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In analysing life-cycle rituals (rites of passage) it is important to consider not only the relationship between individuals and society, but also the role of the household. The change in status that an individual achieves through life-cycle rituals also has implications for the status of the members of his/her household and of other kin. In the Andes, life-cycle rituals are necessary for the physical, social and spiritual development of individuals and households. Analyses that exclusively associate physical development with 'natural' parents and social and spiritual development with godparents, ignore the complex relationship between the households of parents, children and godparents.

The Northridge earthquake struck Los Angeles on 17 January 1994, originating from a previously unknown thrust fault. The earthquake measured 6.7 on the Richter scale and caused extensive damage to buildings, utilities and roadways. This report describes injuries occurring in the Northridge earthquake which resulted in death or hospital admission.