bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibition in adult hypertensive rats: A stereological study of renal filtration surface area
Authors: Dunstan HJ , Briscoe TA , Bertram JF , Johnston CI , Black MJ 
Published: March 2003

Summary1. Angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor treatment leads to beneficial effects on kidney function. The aim of the present study was to determine whether ACE inhibition at high or low doses affects glomerular capillary surface area and length, glomerular number or total renal filtration surface area in rats with established hypertension and, if so, to determine whether these effects are mediated through bradykinin potentiation.2. Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were treated with the ACE inhibitor perindopril at either 3 or 0.1 mg/kg per day (high and low doses, respectively) from 16 to 24 weeks of age. Some rats were concomitantly treated with the bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist S16118 (10 nmol/kg per day). Blood pressure was measured twice weekly during the treatment period. At 24 weeks of age, rats were perfusion fixed at 140 mmHg, the kidneys removed, embedded in resin and examined stereologically to estimate glomerular number and volume, length and surface area of glomerular capillaries and total renal filtration surface area.3. High‐ and low‐perindopril treatment significantly reduced systolic blood pressure compared with control SHR. However, the rats treated with low‐dose perindopril were still considered hypertensive. Neither low‐dose nor high‐dose perindopril treatment had any observable effect on glomerular number (23 876 ± 1201 vs 26 240 ± 1465 glomeruli/kidney, respectively) or volume (2.25 ± 0.21 and 1.96 ± 0.06 × 10−3 mm3, respectively) compared with controls (glomerular number 25 866 ± 1210 glomeruli/kidney; glomerular volume 2.24 ± 0.21 × 10−3 mm3). As a result, there was no significant difference in total renal filtration surface area between any of the experimental groups (8161.6 ± 550.9, 8699.7 ± 427.6, 9081.9 ± 453.6, 8830.2 ± 521.2 and 8559.4 ± 341.4 mm2 for SHR, SHR low‐dose perindopril, SHR low‐dose perindopril + B2 antagonist, SHR high‐dose perindopril and SHR high‐dose perindopril + B2 antagonist, respectively). Coadministration of the bradykinin antagonist had no observable effect on any of the parameters studied.4. In conclusion, because neither high‐dose nor low‐dose perindopril had any effect on total renal filtration surface area, the observed beneficial effects of ACE inhibition on kidney function are not the result of enhancement in glomerular capillary surface area.
Modulatory effect of Coccinia indica on aortic collagen in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats
Authors: Venkateswaran Subramanian , Pari Leelavinothan , Suguna Lonchin , Chandrakasan Gowri 
Published: March 2003

Summary1. The effects of Coccinia indica, an indigenous plant used in Ayurvedic medicine in India, on aortic collagen content and its characteristics were assessed in streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic rats.2. Rats were made diabetic with a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (45 mg/kg). Blood glucose, hydroxyproline, collagen, extent of glycation, collagen‐linked fluorescence, soluble pattern of pepsin‐soluble collagen, shrinkage temperature, α/β ratio of type I collagen and type I/type III collagen ratio were determined in rats treated with C. indica leaf extract (CLEt; 200 mg/kg for 45 days using an oral intragastric tube).3. In diabetic rats, the collagen content, as well as the degree of cross‐linking, was increased, as evidenced by increased shrinkage temperature and decreased pepsin solubility. The α/β ratio of type I collagen and the type I/type III collagen ratio of pepsin‐soluble collagen were significantly decreased in STZ diabetic rats.4. In conclusion, administration of CLEt for 45 days to STZ diabetic rats significantly reduced the accumulation and cross‐linking of collagen. The effects of C. indica (collagen content 23.87 ± 1.52 mg/100 mg tissue (t value = 6.80), extent of cross‐linking 0.893 ± 0.072 mg hydroxyproline/100 mg tissue (t value = 9.0)) were comparable with those of glibenclamide (collagen content 26.18 ± 1.65 mg/100 mg tissue (t value = 4.58), extent of cross‐linking 0.787 ± 0.057 mg hydroxyproline/100 mg tissue (t value = 7.1)), a reference drug.
DNA sequence variation in the ITS‐1 rDNA subunit and host relationships in sorghum midge, Stenodiplosis sorghicola (Coquillett) (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), in Australia
Authors: Congdon Bradley C , Kurniasih  , Franzmann Bernard A , Hardy Adam T 
Published: March 2003

AbstractSequence variation in the internal transcribed spacer (ITS‐1) ribosomal DNA subunit was examined for sorghum midge obtained from introduced and native hosts in south‐eastern and central Queensland. No variation was observed relative to host plant or geographical distance for midges collected from two introduced hosts, grain sorghum (Sorghum

bicolor) and Johnson grass (S. halepense); however, sequence differences

were observed between midges from introduced and native hosts and among midges from

a single native host, slender bluegrass (Dichanthium affine). No evidence

was observed of introduced midges on native hosts, or vice versa. These results agree

with previously hypothesised host distributions for native and introduced midges

in Australia, and expand the sample of introduced hosts to include Johnson grass.

They suggest that Stenodiplosis sorghicola, the principal midge infesting

grain sorghum, is also the most common species on Johnson grass. This confirms that

Johnson grass plays a role in the population dynamics of S. sorghicola and suggests that midges originating from Johnson grass may influence levels of infestation in grain sorghum.
Histiostoma papillata sp. n. (Acari: Histiostomatidae), a mite attacking fish in Australia
Authors: Halliday RB , Collins RO 
Published: March 2003

Abstract Histiostoma papillata sp. n. (Acari: Histiostomatidae) is described from
Victoria, Australia. It was found in the fins and gills of juvenile Murray cod, Maccullochella
peelii peelii (Mitchell), where it appeared to inflict injuries thought to be responsible for the mortality of fish in a diet trial.
Comparison of feeding efficiency, development time and survival of Tasmanian eucalyptus leaf beetle larvae Chrysophtharta bimaculata (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) on two hosts
Authors: Baker Susan C , Elek Jane A , Candy Steven G 
Published: March 2003

AbstractThe native Eucalyptus leaf beetle Chrysophtharta bimaculata (Olivier)
(Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) has become a pest of the introduced, plantation species,
Eucalyptus nitens Maiden in Tasmania, Australia. However, in the field it
prefers to oviposit on the Tasmanian native species, E. regnans F. Muell.
This laboratory study found that the performance of C. bimaculata larvae was
superior on foliage of E. nitens compared with E. regnans. Larval development
was 4 days shorter on E. nitens than on E. regnans foliage. Total food
consumption per larva and relative consumption rates were about 30% lower
while relative growth rates and weight of emergent adults were more than 25%
higher on E. nitens than E. regnans. Efficiency of conversion (ECI)
of fresh food into larval wet weight was 0.26 on E. nitens compared with 0.14
on E. regnans. Mortality of larvae feeding on E. nitens (23%)
was only one third of that on E. regnans (69%), a result of high first
instar mortality on E. regnans. Although the amount of foliage consumed per
larva was lower on E. nitens (0.23 g vs 0.32 g), the differential mortality
meant that the amount of E. nitens consumed per egg batch was 60%
more than that of E. regnans. If these results occurred in the field, then
the same monitored population of C. bimaculata eggs may result in heavier
defoliation of plantation E. nitens than of E. regnans. These data
show that the reported oviposition preference of C. bimaculata for E. regnans in the field cannot be explained by selection of host factors related to superior larval performance.
New species and new record ofTetranychusDufour from Australia, with a key to the major groups in this genus based on females (Acari: Prostigmata: Tetranychidae)
Authors: Flechtmann Carlos HW , Knihinicki Danuta K 
Published: March 2003

AbstractA new species of spider mite,Tetranychus bundasp. n., is described and illustrated from Australia. It was found damaging the foliage ofDesmodium tortuosum(Sw.) DC. (Fabaceae) in Darwin, Northern Territory. In addition, the geographical range ofTetranychus fijiensisHirst is extended to include Australia. This species was found in the Northern Territory feeding on frangipani (Plumeriasp., Apocynaceae), betel palm (Areca catechuL., Arecaceae) and Macarthur feather palm (Ptychosperma macarthurii[H. Wendl. ex Veitch] (H. Wendl. ex Hook. f., Arecaceae)). Details of the biology ofT. bundasp. n. andT. fijiensisare given. A key to the major groups ofTetranychusDufour of the world, based on females, is presented and species known to occur in Australia are outlined.
A prospective randomized pilot comparison of intranasal fentanyl and intramuscular morphine for analgesia in children presenting to the emergency department with clinical fractures
Authors: Younge Paul A , Nicol Mark F , Kendall Jason M , Harrington Anthony P 
Published: March 2003

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the tolerability and efficacy of intranasal fentanyl analgesia for children. Methods: A prospective, open‐label, two‐arm pilot study was conducted. Children, aged 3 to 10 years, with clinical limb fractures were randomized to receive 1 μg/kg intranasal fentanyl via nasal spray or 0.2 mg/kg intramuscular morphine. Tolerance to administration, pain scores, rescue analgesia, adverse events and physiological data were recorded at intervals over 30 min. Results: Forty‐seven children were recruited to the study. Tolerance to administration was better for intranasal fentanyl compared with intramuscular morphine (median scores 1 vs 2; P < 0.001). Pain scores over the trial period were similar in both groups. One child receiving intranasal fentanyl required rescue analgesia. No significant adverse effects were noted. Conclusions: Intranasal fentanyl provides effective paediatric analgesia comparable to intramuscular morphine and is better tolerated. A larger study is needed to determine dose range and confirm safety.
Hyperammonaemia with normal liver function: An uncommon cause of coma
Authors: Paoloni Richard , Green Tim 
Published: March 2003

AbstractHyperammonaemia is an uncommon, but well‐described cause of coma. Most cases occur in patients with advanced liver failure. A case of hyperammonaemic coma in a 41‐year‐old woman with normal liver function is presented. Recurrent hyperammonaemia was secondary to a ureterorectal urinary diversion procedure performed during childhood. The pathophysiology, causes and management of hyperammonaemia are reviewed.
Safety of interhospital transport of patients with acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Hooi Herbert 
Published: March 2003

Objectives: To describe the rate of complications in patients who undergo interhospital transport in the early stages of acute myocardial infarction and to determine whether instability in the emergency department is a predictor of these complications. Methods: A retrospective medical record review of patients with proven acute myocardial infarction transferred from Wyong Emergency Department to Gosford Hospital in the period 1994–96 was performed. Results: Three hundred and twenty‐three patients were transported. Four patients required an unplanned intervention; all four patients suffered hypotension and all had an intravenous nitroglycerin infusion. Three patients required fluid resuscitation and one patient developed supraventricular tachycardia with hypotension, treated by cardioversion. No other complications, cardiac arrest or deaths were recorded. Prior patient instability did not predict three out of four complications during transfer and did not predict any complications in non‐intubated patients. Conclusion: Medical escort of stabilized non‐intubated patients in the early stages of acute myocardial infarction is probably unnecessary. Further prospective studies are needed to determine which patients with acute myocardial infarction can be safely transported without a medical escort.
Organizing and training the emergency department in the reception of major trauma
Authors: Flavin Brian M , Driscoll Peter A 
Published: March 2003

AbstractBecause mortality from trauma may be avoided, an organized approach to trauma patients is required. The trauma team provides an effective structure within which emergency staff, other medical specialities and paramedical staff resuscitate and treat trauma cases. Training, as individuals and as a team, is necessary. Clear criteria for trauma team calls are often not available, resulting in over‐ and under‐triage, but a minimum amount of information should be provided for the team prior to patient arrival. The team’s performance should be audited regularly to maintain and improve standards.
Slow‐release potassium overdose: Clinical features and the role of whole‐bowel lavage in management
Authors: Whitaker Richard J , Maguire John E 
Published: March 2003

AbstractPoisoning with slow‐release potassium preparations is reported uncommonly in the medical literature; slow‐release potassium poisoning occurring in a child has not been reported previously. There is potential for death from hyperkalaemia, as well as significant potential morbidity from gastrointestinal side‐effects of the potassium preparations. Treatment of hyperkalaemia is paramount in stabilizing these patients, but previous reports have not strongly supported the role of vigorous gastrointestinal decontamination in the management of this overdose. We report a case of significant slow‐release potassium poisoning in a child, and discuss our management. The literature of slow‐release potassium poisoning is reviewed with an emphasis on the role and safety of gastrointestinal decontamination with whole‐bowel lavage.
Recognition and management of falciparum malaria
Authors: Davis Timothy ME 
Published: March 2003

AbstractFalciparum malaria is a serious parasitic infection that, if left untreated, can give rise to a range of life‐threatening complications. Prompt recognition depends on a high index of suspicion and a detailed history identifying possible malaria risk factors. Symptoms and signs, apart from periodic fever in some cases, are typically non‐specific. Even in cases of severe falciparum malaria with vital organ involvement, the differential diagnosis can be broad. The gold standard diagnostic test is blood film microscopy but antigen detection tests have become available as an alternative. Other laboratory tests can, together with the history and examination findings, help confirm the diagnosis and provide data relating to the nature and severity of complications. Management of malaria involves prompt administration of effective antimalarial drugs and prevention or amelioration of complications such as coma (cerebral malaria), renal failure and acidosis. Oral treatment is usually given to patients with uncomplicated malaria while therapy should be administered parenterally in severe cases. Conventional drugs such as quinine are still useful but the artemisinin derivatives are rapidly acting antimalarial drugs that are increasingly used as first‐line therapy in tropical countries. Most adjunctive therapies assessed specifically for their effectiveness against complications have proved disappointing but some (such as prophylactic phenobarbitone and exchange transfusion) can complement generic management protocols that remain the cornerstone of intensive care for the severely ill patient with malaria.
Nerve stimulator‐assisted femoral nerve block in the emergency department
Authors: Stella Julian , Ellis Rod , Sprivulis Peter 
Published: March 2003

Abstract Objective: To describe the technique of femoral nerve block using a nerve stimulator to locate the nerve, and to report the success rate of its use by junior and senior doctors in the emergency department. Method: Standardized protocol and patient selection criteria were formulated for the performance of femoral nerve block on patients with femoral neck or shaft fractures using a nerve stimulator to locate the femoral nerve and confirm deposition of local anaesthetic agent close to the femoral nerve. Femoral nerve blockade was assessed before and after femoral nerve block by testing for altered sensation in the cutaneous distribution of the femoral nerve. Pain was assessed before and after femoral nerve block using a visual analogue scale. The use of supplementary analgesics was recorded. Results: A successful femoral nerve block was obtained with the nerve stimulator in 19 of 22 attempts (86%) at femoral nerve block. Success was unrelated to seniority of staff. Femoral nerve block was the only analgesia required in 17 patients (77%). Femoral nerve block was the only analgesia required for 100% for femoral shaft fractures and 75% and 73%, respectively, for extra‐capsular and intracapsular fractures of the femoral neck. Conclusion: The femoral nerve was accurately located using the nerve stimulator irrespective of seniority of staff performing the procedure. Femoral nerve block using the nerve stimulator was effective analgesia for femoral shaft fractures and the majority of both intra‐ and extra‐capsular femoral neck fractures.
Absence of ice‐cream interference with the adsorption of paracetamol onto activated charcoal
Authors: Teubner David JO 
Published: March 2003

Abstract Aims: To measure the extent to which the addition of ice‐cream to activated charcoal interferes with its ability to adsorb paracetamol. Method: Activated charcoal, ice‐cream and both charcoal and ice‐cream were added to stock solutions of paracetamol at both simulated gastric and intestinal pH at charcoal : paracetamol ratios of 3:1, 5:1 and 10:1. The samples were centrifuged and the supernatant assayed for paracetamol concentration. Results: When the charcoal : paracetamol ratio was 3:1, charcoal alone adsorbed 65% of the available paracetamol, and charcoal with ice‐cream adsorbed 57%. When the ratio was 5:1, charcoal alone adsorbed 92% of the available paracetamol and charcoal with ice‐cream 90%. When the ratio was 10:1, charcoal alone adsorbed 100% of the available paracetamol and charcoal with ice‐cream 99%. The results were independent of pH. Conclusions: The practice of adding ice‐cream to activated charcoal to improve palatability does not decrease the ability of the charcoal to adsorb paracetamol in vitro, especially if charcoal : drug ratios are above 5:1.
Same‐day X‐ray reporting is not needed in well‐supervised emergency departments
Authors: Sprivulis Peter , Frazer Amanda , Waring Andrew 
Published: March 2003

AbstractObjective:To evaluate the efficacy of a missed radiological abnormality follow‐up system in a teaching hospital emergency department.Methods:Prospective audit of all reported radiological abnormalities missed by Fremantle Hospital Emergency Department medical staff from 1 January 1997 to 31 December 1998.Results:Of 29 724 radiological examination series, 459 abnormalities (1.5%) were not clearly documented as being identified in the medical record. The commonest missed abnormalities were incidental chest findings, distal wrist fractures with minimal or no displacement, radial head fractures and tibial plateau fractures. The most senior doctor undertaking initial film review was a junior medical officer in 242 cases (53%), a registrar in 96 cases (21%), and a consultant in 42 cases (9%). The most senior staff member was unknown in 79 cases (17%). One hundred and twenty‐four missed abnormalities required a change in patient management (0.41% of total examinations, CI 0.34–0.48%). Ninety patients (73%) were referred to the patient’s general practitioner for management. Seventeen patients (14%) returned to the emergency department for management. Thirteen patients (10%) were referred to a specialist clinic and in four cases (3%) the management of the patient was not recorded. No patient required re‐admission to hospital.Conclusions:Missed radiological abnormalities in an emergency department with extended‐hours emergency physician supervision can be managed non‐urgently on an outpatient basis. Same‐day reporting of radiographs is not required if adequate follow‐up mechanisms for missed abnormalities exist.
Another cause for bilateral haemorrhagic otorrhoea following trauma
Authors: Swain Andrew , Jeffery Penelope , Hughes Geoffrey , Nowitz Michael 
Published: March 2003

AbstractBleeding from the external auditory meatus (haemorrhagic otorrhoea) following head trauma is usually attributed to a basal skull fracture. However, it may also result from unsuspected facial trauma. We describe a case that highlights an usual but important differential diagnosis for bilateral haemorrhagic otorrhoea.
Paediatric sedation in emergency departments: What is our practice?
Authors: Everitt Ian , Younge Paul , Barnett Peter 
Published: March 2003

AbstractObjectives: The aim of the present study was to document the use of sedation in paediatric patients in emergency departments within Australia and New Zealand.Methods: A questionnaire was sent to 54 emergency departments throughout Australia and New Zealand.Results: A total of 45 departments (83%) responded to the survey. Because the adult departments (n = 5) reported few paediatric attendances, they were not included in the analysis. Thirty‐nine of 40 departments (97.5%) reported using sedation in children. Midazolam was used most frequently (77%) for sedation. There was marked variation in the route of delivery and the dose of midazolam used. Ketamine was reported as the most efficacious agent used, but it was used only in 12% of cases. Formal guidelines existed in all paediatric departments but only in 58% of mixed departments, and formal discharge criteria were used in only 52% of all departments. The use of topical anaesthesia in wound closure was reported in only 30% of departments.Conclusions: There exists wide variation in practice regarding the use of sedation in children in emergency departments throughout Australia and New Zealand. Thus, the development of adequate guidelines, including discharge instructions and the use of topical agents, will improve sedation for children.