest for immortality, rejuvenation, Ponce de León, speculative geography, enchanted islands, sea voyages, legendary narratives, historical myths, mystical lands, archetypal places, ancient maps, cultural heritage, narrative charm, extraordinary tales, seafaring stories, imaginative journeys, fabled lands, romanticism, human fascination, mysterious destinations, maritime legends, early explorers, ancient mariners, speculative exploration, mythic voyages, mythical explorations, historical enchantment, seafaring lore, legendary voyages, mystical lands, archetypal tales, ancient traditions, cultural narratives, human imagination, mythical place...

Research Journal of Phytochemistry, 2007