Scaling of mammalian ethmoid bones can predict olfactory organ size and performance

The relation between size and performance is central for understanding the evolution of sensory systems, and much interest has been focused on mammalian eyes and ears. However, we know very little about olfactory organ size (OOS), as data for a representative set of mammals are lacking. Here, we present a cranial endocast method for estimating OOS by measuring an easily accessible part of the system, the perforated part of the ethmoid bone, through which the primary olfactory axons reach the olfactory bulb. In 16 species, for which relevant data are available, the area of the perforated ethmoid bone is directly proportional to the area of the olfactory epithelium. Thus, the ethmoid bone is a useful indicator enabling us to analyse 150 species, and describe the distribution of OOS within the class Mammalia. In the future, a method using skull material may be applied to fossil skulls. In relation to skull size, humans, apes and monkeys have small olfactory organs, while prosimians have OOSs typical for mammals of their size. Large ungulates have impressive olfactory organs. Relating anatomy to published thresholds, we find that sensitivity increases with increasing absolute organ size.

The electronic medical record: implications for the laboratory

This article describes experiences over the past 5 years with the application of a computerized patient record system and an electronic result inquiry system at Mayo Clinic. These systems now handle 56,000 results and 170,000 inquiries daily--94% relating to the laboratory. The goal of aligning laboratory services with clinical objectives is outlined with an emphasis on converting data into information and knowledge that can be used to improve patient care. Efficiencies noted thus far include a substantial reduction (68%) in phone inquires after deployment of electronic result inquiry. The electronic medical record has gone from concept to reality. As we transition into this new environment and attempt to fulfill the implicit hopes and promises this tool affords, we would wish to quantify its effect. One department lending itself to enumeration is laboratory services. The perspectives shared are gleaned from the Mayo experience and personal observations of the practice of laboratory medicine elsewhere.

Classification and audiovisuals

The University of Connecticut Health Center Library's substantial investment in audiovisuals has prompted careful examination of its organization of the AV collection and its effectiveness in answering user needs. While an accession number system worked for a small collection, increased size quickly generated access problems, especially because shelves are open to users. With the present collection of over 2,500 audiovisual items, adoption of the NLM classification promises convenient and continued flexibility in the future.