bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fact‐oriented modelling for data analysis
Authors: Halpin TA , Orlowska ME
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Although entity‐relationship modelling is the most popular means of specifying the conceptual schema for the data perspective of an information system, an alternative design approach known as fact‐oriented modelling appears to offer advantages. This paper provides an overview of fact‐oriented modelling, including some recent revisions and an evaluation of how the method has coped with large‐scale practical applications. One distinguishing feature of the approach is its emphasis on natural verbalization of information examples in terms of elementary facts. This notion of elementarity is clarified to cater for a problematic case involving compositely identified object types. Finally, the algorithm for mapping a conceptual to a relational schema is revised to cater for lazy object types.
Understanding the social practices of systems developers
Authors: Bloomfield Brian P
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The aim of this paper is to explore some of the ways in which we think about the development of information systems by drawing upon arguments articulated within the philosophy of science and the sociology of technology. It argues that many of these approaches operate on the basis of a reified and sociologically restricted view of technology. Drawing upon recent work in the sociology of technology the paper proposes a more thorough‐going analysis of the social practice of information systems development and discusses examples from knowledge engineering and requirements analysis to illustrate its argument.
The realities of database design: an essay on the sociology, semiology and pedagogy of database work
Authors: Beynon‐Davies Paul
Published: March 2008

Abstract. This paper discusses the way in which a branch of information systems development — database design — takes its context from a sociological and semiological analysis. The two major objectives of this paper are: (a) to discuss strategies for teaching this material to undergraduate students of computing, (b) to identify potential new directions of research in the database area.
Information management and organizational processes: an approach through soft systems methodology
Authors: Checkland P. , Holwell S.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. This paper explores an approach to understanding information provision in organizations which is built around soft systems methodology (SSM). It also, from recent research in both industry and the National Health Service, derives a sense‐making framework for work of this kind. A view of the fundamental nature of information systems is presented. This is compatible with SSM, and uses of SSM in information‐focused studies are illustrated. These cover the rethinking of the Manufacturing Function in the Shell Group and a number of studies in the NHS concerned with the information implications of current changes. Out of this work, in order to make sense of disparate experiences, a framework is derived which captures three necessary domains (conceptual, organizational, technological) whose interaction defines an organization's response to its information provision.
Semantic database prototypes
Authors: Baskerville R.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. This paper describes a technique for improving the semantic consensus of conceptual database designs. Semantic consensus is a condition where there is pragmatic agreement among database designers and all of the users about which aspect of reality is being represented by a particular database element, and how that representation is being coded. The technique, called semantic database prototyping (SDP), involves a prototype that has been designed and constructed purely as a consequence of the semantic data model. The purpose of the semantic database prototype is to promote direct user validation during the conceptual database design phase of information systems analysis and design. Its distinguishing characteristic is its capture of data element occurrences within the context of the database design. The research method was action research, and the project is also briefly described.
Linking soft systems methodology with data‐focused information systems development
Authors: Lewis P. J.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Where the soft systems methodology (SSM) is used in the development of organizational information systems a clear division exists between the use of SSM to identify what information systems are required and conventional development activities in which it is decided how those information systems will be supplied. Discussion of how SSM might be more closely linked to conventional information systems development methodologies has been concentrated upon process‐focused approaches to information systems development. This has been partly due to a perceived mismatch between the underlying philosophies of SSM and the alternative data‐focused development methodologies. This paper argues that this perception may be mistaken; not only do the existing forms of data analysis have a large though unacknowledged subjective component but the SSM concept of appreciation may provide a model of human sense‐making that the data‐focused approaches currently lack and from which they may benefit. The idea of appreciation also allows that an alternative, interpretative form of data analysis might be used within SSM. It is therefore the conclusion of this paper that some closer integration of SSM with data‐focused approaches to information systems development is theoretically feasible and may be practically desirable. A number of possible advantages of such integration are described.
Towards a flexible information architecture: integrating business strategies, information systems strategies and business process redesign*
Authors: Galliers R. D.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. . Factors which help to integrate business and information systems strategy are identified, a linchpin being the identification of what might be termed an information strategy. Information is defined and the implications of this definition for Vie provision of a flexible information environment are identified. The use of soft systems methodology in identifying key information needs and flows is summarized and an extension of this approach, which utilizes the concept of developing alternative future scenarios and associated business strategies, is introduced.
The influence of rhetorical schemes on innovation decisions
Authors: King W. R. , Kugler J. L.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Innovation may be viewed as a political process in which rival ideas, sponsored by rival individuals or groups, compete for acceptance and support. Sponsors of a particular idea must build, through argumentation, a consensus to support their idea.

This paper addressed rhetorical schemes as a potentially important element of the innovation decision. While rhetorical actions have been studied in other contexts, they have not been investigated in innovation decision situations.

The construct of rhetorical scheme is developed in this paper as a way to explain the outcomes of the innovation decision process. A scenario was devised in which decision makers face two different rhetorical schemes, emotional/affective and technical/logical, both related to a technology innovation. A hypothesis is tested in order to make a preliminary judgement on the impact of the rhetoric scheme on the financial choices made by the decision makers. The results suggest that the current innovation paradigms might be usefully extended by incorporating rhetorical actions as explanatory elements.
Rapid adoption of information systems in an organization with poor management: the case of fund‐holding in UK primary health care
Authors: Sillince J. A. A. , Frost C. E. B.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Reorganization of the UK primary health care system to create an internal market for health services depends upon local family doctors (general practitioners) taking on budgetary responsibilities and purchasing services from hospitals. These budgets will be monitored by local committees. The success of the internal market is heavily dependent upon computerized management information systems. This paper investigates the introduction of information systems into an organization that is ill prepared for change.
An empirical study of the validation process within requirements determination
Authors: Flynn D. J. , Warhurst R.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. An empirical investigation into the validation process within requirements determination is described in which systems analysts were asked to complete a questionnaire concerning important validation issues. We describe the major validation activities, a set of major problems experienced by the respondents, factors affecting the process and hypotheses for problem explanations. The levels of experience of the respondents and the organizations for which they work appear to be significant.

Analysts employ a very traditional approach, expressing the specification mainly in English, and they experience problems in using over‐formal notations in informal situations with users, as well as problems in deriving full benefit from notations when building the specification and detecting its properties. Not all of the specification is validated and tool use is not widespread and does not appear to be effective.

We define the concepts of formal and informal view, and suggest that method and tool use will not necessarily increase in organizations as it is apparent that research into the more effective application of formal notations is necessary. In addition, it is clear that the factors that affect the validation process are not only technical, but individual and organizational, necessitating the development of suitable informal activities which take these factors into account.
Information strategy and organization structure
Authors: Jordan E.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The information systems literature has taken little recognition of developments in the areas of organization structure and design. The concentration of professional practice has been on management information systems for ‘big business’ and ‘book‐keeping’ systems for smaller businesses. This is a very limited view of the overall needs for information in organizations. Organizations may take many forms, and the nature of information systems that are needed will vary depending upon the particular form taken. This paper works from the organization structure literature towards a theory of information systems structure and strategy. Illustrative cases that support the hypotheses are described.
Sisyphus and the social construction of computer user problems
Authors: Grint K.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. This article argues that one way of understanding the role of technical developments in computers is to consider them as solutions looking for problems, rather than as solutions to pre‐existing problems. This reversal of popular opinion is premised on an analysis of the way that boundaries are drawn around the domain of the ‘technical’ such that computer users can be kept at a distance and their interpretation of computer user problems ‘managed’ more or less successfully by those purporting to resolve such problems. The result is that users are faced with a labour of Sisyphus: just when they thought they had resolved their problems another technical ‘advance’ suddenly appears and generates another problem. An awareness of the social framework for such developments may facilitate a clearer appreciation of the role of the problem solver in the construction of the problem itself.
An experimental analysis of end‐user software training manuals*
Authors: Olfman L. , Mandviwalla M.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. This paper describes two experimental studies that examine the difference between software training manuals for new users of a groupware software package. The manuals differed in terms of their elaboration of procedural, conceptual and usage information. It was expected that manuals with rich conceptual and usage elaborations would produce the best learning outcomes. No significant differences were found in the learning outcomes of subjects with either high or low levels of previous computer experience. The elements that influence the development of instructional manuals are analysed from the perspective of our findings. The paper suggests that examining the underlying relationships between procedural, conceptual and usage information is an important topic for understanding and evaluating design guidelines for instructional manuals. Research into the methods used to communicate this information may provide insight on the usage and development of instructional manuals.
Designing with dialogue charts: a qualitative content analysis of end‐user designers' experiences with a software engineering design tool
Authors: Calloway L J. , Ariav G.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Software engineering tools used by designers are critical to most systems development methodologies, and successful methodologies are critical to improved productivity. However, the way in which designers use and relate to software engineering tools, whether computer assisted or not, has received little attention in the design literature. The purpose of this study is to gain insight into how people perceive the process of using design tools. The study is a qualitative analysis of interview information from participants in a field experiment. Four teams of student designers used various design tools during the development of interactive information systems typical of those that might be developed by sophisticated end‐users. The research reported here is an exploratory study aimed at understanding how designers use one of these tools, the dialogue charts. The broad range of purposes included the uses predicted by the reference literature on design. However, the end‐user designers also used the tool opportunistically — they found a broader range of tool usage than the literature on design tools predicted. For example, they consistently used the tool as a communications vehicle among different phases of design and development. The results show that the relationships these ‘end‐user designers’ developed with the target tool are expressed in highly emotional language. These attitudes are tightly coupled with the purposes for which the designers use the tool. The methodology uses a field experiment as a treatment and a semistructured interview with a hidden agenda for gathering data. The data analysis techniques draw on the concepts of discovering grounded theory as described by Glaser and Strauss. They further draw on the concepts of qualitative content analysis synthesized by Krippendortf and the qualitative data analysis methods described by Miles and Huberman.
Executive support systems and executive preferences: a comparison of information channel selection theories
Authors: Vandenbosch Betty , Higgins Chris
Published: March 2008

Abstract. A number of theories have been put forward to explain how managers make information channel choices. These include channel disposition, media richness and social influence. Each is assessed in terms of its usefulness for providing insight into why executives choose to use or not to use executive support systems (ESS). The results of a survey of 66 executives indicate that social influence theory may provide significant insight into information channel selection. A secondary analysis provides evidence that there are no significant relationships between demographic characteristics and several perceptual measures of ESS performance.
Information systems: necessity or luxury in changing economies?
Authors: Cmkovic Jakov , Holstein William K.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. This paper explores the role of information technology and systems in countries that are undergoing rapid social and economic change. The countries of East and Central Europe and the former Soviet Union are good examples. We focus on the most important needs for management information in such countries, which are often quite different from those in Western countries, and on the difficulties of implementing information technology. We suggest that improved information systems will be critical for future success in changing economies and that the processes for developing systems and applying information technology should follow quite different paths from those followed in the US and Western Europe. We also present several examples of problems and possible solutions.
Business programmes and information systems methodologies
Authors: Kelleher Don
Published: March 2008

Abstract. An Information Systems Methodology is usually presented as a sequential set of tasks — planning, analysis, design and construction — resulting in a new business application. This classical ‘forward‐engineering’ approach must be adapted to changing business needs — business process redesign, quality management, process and systems templates, advanced technologies, application packages, the reuse of existing information systems resources, and rapid delivery cycles. Using the most general concept of a Business Programme, this paper describes a methodological approach incorporating these modern themes that is qualitatively and quantitatively different from the classical model. It provides a framework for the integration of otherwise independent methodologies, and shows how an entire programme can be formulated, planned and executed. An example is provided, and the approach is justified.
Evaluating business information systems: reflections on an empirical study
Authors: FARBEY B. , TARGETT D. , LAND F.
Published: March 2008

Abstract.A leading vendor of information technology (IT) systems commissioned the authors to investigate how its clients made their decision to acquire new systems, what benefits they expected to gain, and the kind of evaluation procedures used both before taking the decision to go ahead and subsequently when the systems were in operation. The 16 organizations participating in the study had all purchased major systems and were willing to talk frankly about their experiences. The results of the research have been extensively reported elsewhere. The purpose of this paper is to draw out the implications for IT management. The paper opens with a summary of the findings of the original research. The main part of the paper consists of six case studies from which the management issues are drawn out.
The management of information technology, governance, and managerial characteristics
Authors: Karake Z.A.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Using a sample of Fortune 500 industrial firms, this study hypothesizes that various infra‐organizational factors, including those commonly associated with agency, governance and managerial characteristics of the firm, that affect the decision to create a top management executive position for a chief information officer (CIO). Statistically meaningful relationships were observed between the creation of a top executive CIO position and (1) top management's equity interests, (2) the number of outside directors on the board, (3) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) age, and (4) CEO Experience.
Information and meaning: foundations for an intersubjective account
Authors: Mingers J. C.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Information is fundamental to the discipline of information systems, yet there is little agreement about even this basic concept. Traditionally, information has been seen as ‘processed data,’ while more recently soft, interpretive approaches have taken information to be ‘data plus meaning.’ This paper provides a coherent and consistent analysis of data, information, meaning and their interrelations. It is particularly concerned with the semantic and pragmatic dimensions of information, and integrates the work of Maturana and Habermas into a framework provided by Dretske's theory of semantic information. The results show that meaning is generated from the information carried by signs. Information is objective, but inaccessible to humans, who exist exclusively in a world of meaning. Meaning is intersubjective — that is, based on shared agreement and understanding — rather than purely subjective. Information, and information processing systems, exist within the wider context of meaning or sense‐making and the IS discipline needs take account of this.
Ethics and information technology use: a factor analysis of attitudes to computer use
Authors: Conger Sue , Loch Karen D. , Helft B. Loerine
Published: March 2008

Abstract. In 1986 Richard O. Mason identified privacy, accuracy, property and access as four ethical issues for the information age. The research reported here sought to answer the questions: are these social issues empirically verifiable constructs? Second, what consensus exists on the factors?

A field survey of 79 business professionals and students identified 12 factors which were grouped into five clusters: ownership, access, motivation, responsibility and privacy. These constructs identify additional dimensions and complexity to extend Mason's definition of key ethical issues. The importance of separating the computer user who experiences the ethical dilemma from the stakeholder(s) who deal with the consequences of the dilemma is identified.

This study also demonstrates some consensus within the survey items. Consensus exists that it is unethical to profit from non‐job, computer‐related acts. Consensus also exists that personal use of company‐owned information technology resources is acceptable. The other items show little consensus, identifying areas of necessary discussion within the computing professions to determine ethically consistent and appropriate computer uses.
The fetish of technique: methodology as a social defence
Authors: Wastell David G.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Methodology is a central issue in the theory and practise of information systems development. Structured methods, for instance, have been widely championed as providing a way of improving the quality of software systems. In this paper a case study is presented in which a mail order company made an attempt to implement a well‐known methodology, Structured Systems Analysis and Design Methodology (SSADM). Far from facilitating the development process, SSADM encouraged a rigid and mechanical approach in which the methodology was applied in a ritualistic way which inhibited creative thinking. The argument is thus, that methodology, although its influence may be benign, has the potential to operate as a ‘social defence’, i.e. as a set of organizational rituals with the primary function of containing anxiety. The grandiose illusion of an all‐powerful method allows practitioners to deny their feelings of impotence in the face of the daunting technical and political challenges of systems development. By withdrawing into this fantasy world the learning processes that are critical to the success of systems development are jeopardized. Methodology, whilst masquerading as the epitome of rationality, may thus operate as an irrational ritual, the enactment of which provides designers with a feeling of security and efficiency at the expense of real engagement with the task at hand.
Living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at the end of life: a phenomenological study
Authors: Ek Kristina , Ternestedt Britt‐Marie
Published: March 2008

Title.  Living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at the end of life: a phenomenological study

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to describe the essential structure of the lived experience of living with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) during the palliative phase of the disease.

Background.  Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is one of the most common diseases throughout the world. Shortness of breath, fatigue and cough are the most troublesome symptoms, and living with COPD often imposes limitations on daily living. The disease has a great impact on quality of life and affects the extent to which people can be active in daily life.

Methods.  We conducted qualitative interviews of eight people with COPD and collected data over a 2‐month period in 2003. Our patients were recruited from two pulmonary disease clinics in West Sweden. We used a phenomenological methodology to analyse the interviews.

Findings.  Daily life for people with COPD is affected in several different ways. The patients described how their physical limitations forced them to refrain from meaningful activities in everyday life and led to social isolation. Everyday emotions vacillated between viewing life as meaningful and meaningless. A sense of involvement and the belief that life was meaningful gave the individual the energy and the desire to continue living and to envision a future.

Conclusion.  Nursing care should include support and facilitation, so that patients can live rather than exist to the end of their lives. It is important to learn from patients and tailor activities to their social, existential and physical priorities, where appropriate family‐centred support may be most effective.
Imaging features of hepatic angiomyolipomas
Authors: Low SCS , Peh WCG , Muttarak M , Cheung HS , Ng IOL
Published: March 2008

We review the imaging appearances of hepatic angiomyolipomas in patients with and without tuberous sclerosis. Sporadic hepatic angiomyolipomas have a varied appearance because of the inconstant proportion of fat, making confident imaging diagnosis difficult and necessitating biopsy in many cases. In patients with tuberous sclerosis, hepatic angiomyolipomas have a more consistent imaging appearance and, together with other features of the syndrome, can be more easily diagnosed. Preoperative diagnosis helps obviate unnecessary surgery.
Non‐invasive prediction of the degree of liver fibrosis in patients with hepatitis C using an ultrasound contrast agent. A pilot study
Authors: Searle J , Mendelson R , Zelesco M , Sanford J , Cheng W , McKinstry C , Ramsay D
Published: March 2008

It has been shown that the severity of hepatic fibrosis in patients with hepatitis C can be predicted non‐invasively by measuring intrahepatic circulatory time (IHCT) using a microbubble agent with spectral Doppler analysis. The aim of this study was to assess whether this technique is reproducible using a third‐generation microbubble agent and contrast harmonic imaging, which are becoming the standard ultrasound techniques in all radiology departments. Twenty‐three untreated patients with hepatitis C, who had undergone a recent liver biopsy, were studied prospectively. Based on their histological fibrosis score, patients were divided into four groups (fibrosis levels 1–4). Contrast harmonic imaging was carried out after an intravenous bolus of a microbubble agent (Optison; Amersham Health, Milwaukee, WI, USA). IHCT was calculated by measuring the difference between the hepatic vein and hepatic artery microbubble arrival times. The IHCT was compared with the degree of fibrosis. Significant differences were shown between the groups for IHCT. There were significant differences between fibrosis levels 1 and 3 and between fibrosis levels 1 and 4. This study has shown that calculation of IHCT using a third‐generation microbubble agent and contrast harmonic imaging can differentiate mild fibrosis from more severe degrees of fibrosis in patients with hepatitis C.
Atypical appendicitis: The impact of CT and its management
Authors: See TC , Watson CJE , Arends MJ , Ng CS
Published: March 2008

Acute appendicitis is a diagnosis that can be made on clinical symptoms and signs but can often be extremely challenging. Difficulties arise particularly when the presentation is atypical, and this can lead to untoward sequelae. In this review, we present the range of presentations of atypical appendicitis, the variety of management options and the potential value of CT.
Dose escalation of radical radiation therapy in non‐small‐cell lung cancer using positron emission tomography/computed tomography‐defined target volumes: Are class solutions obsolete?
Authors: Everitt S , Schneider‐Kolsky M , Yuen K , Budd R , Mac Manus M
Published: March 2008

This study investigated the maximum theoretical radiation dose that could safely be delivered to 20 patients diagnosed with non‐small‐cell lung cancer. Two three‐dimensional conformal radiation therapy (RT) class‐solution techniques (A and B) and an individualized three‐dimensional conformal RT technique (C) were compared at the standard dose of 60 Gy (part I). Dose escalation was then attempted for each technique successfully at 60 Gy, constrained by predetermined limits for lung and spinal canal (part II). Part I and part II data were reanalysed to include oesophageal dose constraints (part III). In part I, 60 Gy was successfully planned using techniques A, B and C in 19 (95%), 18 (90%) and 20 (100%) patients, respectively. The mean escalated dose attainable for part II using techniques A, B and C were 76.4, 74 and 97.8 Gy, respectively (P < 0.0005). One (5%) patient was successfully planned for 120 Gy using techniques A and B, whereas four (20%) were successfully planned using technique C. Following the inclusion of additional constraints applied to the oesophagus in part III, the amount of escalated dose remained the same for all patients who were successfully planned at 60 Gy apart from two patients when technique C was applied. In conclusion, individualized three‐dimensional conformal RT facilitated greater dose conformation and higher escalation of dose in most patients. With modern planning tools, simple class solutions are obsolete for conventional dose radical RT in non‐small‐cell lung cancer. Highly individualized conformal planning is essential for dose escalation.
Radiation recall dermatitis with gatifloxacin: A review of literature
Authors: Jain S , Agarwal J , Laskar S , Gupta T , Shrivastava S
Published: March 2008

Radiation recall dermatitis (RRD) is a hypersensitivity skin reaction at the previously irradiated site after the administration of certain pharmacologic agent, which recovers on stopping the medication. RRD is a well‐recognized phenomenon with the use of chemotherapeutic agents; however, only a few cases have been reported with noncytotoxic antibiotics, despite their common use in patients with cancer. We report here a case of RRD with the use of gatifloxacin and describe the time dose factors of radiation exposure, characteristics of skin reactions, management and response and our reasons to label this case as RRD. We also discuss published work regarding proposed mechanisms, histological features, radiation dose threshold and response to rechallange with the RRD‐triggering drug. If RRD is to be characterized unequivocally, all the potential areas of confusion must be clarified like radiosensitization, nonhealing of acute reactions and skin‐related adverse effects of the RRD‐triggering drug. With the same objective, we further discussed radiosensitization and photosensitizing potential of fluoroquinolones. Gatifloxacin, although devoid of photosensitivity reactions, may cause idiosyncratic hypersensitivity reaction to cause RRD and should be considered as a potential cause of RRD. Given the potential severity of the reaction and increasing use of gatifloxacin, it is important to be aware of this phenomenon.
Clear‐cell ependymoma: A report of intracortical tumor with significant desmoplasia
Authors: Parafeynikov Valeriy , Boaz Joel C. , Bonnin Jose M.
Published: March 2008

We report a case of clear‐cell ependymoma in a 20‐month‐old girl who presented with seizures. The tumor had several uncommon features including a solid consistency, a purely intracortical location, and a remarkable degree of desmoplasia. Clinical, radiological, and pathological findings are presented. This case emphasizes the value of ultrastructural studies in pathological work‐up of brain tumors.
Thyroid Suppression and the Long‐Acting Thyroid Stimulator Following Radioactive Iodine Therapy for Thyrotoxicosis
Authors: Alford F. P. , Larkins R. G. , Martin F. I. B.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Triiodothyronine suppression tests were performed on 47 patients five to 34 months after radioactive‐iodine therapy for thyrotoxicosis. Serum long‐acting thyroid stimulator (LATS) was measured before and at intervals after radioactive iodine. No relationship was found between thyroid suppressibility and serum LATS at the time of the suppression test, nor between suppress/‐bility and the highest LATS litre obtained for each patient during the investigation. Serum LATS was not related to |131 uptake prior to triiodothyronine nor to persistence of toxicity, but there was a slightly higher incidence of detectable LATS in patients whose goitres did not decrease in size following I131 therapy. Thyroid stimulating hormone was measured at the time of the suppression test in eleven patients and it did not appear to be a major determinant of thyroid suppressibility.

The results do not support an aetio‐logical role for circulating LATS in thyrotoxicosis, but a possible role for intrathyroidal LATS cannot be discounted.
The Significance of Monoclonal Gammopathy in a Normal Population*
Authors: Carrell R. W. , Colls B. M. , Murray J. T.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Electrophoretic examination of the serum of a population of 2,192 adults in a New Zealand town showed that eleven of them had a monoclonal gammopathy, an overall incidence of 0.5%. During a three‐year follow up period two died of unrelated disease and four have been demonstrated to have associated overt clinical disease. A further two have blood changes suspicious of an early reticulosis. In two cases no disease state is evident on follow up and in one case the monoclonal peak has regressed but there is suspected immunoparesis.
The Relationship Between Daily Asthma Attendance, Weather Parameters, Spore Count and Pollen Count
Authors: Hobday John D. , Stewar Allan J.
Published: March 2008

Summary: The daily incidence of asthma as measured by the attendance of children with asthma in the season of low pollen numbers (April to September) is compared with total casualty attendance figures, the atmospheric pollen and fungal spore counts, and with climatic conditions including atmospheric ionization.

A multiple regression computer programme with up to three days lag for the effect of climate factors on asthma attendance and fungal and pollen counts was used to demonstrate association between these factors. Statistical analysis of this data shows that there is a significant association between reduction in asthma attendance (p < 0.05) and increased atmospheric ionization three days before, increased barometric pressure two days before, and increased temperature one day before. This association accounts for 16.18% of the daily variation in asthma attendance. There is also a significant association between increased fungal spore counts and increased asthma (p < 0.05). In this April to September period there is no association between pollen grain counts and asthma. Climate factors, as might be expected, are significantly associated with variation in pollen (26.44%) and fungal spore numbers (21.74%). With the exception of atmospheric ionization three days before (being associated with both a reduction in fungal spore count and a reduction in asthma attendance), there is no coincidence between the climate factors associated with variation in air spora numbers and those associated with variation in attendance with asthma. It would appear that, in the Perth area between April and September, variation in climate factors and fungal spore counts are associated with variation in the asthma attendance rate.
Factors Determining the Shape of Maximum Expiratory Flow‐Volume Curves in Childhood Asthma
Authors: Landau L. I. , Hill D. J. , Phelan P. D.
Published: March 2008

Summary: In 12 children with bronchial asthma, the factors determining maximum expiratory flow at different levels of lung inflation have been examined during forced vital capacity manoeuvres. The findings confirm the histopathological evidence of major changes in the small and medium sized airways in asthma. Changes in the function of these airways, especially those with small internal diameters, often remained undetected by conventional spirometry, whereas analysis of the maximum expiratory flow‐volume (MEFV) curves of these asthmatic children frequently revealed abnormalities. It is suggested that MEFV curves are simple and useful in the assessment of disease in the small airways.
Arterial Hypoxaemia in Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Tonkin A. M. , Wilson D. F. , Richmon D. R.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Serial measurements of arterial pO2, pCO2 and pH were made in 99 patients admitted to a coronary care unit with acute myocardial ischaemia or infarction. Samples were taken whilst the patients breathed room air and air enriched with oxygen in a concentration of approximately 40% via nasal cannulae. The degree of arterial hypoxaemia on room air correlated well with the degree of left ventricular failure. The increase in arterial oxygen tension produced by oxygen enrichment of the inspired air was greater in those with mild than in those with severe left ventricular dysfunction. The return of the arterial oxygen tension to normal after myocardial infarction may be protracted, suggesting that prolonged oxygen administration is advisable in the more severely ill patients. Levels of arterial pCO2 and pH were not found to be helpful in management.
Therapeutic Serum Digoxin Concentration: Relation to Age, Weight, Sex, and Serum Creatinine Levels‡‡
Authors: Schapel G. J. , McGrath B. P. , Edwards K. D. G. , Hawkins M. R. , Mitchell A. S.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Serum digoxin concentration was determined by radioimmuno‐assay in a group of 41 hospitalized adult patients (22 males and 19 females), selected prospectively for constant effective dosage with digoxin for at least three weeks, without clinical or electrocardiographic evidence of digoxin intoxication. Serum creatinine values were within the normal or near‐normal range. The majority were receiving diuretic therapy which was associated with mild alkalosis (75% of patients) and occasionally hypomagnesaemia (18%). The patients were considered to be effectively digitalized. The mean serum digoxin concentration six hours after the morning oral dose of digoxin in 28 of the 41 patients, with normal serum creatinine values, was 1.3 ng/ml (S.D. 0.4 ng/ml), and in the other 13 patients with mildly elevated serum creatinine values (range 1.3 to 1.6 mg/dl for 6 males and 1.1 to 1.4 mg/dl for 7 females) was 1.4 ng/ml (S.D. 0.7 ng/ml). Approximate GFR (% of normal corrected for age and surface area) was derived from auto‐analyzer serum creatinine values, using the formulae 110/serum creatinine concentration (mg/dl) for males and 85/serum creatinine for females. The patients with mild renal failure (approximate GFR, males 85 to 69% of normal; females, 77 to 61% of normal) were found to be significantly older and required significantly smaller oral maintenance doses of digoxin than the patients with normal serum creatinine valuestoachieve virtually the same serum digoxin concentration. Formulae were derived to enable calculation of the therapeutic daily dose of digoxin from age in years (A), weight in kg (W), sex and serum creatinine concentration in mg/dl (SCr) as follows:—
Computer Diagnosis of Thyroid Carcinoma*,†
Authors: Hooper M. J. , Oddie T. H. , Stiel J. N. , Reeve T. S. , Hales I. B.
Published: March 2008

Summary: This paper describes a retrospective study comparing the probabilities of thyroid carcinoma occurring as calculated by a computer with the histopathological diagnosis.

In a series of patients subjected to thyroidectomy for nontoxic goitre, the computer calculated probability of thyroid carcinoma correlated well with the final diagnosis. The predicted probability of carcinoma of the thyroid was arbitrarily grouped into five ranges, varying from low probability of less than 5% to high, greater than 75%. The incidence of carcinoma in the low probability group was 1.5% while in the high probability group it was 42.9%.
Electrocardiograms in the Busselton Population
Authors: Cullen K. J. , Murphy B. P. , Cumpston G. N.
Published: March 2008

Summary: In 1972, electrocardiograms were recorded on members of the Busselton community and classified according to nine major categories of the Minnesota code. Men showed a higher prevalence of abnormalities than women except for ST depression in 60–69 year old women.

Comparisons with the 1959‐60 Tecumseh population revealed a significantly lower prevalence of T waves and tall R waves in Busselton people, and a tendency to fewer abnormal Q waves, abnormal ST segments and ectopic beats in Busselton men. The moderate prevalence of Q waves in Busselton compared with elsewhere is consistent with lower death rates from CVD observed in Busselton men over 60 years compared with urban men in Australia.

Concerning the predictive value of including electrocardiography in mass health examinations, Busselton's 1966 ECGs were classified into one of three categories—those with either no evidence of ischaemic heart disease (IHD), with suspect IHD, or with probable IHD. All subjects have since been followed for six years. In those with evidence of suspect IHD, the annual death rates for heart attacks in men and women between 1967‐72 was 7–9 times that of those whose ECG showed no evidence of IHD. Men with probable IHD suffered about 20 times the annual risk and women about 47 times the risk of those whose ECG showed no evidence of IHD.
Rubella Vaccination and Thrombocytopenia††
Authors: Forrest Jill M. , Honeyman Margo C. , Lovric V. A.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Mild thrombocytopenia occurred significantly more often in a group of young women who received live attenuated rubella virus vaccine than in their matched controls. All responded serologically to the vaccine, but the thrombocytopenia commenced before circulating rubella antibodies could be detected, suggesting an infective rather than an immunologic mechanism. Thrombocytopenia has been associated with other viral infections; it appears to be also a feature of rubella vaccination. It is interesting to speculate on its incidence in the children and adolescents at present being vaccinated.
Patient Compliance Assessment in Drug Trials: Usage and Methods
Authors: Soutter B. R. , Kennedy M. C.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Patient noncompliance in a therapeutic regime, although common, is not widely recognised. It can be detected objectively by such measures as tablet counting, the detection of inert markers or the measurement of levels of the drug or its metabolites in a body fluid, or by the close supervision of drug administration. Of 768 studies published in the British Medical Journal and The Lancet between January 1969 and December 1972 in which various effects of drugs are reported, 324 required the incorporation of some means of estimating compliance but in only 61 (19%) were such measures employed.
L‐Alpha‐Methyldopa Hydrazine (Carbidopa) Combined with L‐Dopa in the Treatment of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Glasgow G. L. , Henley J. W. , Willoughby E. W.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Clinical experience with the use of L‐alpha‐methyldopa hydrazine (Carbidopa), an inhibitor of peripheral decarboxylation of L‐dopa, in the treatment of idiopathic Parkinson's disease in twenty‐six patients is described. Malaise, nausea and vomiting associated with L‐dopa therapy were relieved in most patients. Improved motor function was marked in 25%, moderate in 50% of the patients, while the necessary dosage of L‐dopa was reduced by a mean of 65%. It is concluded that the use of this decarboxylase inhibitor with L‐dopa significantly improves the symptomatic treatment of Parkinson's disease, particularly in those patients in whom L‐dopa dosage is limited by nausea and vomiting
A Forecast of Requirements for the Treatment of Chronic Renal Failure in Victoria
Authors: McBride A.J.
Published: March 2008

Summary: A forecast of requirements for the treatment of chronic renal failure in Victoria. A. J. McBride, Aust. N.Z. J. Med., 1975, 5, pp. 401–407.

Using a Markov chain mathematical model, dialysis and transplantation requirements for Victoria in the next five to ten years have been predicted. The numerical constants in the model are based on data from past Australian experience.
The Bone Marrow Colony Forming Cell in Megaloblastic Anaemia and Iron Deficiency Anaemia
Authors: Rickard K. A. , Brown R. D. , Dunleavy L. , Robin H. , Kronenberg H.
Published: March 2008

Summary: The bone marrow colony forming cell in megaloblastic anaemia and iron deficiency anaemia. K. A. Rickard, R. D. Brown, L. Dunleavy, H. Robin and H. Kronenberg, Aust. N.Z. J. Med., 1975, 5, pp. 424–430.
Inhibition of Intestinal Amino Acid Absorption by Unconjugated Bile Salt in Vivo
Authors: Burke Valerie , Gracey M. , Thomas Jennifer , Malajczuk Anne
Published: March 2008

Summary: Inhibition of intestinal amino acid absorption by unconjugated bile salt in vivo. V. Burke, M. Gracey, J. Thomas and A. Malajczuk, Aust. N.Z. J. Med, 1975, 5, pp. 430–432.
Rational Therapy for Thyroid Storm*
Authors: Carter J. N. , Eastman C. J. , Kilham H. A. , Lazarus L.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Rational therapy for thyroid storm. J. N. Carter, C. J. Eastman, H, A. Kilham and L Lazarus, Aust. N.Z. J. Med., 1975, 5, pp. 458–461.
Decreased Capacity to Metabolize Diphenylhydantoin in a Patient with Hypersensitivity to Warfarin
Authors: Bochner F. , Hooper W. D. , Eadie M. J. , Tyrer J. H.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Decreased capacity to metabolize diphenylhydantoin in a patient with hypersensitivity to warfarin. F. Bochner, W. D. Hooper, M. J. Eadie and J. H. Tyrer, Aust. N.Z. J. Med., 1975, 5, pp. 462–466.
Tachyarrhythmias in Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: McLean K. H. , Bett J. H. N. , Saltups A.
Published: March 2008

Summary: In 1 505 patients with acute myocardial infarction (Ml) serious ventricular arrhythmias were commoner in those with transmural ECG changes, and were associated with an increase in mortality and in the incidence of left ventricular failure (LVF) as well as higher peak serum lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) levels. Arial fibrillation (AF) occurred more often in older patients and in those with LVF and clinical evidence of pericarditis.
Effect of High Dose Spironolactone and Chlorthalidone in Essential Hypertension: Relation to Plasma Renin Activity and Plasma Volume
Authors: Hunyor Stephen N. , Zweifler Andrew J. , Hansson Lennart , Schork M. Anthony , Ellis Charles
Published: March 2008

Summary: The effect on blood pressure of high (400 mg/day‐S400) and moderate dose (200 mg/day‐S200) spironolactone and chlorthalidone (100 mg/day—C100), given in a random double‐blind manner was related to plasma renin activity and plasma volume in 38 essential hypertensives.

The fall in pressure from a control of 154/103 mm Hg was essentially the same after four weeks of each drug—S400 ABP 24/13 mm, S200 18/9 mm, C100 17/12 mm (all P < 0–001).

Twelve of 37 patients (32%) had low initial renin, but this appeared as responsive to the chlorthalidone stimulus as that of the normal renin group. The anti‐hypertensive effect of all regimens was unrelated to plasma renin activity.

Plasma volume was significantly lowered at the end of each treatment period, but the decline could not be correlated with blood pressure effects. Patients with initially low plasma volume were more likely to respond to S400 (r= 0.545, P < 0.01), whereas the anti‐hypertensive effect of the S200 and C100 regimens was independent of this variable.
Interaction of Bile with Erythromycin Lactobionate in vitro*
Authors: Clarke A. E. , Maritz V. M. , Denborough M. A.
Published: March 2008

Summary: An interaction of bile with erythromycin lactobionate in vitro has been demonstrated. The major bile components involved in this interaction have been shown to be the bile salts. The nature of the bile salt‐erythromycin interaction has been investigated.

The way in which an interaction between bile salts and erythromycin in vivo might lead to the hepatic dysfunction and cholestasis associated with some instances of erythromycin therapy is discussed.