bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural and Textural Studies of ZnO Modified with Dodecyltrimethylammonium Chloride
Authors: Philip Christine A.
Published: January 2017

The effect of dodecyltrimethylammonium chloride — a cationic surfactant — on the texture and structure of ZnO, which is commonly used in the photocatalytic degradation of surfactants, has been investigated together with the effect of thermal treatment of the resulting materials at temperatures ≤350°C. Structural changes were followed by combining diffraction and infrared (IR) spectroscopic measurements while textural variations were monitored via low-temperature nitrogen adsorption studies. In addition, the effect of soaking the original sample of ZnO in water for 5 d has been monitored together with the effect of heat treatment on the resulting products.

Bands corresponding to a carbonate complex were observed in the IR spectrum of all samples subjected to thermal treatment below 275°C. This complex gave rise to new bands in the XRD patterns of such samples situated at d-distances of 2.339, 2.023 and 1.431 Å, respectively, which disappeared when the samples were subjected to heat treatment above 275°C. The intensities of such bands decreased when increasing surfactant concentrations were employed in the initial treatment of the ZnO solid.

Acid OH groups on the surface of the solid appear to provide sites for the formation of the carbonate complex. Such sites are attacked either by the aqua complex [Zn(H2O)6]2+ formed from dissolved ZnO in the presence of water alone or by the cationic surfactant when the latter is present in the system. Attack of the surfactant on the surface probably occurs through exchange with an H+ ion. The cationic surfactant was also adsorbed on to basic sites present on the surface of the solid since the concentration of such sites diminished as the surfactant concentration was increased.

Measurements of the specific surface areas and pore structural analyses for all the samples studied indicated the presence of micro- and meso-pores in most cases, the former being absent from the parent ZnO employed.

A comparison between the application of the V l versus t plot and the α s-plot for such pore structural analyses is presented together with a discussion of the criteria necessary for the application of the αs-method.
Studies of the Sorption of Rare Earth Element Nitrate Complexes in the C2H5OH–HNO3 System on the Strongly Basic Anion Exchanger Wofatit SBW
Authors: Hubicki Z. , Olszak M.
Published: January 2017

The possibility of removing rare earth element(III) nitrate complexes selectively from the 90% v/v C2H5OH–10% v/v 7 M HNO3 system on Wofatit SBW × 6% DVB was examined. Weight and bed distribution coefficients were determined from the breakthrough curves of individual rare earth elements. Based on these, the affinity series of rare earth element nitrate complexes in this system was determined. The effect of crosslinking the anion exchanger Wofatit SBW × 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, 12% and 16% DVB on the sorption of rare earth element nitrate complexes in the 90% v/v C2H5OH–10% v/v 7 M HNO3 system was also investigated.
A Theoretical Study of Surface Phenomena in the Selective Dissolution of Copper-Zinc Alloys
Authors: Pokhmurskii V.I. , Kopylets V.I. , Khoma M.S.
Published: January 2017

A cluster model has been developed to explain the interaction of deformed metals in aggressive corrosion environments. Theoretical calculations have explained the selective dissolution of deformed brass in an acidic sodium chloride solution.
Peculiarities Associated with the Adsorption of Inorganic and Organic Nitrogen-Containing Compounds on Amorphous Metal Surfaces
Authors: Kovbuz M.O. , Hertsyk O.M. , Bednars'ka L.M.
Published: January 2017

The surface of an intermetallic amorphous alloy has a low density of localized energy centres which does not facilitate the adsorption of substances on the alloy surface. However, the active diffusion of amorphizators (usually B, Si) in these materials leads to their concentration on the surface. These amorphizators have a high affinity for organic compounds and can form non-covalent bonds with some of these compounds. Such behaviour has been observed for the adsorption of organic nitrogen-containing inhibitors on an iron-based amorphous alloy surface, although when the quantity of iron atoms is sufficient chemisorption with the formation of surface compounds of planar orientation is possible. The chemical bond is formed via the free electron pair associated with nitrogen, which results in a high activation energy (Ea) for the adsorption process. The adsorption of inorganic ions (Cl−, NO−2, NO−3) increases as the iron content in the alloys increases (55–78.5%). This effect is most significant for the adsorption of chloride ions. The injection of piperidine, morpholine or diethylamine in a 3% sodium chloride solution results in significant changes in adsorption. In this case, it is believed that the adsorption mechanism changes leading to the formation of a two-layer adsorption film on the amorphous alloy surface.
Surface and Catalytic Properties of Copper Oxide, Manganese Oxide/Silica Systems
Authors: Radwan Nagi R.E.
Published: January 2017

Various CuO/SiO2, Mn2O3/SiO2 and CuO–Mn2O3/SiO2 systems having different compositions were prepared using a wet impregnation method employing finely powdered SiO2 solid. The CuO content was varied in the range 5–20 wt% whilst that of Mn2O3 was changed in the range 5–30 wt%. In the tertiary systems studied, the Mn2O3 content was fixed at 5 wt% whilst that of CuO was 5 wt% and 10 wt%, respectively. The supported solids thus obtained were subjected to heat treatment at 300–700°C and the crystalline phases produced identified by XRD methods. The surface and catalytic properties of the various calcined solids were studied by nitrogen adsorption at −196°C and studies of the catalyzed decomposition of H2O2 in aqueous solution at 30–50°C.

The results obtained revealed that although the silica support material employed was normally amorphous in nature when calcined at 500°C and 700°C, it crystallized after treatment with CuO followed by calcination at 700°C. Diffraction lines corresponding to CuO and SiO2 phases were detected in the XRD patterns of all CuO-treated silica samples calcined at 700°C. In contrast, only diffraction lines for a poorly crystallized Mn2O3 phase were observed in the patterns for all Mn2O3-treated silica samples calcined at this temperature.

The specific surface areas of the systems investigated were found to decrease on increasing both the extent of loading and the calcination temperature. Thus, after calcination at 300°C, all the various systems examined contained mainly narrow pores whose diameter increased after calcination at 700°C; nevertheless, these adsorbents behaved as mesoporous materials. Their catalytic activity was strongly dependent on the extent of loading and the calcination temperature employed. The activation energy of the catalyzed reaction conducted over the various solids examined was not greatly affected by the extent of loading. When expressed in terms of the reaction rate constant per unit surface area (k̄), the catalytic activity for the catalyzed reaction carried out at different temperatures over the various solids decreased in the order: CuO–Mn2O3,/SiO2 > Mn2O3–CuO/SiO2 > Mn2O3,/SiO2 > Mn2O3 > CuO/SiO2. The mechanisms for the catalytic reaction in contact with the various solids were discussed.
A Comparison of a Driving Simulator and a Road Test in the Assessment of Driving Ability after a Stroke
Authors: Nouri FM , Tinson DJ
Published: January 2017

This study investigated the value of a driving simulator as an assessment procedure for stroke patients who wished to resume driving. Thirty-eight stroke patients who had been driving immediately prior to their stroke were assessed using a driving simulator. On the basis of this assessment, patients were graded into ‘pass’, ‘borderline’ or ‘fail' categories. Patients were then given a road test and were again graded into the same three groups by a driving instructor. Judgements of fitness to drive obtained using a simulator were compared with those of a road test using the Kappa coefficient to define levels of agreement. The simulator and road test gradings showed poor agreement ( K=0.29). This indicates that a simulator should not be used as the sole indication of fitness to drive for stroke patients.
The Energy Costs of Ambulation Using Two Types of Walking Frame
Authors: Hamzeh MA , Bowker P , Sayegh A
Published: January 2017

Using a technique based on heart-rate measurements, it has been found that the physiological energy costs incurred by elderly patients ambulating with a Rollator walking frame were only half of those associated with the Zimmer frame. It is proposed that the relatively simple experimental approach described here could profitably be applied, within the clinical environment, to compare the effectiveness of different approaches in facilitating or promoting energy-efficient gait.
An Electrotherapy Based on the Natural Sequence of Motor Unit Action Potentials: A Laboratory Trial
Authors: Kidd GL , Oldham JA
Published: January 2017

An electrotherapy based on a computer analysis of results obtained by analytical electromyography has been put to laboratory trial. Twenty-seven normal subjects received comparative regimes of electrotherapy each of which occupied three continuous hours each day for seven weeks. A comparison of the effectiveness on increasing fatigue resistance to voluntary effort of the first dorsal interosseus in the right, dominant hand was made. All electrotherapies employed had a mean frequency of stimulation of approximately 10Hz. The difference between them was found in the changes of pattern of stimulation which was exactly based on the changing patterns of discharge of slow motor units in normal muscle as it was progressively fatigued. The ability of the electrotherapies to induce fatigue resistance of the muscle was directly related to the extent of fatigue of the motor unit from which the pattern of discharge, which formed the basis of the technique, had been extracted.

Electrotherapies with patterns randomized from naturally occurring patterns are shown to be without effect on increasing the fatigue resistance of normal muscle. The significance of the results from the points of view of rehabilitation and of signal analysis are discussed.
Priorities for Research in the Rehabilitation of Severe Head Injury in Children
Authors: Eyre JA , Miller S , Wade Derek T , Wilson Barbara
Published: January 2017

This section is based on a panel discussion held at the Society for Research in Rehabilitation in Newcastle upon Tyne, England on 9 July 1987. Members of the panel were asked to describe their own views as to the priorities they regarded as necessary for future research into the rehabilitation of severe head injury in children. The views expressed are those of a consultant and a clinical paediatrician, a professor of anatomy, a consultant neurologist and a clinical psychologist who is also a senior lecturer in rehabilitation.

The purpose of publishing this discussion is to encourage further research into the field of head injury.
Future Rrends in Sentencing Policy — The Satisfaction of the Individual Victim Within a System of Public Prosecution
Authors:   The RT HON the Lord Cameron of Lochbroom QC
Published: January 2017

This article examines firstly the way in which the civil and criminal systems of law in Scotland have developed and the ways in which they compensate victims of injury or loss through crime, and secondly the relationship between the victim and perpetrator in the context of the judicial system and process. It examines the historical background to sentencing policy and the present state of the law in this area in Scotland. The article concludes by considering the civil process in France and by suggesting possible ways in which any advantages from the Continent may be incorporated into the laws of Scotland. The discussion highlights the changing attitudes to sentencing policy in Scotland, and contributes to a more general discussion on the changing attitude to the law and treatment of the victims of crime in Europe as a whole.
United Nations: Victims of Crime
Authors: Melup Irene
Published: January 2017

This report records the steps which Member countries and other recognised bodies within the United Nations have taken to implement the U.N. Declaration of Basic Principles of Justice for Victims of Crime and Abuse of Power up to late 1988.

The report addresses various aspects of the treatment of victims of crime: recent trends in victimization; national initiatives relating to victims and the impact of the Declaration; the administration of justice and the victim; restitution and compensation; services for victims; the prevention of victimization; research and information; training and international co-operation.

The report concludes by emphasising the importance of rapid and complete implementation of the Declaration.
A Cross-National Comparison of Victims of Crime: Victim Surveys of Twelve Countries
Authors: Block Richard
Published: January 2017

Comparison of national crime surveys must be made very cautiously because of differences in sampling, methodology and content. In this report methodological differences between the United States' National Crime Survey and victimization surveys of other countries are examined and survey estimates of victimization are adjusted. It is found that U.S. rates of assault/threat, robbery, and burglary are not extraordinarily higher than those of other eleven other countries or regions. However, U.S. levels of gun use are much higher and U.S. levels of both gun and non-gun lethal violence (using Killias, 1990) far exceed those of other industrialized societies.
Fear of Crime, Social Rigorism and Mass Media in Poland
Authors: Szumski Jerzy
Published: January 2017

The article presents the results of the few victimisation surveys carried out in Poland. They reveal relatively low levels of crime in Poland, but which are not correlated with the official criminal statistics. The article criticises the method for compiling criminal statistics adopted by the Polish police, a method which enables enforcement agencies to manipulate the statistics on the dynamics of crime. Despite the low fear of being victimised, the results of socio-logical and legal empirical studies show that Polish society is rigorous as far as controlling crime is concerned. The article argues that the main cause of this stems from a mass media information policy which is not based on objective facts nor on scientific findings, and which did not change following the destruction of so-called ‘real socialism’.
Affray and Battery Victims in Poland — from Police and Trial Records
Authors: Skarżyński Zbigniew
Published: January 2017

This paper reports the results of a study of a sample of victims of offences committed under Articles 158 and 159 of the Polish Criminal Code (affray and battery). It discusses victim characteristics, the victims' involvement in the offence, and the scope of the victims' injuries and compensation.
Effect of Stroma-Free Haemoglobin Solution on d-xylose Absorption from the Small Intestine
Authors: Schier J , Gregor A , Rudowski W , Daszyński J
Published: January 2017

In earlier experimental investigations on the possibilities of stroma-free haemoglobin solution application as a blood substitute, short-lasting disturbances of intestinal peristalsis were observed to occur during transfusion of haemoglobin solution.

In order to explain whether these changes influence intestinal absorption processes, experiments were carried out on dogs with high jejunostomy produced for instillation of d-xylose solution. The absorption of this solution was determined during transfusions of haemoglobin solutions.

No disturbances in the intestinal absorption of d-xylose were observed during or after transfusions of non-oxygenated or oxygenated stroma-free haemoglobin solutions as compared to this absorption in the control group of dogs receiving dextran 40,000.
Betamethasone-17,21-Dipropionate with Salicylic Acid, a Double-Blind Comparative Evaluation with Flumethasone-21-Pivalate with Salicylic Acid in the Treatment of Psoriasis
Authors: Eriksson Gunnel
Published: January 2017

A double-blind study has shown that 0.05% betamethasone-17,21- dipropionate ointment with 3% salicylic acid is more effective than 0.02% flumethasone-21- pivalate ointment with 3% salicylic acid in patients with psoriasis vulgaris treated for three weeks.
Treatment of Suppurative Otitis Media in Paediatric Patients
Authors: Limon Luis Limon y , Tirado Carlos A Tirado , Flores-Mercado Francisco , Galindo-Hernandez Emma , Rasquel-Pagasartundua Renato , Diaz-Gomez Antonio , Diaz-Gonzalez Leticia
Published: January 2017

Thirty-nine paediatric patients with suppurative otitis media were studied. General principles of treatment were followed and sodium cefazolin ( a new cephalosporin effective even on β- lactamase-producing organisms) was given intramuscularly at a dose of 25 mg/kg every 12 hours.

Clinical effectiveness was excellent, since 100% of patients were cured by the 7th day of treatment at the latest and 80% within 48 hours. Drug levels in the blood and purulent matter from the middle ear were determined in five cases, and it was found that cefazolin concentrates 2.5 times more in this secretion than in the blood.

The need for myringotomy in the early stages of the disease, as well as for daily aspiration of secretion, is stressed, as is the use of an antimicrobial agent resistant to the inhibiting effect of penicillinase and cephalosporinase since, in our environment, 41% of bacteria causing this pathology produce these enzymes.
Clinical Trial of Amikacin in the Treatment of Pyelonephritis in Children
Authors: Mimica I , Toporovsky J
Published: January 2017

Twenty-three patients with pyelonephritis, twenty-one of them children, were treated with twice-daily intramuscular injections of amikacin, a new aminoglycoside antibiotic. Adults were given 250 mg doses every 12 hours; children were given 5 mg/kg/day divided into two doses 12 hours apart. Treatment continued for ten days. Pre-treatment cultures and sensitivity tests revealed E. coli to be the responsible organism in fourteen cases, with Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella aerobacter, Proteus rettgeri and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the remaining cases. Eighteen of the twenty-three patients responded satisfactorily, with pathogens eradicated and clinical signs and symptoms resolved. Post-treatment urine cultures were performed up to 30 days. No adverse drug effects were noted clinically nor in pre-and post-treatment laboratory tests of renal, hepatic and hematopoietic function.
An Assessment of the Anti-Anginal Effect of Tolamolol, a New Beta-Blocking Agent
Authors: Williams A , Holt M C
Published: January 2017

The anti-anginal activity of a new beta-blocking agent, tolamolol, was investigated in an open study.

Seventeen patients ( fourteen males, three females) from two centres were given tolamolol in doses varying from 150 mg to 800 mg daily for periods of between one and thirty-four weeks. Records were made of the number of attacks of angina and of the consumption of sublingual glyceryl trinitrate ( GTN). Blood pressure and heart rate were monitored together with possible side-effects and the results of routine laboratory tests. There was an over-all reduction in anginal attack rates and the number of GTN tablets used, although these did not reach statistical significance in the small numbers concerned. Heart rate and blood pressure were similarly reduced. Side-effects were of mild severity and were tolerated or disappeared with continued treatment.
A Clinical Evaluation of Flurazepam (Dalmane) as a Hypnotic in Psychiatric Patients
Authors: Taws E R , Brunning J , Arenillas L
Published: January 2017

A double-blind trial comparing flurazepam ( Dalmane) 30 mg and 15 mg with amylobarbitone sodium 200 mg was conducted in 30 adult psychiatric in-patients of both sexes suffering from insomnia. The effectiveness of the three treatments was very similar. No clinical adverse reactions were reported and laboratory investigations did not show any significant abnormality.
The Effect of Tetranicotinoylfructose (Bradilan) on Fibrinolytic Activity, Platelet Stickiness and Some other Parameters
Authors: Benaim M E , Dewar H A
Published: January 2017

Twenty patients, of both sexes, suffering from ischaemic heart disease and/or atherosclerotic peripheral vascular disease have been studied in a long-term trial of tetranicotinoylfructose (Bradilan) by mouth.

Cholesterol levels fell in Type II cases and triglycerides in Type IV, the falls being well maintained at 6 months. Significant falls in fibrinogen, free fatty acids, and platelet stickiness were also observed and maintained at 6 months. Fibrinolytic activity increased significantly and over a similar period of time. These results bore no relation to Fredrickson types.

Only one important side-effect, namely flushing, was observed. It was infrequent and tolerable and it diminished with time and adjustment of dosage.
Double-Blind Comparison of Bradilan (Tetranicotinoylfructose) Tablets and Hexopal (Inositol Nicotinate) Tablets in the Treatment of Intermittent Claudication
Authors: Jaffé G
Published: January 2017

A double-blind comparison of Bradilan ( tetranicotinoylfructose) tablets 250 mg and Hexopal ( inositol nicotinate) 500 mg tablets in the treatment of intermittent claudication in fifty patients showed that, using walking distance as the main parameter, Bradilan tablets were highly significantly more effective ( p < 0.002).
A Single-Blind Trial between Difenoxin and Diphenoxylate
Authors: Triandafillou G
Published: January 2017

The antidiarrhoeal effect of difenoxin hydrochloride versus diphenoxylate was studied in a single-blind trial. The results obtained with these substances in the treatment of diarrhoea are described, and the effect of difenoxin hydrochloride on patients with chronic liver diseases is dealt with.
A Double-Blind Evaluation of a Weight Reduction Programme in Private Practice
Authors: Glazer N
Published: January 2017

A double-blind, placebo-controlled, 16- week study was conducted in a private practice to evaluate a 5- point regimen ( diet, exercise, medication, motivation, patient-physician relationship) for short-term management of obesity. After 4 weeks of diet and excerise, patients were assigned to one of three treatment groups: continuous drug, intermittent drug (drug for 4 weeks, placebo for 4 weeks, drug for 4 weeks), and continuous placebo. The dosage for both drug ( Tenuate, 25 mg) and placebo was 1 tablet three times daily.

At the end of 4 weeks of treatment, the difference between drug and placebo was statistically significant, in favour of drug. Statistical significance was lost at subsequent evaluations, but the difference between drug and placebo was considered clinically significant. Side-effects were reported by 5 patients in the continuous drug group, 5 in the intermittent group, and 4 in the placebo group. Clinically important changes in blood pressure were seen in 1 drug patient and 1 placebo patient.
A Clinical Trial of Dip-Inoculum Slides with an Antibacterial Agent — Nalidixic Acid (Negram): A General Practitioner/Laboratory Collaborative Study
Authors: Kohn J
Published: January 2017

An assessment of the value in general practice of a postal dip-inoculum slide for the detection of urinary tract infection and simultaneous drug sensitivity is presented. The technique was shown to be useful to general practitioners in the management of urinary tract infections and Negram, the chemotherapeutic agent chosen, was clinically effective.
New Techniques in Office Management of Obesity
Authors: Shearer Robin S , Kiely Jeremiah J
Published: January 2017

As a result of participating in a controlled, double-blind, weight reduction study, one of the authors has changed his approach to the treatment of the obese patient and now has much greater success with a smaller expenditure of time and effort. ‘Responders’ are selected early in treatment; the physician continues to work with these patients while ‘non-responders’ are identified and told that continuation is inadvisable until they demonstrate better motivation.

Feinstein's Reduction Index is used as a measure of performance at set intervals in the programme; patients being seen every two weeks for a given period of time. At each visit patients are questioned about diet and eating habits and advised regarding changes. Patients are encouraged or chastised as necessary, bearing in mind that recent research demonstrates variations in hormonal patterns and efficiency of energy utilization in obesity so that uniform weight loss proportionate to caloric restriction cannot be expected.

The Cumulative Reduction Index, developed for the study, was valuable for evaluating the treatment programme as a whole, but the ‘standard’ Feinstein's Reduction Index is more useful for the clinician managing the individual patient.

Finally, it must be pointed out that frequently obesity is only one symptom of an underlying problem, often emotional, and until all aspects of the problem are treated, successful management of the obesity is impossible.
Gastro-Intestinal Blood Loss during Administration of Indoprofen, Aspirin and Ibuprofen
Authors: Porro G Bianchi , Corvi G , Fuccella L M , Goldaniga G C , Valzelli G
Published: January 2017

The acute effect of three non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, ibuprofen, acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and indoprofen, on faecal blood loss was investigated in 15 subjects by means of 51Cr-labelled erythrocytes.

Ibuprofen (900 mg/day for 5 days) and indoprofen capsules and tablets (300 mg and 600 mg/day for 5 days, respectively) slightly increased the amount of blood eliminated in faeces. The increase was of the same order of magnitude for both doses of indoprofen. ASA (1,500 mg/day for 5 days) caused about a 6-fold increase in blood loss. Four days after withdrawal of ASA, faecal blood was still about twice as high as in faeces of subjects given ibuprofen and indoprofen.

The method appears sensitive and reliable for comparison of the immediate effect of anti-inflammatory drugs on gastrointestinal mucosa.
Ambulatory Treatment of Psoriasis: Combined Use of Occlusive Dressings with Locacorten Tar at Night and ‘Open’ Treatment with Locasalen during the Day
Authors: Feuerman Eleasar J , Weissman Varda
Published: January 2017

Fifty patients with refractory psoriasis were treated with a combined method consisting in the application of occlusive dressings with Locacorten® Tar ointment at night and of ‘open’ treatment (without occlusive dressings) with Locasalen® ointment during the day. The aim of this trial was to obtain the benefit of the occlusive-dressing method without having to hospitalize the patient. The mean time required for the eradication of psoriatic scales was 3·46 days, while that needed for complete recovery was 14 days. The results clearly indicated that this combined approach has all the advantages of occlusive dressings but allows the patient greater freedom during the day. The very good effect of the treatment is also attributable to the triple action obtained with this combination: the anti-epidermoplastic effect of flumethasone pivalate, the squamolytic effect of salicylic acid, and the keratoplastic action of the tar compound.
A Double-Blind Parallel Study of Acetylcysteine-Isoproterenol and Saline-Isoproterenol in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease
Authors: Cato Allen , Goldstein Ira , Millman Milton
Published: January 2017

A double-blind parallel study in patients with asthma compared the safety and efficacy of saline-isoproterenol (SI) and acetylcysteine-isoproterenol (AI), when administered at home as an aerosol, over a one-week period, using a conventional nebulizer compressor.

Measurements of pulmonary function revealed statistically significant differences between the two therapies for FEV1 and FVC in favour of AI. In the group treated with AI, the average sputum viscosity after six days of treatment was significantly less than pre-treatment values, or when compared to the results with SI treatment.

No serious side-effects were reported during treatment with either therapy. These results indicate that acetylcysteine combined with a bronchodilator, such as isoproterenol, may be safe and of significant value in the treatment of patients with asthma who are also sputum producers.
Clinical Trial Comparison of Two Sustained Release Forms of Amitriptyline
Authors: Dorman T
Published: January 2017

A double-blind between-group trial was carried out in 50 depressed patients to compare the efficacy of two sustained release forms of amitriptyline—Lentizol and Tryptizol 75. Patients received either Lentizol 50 mg or Tryptizol 75 75 mg each evening for the first week of the trial, and these dosages were then doubled for a further four-week trial period, with the proviso that dosage for individual patients could be maintained at, or altered to, original level where considered necessary by the investigator. Lentizol gave equivalent therapeutic effect to Tryptizol 75 despite the fact that overall dosage was one-third less than in the case of the latter.
Oxypertine and Medazepam in Patients Suffering from Anxiety Neurosis. Report of a Double Blind Study
Authors: Donald J F , McMillin W P
Published: January 2017

In two centres a total of 50 patients with anxiety neurosis was studied in a randomised, between patient, double blind comparison of the therapeutic efficacies of two new anxiolytic agents, oxypertine ( Integrin) and medazepam ( Nobrium). Treatment was continued for four weeks. Assessments were made using the Middlesex Hospital Questionnaire ( MHQ), the Hamilton Anxiety Scale and the Graphic Scale. On all three ratings both agents produced a significant improvement in the patients' condition. Significant differences between the two agents were recorded by the MHQ sub tests and total score. Phobic anxiety responded significantly better to medazepam ( p < 0·03). Depression responded significantly better to oxypertine ( p < 0·02) which was also associated with a greater improvement in three of the remaining four sub tests and a significantly greater reduction in score for overall neuroticism ( p < 0·05).
New Medicines: Potency, Selectivity and the Pill
Authors: Bodin Michael A
Published: January 2017

The development of a selective, synthetic progestogen ought to dispel any notion that high intrinsic activity ( potency) per se is disadvantageous. Provided there is excellent cycle control with a low incidence of additional actions, the patient can only benefit long-term from the ingestion of biologically active steroids in lower quantities than were formerly available in oral contraceptives. When intrinsic activities for androgenic, oestrogenic or metabolic effects are diminished, it is difficult to conceive the disadvantages for the patient.
Analgesic Efficacy and Safety of Fenbufen following Surgical Removal of a Lower Wisdom Tooth: A Comparison with Acetylsalicylic Acid and Placebo
Authors: Henrikson P-Å , Tjernberg A , Ahlström U , Peterson L-E
Published: January 2017

In a double-blind clinical trial a new, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent with analgesic properties, Fenbufen, was compared to acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and placebo. Six hundred (600) out-patients, following surgical removal of an impacted lower wisdom tooth, were divided into three groups and randomly given either Fenbufen (500 mg capsules), ASA (750 mg capsules), or placebo. One capsule was taken immediately after the surgical procedure, followed by another capsule every 6 hours. The duration of treatment was 24 hours. Thus, a total of 4 capsules were taken. Self-evaluation forms were provided to the patients and were returned to the investigators the following day. The results were statistically analyzed.

Both Fenbufen and ASA were statistically superior (p ≤ 0.01) to placebo in relieving pain. A comparison of the Fenbufen and ASA groups demonstrated a statistically significant (p ≤ 0.05) superiority for Fenbufen in relieving pain. Also sleep was less disturbed in the Fenbufen group.

Side-effects reported were few, minor in character, and fewer in number in the Fenbufen group.
Amoxycillin Injection in the Treatment of Pyogenic Meningitis in Children
Authors: Maguire M J , Khan A A
Published: January 2017

An open trial of the use of amoxycillin injection in the treatment of pyogenic meningitis in children showed similar results to previous trials here of penicillin-chloramphenicol combinations. It is felt that, in developing countries at least, treatment of pyogenic meningitis in children should be with the latter combination, but where rapid and accurate bacteriology is available amoxycillin may be a valuable non-toxic alternative to chloramphenicol with similar activity to ampicillin.
Controlled Clinical Trial of a Rifampicin-Trimethoprim Combination (Rifaprim®) and Cotrimoxazole in Patients with Chronic Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Adachi T , de Almeida T Ribeiro
Published: January 2017

A controlled clinical trial of Rifaprim (rifampicin 600 mg plus trimethoprim 160 mg, in a single daily dose at 10 p.m.) and cotrimoxazole (two tablets b.i.d.) was carried out in two groups of twenty out-patients, each with chronic or recurrent urinary tract infections. Both treatments lasted 10 days. At the first follow-up, 3–11 days after the end of treatment, bacteriological failure was observed in two Rifaprim patients and in four contrimoxazole patients. Clinical improvement with sterile urine or markedly reduced bacterial count was observed in nineteen Rifaprim patients and in fifteen cases of the other group. Mild allergic phenomena were observed in three Rifaprim patients, but they did not require discontinuation of treatment; anorexia was complained of by a cotrimoxazole patient. Rifaprim appears a valuable alternative in the treatment of chronic urinary tract infection, mainly because it reduces or abolishes the risk of emergence of resistance.
A Double-Blind Comparison of Prazepam with Diazepam, Chlorazepate Dipotassium and Placebo in Anxious Out-Patients
Authors: Fabre Louis F , McLendon David M , Mallette Arthur
Published: January 2017

This study compared prazepam with diazepam, chlorazepate dipotassium, and placebo in the treatment of anxious out-patients. Patients were screened for participation in the study to be sure they met the criteria for inclusion. Patients were excluded if they had complicating physical or mental problems. All patients signed an informed consent. Seventy-three patients entered the study, thirteen did not complete at least two weeks of treatment and were not used in the data analysis. Of these thirteen, ten did not return and were lost to follow-up, two entered the hospital for reasons unrelated to the drug study, and one patient on diazepam was terminated because of increased anxiety. Sixty patients were used in the data analysis, thirty-six males and twenty-four females with an age range of 21–61 years. Side-effects were minimal. Drowsiness was reported by two people in the placebo group, one taking chlorazepate dipotassium, three on prazepam and one on diazepam. One diazepam patient reported nausea and vomiting. Scores on the Zung Self-Rating Scale for Anxiety showed all three drug groups to be superior to placebo. The Hopkins Symptom Check-list found prazepam and diazepam to be superior to placebo and chlorazepate. No differences among the groups were found in the Hamilton Anxiety Scale. Prazepam may offer advantages over the other available benzodiazepines since it may be more readily absorbed than chlorazepate and has less side-effects than diazepam.
A Month-by-Month Long-Term Study on Carbamazepine: Clinical, EEG and Pharmacological Evaluation
Authors: Monaco F , Riccio A , Fantini M , Baruzzi A , Morselli P L
Published: January 2017

Carbamazepine plasma levels were monitored for a twelve-month period in twenty epileptic patients. Seizure frequency decreased remarkably on inclusion of the drug in the therapy and attainment of plasma levels of 7–9 μg/ml. A faster breakdown rate in children was confirmed, while carbamazepine-10, 11-epoxide was present for carbamazepine levels above 4–5 μg/ml.

EEG tracings did not show substantial modifications; this variable was thus considered to be of little value in assessing the clinical picture. Side-effects were minimal. Carbamazepine is increasingly becoming the drug of first choice in the management of both generalized and partial epilepsy, while better and more rapid results are obtained in monotherapy.
Hexopal in Raynaud's Disease
Authors: Aylward Mansel
Published: January 2017

Twenty female patients with primary Raynaud's phenomenon were included in a 9-month open assessment of Hexopal® tablets. Measurements of digital artery blood velocity rates by transcutaneous Doppler techniques, digital artery pressure by micromanometry, and hand blood flow by venous occlusion plethysmography were undertaken at regular intervals throughout the 9 months of the study in fourteen of the patients. Additionally, levels of serum cholesterol and triglycerides and plasma fibrinogen were recorded and a visual analogue assessment was made by the patients of the severity of their condition.

In patients with primary Raynaud's phenomenon the blood pressure reductions during reactive hyperaemia were quantitatively more pronounced and prolonged compared to values obtained in adult healthy female subjects. In particular, pressure amplitudes were abolished initially in several cases which later developed progressively towards initial values. Blood flow and velocity rate values in the patients during reactive hyperaemia did not achieve levels previously recorded in normal adult healthy female subjects. Peak flow levels were reduced and the time course of reactive hyperaemia was delayed.

Oral treatment with inositol nicotinate (Hexopal) was associated with statistically significant increases in transcutaneous blood velocity at rest and during reactive hyperaemia. There were some increases in hand blood flow, particularly in the group receiving 4 g/day, but the changes did not reach statistical significance. There were appreciable reductions in the time course of reactive hyperaemia phases and early attainment of blood pressure values close to the initial values. Serum cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations and plasma fibrinogen levels showed statistically significant reductions during the first three months of treatment and these reduced levels were sustained for the subsequent six months of the study. Improvements in the patients' visual analogue assessments of the severity of their conditions were statistically significant.

The occurrence of significant improvements in digital arterial blood flow rates at rest and during reactive hyperaemia did not occur until the second month of treatment. These findings lend support to the proposal that nicotinic acid derivatives during long-term use may produce improvement in peripheral circulation by a mechanism which differs from the brief vasodilatory effect noted during acute administration.
An Investigation of the Effect on Platelet Function of Acetylsalicylic Acid, Dipyridamole and the Two Drugs in Combination in Patients with Transient Attacks of Ischaemia
Authors: Fassio G , Albizzati M G , Bassi S , Frattola L
Published: January 2017

Twenty patients suffering from transient attacks of ischaemia were studied. Seven received acetylsalicylic acid, six dipyridamole and seven a combination of the two drugs.

No significant difference in platelet aggregation was shown in the acute phase between the three treatment groups using an adenosine diphosphate test method. Using Thrombofax platelet substitute, however, a significant difference was seen in all measures. On the seventh day following the ischaemic attack the Thrombofax values returned to normal but, in contrast, Platelet Factor 4 release was increased. Monthly testing of platelet activity during treatment shows that the combination of acetylsalicylic acid with dipyridamole was more effective in bringing about an early inhibition of Platelet Factor 4 release than either agent alone.
Piroxicam in the Treatment of Acute Gout: A Multicentre Open Study in General Practice
Authors: Murphy J Eric
Published: January 2017

Twenty-nine patients with acute gout were treated with piroxicam (40 mg daily for 5 days) in a multicentre general practitioner study. Pain relief was noticeable within 4 hours of the first dose and thereafter proceeded steadily, together with the early relief of other sypmtoms associated with acute gout. The prompt relief of symptoms was accompanied by a fall in serum uric acid. Piroxicam was well tolerated, eight patients experiencing side-effects that were mainly mild and gastro-intestinal in nature. The drug seems to be highly effective and safe in the treatment of acute gout.
Cardiovascular Effects of Intravenous Indoramin Hydrochloride in Man
Authors: Coleman A J , Leary W P , Asmal A C
Published: January 2017

Haemodynamic effects of intravenous indoramin (5–20 mg) were measured in ten healthy volunteers. Slight falls in arterial and central venous blood pressures were noted but no significant changes in heart rate, right atrial pressure, cardiac output or derived values occurred, except for a fall in peripheral vascular resistance in three cases. An increase in skin blood flow to the feet was observed.

An attempt was made to determine the mechanism of these responses and it was concluded that the drug was an alpha adrenoceptor blocking agent which appeared to act preferentially on those receptors controlling blood flow to the skin of extremities.
A Multicentre Study Examining the Substitution of Trasidrex for the Free Combination of Slow-Trasicor and Navidrex-K
Authors: Ebbutt A F , Dew R W Elsdon
Published: January 2017

A multicentre, open study of general practice patients with essential hypertension who were currently being treated with oxprenolol and cyclopenthiazide was undertaken in which the patients were transferred to Trasidrex for 12 weeks. Weight, blood pressure, heart rate and side-effects were assessed pre-trial and at 4-week intervals. A global assessment was also made at the same time intervals.

The mean serum potassium remained virtually unchanged after 12 weeks treatment with Trasidrex. Blood pressure control was marginally improved during the study and it is thought possible that better patient compliance might explain this. Trasidrex was tolerated equally as well as the free combination.
Oxymetazoline in the Treatment of Allergic and Non-Infectious Conjunctivitis
Authors: Fox S L , Samson C R , Danzig M R
Published: January 2017

In a double-blind study of 141 patients, 0.025% oxymetazoline ophthalmic solution was compared with its vehicle in the treatment of allergic and noninfectious conjunctivitis. There was a marked difference in response at the first evaluation. By the tenth day (second evaluation) the total improvement in hyperaemia was 95% for oxymetazoline compared to 54% for the placebo. Oxymetazoline's decongestant effect in the eye matches its effect as a nasal vasoconstrictor.
A General Practice Trial of an Amoxycillin/Flucloxacillin Combination (Suprapen) in Proven Bacterial Infections
Authors: Kritzinger N A
Published: January 2017

Ninety-three cases of proven bacterial infection occurring in general practice were treated with an amoxycillin/flucloxacillin combination. There was a satisfactory clinical response in 98% of patients and an overall bacteriological success rate of 95.7%.

Eleven patients (9.1%) complained of side-effects but withdrawal of the combination was necessary in only one patient who developed a rash.
Amoxycillin for Parenteral Use: A Pharmacological and Clinical Evaluation
Authors: Toma Emil , Päun Ludovic
Published: January 2017

Pharmacological studies with intramuscular amoxycillin and intramuscular ampicillin were carried out in ten patients. Serum, urine levels, urinary recovery and renal clearance of intramuscular amoxycillin were similar to intramuscular ampicillin and to oral amoxycillin. The time to peak serum concentration was later for amoxycillin. Sputum levels were higher for amoxycillin. Amoxycillin intramuscularly was more painful than ampicillin in eleven out of thirty patients. The clinical response, evaluated in twenty-five patients was good and similar to ampicillin in our experience.
A Single Dose Placebo-Controlled Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Adding a Muscle Relaxant to a Compound Analgesic in the Treatment of Tension Headache
Authors: Atkinson D
Published: January 2017

A patient-assessment of pain relief over 4 hours following a single dose of a compound analgesic has shown that 78% of patients achieve satisfactory relief of pain due to tension headache and that this response is enhanced by the addition of chlormezanone, an agent with reported anxiolytic and muscle relaxant actions. Side-effects were minor in nature.
Pentazocine Suppositories versus Pethidine Injections in 500 Patients with Post-Operative Pain
Authors: Copsidas E N , Ward-McQuaid J N
Published: January 2017

Pentazocine (Fortral) suppositories (50 mg) were compared with pethidine (100 mg) by injection in 500 patients after general and gynaecological surgery. Pain was assessed by patients using a pain thermometer, (a modification of a visual analogue scale), and by observers using an adjectival scale. There was a good relationship between these methods. Good pain relief was obtained with both drugs and there was little difference between the treatments in moderate pain. Pethidine was faster and more effective, particularly in severe pain. There were fewer side-effects with pentazocine suppositories. They are a useful alternative to injections, especially in moderate pain.
The Effect of Somatostatin on the Hormonal Abnormalities of End Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Murray Thomas G , Eisen Carol , Grabie Morris , Buerklin Ellen , Walker Barry R , Goldberg Martin
Published: January 2017

Patients with end stage renal disease who are maintained on haemodialysis have elevated levels of many hormones, some of which may play a role in the pathogenesis of the complications of uraemia. The infusion of synthetic somatostatin reduces the circulating level of many of these same hormones in patients with normal renal function. If the elevated hormone levels in dialysis patients could be similarly lowered, study of the pathogenitic significance of the various hormonal abnormalities would be facilitated. With this in mind, the effect of synthetic somatostatin on the circulating level of growth hormone, glucagon, insulin, gastrin, parathyroid hormone, and thyroid stimulating hormone in dialysis patients was investigated. In pilot protocol, a dose of 2 mg of somatostatin infused over 24, 18, or 12 hours (two patients each) was found to have no effect on any hormonal level. Infusion of 2 mg of somatostatin over 4 hours, however, was associated with consistent fall in the level of growth hormone (13.6 ± 6.2 to 6.53 ± 2.9, p = 0.15) and glucagon (595.0 ± 73 to 441 ± 28, p < 0.05) in each of four patients. The percentage change in the level of growth hormone and glucagon during the 4-hour somatostatin infusion was significantly different from the change occurring during a 4-hour timed control period (growth hormone —45 ± 18% vs +9 ± 7%, [p < 0.05]), (glucagon −27% ± 2% vs + 8 ± 2%, [p < 0.01]). There was no change in the level of any other hormone during the 4-hour infusion. No significant adverse effects were seen. This study suggests that the intravenous infusion of somatostatin can, at least on an acute basis, lower the level of growth hormone and glucagon in patients with end stage renal failure; and, therefore, it may be useful in further study and possibly the treatment of the hormonal abnormalities of end stage renal disease.