bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Going to work on an Apple: factors affecting microcomputer use in business organizations
Authors: Jones M. R.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The use of computers in organizations may be influenced by both technical and social factors. In addition, the way in which these factors operate in any specific organization may be affected by the particular type of computer being used. This paper reports the results of semistructured interviews with users of Apple Macintosh computers in three different organizations. The relevance of factors identified in earlier interviews with academic Macintosh users to the use of microcomputers in the business context is considered. It was found that, while there was considerable individual variation in attitudes to microcomputer use, many of the factors identified in the earlier study were also present in the business organizations. Some reasons for the attitudes found are discussed.
Interoperability in information systems
Authors: Colomb R. M. , Orlowska M. E.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Two operationally autonomous information systems intemperate it system can make use of information contained in the other, or if they exchange transactions. A widely held assumption in this field is that the development interoperability among information systems should preserve the design autumn of the individual information systems in a strong sense. This paper demonstrate that preservation of strong design autonomy is not always possible owing to necessity to resolve semantic hereogeneity among the systems. This neces violation of autonomy calls into question the utility of research on general a tectures and the possibility of general solutions. We suggest some theme certain special cases where we believe feasible and useful computer scie research can be done in this area, and also suggest some implications for standard models of architectures for federated databases.
Critical view of the application of the ISO standard for quality assurance
Authors: Braa K. , Øgrim L.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The aim of this paper is to initiate a debate on quality assurance and the application of the ISO 9001 in the system development field. It is claimed that unquestioning application of ISO 9001 can be a backwards step in the practice and research of system development. Five aspects of quality are identified in order to design and evaluate the quality of information systems: technical quality, use quality, aesthetic quality, symbolic quality and organizational quality. We find that the standard solely emphasizes technical quality. The standard promotes the ideal of linear, phase‐oriented system development, based on a fixed requirement specification and a document‐driven process. This is in contrast to most research findings, which criticize one‐sided adaptation of phase orientation in system development.
On the deep structure of information systems
Authors: Wand Yair , Weber Ron
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The deep structure of an information system comprises those properties that manifest the meaning of the real‐world system the information system is intended to model. In this paper we describe three models we have developed of information systems' deep‐structure properties. The first, the representational model, proposes a set of constructs that enable the ontological expressiveness of grammars used to model information systems (such as the entity‐relationship model) to be evaluated. The second, the state‐tracking model, proposes four requirements that information systems must satisfy if they are to faithfully track the real‐world system they are intended to model. The third, the good‐decomposition model, proposes three necessary conditions that information systems must meet if they are to be well decomposed. The three models provide a theoretically based, structured way of evaluating grammars that are used to analyse, design and implement information systems and scripts that have been generated using these grammars to describe specific information systems.
CASE tools and organizational action
Authors: King Stephen F.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. CASE research to date has been dominated by positivistic enquiry; particularly tool building, surveys and normative writings. In contrast, there is a growing community of IS researchers developing models of IS practice that highlight the complex relationship between context and process that has to be mastered in order to develop viable information systems. This paper bridges the gap between the two bodies of knowledge by presenting a phenomenological study of CASE tool usage in a large UK manufacturing company over a four year period which shows that organizational context, tool features and usage are inextricably linked. The lessons arising from the work are presented and grounded in interpretive IS theory. The results of the work are clearly in accord with this theory, thus, showing the importance of interpretive CASE research, as a complement to positivist thinking, in bringing to light the human and organizational issues which strongly influence systems development practice
A cross‐cultural comparison of ‘excellent’ systems analysts
Authors: Hunter M. Gordon , Beck John E.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. As business becomes established with a more international focus, there is a growing globalization of the information systems (IS) function. The need for compatible standards and procedures within these international networks means that the systems analyst will play a key role in this globalization process. It is, therefore, considered timely that there is a developing body of research into the effects of cultural differences on the design and development of IS. This article reports research into the way in which ‘excellent’ systems analysts are perceived in Canada and Singapore. The research method adopted the RepGrid technique from Kelly's Theory of Personal Constructs, which served as the vehicle to facilitate the elicitation of participant comments. Seventeen interviews were conducted in Singapore compared with 53 in Canada. The results suggest that, in terms of the overall approach and priorities that systems analysts place on their work, there is evidence of a commonality, which unites the profession in these two countries. This may be evidence of convergence, which occurs as the result of common education, training and socialization of new entrants into the international occupational community of systems analysts. However, there is also strong evidence of divergence between these two countries based on the different emphasis on the way in which systems analysts will play their roles in each country. As a reflection of the culture of each society, the Singaporean systems analysts are more likely to rely on expertise to influence clients, whereas the Canadian systems analysts rely more on encouraging the client to participate in the design effort.
Qualitative convergence of three nursing concepts: art of nursing, presence and caring
Authors: Finfgeld‐Connett Deborah
Published: March 2008

Title.  Qualitative convergence of three nursing concepts: art of nursing, presence and caring.

Aim.  This paper is a report of the development of a theoretical framework of nursing practice based on the convergence of the concepts art of nursing, presence and caring.

Background.  Convergence of similar concepts to form broad yet useful theories is a relatively unexplored area, despite the fact that systematically examining and integrating nursing concepts can help to build theory and leads to enhanced understanding of the discipline. Research results suggest that unarticulated similarities exist among the art of nursing, presence and caring; thus, qualitative convergence of these concepts is justified.

Data sources.  Findings from qualitative studies of the art of nursing (published between 1993 and the third quarter of 2006) and meta‐syntheses of presence and caring (published in 2006 and 2007 respectively) were inductively analysed and integrated.

Results.  A theoretical framework of nursing practice was developed to illustrate the areas of convergence among the concepts art of nursing, presence and caring. Nursing involves an intimate relationship‐centred partnership between the nurse and patient. Situation‐specific nursing actions result from multiple forms of personal and professional knowledge and are based on a value system of holistic beneficence and patient empowerment. Nursing actions are promoted by a conducive work environment and result in enhanced well‐being among patients and nurses.

Conclusion.  Results of this concept convergence provide an enhanced understanding of nursing practice and offer insight into areas of nursing practice that are not encompassed within the concepts art of nursing, presence and caring. Further work is recommended to expand the proposed framework, especially in terms of the wide variety of nurse–patient relationships that exist.
Scientific rationale and study design of the individualized dosing efficacy vs flat dosing to assess optimal pegylated interferon therapy (IDEAL) trial: determining optimal dosing in patients with genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C
Authors: McHutchison J. , Sulkowski M.
Published: March 2008

Summary.  Current standard‐of‐care antiviral treatment for patients with chronic hepatitis C is combination therapy with pegylated interferon (PEG‐IFN) alfa plus ribavirin. Two large clinical trials determined that each PEG‐IFN alfa compound, when given in combination with ribavirin, results in overall sustained virological response (SVR) rates of approximately 50%; SVR rates in patients infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 are typically lower (42–46%). Differences in study design, treatment regimens, and patient populations preclude comparison of the data across trials; therefore, the most effective use of PEG‐IFN alfa in combination with ribavirin is unclear. The Individualized Dosing Efficacy vs Flat Dosing to Assess Optimal Pegylated Interferon Therapy (IDEAL) study is a phase 3b, randomized, parallel‐group, US multicentre trial in treatment‐naive genotype 1 patients with chronic hepatitis C. Initially, this study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy and safety of weight‐based ribavirin dosing (800–1400 mg / day) and PEG‐IFN alfa‐2b dosing (arm 1: PEG‐IFN alfa‐2b 1.5 μg / kg / week; arm 2: PEG‐IFN alfa‐2b 1.0 μg / kg / week). However, because a clinical trial directly comparing the efficacy and safety of PEG‐IFN alfa‐2a and alfa‐2b in combination with weight‐based ribavirin dosing has not been performed, an additional arm (arm 3: PEG‐IFN alfa‐2a 180 μg / week plus ribavirin 1000–1200 mg / day) was included to address this important issue. IDEAL is fully enrolled (>3000 patients) and complete study data, including SVR rates, are expected in early 2008. Herein, we present the scientific rationale and study design, discuss key data from other trials, and summarize our expectations of this study.
Borrelia burgdorferi membranes are the primary targets of reactive oxygen species
Authors: Boylan Julie A. , Lawrence Kevin A. , Downey Jennifer S. , Gherardini Frank C.
Published: March 2008

Spirochetes living in an oxygen‐rich environment or when challenged by host immune cells are exposed to reactive oxygen species (ROS). These species can harm/destroy cysteinyl residues, iron‐sulphur clusters, DNA and polyunsaturated lipids, leading to inhibition of growth or cell death. Because Borrelia burgdorferi contains no intracellular iron, DNA is most likely not a major target for ROS via Fenton reaction. In support of this, growth of B. burgdorferi in the presence of 5 mM H2O2 had no effect on the DNA mutation rate (spontaneous coumermycin A1 resistance), and cells treated with 10 mM t‐butyl hydroperoxide or 10 mM H2O2 show no increase in DNA damage. Unlike most bacteria, B. burgdorferi incorporates ROS‐susceptible polyunsaturated fatty acids from the environment into their membranes. Analysis of lipoxidase‐treated B. burgdorferi cells by Electron Microscopy showed significant irregularities indicative of membrane damage. Fatty acid analysis of cells treated with lipoxidase indicated that host‐derived linoleic acid had been dramatically reduced (50‐fold) in these cells, with a corresponding increase in the levels of malondialdehyde by‐product (fourfold). These data suggest that B. burgdorferi membrane lipids are targets for attack by ROS encountered in the various stages of the infective cycle.
The functional divergence of short‐chain dehydrogenases involved in tropinone reduction
Authors: Brock Andrea , Brandt Wolfgang , Dräger Birgit
Published: March 2008

Tropane alkaloids typically occur in the Solanaceae and are also found in Cochlearia officinalis, a member of the Brassicaceae. Tropinone reductases are key enzymes of tropane alkaloid metabolism. Two different tropinone reductases form one stereoisomeric product each, either tropine for esterified alkaloids or pseudotropine that is converted to calystegines. A cDNA sequence with similarity to known tropinone reductases (TR) was cloned from C. officinalis. The protein was expressed in Escherichia coli, and found to catalyze the reduction of tropinone. The enzyme is a member of the short‐chain dehydrogenase enzyme family and shows broad substrate specificity. Several synthetic ketones were accepted as substrates, with higher affinity and faster enzymatic turnover than observed for tropinone. C. officinalis TR produced both the isomeric alcohols tropine and pseudotropine from tropinone using NADPH + H+ as co‐substrate. Tropinone reductases of the Solanaceae, in contrast, are strictly stereospecific and form one tropane alcohol only. The Arabidopsis thaliana homologue of C. officinalis TR showed high sequence similarity, but did not reduce tropinone. A tyrosine residue was identified in the active site of C. officinalis TR that appeared responsible for binding and orientation of tropinone. Mutagenesis of the tyrosine residue yielded an active reductase, but with complete loss of TR activity. Thus C. officinalis TR presents an example of an enzyme with relaxed substrate specificity, like short‐chain dehydrogenases, that provides favorable preconditions for the evolution of novel functions in biosynthetic sequences.
Imaging of adenomyomatosis of the gall bladder
Authors: Stunell H , Buckley O , Geoghegan T , O’Brien J , Ward E , Torreggiani W
Published: March 2008

Adenomyomatosis is a relatively common abnormality of the gall bladder, with a reported incidence of between 2.8 and 5%. Although mainly confined to the adult study group, a number of cases have been reported in the paediatric study group. It is characterized pathologically by excessive proliferation of the surface epithelium and hypertrophy of the muscularis propria of the gall bladder wall, with invagination of the mucosa into the thickened muscularis forming the so‐called ‘Rokitansky–Aschoff’ sinuses. The condition is usually asymptomatic and is often diagnosed as an incidental finding on abdominal imaging. The radiological diagnosis is largely dependent on the visualization of the characteristic Rokitansky–Aschoff sinuses. As the condition is usually asymptomatic, the importance of making a correct diagnosis is to prevent misinterpretation of other gall bladder conditions such as gall bladder cancer, leading to incorrect treatment. In the past, oral cholecystography was the main imaging method used to make this diagnosis. In most institutions, oral cholecystography is no longer carried out, and the diagnosis is now more commonly seen on cross‐sectional imaging. In this review article, we describe the manifestations of adenomyomatosis on the various imaging methods, with an emphasis on more modern techniques such as magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography. A brief section on oral cholecystography to aid readers familiar with this technique in understanding the comparable imaging features on more modern imaging techniques is included.
Clinical and endorectal ultrasound staging of circumferential rectal cancers
Authors: Smith A , Farmer KC , Chapple K
Published: March 2008

Circumferential rectal cancers present at a more advanced stage than those located in a single quadrant. Although accurate staging is an important aspect of the preoperative management of the patient with a rectal cancer, the clinical and radiological staging of this subgroup of rectal cancer patients has been poorly studied. All patients with a rectal cancer were assessed clinically (by digital rectal examination and rigid sigmoidoscopy) before the radiological assessment by endorectal ultrasound (ERUS). Data collected included tumour height (distance from anal verge in centimetre) and tumour type (circumferential or non‐circumferential). Radiological tumour staging was with the TNM system. Fifty‐nine subjects (33 men, 26 women; median age 65 years (range 38–86 years)) were identified with a circumferential rectal cancer. Mean height of the cancer was 8 ± 0.4 cm (standard error of the mean; range 2–13 cm). Forty‐two cancers were palpable, and 17 cancers were impalpable. All cancers assessed clinically as circumferential were confirmed as circumferential on ERUS scanning. Tumour stage as assessed by ERUS was either T3 (n = 57) or T4 (n = 2). Nodal status was N0 (n = 29) and N1 (n = 30). All rectal cancers assessed as circumferential on clinical examination have an ERUS stage of T3 or greater.
The Importance of Milk Intolerance in Patients Presenting with Chronic (Nervous) Diarrhoea
Authors: Fung Wye‐Poh , Kho K. M.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Lactose barium study and/ or lactose tolerance test were used to screen for milk intolerance in cases presenting with chronic (nervous) diarrhoea. Of 19 cases, 18 were found to be intolerant to milk, showing that lactase deficiency is a very important aetio‐logical factor in chronic (nervous) diarrhoea in Singapore. Withdrawal of milk was followed by rapid improvement in all the affected cases.
The History of James Parkinson and His Disease
Authors: Mulhearn R. J.
Published: March 2008

Summary: James Parkinson was born over 200 years ago. Although he is remembered in medicine for his monograph on The Shaking Palsy, his interests were broadly divided between social reform, the natural sciences and the teaching and practice of medicine.

Born to the great literary era of Samuel Johnson, Goldsmith and Burke, Parkinson knew an upper class sense of excellence in art, literature, knowledge and good taste which was being compared to the achievements of the Roman Empire.

Against this historical background James Parkinson was a general practitioner, a surgeon, a social reformer and a pamphleteer. His medical writings include Observations on the Nature and Cure of Government, The Chemical Pocket‐Book1, and the renowned case report of perforation of the appendix2.

He was a foundation member of the Geological Society of London and his publication Organic Remains of a Former World3 records his studies on geology and fossil research. Medical Admonitions4 and The Villagers' Friend5 were especially prepared for the laity since he felt a compelling need to promote knowledge of the prevention and treatment of disease to all men.
The Biochemistry of Catecholamines in Relation to Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Hinterberger H.
Published: March 2008

Summary: The effect of oral doses of 2–9 g L‐3, 4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine (L‐dopa) on the metabolism of catecholamines was studied in 14 patients with Parkinson's Disease being treated simultaneously with cholinolytic medication.

Comparison of the excretion in urine of free and conjugated noradrenalin and adrenalin showed no significant differences before and after three months of medication with L‐dopa. Vanilmandelic acid was moderately increased, indicating stimulation of catecholamine turnover well controlled by homeostatic mechanisms. The excretion of free and conjugated 3, 4‐dihydroxyphenylethyla‐mine (dopamine) and its acidic metabolites 3, 4‐dihydroxyphenylacetic acid and homovanillic acid was increased by a factor of 103‐104.

Peak levels of L‐dopa in plasma were observed 1 ‐5‐3 hours after an oral dose and were found to vary considerably between patients. No relation between plasma levels and improvement scores could be observed.

Levels of L‐dopa, homovanillic acid, 3, 4‐dihydroxyphenylacetic acid and 5‐hydroxyindoleacetic acid were measured in lumbar fluid obtained 4–6 hours after ingestion of an oral dose. These levels increased with increasing daily dose (mg/kg). Although the absolute amount of homovanillic acid did not closely follow clinical improvement, absence of homovanillic acid in the CSF was noted in two patients who failed to improve.
Electromyographic Studies of Parkinsonian Patients
Authors: Andrews C. J.
Published: March 2008

Summary: A quantitative electromyographic study of rigidity in 20 Parkinsonian patients demonstrated that the stretch reflex in biceps was more affected than that of triceps, and of hamstrings more than quadriceps.

Increasing disability from Parkinsonian rìgìdity was found to be associated with a lowered sensitivity of the stretch reflex to the dynamic phase of stretch and an increase in the static response to maintained stretch. Treatment with L‐dopa for six months reversed this pattern in extensor muscles much more readily than in flexor muscles. Since animal experiments have shown that L‐dopa diminishes the fusimotor activity of dynamic flexor muscles by its action on the spinal cord, and that the spinal action of L‐dopa can be blocked by phenoxy‐benzamine, the latter agent has been used in Parkinsonian patients who were under treatment with L‐dopa.

Phenoxybenzamine was given to five Parkinsonian patients intravenously and one patient orally. In all patients the dynamic sensitivity of the stretch reflex in flexor muscles improved and rigidity was diminished. Three patients treated with oral phenoxybenzamine showed subjective and objective clinical improvement. This study suggests that the effect of L‐dopa on the spinal cord limits its effectiveness in the treatment of Parkinson's Disease and that this undesirable action may be eliminated by the concomitant use of phenoxybenzamine.
Glibenclamide (HB 419, Daonil) in the Clinical Practice of Diabetes*
Authors: Krall L. P. , Sinha S. , Goldstein H. H.
Published: March 2008

1. Eighty‐nine patients were observed for periods up to two years by the same observer in nearly every case. After eliminating failures and those unsuited to the study, the remaining 58 have continued for periods up to 24 months with a mean duration of 17.4 months.

2. Overall, HB 419 was effective in lowering blood glucose levels in only 27 of the 58 (46.5 %) who continued, however, when the 22 persons also treated with biguanide were eliminated, of the 36 who continued with HB419 alone, 27 (75.0 %) were classified as “satisfactory”. This compares most favourably with the experience using other oral hypoglycaemic agents.

3. Surprisingly, the patient who did not respond to HB 419 (Daonil) alone, did not improve with the addition of biguanide. This is contrary to previous reports and suggests that when this preparation is effective, the effect is maximal, but when it fails, adding other compounds adds nothing.

4. A dosage of 5 to 20 mg is sufficient for most patients and increased dose levels beyond 20 mg does little or nothing for those who did not respond. Twenty‐nine of the 36 using only Daonil compound continue with a single daily dose.

5. HB 419 was only rarely effective in patients who had been failures with maximal doses of other sulphonylurea compounds in this series.

6. There have been no side effects or drug‐related toxicity in this series.

7. At present the secondary failure rate is remarkably low although this may increase over a longer period of time.

8. According to this clinical investigation of HB 419 (Daonil) while there does not appear to be a clear‐cut advantage over other available sulphonylurea compounds there are enough promising facets such as low dose, freedom from side effects and toxicity, single dosage and low rate of secondary failure that longer term observations may prove this to be the equal of, and possibly superior to, the other presently known sulphonylurea compounds.
The Clinical Significance of Selective IgA Deficiency*
Authors: Zieglert John , Penny Ronald , Hughes Darcy O'Gorman
Published: March 2008

Summary: Eight patients with IgA deficiency were investigated. Respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms were prominent and manifest clinically by bronchitis, asthma, steatorrhoea or diarrhoea. In many instances these symptoms were of a relatively mild nature. Evidence of allergy or autoimmunity was present in all patients. Three patients were asthmatic and three had recurrent urticaria or hay fever. Other associated diseases were thyrotoxicosis, corticosteroid sensitive marrow aplasia, glutenenteropathy and allergic alveolitis. Five patients had antibodies against IgM in ruminant serum and in two instances these antibodies produced a second ring in the radioactive single radial immunodiffusion assay for IgE by precipitating sheep serum in the agar. One patient had milk precipitins. Autoantibodies were rheumatoid factor and parietal cell, thyroid epithelial cell and reticulin antibodies. It is considered that allergic and autoimmune phenomenon are due to defective mucosal defences in these patients. While cellular immunity appeared intact and IgA was the only immunoglobulin quantitatively defective, evidence for a broader abnormality of humoral immunity was provided by the findings of absent blood group isoagglutinin in one patient who was blood group A, low antistreptolysin 0 titres in five patients and poor germinal centre activity in three. Excellent symptomatic responses were obtained in five patients who received IgG therapy. A qualitative abnormality of IgG antibody synthesis may result from a relative underproduction of one or more IgG subclasses or kappa or lambda light chains. Parenterally administered IgG might correct such a deficiency.
The Cardiac Conduction System in Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Lief J. T. , Hunt David
Published: March 2008

Summary: Detailed autopsy examination of the cardiac conduction system was carried out in 30 patients with and without heart block complicating acute myocardial infarction (AMI), and the hearts of another 30 patients who died from non‐cardiac disease were used as controls in the interpretation of the histological changes. Fibrosis of the conduction tissue was prevalent in both the AMI and control patients; and among the AMI patients, appeared to be unrelated to whether there was a conduction defect. Patients with anterior infarcts more commonly had intraventricular block and infarction of the bundle branches with sparing of the proximal conduction tissue. Patients with posterior infarcts were more likely to have atrioventricular (AV) block preceded by Wenckebach phenomenon but necrosis of AV node was relatively uncommon. The His bundle electrogram was a useful clinical investigation and correlated well with the histopathology of the conduction tissue in determining the site of heart block.
Haemodynamic Effect of Intravenous Verapamil in Controlled Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Sloman G. , Spokes J. , Ramshaw Jayne , Vohra J.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Haemodynamic effect of intravenous verapamil in controlled atrial fibrillation. G. Sloman, J. Spokes, J. Ramshaw and J. Vohra, Aust. N.Z. J. Med. 1975, 5, pp. 420–423.
T4 Thyrotoxicosis with Normal or Low Serum T3 Concentration
Authors: Joasoo A.
Published: March 2008

Summary: : T4 thyrotoxicosis with normal or low serum T3 concentration. A. Joasoo, Aust. N.Z. J. Med, 1975, 5, pp. 432–434.
Acinetobacter Anitratus Infections in Man
Authors: Thong M. L.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Acinetobacter anitratus infections in man. M. L Thong, Aust. N.Z. J. Med., 1975, 5, pp. 435–439.

During a period of 17 months, 142 strains of Acinetobacter anitratus were isolated from 140 patients. They were examined for biochemical characteristics, antibiotic susceptibilities to 15 chemotherapeutic drugs and clinical and epidemiologic features. Biochemical studies were necessary for positive identification of this gram negative rod. Many isolates were susceptible to kanamycin, gentamicin, polymixin B, cotrimoxazole and nalidixic acid. Most isolates were hospital acquired and had been cultured from a number of anatomic sites in the presence of a variety of clinical situations. Acinetobacter anitratus was the primary infecting organism in two cases of septicaemia (one fatal), two pneumonias, two wound infections and six urinary tract infections. Because of its potential pathogenicity this organism should not be dismissed as a harmless commensal by laboratory staff and clinicians.
Adenine Phosphoribosyltransferase Deficiency: Its Inheritance and Occurrence in a Female with Gout and Renal Disease
Authors: Emmerson B. T. , Gordon R. B. , Thompson L.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Adenine phosphoribosyltransferase deficiency: its inheritance and occurrence in a female with gout and renal disease. B. T. Emmerson, R. B. Gordon and L Thompson, Aust. NX. J. Med., 1975,5, pp. 440–446.
Pyelo‐ureteritis Cystica Associated with a Urinary Tract Infection due to a Coagulase‐Negative Staphylococcus
Authors: Barratt L. J. , Slavotinek A. H.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Pyelo‐ureteritis cystica associated with a urinary tract infection due to a coagulase‐negative staphylococcus. L. J. Barratt and A. H. Slavotinek, Aust. N.Z. J. Med., 1975, 5, pp. 447–449.
Candida Thyroiditis–Treated with 5 Fluoro‐Cytosine
Authors: Robinson M. F. , Forgan‐Smitht W. R. , Craswell P. W.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Candida thyroiditis–Treated with 5 fluoro‐cytosine. M. F. Robinson, W. R. Forgan‐Smith and P. W. Craswell, Aust N.Z. J. Med., 1975, 5, pp. 472–474.
Acute Coronary Artery Disease and Oral Contraceptives
Authors: Friedlander D. H. , Snell A. P.
Published: March 2008

Summary: The Waikato Hospital experience of women admitted or seen in the Cardiology Outpatient Clinic who were under the age of 40 and whose diagnosis was a recent acute coronary occlusive episode was reviewed. It was found that there were nine admissions in eight women in this category between December 1971 and November 1973, plus one further patient who was seen with a recent acute ischaemic episode as an outpatient. The histories of these patients were reviewed and their risk factors surveyed. Of the nine women in the study, seven were taking oral contraceptives.

As opposed to previous studies, not all the women in this study showed risk factors other than oral contraceptive usage. Three patients in this group taking oral contraceptives and who were thought to have definite coronary ischaemic episodes had no other major risk factor though two of the three were obese. It is thought probable that oral contraceptives containing oestrogens should be considered as a coronary risk factor in young women.
Observations on Maori‐European Lung Function Differences
Authors: de Hamel F. A. , Glass W. J.
Published: March 2008

Summary: One hundred and twenty‐one regular soldiers between the ages of 18 and 34 years, who had lived and worked under identical conditions for the two previous years were examined. All subjects with respiratory symptoms of wheeze, dyspnoea, persistent cough or sputum were excluded. Smoking, per se, was not a reason for exclusion. Eighty‐three “respiratorily fit” men, comprising 47 Maoris and 36 Europeans, were studied to see whether height, weight or obesity could account for the ethnic differences in lung function.

The forced vital capacity in the Maoris was found to be about 9% lower than in the Europeans. The one‐second forced expiratory volume of the Maoris was about 8% lower than in the Europeans. No significant difference could be found in the peak expiratory flow rates between the two ethnic groups.

The only significant physical difference found between the two ethnic groups was that the Maoris were heavier for their height than the Europeans. Statistical tests showed that neither weight nor an obesity index accounted for the ethnic differences in lung function. Full laboratory investigation of these ethnic differences is recommended.
The Spectrum of Liver Disease in Alcoholism
Authors: Bhathal P. S. , Wilkinson Patricia , Clifton Sheila , Rankin J. G. , Santamaria J. N.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Liver biopsies obtained from 100 alcoholic patients attending a clinic primarily for the management of their alcoholism, have been reviewed. The morphological appearances have been correlated with histories of alcohol consumption and with clinical and biochemical findings.

There were 77 men and 23 women. Eight biopsies appeared normal, 62 showed fatty liver with or without fibrosis, 17 had alcoholic hepatitis with or without fibrosis and 13 had alcoholic hepatitis with established cirrhosis.

Patients with fatty liver had drunk as long and as heavily as those with alcoholic hepatitis, suggesting that some other factor in addition to alcohol is of importance in the development of alcoholic hepatitis.

Clinical and biochemical abnormalities showed no constant relationship to histological findings. Thus liver biopsy would seem to be an essential part of the full clinical assessment of the alcoholic patient.
Constrictive Pericarditis following Mild Non‐penetrating Trauma
Authors: Rasaretnam Rudra , Paul A. T. S.
Published: March 2008

Summary: A case of constrictive pericarditis developed within twenty‐four days of mild, blunt thoracic trauma. Rapid progression from traumatic pericarditis to constriction is documented with clinical evidence, electrocardio‐graphic changes and cardiac catheterisation data. Other manifestations of pericardial reaction after blunt chest trauma are reviewed briefly.
Dialysis‐associated Dementia
Authors: Barratt L. J. , Lawrence J. R.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Two patients from an Australian Dialysis Centre developed a progressive neurological disorder with features similar to those recently described as the syndrome of Dementia Dialytica. These two patients are reported here and this newly recognised syndrome reviewed.
Papillary Necrosis in Renal Allografts—Report of 2 cases
Authors: Whitworth J. A. , Leroux‐Robert C. , Meyrier A. , Morel‐Maroger L. , Scetbon V. , Sraer J. D.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Two patients are reported in whom early and irreversible renal allo‐graft rejection was associated with passage of necrotic papillary material in the urine. Evidence is presented for a causal relationship between rejection and medullary necrosis. Passage of a papilla is regarded as a definite indication for graft exploration.
Cytogenetic Studies of the Spleen in Chronic Granulocytic Leukaemia
Authors: Spiers A. S. D. , Baikie A. C. , Dartnall J. A. , Cox J. I.
Published: March 2008

Summary: A. S. D. Spiers, A. G. Baikie, J. A. Dartnall and J. I. Cox, Using a technique of short‐term in vitro culture, cytogenetic studies were performed on splenic tissue from 12 patients with chronic granulocytic leukaemia. In eight patients the disease was in its chronic phase and had been treated with busulphan (seven cases) or splenic irradiation (one case). In five of these patients, small numbers of dividing cells possessing the Philadelphia (Ph1) chromosome were observed; in one, only Phl‐negative meta‐phases, presumably those of lymphocytes, occurred, and in two patients no dividing cells were obtained. In four patients chronic granulocytic leukaemia had undergone metamorphosis to an acute phase: in two of these patients no dividing cells were observed in splenic cultures with or without added phytohaemagglutinin: this result may have been attributable to prior cytotoxic therapy. In cultures from the other two patients in metamorphosis, almost all dividing cells were Phl‐positive and many cells possessed two Ph1 chromosomes. Full cytogenetic analysis in one of these cases showed that the spleen contained several closely related cell lines, apparently reflecting progressive tumour cell evolution.
Extensive Drug Surveillance—A Pilot Study
Authors: Gerke D. C. , Easterbrook E. Gail , Frewin D. B. , Lee T. I.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Extensive drug surveillance—A pilot study.D. C. Gerke. E. Gail Easterbrook, D. B. Frewin and T. I. Lee, Aust. N.Z. J. Med., 1975, 5, pp. 336–340. The aim of this Extensive Drug Surveillance programme was to develop a system of drug monitoring suitable for detecting adverse drug reactions in hospitalised patients. The monitored field was a general medical ward in the Royal Adelaide Hospital and monitoring was carried out for a period of one month (September 1974). A total of 85 patients (45 males and 40 females) were monitored and in 14 of them adverse reactions were noted. The overall incidence of such reactions was 16.5%. A greater intake of drugs was a significant finding in patients who experienced adverse reactions. Coupled with this was the observation that patients who stayed longer in hospital had a greater number of drugs administered to them. A third finding was the higher incidence of reactions in female patients.
Diarrhoea and Colitis Associated with Antibiotic Treatment: A Report of 16 cases
Authors: Gibson G. E. , Rowland R. , Hecker R.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Diarrhoea and colitis associated with antibiotic treatment.G. E. Gibson, R. Rowland and R. Hecker, Aust. N.Z. J. Med., 1975, 5, pp. 340–347. Sixteen cases of colitis developing within twenty‐one days of antibiotic therapy are reported. There was a wide range of disease seventy. Lincomycin and Clindamycin were implicated in twelve. The colitis was of two pathological patterns, pseudomembranous colitis and “non‐specific” colitis. There is a relative sparing of the rectum in some cases making the diagnosis more difficult on sigmoidoscopy.
Familial Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy and Lentiginosis
Authors: Hopkins Barry E. , Taylor Roger R. , Robinson James S.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Members of three generations of a family studied, manifest profuse lentiginosis and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The autosomal dominant inheritance of this syndrome is established. Lentiginosis should alert the physician to possible underlying heart disease.
Regression of Acromegaly Following Pituitary Apoplexy
Authors: Dunn P. J. , Donald R. A. , Espiner E. A.
Published: March 2008

Summary: A case of acromegaly complicated by pituitary apoplexy is described. The pituitary apoplexy occurred while the patient was under investigation in a metabolic ward permitting full assessment of pituitary function both before and immediately after the event. This demonstrated a remarkably selective reduction in the plasma growth hormone concentration with preservation of other pituitary function excluding mild diabetes insipidus. The plasma growth hormone fell from values greater than 120 ng/ml to less than 4 ng/ml. The brisk inappropriate release of growth hormone observed on stimulation with thyrotrophic hormone releasing hormone, associated with a severe headache and the onset of pituitary apoplexy two days later raised the possibility of provocative tests of pituitary function precipitating pituitary apoplexy.
Factor XIII Deficiency in Two Melanesian Families from Papua New Guinea
Authors: Woodfield D. G. , Eastman Andrea
Published: March 2008

Summary: Three patients from two families in Papua New Guinea with a deficiency of Factor XIII activity are described Lowered levels of Factor XIII activity were found in the parents of both families Simple screening tests for Factor XIII deficiency should be included in all coagulation screening tests, even in a developing country
Reduction of Platelet/Fibrin Deposition in Haemodialysers by Aspirin Administration
Authors: Stewart J. H. , Farrell P. C. , Dixon Margaret
Published: March 2008

Summary: Aspirin, a drug known to inhibit the platelet release reaction, was evaluated for its potential in reducing platelet/fibrin deposition in hollow fibre dialysers. Twelve patients with end‐stage renal failure were given the drug under controlled conditions while being treated by regular maintenance haemodialysis. After base‐line data were collected during a mean number of 11.7 dialyses per study, observations were repeated for a mean of 9.3 dialyses, during which time each patient took 600 mg of aspirin by mouth every morning. Thrombus deposition, measured by volume loss of the blood compartment of the dialyser fibre bundle, was significantly reduced (P < 005) during aspirin administration in six of the 12 studies. The mean volume loss of the fibre bundle in these six studies (responders) was 25% per dialysis during the control period, and 13% with aspirin; in the other six studies (non‐responders), the mean values were 8% and 6% respectively. Aspirin prolonged the bleeding time in all patients, and significantly (P < 005) impaired platelet aggregation in both responders and non‐responders.
The Prevalence of Chronic Gastritis in Patients with Gastric Ulcer
Authors: Fung Wye‐Poh , Lee Swee‐Kok , Tye Cho‐Yook
Published: March 2008

Summary: Multiple gastric biopsies were performed with a duodenofiberscope in 58 Chinese subjects. All 58 cases had a gastric ulcer crater, demonstrated by endoscopy, or barium meal, or both. Histological sections of the gastric biopsies showed chronic atrophic gastritis in 12 (20.6%), chronic gastritis in 31 (53.4%), and acute‐on‐chronic gastritis in 11 (19%). Only two cases or 3.4% had normal gastric mucosa, while 54 cases or 93% had some form of chronic gastritis, on the gastric biopsy. The gastritis was associated with intestinal metaplasia in 16 cases (27.6%), while two cases had histological evidence of gastric atypia. No significant difference was found in the mean basal and peak acid outputs among the three groups of gastric ulcer cases with chronic atrophic gastritis, chronic gastritis, and acute‐on‐chronic gastritis. The high frequency of chronic gastritis (93%) occurring in patients with gastric ulcer in the present series suggests that chronic gastritis may be an important aetiological factor in the pathogenesis of gastric ulceration.
The Rectal Administration of Lactulose
Authors: Ratnaike R. N. , Hicks E. P. , Hislop I. G.
Published: March 2008

Summary: A lactulose colonic washout (pH 4.5) was administered to six male patients with portal systemic encephalopathy. Estimation of blood ammonia levels and electroencephalography were performed before and after each treatment. Five patients recorded a significant fall in blood ammonia level as a result of lactulose therapy (P < 025). In the sixth subject, an enema with buffered physiological saline, pH 4.5, induced a fall in ammonia which was not increased by subsequent lactulose solution. Improvement in the electroencephalogram was recorded in all periods where a lactulose colonic washout produced a fall in blood ammonia level.
Phenytoin Sensitivity in a Case of Phenytoin‐Associated Hodgkin's Disease*
Authors: Sorrell Tania C. , Forbes Ian J.
Published: March 2008

Summary: The case of a patient who developed Hodgkin's disease three years after commencement of therapy with phenytoin is presented. Humoral and cellular immunological capacity were significantly depressed. Phenytoin caused a striking increase in DNA synthesis when lymphocytes were cultured in the presence of this drug, in contrast to significant inhibition in the lymphocytes of control subjects.
Gastric Glycoproteins in Chronic Peptic Ulcer
Authors: Roberts‐Thomson I. C. , Clarke A. E. , Maritz V. M. , Denborough M. A.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Gastric glycoproteins in chronic peptic ulcer.
Cavitation in Lung Cancers
Authors: Chiu F. T. S.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Cavitation in lung cancers.
Low Dose Heparin and Early Kidney Transplant Function
Authors: Horvath J. S. , Tiller D. J. , Duggin G. G. , McGrath B. P. , Montenegro R. , Johnsont J. R. , May J. , Sheil A. G. R.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Low dose heparin and early kidney transplant function.
Plasma Lipids in Extra Hepatic Biliary Obstruction
Authors: Mistilis S. P. , Goren R. , Tall A. R. , Hickie J. R.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Plasma lipids in extra hepatic biliary obstruction.
What is Tertiary Hyperparathyroidism?
Authors: Somerville P. J. , Tiller D. J. , Evans R. A.
Published: March 2008

Summary: What is tertiary hyperparathyroidism?
Paget's Disease in Identical Twins
Authors: Melick R. A. , Martin T. J.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Paget's disease in identical twins.
Cold Agglutinin Formation in Patients Undergoing Haemodialysis. A Possible Relationship to Dialyser Re‐use
Authors: Harrison Pamela Brawdley , Jansson Kay , Kronenberg Harry , Mahony John Francis , Tillert David
Published: March 2008

Summary: Cold agglutinin formation in patients undergoing haemodialysis. A possible relationship to dialyser re‐use.

Cold agglutinins with anti‐N characteristics were shown to develop in as short a time as four months in patients on home dialysis. It appeared that the development of such antibodies is related to dialyser re‐use. Those who were treated without re‐using their dialyser did not develop these antibodies.

Anti‐N may cause early graft failure associated with agglutination in a cold allograft. Moreover, if these antibodies develop in patients on dialysis there may be problems with extracorporeal dialysis and blood transfusion.
The Effect of Impairment of Renal Function and Dialysis on the Serum and Urine Levels of Clindamycin*
Authors: Peddie Barbara A. , Darin Elsie , Bailey Ross R.
Published: March 2008

Summary: The effect of impairment of renal function and dialysis on the serum and urine levels of clindamycin.

A single 150 mg oral dose of clindamycin was given to three healthy volunteers and 13 patients with varying degrees of renal functional impairment. The mean peak serum levels in the two groups were 2.55±0.92 μg/ml and 3.39±0.68 μg/ml respectively. In all patients the levels greatly exceeded the minimum inhibitory concentration for sensitive pathogens. The serum half‐life was extremely variable in patients with renal failure and bore no relationship to the glomerular filtration rate. In the normal subjects 11.9% of the administered dose was excreted in the urine but in severe renal failure less than 1% of the bioactivity was detected in the urine in 24 hours. The drug was not removed by haemodialysis.

In patients with mild to moderate impairment of renal function no dosage adjustment of clindamycin is necessary. However, in those with severe renal failure some modification to dosage would be prudent and this should be monitored by measuring serum levels of the antibiotic.
A Study of Serum and Myocardial Digoxin Concentrations in Man During Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Schapel G. J. , Hawkins M. R. , Edwards K. D. G.
Published: March 2008

Summary: A study of serum and myocardial digoxin concentrations in man during cardiac arrest.

In 22 digitalized (of a total of 39) patients studied at random by radioimmunoassay during cardiac arrest, the mean serum digoxin concentration was 2·6 (±1·86, range 0·6–8·2) ng/ml, significantly higher (P < 0·001) than the “eudigitalized” concentration (1·3±0·52, range 0·5–2·3 ng/ml) determined under carefully standardized conditions in a non‐toxic population. Half of the arrest patients had serum digoxin levels in the toxic range (2·4 ng/ml or above), mainly due to significant renal failure (mean serum creatinine concentration 2·9±2·66 v. 1·0±26 mg/dl for non‐toxic subjects, P < 0·001), partly due to a higher mean daily digoxin dose (0·40 v. 0·31 mg/day, P < 0·05) and frequently associated with potent diuretic therapy (73 v. 54%). A smaller fraction of digitalized patients survived, both short‐(27%) and long‐term (14%), than did non‐digitalized subjects (35% and 26%, respectively). The mean myocardial digoxin concentration was 150 (·63±3, range 52–252) ng/g with an average myocardial/serum ratio of 62·5 (range 38–91). There were significant positive correlations between the serum digoxin and left‐ventricular myocardial digoxin concentration (r= 0·8107, P < 0·01) or serum creatinine concentration (r= 0·4637 P < 0·001).

The research program was supported by a grant from the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia.