Australian And New Zealand Journal Of Medicine[JOURNAL]

Julian Savulescu argues that destructive experimentation on human embryos is ethically permissible. He attempts to refute objections to such experimentation, and offers an account of the status of the early human embryo... Julian Savulescu argues that destructive experimentation on human embryos is ethically permissible. He attempts to refute objections to such experimentation, and offers an account of the status of the early human embryo according to which it is the kind of entity upon which it is perfectly permissible to experiment. However, his attempts to refute the objections to destructive experimentation on human embryos are unconvincing, and the consequences of his own view of the status of the embryo are counter-intuitive.

Get PDF PubMed ↗

The ethics of cloning and creating embryonic stem cells as a source of tissue for transplantation: time to change the law in Australia.

Savulescu J

Aust N Z J Med · 2000 Aug · PMID 10985516 · Publisher ↗

Every day, people die because there are insufficient tissues available for transplantation. The development of cloning and embryonic stem (ES) cell line technologies offers real hope for developing better sources of tiss... Every day, people die because there are insufficient tissues available for transplantation. The development of cloning and embryonic stem (ES) cell line technologies offers real hope for developing better sources of tissues for transplantation. Moreover, these new technologies may mean that damaged tissue (for example, after a stroke or heart attack) can be replaced with normal functioning tissue rather than scar tissue. Research into 'therapeutic cloning' and the development of ES cell lines is illegal in several States in Australia. It is time to review that legislation in order to allow destructive embryo research. My argument is that at least research should be allowed on spare embryos from assisted reproduction; that it is only one moral view (of several plausible ones) of the status of the embryo which precludes producing embryos for research; that this view is mistaken and so it is morally permissible to produce embryos for research into therapeutic cloning.

Get PDF PubMed ↗

Clinical trials and clinical practice--bridging the gaps in type 2 diabetes. An evidence-based approach to risk factor modification in type 2 diabetes.

Greenfield JR, Chisholm DJ

Aust N Z J Med · 2000 Aug · PMID 10985515 · Publisher ↗

Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.

Get PDF PubMed ↗

Recent advances in the management of chronic heart failure.

Krum H

Aust N Z J Med · 2000 Aug · PMID 10985514 · Publisher ↗

Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.

Get PDF PubMed ↗

Use of a peripherally implanted subcutaneous permanent central venous access device for chemotherapy--the Singapore General Hospital experience.

Ang P, Chia KH, Teoh MK … +1 more , Wong KK

Aust N Z J Med · 2000 Aug · PMID 10985513 · Publisher ↗

BACKGROUND: Venous access for chemotherapy patients at the Singapore General Hospital has conventionally been via an externalised (Hickman) catheter. A peripherally implanted permanent subcutaneous central venous access... BACKGROUND: Venous access for chemotherapy patients at the Singapore General Hospital has conventionally been via an externalised (Hickman) catheter. A peripherally implanted permanent subcutaneous central venous access device (P.A.S.Port) was introduced in 1996. AIMS: We review its use, complications and cost competitiveness with other chemotherapy delivery systems. METHODS: A retrospective study of clinical records was conducted with follow up interviews of patients and nursing staff. RESULTS: Twelve patients had the P.A.S.Port inserted for administration of chemotherapy as an outpatient procedure. Immediate complications were pain (8%) and bruising (8%). One port-related infection (8%) one week following insertion was reported and one patient complained of interference with elbow movement as a late complication. Cost analysis was favourable for P.A.S.Port over an externalised Hickman catheter or chest-placed port at one year. Patient and nursing staff acceptance was high. CONCLUSION: P.A.S.Port insertion is a safe outpatient procedure and is an alternative for permanent venous access.

Get PDF PubMed ↗

A prospective study of atropine premedication in flexible bronchoscopy.

Hewer RD, Jones PM, Thomas PS … +1 more , McKenzie DK

Aust N Z J Med · 2000 Aug · PMID 10985512 · Publisher ↗

AIM: This study aimed to assess the effect of atropine premedication prior to flexible bronchoscopy. The rationale for using atropine is that it will dry secretions and allow a better view of the bronchial tree. There is... AIM: This study aimed to assess the effect of atropine premedication prior to flexible bronchoscopy. The rationale for using atropine is that it will dry secretions and allow a better view of the bronchial tree. There is also the theoretical benefit of protection against vasovagal episodes and bronchospasm. METHODS: Twenty patients were randomised in a double-blind manner to receive either 500 mcg of atropine intramuscularly or 1 mL of 0.9% saline intramuscularly 30 minutes prior to bronchoscopy. Both groups received a standard dose of intramuscular pethidine. Variables studied included a pre-procedure electrocardiograph, a rhythm strip during the procedure, serial measurements of blood pressure, continuous pulse oximetry, and spirometry pre- and post-bronchoscopy. Subjective measures recorded were a secretion score, rated 0-3 by the bronchoscopist using a four point visual analogue scale. A patient questionnaire was designed to establish the presence or absence of symptoms, including those related to atropine. RESULTS: There were no significant differences recorded in the duration of procedure, percentage fall in FEV1, secretion scores, or other physiological measures. The only significant difference between the two groups was dry mouth in the atropine group (p<0.001). There was a fall in forced vital capacity from baseline which was significant in the saline group (p<0.005), and not the atropine group, but it was not significant when compared between groups. A beta2 adrenergic agonist would, however, be more appropriate to prevent such a fall in spirometry. CONCLUSIONS: These results fail to demonstrate a benefit of intramuscular atropine as premedication for fibreoptic bronchoscopy.

Get PDF PubMed ↗

Australian And New Zealand Journal Of Medicine[JOURNAL]

About