Lancet
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The intermittent intravenous administration of narcotic analgesics had advantages over intramuscular administration, but is often impracticable. The design of a prototype apparatus is described, from which analgesic, pethidine, can be self-administered intravenously during labour. The apparatus consists of a syringe pump and control system from which the patient can demand an increment of analgesic. ⋯ The mean total dose self-administered (2.2 mg/kg) was well within the prescribed limits, suggesting that mothers regulated their demand. The apparatus appears acceptable and safe in labour. The apparatus will probably be of value in comparative studies of analgesics.
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Segemental and focal pathological changes were found in the glomeruli and tubules of postoperative renal-biopsy specimens from seven cases of clinically confirmed endemic (Balkan) nephropathy. In the glomeruli, there was mesangial reaction and segmental thickening of the basement membrane with subendothelial and membranous depositions. In the tubules there was spongiform degeneration and fusion of cells. ⋯ These particles had the characteristics of a coronarivus. Balkan nephropathy occurs almost exclusively in people who have been in close contact with pigs. Coronaviruses have been isolated from pigs, and it is suggested that a slow coronavirus infection causes endemic nephropathy in man.