Kant, causation and laws of nature.

In the Second Analogy, Kant argues that every event has a cause. It remains disputed what this conclusion amounts to. Does Kant argue only for the Weak Causal Principle that every event has some cause, or for the Strong Causal Principle that every event is produced according to a universal causal law? Existing interpretations have assumed that, by Kant's lights, there is a substantive difference between the two. I argue that this is false. Kant holds that the concept of cause contains the notion of lawful connection, so it is analytic that causes operate according to universal laws. He is explicit about this commitment, not least in his derivation of the Categorical Imperative in Groundwork III. Consequently, Kant's move from causal rules to universal laws is much simpler than previously assumed. Given his commitments, establishing the Strong Causal Principle requires no more argument than establishing the Weak Causal Principle.

Transportation Burden Associated With Hemodialysis in Canada: A Qualitative Study of Stakeholders.

Rationale & Objective: For patients requiring in-center hemodialysis, suboptimal transportation arrangements are commonly cited as a source of ongoing stress and anxiety and have been associated with a reduced quality of life and increased mortality risk. Transportation-related problems are especially pronounced in Canada given its size, low population density, and long, often snowy winters. We aimed to identify and better understand transportation options for hemodialysis patients in Canada and to describe stakeholder experiences. Study Design: We used a qualitative descriptive research design to explore stakeholder experiences and perspectives of transportation to and from dialysis facilities. Setting & Participants: We recruited participants from a large urban hemodialysis program in Western Canada and included 11 participants from a project group, 45 participants from an open forum, and a survey of 8 social workers. Data collection occurred at a series of project group meetings and an open forum (n=45). In addition, we asked 8 renal social workers based in major cities across Canada to comment on the provision of transport for patients in their area via email or telephone consult. Analytical Approach: We used conventional content analysis to explore stakeholder experiences. Results: Traveling to and from dialysis facilities remains a source of stress and anxiety for many patients and their families. Patients described several factors contributing to these feelings including: the challenges of physically getting to the treatment center, particularly in adverse weather conditions; being a burden on family and friends; difficulties accessing the treatment facility; issues with public transport; and financial worries related to high costs. Limitations: Findings may not be relevant in low- and middle-income countries and those with a warmer climate. Conclusions: Without a concerted and collaborative approach to address the barriers identified here, it is likely that travel to and from in-center hemodialysis will continue to adversely affect patients' quality of life.

Do appealing hospital rooms increase patient evaluations of physicians, nurses, and hospital services?

This article investigates the effects of appealing hospital rooms on patient evaluations of hospital services. A field study contrasting appealing and typical rooms finds that appealing rooms result in more positive patient evaluations of physicians and nurses, as well as more favorable patient judgments of the service.