prefix denoting towards or near. Examples: adaxial (towards the main axis); adoral (towards or near the mouth).
The term is also used to describe an ingredient added to a VACCINE to boost the immune system’s production of antibodies, thus enhancing the vaccine’s e?ectiveness in promoting immunity.... adjuvant
Structure Each suprarenal gland has an enveloping layer of ?brous tissue. Within this, the gland shows two distinct parts: an outer, ?rm, deep-yellow cortical (see CORTEX) layer, and a central, soft, dark-brown medullary (see MEDULLA) portion. The cortical part consists of columns of cells running from the surface inwards, whilst in the medullary portion the cells are arranged irregularly and separated from one another by large capillary blood vessels.
Functions Removal of the suprarenal glands in animals is speedily followed by great muscular prostration and death within a few days. In human beings, disease of the suprarenal glands usually causes ADDISON’S DISEASE, in which the chief symptoms are increasing weakness and bronzing of the skin. The medulla of the glands produces a substance – ADRENALINE – the effects of which closely resemble those brought about by activity of the SYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM: dilated pupils, hair standing on end, quickening and strengthening of the heartbeat, immobilisation of the gut, increased output of sugar from the liver into the bloodstream. Several hormones (called CORTICOSTEROIDS) are produced in the cortex of the gland and play a vital role in the metabolism of the body. Some (such as aldosterone) control the electrolyte balance of the body and help to maintain the blood pressure and blood volume. Others are concerned in carbohydrate metabolism, whilst others again are concerned with sex physiology. HYDROCORTISONE is the most important hormone of the adrenal cortex, controlling as it does the body’s use of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. It also helps to suppress in?ammatory reactions and has an in?uence on the immune system.... adrenal glands
Adrenaline has an important use when injected intramuscularly or intravenously in the treatment of ANAPHYLAXIS. Many patients prone to this condition are prescribed a pre-assembled adrenaline-containing syringe and needle (Min-i-Jet, Epipen) and are taught how to self-administer in an emergency. Adrenaline may be applied directly to wounds, on gauze or lint, to check haemorrhage; injected along with some local anaesthetic it permits painless, bloodless operations to be performed on the eye, nose, etc. Nowadays it is rarely, if ever, used hypodermically and is no longer given to treat ASTHMA. In severe cardiac arrest, adrenaline (1 in 10,000) by central intravenous injection is recommended. It can be given through an endotracheal tube as part of neonatal resuscitation.... adrenaline
When virilisation is noted at birth, great care must be taken to determine genetic sex by karyotyping: parents should be reassured as to the baby’s sex (never ‘in between’). Blood levels of adrenal hormones are measured to obtain a precise diagnosis. Traditionally, doctors have advised parents to ‘choose’ their child’s gender on the basis of discussing the likely condition of the genitalia after puberty. Thus, where the phallus is likely to be inadequate as a male organ, it may be preferred to rear the child as female. Surgery is usually advised in the ?rst two years to deal with clitoromegaly but parent/ patient pressure groups, especially in the US, have declared it wrong to consider surgery until the children are competent to make their own decision.
Other treatment requires replacement of the missing hormones which, if started early, may lead to normal sexual development. There is still controversy surrounding the ethics of gender reassignment.
See www.baps.org.uk... adrenogenital syndrome
Symptoms: (acute) abdominal pain, muscle weakness, vomiting, low blood pressure due to dehydration, tiredness, mental confusion, loss of weight and appetite. Vomiting, dizzy spells. Increased dark pigmentation around genitals, nipples, palms and inside mouth. Persistent low blood pressure with occasional low blood sugar. Crisis is treated by increased salt intake. Research project revealed a craving for liquorice sweets in twenty five per cent of patients.
Herbs with an affinity for the adrenal glands: Parsley, Sarsaparilla, Wild Yam, Borage, Liquorice, Ginseng, Chaparral. Where steroid therapy is unavoidable, supplementation with Liquorice and Ginseng is believed to sustain function of the glands. Ginseng is supportive when glands are exhausted by prolonged stress. BHP (1983) recommends: Liquorice, Dandelion leaf.
Alternatives. Teas. Gotu Kola, Parsley, Liquorice root, Borage, Ginseng, Balm.
Tea formula. Combine equal parts: Balm and Gotu Kola. Preparation of teas and tea mixture: 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water: infuse 5-10 minutes; 1 cup 2 to 3 times daily.
Tablets/capsules. Ginseng, Seaweed and Sarsaparilla, Wild Yam, Liquorice. Dosage as on bottle. Formula. Combine: Gotu Kola 3; Sarsaparilla 2; Ginseng 1; Liquorice quarter. Doses. Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 30-60 drops. Tinctures: 1-2 teaspoons 2 to 3 times daily.
Formula. Alternative. Tinctures 1:5. Echinacea 20ml; Yellow Dock 10ml; Barberry 10ml; Sarsaparilla 10ml; Liquorice (liquid extract) 5ml. Dose: 1-2 teaspoons thrice daily.
Supplementation. Cod liver oil. Extra salt. B-Vitamins. Folic acid. ... addison’s disease
Habitat: Cornfields and meadows.
Features ? Stem up to one foot high. Leaves alternate, divided pinnately into linear segments. Flowers large, yellow, solitary at termination of stem. Oval head of achenes succeeds flower.Part used ? Herb.Action: Cardiac, tonic, diuretic.
Highly esteemed in cases where stimulation of heart's action is necessary, heart strain and cardiac dropsy. Diuretic qualities of value in kidney affections. Dose, 1-2 drops of the fluid extract.... adonisAn adenoidectomy is usually performed on a child with abnormally large adenoids that are causing recurrent infections of the middle ear or air sinuses.
The operation may be performed together with tonsillectomy.... adenoidectomy
Adamia, Adamiah, Adaminah, Adamynah, Adameena, Adamine, Adaminna, Addie, Adameenah, Adamiena, Adamienah, Adameina, Adameinah, Adameana, Adameanah... adamina
Adana, Adanah, Adannah, Adanya, Adanyah... adanna
Adane, Adayne, Adaine, Adayn, Adain, Adaen, Adaene... adanne
Adair, Adare, Adaire, Adayre, Adarah, Adarra, Adaora, Adar, Adra, Athdara... adara
Adele, Adelia, Adella, Adelle, Adalene, Adelie, Adelina, Adali, Adalheida, Adilene, Adelaide, Adalaide, Adalaid, Adalayde, Adelaid, Adelayde, Adelade, Ada, Adelajda, Adelicia, Adelinda, Adeline, Adelheid, Adelheide, Adelisa, Adelise, Adelita, Adelynn, Adelyte, Adalicia, Ady, Adalina, Adaline, Adaliz, Adalyn, Addie... adela
– the hormone which provokes the adrenal cortex into action.
Symptoms The clinical symptoms appear slowly and depend upon the severity of the underlying disease process. The patient usually complains of appetite and weight loss, nausea, weakness and fatigue. The skin becomes pigmented due to the increased production of ACTH. Faintness, especially on standing, is due to postural HYPOTENSION secondary to aldosterone de?ciency. Women lose their axillary hair and both sexes are liable to develop mental symptoms such as DEPRESSION. Acute episodes – Addisonian crises – may occur, brought on by infection, injury or other stressful events; they are caused by a fall in aldosterone levels, leading to abnormal loss of sodium and water via the kidneys, dehydration, low blood pressure and confusion. Patients may develop increased tanning of the skin from extra pigmentation, with black or blue discoloration of the skin, lips, mouth, rectum and vagina occurring. ANOREXIA, nausea and vomiting are common and the sufferer may feel cold.
Diagnosis This depends on demonstrating impaired serum levels of cortisol and inability of these levels to rise after an injection of ACTH.
Treatment consists in replacement of the de?cient hormones. HYDROCORTISONE tablets are commonly used; some patients also require the salt-retaining hormone, ?udrocortisone. Treatment enables them to lead a completely normal life and to enjoy a normal life expectancy. Before surgery, or if the patient is pregnant and unable to take tablets, injectable hydrocortisone may be needed. Rarely, treated patients may have a crisis, perhaps because they have not been taking their medication or have been vomiting it. Emergency resuscitation is needed with ?uids, salt and sugar. Because of this, all patients should carry a card detailing their condition and necessary management. Treatment of any complicating infections such as tuberculosis is essential. Sometimes DIABETES MELLITUS coexists with Addison’s disease and must be treated.
Secondary adrenal insu?ciency may occur in panhypopituitarism (see PITUITARY GLAND), in patients treated with CORTICOSTEROIDS or after such patients have stopped treatment.... addison’s disease
Habitat: Native to tropical Africa; common along the west coast of India.
English: Baobab, Monkey Bread tree, African calabash.Ayurvedic: Sheet-phala, Ravanaam- likaa, Gorakshi, Panchparni.Unani: Gorakh Imli.Siddha/Tamil: Papparapuli.Folk: Gorakh Imli; Gorakh Chinchaa.Action: Cooling, refrigerant (allays burning sensation). Leaves— diaphoretic (used as a prophylactic against fevers). Fruit—antidysen- teric, antiseptic, antihistaminic.
The fruit pulp is a source of vitamin C (175.0-445.4 mg/100 g); dried pulp contains calcium and vitamin B1. Furfural (9.6%) is obtained after distillation of the fruit. In Africa, dried leaves provide much of the dietary calcium. Aqueous extract of the bark is used for treating sickle cell anaemia.An infusion of the leaves and flowers is given in respiratory disorders. (Powdered leaves prevented crisis in asthma induced by histamine in guinea pigs.) Dried fruit pulp also gives relief in bronchial asthma, allergic dermatitis and urticaria.Family: Leguminosae; Mimosaceae.Habitat: The western Ghats, the Andamans and sub-Himalayan tract; also cultivated.
English: Coral Wood, Red Wood.Ayurvedic: Rakta Kanchana, Rakta Kambala.Siddha/Tamil: Anai-gundumani.Folk: Ghumchi (bigger var.).Action: Astringent and styptic (used in diarrhoea, haemorrhage from the stomach, haematuria), anti-inflammatory (in rheumatic affections, gout). Seeds— anticephalgic; also used for the treatment of paralysis. A decoction is given in pulmonary affections.
The seed contains an anti-inflammatory active principle, O-acetyletha- nolamine. The leaves contain octa- cosanol, dulcitol, glucosides of beta- sitosterol and stigmasterol. The bark contains sitgmasterol glucoside.... adenanthera pavoninaAdesinah, Adesine, Adeseena, Adesyna, Adeseenah, Adesynah, Adesiena, Adesienah, Adeseina, Adeseinah, Adeseana, Adeseanah... adesina
Adharah, Adharra, Adharrah... adhara
Habitat: Throughout India, up to an altitude of 1,300 m.
English: Malabar Nut, Vasaca.Ayurvedic: Vaasaa, Vaasaka, Vaasikaa, Simhaasya, Simhaparni, Simhavadanaa, Vaajidanta, Vrisha, Aataruushaka.Unani: Arusaa.Siddha/Tamil: Aadaathodai.Folk: Vasaakaa.Action: Expectorant (used in bronchial, asthmatic and pulmonary affections), antispasmodic, febrifuge.
Key application: As bronchodilatory, expectorant. (Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia.) The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India indicates its use in dyspnoea.The chief quinazoline alkaloid vas- icine is reported in all parts of the plant, the highest being in inflorescence. It is a bitter bronchodilator, respiratory stimulant, hypotensive, cardiac depressant, uterotonic and aborti- facient. An aqueous solution of va- sicinone hydrochloride, when studied in mice and dogs, was found to potentiate the bronchodilatory activity of aminophylline, also that of isopre- naline. Vasicinone exhibited smooth- muscle-relaxant properties of airways.Alkaloids present in the plant showed significant protection against allergin-induced bronchial obstruction in guinea pigs.The leaves are found to activate the digestive enzyme trypsin.An extract of the leaves showed significant antifungal activity against ringworm.Adhatoda beddomei C.B. Clarke, found in Kerala, is considered to be more powerful and active than A. vasi- ca. Fresh leaf juice is used in haemoptysis and menorrhagia, also as an antiasthmatic.Jacobinia tinctoria Henl. is equated with the red-flowered var. of Vaasaa.Dosage: Leaf—10-20 ml juice. Dried leaves—10-20 g for deoction. Root—3-6 g powder. (API Vols. I, IV)... adhatoda vasicaHabitat: North Kanara and the Nilgiri and Palni hills at higher elevations.
Ayurvedic: Hansapadi (related sp.).Action: Rhizomes—decoction abortifacient. Astringent and emetic. Emollient in coughs and diseases of the chest; sudorific.... adiantum aethiopicum
Adibah, Adeeba, Adyba, Adeebah, Adeaba, Adeabah, Adiebah, Adieba, Adeibah, Adeiba, Adeaba, Adeabah, Adybah... adiba
Adi, Ady, Adey, Adye, Adee, Adea, Adeah... adie
Adilah, Adeala, Adileh, Adilia, Adyla, Adeela, Adilla, Adillah... adila
Habitat: All along the Himalayas from Kashmir to Sikkim between altitudes of 1,800 and 2,700 m.
English: American Maidenhair Fern, Venus Hair, Rock Fern.Ayurvedic: Hansaraaja, Hansapadi (related sp.).Unani: Parsiaavashaan.Siddha/Tamil: Seruppadai.Folk: Mubaaraka.Action: Astringent, demulcent, expectorant, antitussive, stimulant, emmenagogue. Fonds used in chronic catarrh (as an ingredient of cough and bronchial medicines); also in cold imposthumes of uterus, hard swellings and hard tumours of spleen, liver and other viscera.
The fern contains flavonoid gluco- sides, including rutin, isoquercetin, as- tragalin, kaempferol; hydroxycinnam- ic acid esters; terpenoids, including adiantone.... adiantum capillus-venerisHabitat: The plains and the lower slopes of the hills in Punjab, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra.
Ayurvedic: Nilakantha-shikhaa, Mayurshikhaa, Vahrishikhaa.Action: Used in hemicrania, cough, fever; externally in skin diseases; used as a substitute for A. capillus-veneris.
The fern yields adiantone, isoadian- tone, fernene, hentriacontane, hentri- acontanone-16, beta-sitosterol.... adiantum incisumHabitat: Throughout the greater part of India, up to an altitude of 1,200 m.
English: Walking Maidenhair Fern. Black Maidenhair (A. venustum G. Don is also known as Hansaraaja.)Ayurvedic: Hansapadi, Hansapaadi, Raktapaadi, Kitamaataa, Tri- paadikaa, Hansaraaja; a substitute for Taamrachuda-paadikaa.Siddha/Tamil: Seruppadai.Folk: Raajhans, Mubaaraka.Action: Febrifugal, antidysenteric, soothing agent in erysipelas. The rhizome is also prescribed for strangury, atrophy, emaciation or cachexy, muscular pain; emetic in large doses.
Along with other therapeutic applications, The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India indicates the use of the dried whole plant in psychosis-related fear. (It is one of the ingredients of the classical drug Maanasamitra Vataka, prescribed for mental disorders.)The chemical constituents are chlorophyll-degradation products and higher carotenoids.Dosage: Whole plant-1-3 g (API Vol. III.)... adiantum lunulatumAdimah, Adimma, Adimmah, Adyma, Adymah, Adymma, Adymmah... adima
Adinah, Adine, Adena, Adene, Adin, Adinam, Adyna, Adynah... adina
Habitat: Indigenous in deciduous forests all over India.
English: Yellow Teak, Saffron Teak.Ayurvedic: Haridru, Haraduaa- kadamba, Gaur-kadamba, Girikadamba, Dhaaraakadam- ba, Pitadaaru, Kadambapushpa.Siddha/Tamil: Manjakadambu.Folk: Haladu, Kheta Kadam.Action: Antibacterial, antiseptic, antidysenteric, antibilious (used in biliary colic), febrifuge. Root— astringent.
The heartwood contains indole alkaloids; bark 7.27-9.27% tannin. The leaves contain ursolic acid and querce- tin.... adina cordifoliaAditie, Adity, Aditee, Adithi, Adytee, Adytie, Adytey, Aditea, Aditeah, Aditye... aditi
Adivah, Addeva, Adeeva, Adyva, Adeevah, Adyvah, Adieva, Adievah, Adeiva, Adeivah, Adeava, Adeavah... adiva
Adorabelle, Adorabela, Adorabell, Adorabele, Adorabel... adorabella
For long it had been realised that in certain cases of ASTHMA, adrenaline had not the usual bene?cial e?ect of dilating the bronchi during an attack; rather it made the asthma worse. This was due to its acting on both the alpha and beta adrenergic receptors. A derivative, isoprenaline, was therefore produced which acted only on the beta receptors. This had an excellent e?ect in dilating the bronchi, but unfortunately also affected the heart, speeding it up and increasing its output – an undesirable e?ect which meant that isoprenaline had to be used with great care. In due course drugs were produced, such as salbutamol, which act predominantly on the beta2 adrenergic receptors in the bronchi and have relatively little e?ect on the heart.
The converse of this story was the search for what became known as BETA-ADRENOCEPTORBLOCKING DRUGS, or beta-adrenergic-blocking drugs. The theoretical argument was that if such drugs could be synthesised, they could be of value in taking the strain o? the heart – for example: stress ? stimulation of the output of adrenaline ? stimulation of the heart ? increased work for the heart. A drug that could prevent this train of events would be of value, for example in the treatment of ANGINA PECTORIS. Now there is a series of beta-adrenoceptor-blocking drugs of use not only in angina pectoris, but also in various other heart conditions such as disorders of rhythm, as well as high blood pressure. They are also proving valuable in the treatment of anxiety states by preventing disturbing features such as palpitations. Some are useful in the treatment of migraine.... adrenergic receptors
Adverse effects can be divided into types. First, those which are closely related to the concentration of the drug and accord with what is known of its PHARMACOLOGY. These so-called type A (augmented pharmacological) effects are distinguished from type B (bizarre) effects which are unpredictable, usually rare, and often severe. ANAPHYLAXIS is the most obvious of these; other examples include bone-marrow suppression with CO-TRIMOXAZOLE; hepatic failure (see HEPATITIS) with SODIUM VALPROATE; and PULMONARY FIBROSIS with AMIODARONE. A more comprehensive classi?cation includes reactions type C (chronic effects), D (delayed effects – such as teratogenesis or carcinogenesis) and E (end-of-dose effects – withdrawal effects). Examples of adverse reactions include nausea, skin eruptions, jaundice, sleepiness and headaches.
While most reported adverse reactions are minor and require no treatment, patients should remind their doctors of any drug allergy or adverse e?ect they have suffered in the past. Medical warning bracelets are easily obtained. Doctors should report adverse effects to the authorities – in the case of Britain, to the Committee on Safety of Medicines (CSM), using the yellow-card reporting machinery.... adverse reactions to drugs
Habitat: The western Himalayas and Punjab, from Himachal Pradesh to Kumaon, up to 1,500 m.
Ayurvedic: Mushali, (white var.), Mahaashataavari. The black variety is equated with Taalamuuli, Chlorophytum arundinaceum Baker.Unani: Shaqaaqul-e-Hindi.Action: A substitute for A. officinalis.
The root yields asparagin. Sapoge- nins A and B, isolated from the root, were identified as stigmasterol and sarsasapogenin.Action: Diuretic, laxative, car- diotonic, sedative, galactagogue; used for neuritis and rheumatism, as well as for cystitis and pyelitis.
Key application: In irrigation therapy for inflammatory diseases of the urinary tract and for prevention of kidney stones. (German Commission E.). It is contraindicated in kidney diseases and oedema because of functional heart.The root contains steroidal glyco- sides (asparagosides) and bitter glyco- sides; asparagusic acid and its derivatives; asparagines, arginine and ty- rosine; flavonoids, including rutin, kaempferol and quercetrin; polysac- carides and inulin. Asparagine is a strong diuretic source of folic acid and selenium.A spirostanol glycoside, isolated from the methanolic extract of the fruits, has shown 100% immobilization of human spermatozoa.Dosage: Root—3-5 g powder. (CCRAS.)... asparagus adscendensHabitat: Kashmir at 1500-2000 m and extending to Dalhousie and Chamba in Himachal Pradesh.
English: Black Spleenwort.Folk: Krishna fern.Action: Fond—expectorant, pectoral, emmenagogue. Rhizome— anthelmintic. Plant—bitter, diuretic, laxative, anti-inflammatory. It is used for diseases of spleen and in jaundice; produces sterility in women.
The fonds contain aliphatic hydrocarbons, the chief one being hentri- acontane, non-acosane and triterpe- noid hydrocarbons, mainly of 22 (29)- hopene.Alcohols, sterols and fatty acids are also reported.Related sp. include: A. laciniatum D. Don (vitamin K3 and phthiocol have been isolated for the first time from the plant); A. adiantoides (L.) C. Chr., synonym A. falcatum Lam. (used in the treatment of enlarged spleen, in in- contenence of urine, in calculus, jaundice and malaria); A. nidus Linn. synonym Thamnopteris nidus (L.) C. Presl., known as Bird's Nest Fern (used as a depurative and sedative).... asplenium adiantum-nigrumHabitat: Throughout India, in the plains.
Ayurvedic: Aranya-mudga. Mudga- parni (Kerala).Siddha/Tamil: Kattupayaru.Action: A decoction is used in bowel complaints and stricture. The roots are used to stop excessive salivation.... phaseolus adenanthus
They work by blocking the stimulation of beta adrenergic receptors by the neurotransmitters adrenaline and noradrenaline, which are produced at the nerve endings of that part of the SYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM – the autonomous (involuntary) network
– which facilitates the body’s reaction to anxiety, stress and exercise – the ‘fear and ?ight’ response.
Beta1 blockers reduce the frequency and force of the heartbeat; beta2 blockers prevent vasodilation (increase in the diameter of blood vessels), thus in?uencing the patient’s blood pressure. Beta1 blockers also affect blood pressure, but the mechanism of their action is unclear. They can reduce to normal an abnormally fast heart rate so the power of the heart can be concomitantly controlled: this reduces the oxygen requirements of the heart with an advantageous knock-on e?ect on the respiratory system. These are valuable therapeutic effects in patients with ANGINA or who have had a myocardial infarction (heart attack – see HEART, DISEASES OF), or who suffer from HYPERTENSION. Beta2 blockers reduce tremors in muscles elsewhere in the body which are a feature of anxiety or the result of thyrotoxicosis (an overactive thyroid gland – see under THYROID GLAND, DISEASES OF). Noncardioselective blockers also reduce the abnormal pressure caused by the increase in the ?uid in the eyeball that characterises GLAUCOMA.
Many beta-blocking drugs are now available; minor therapeutic di?erences between them may in?uence the choice of a drug for a particular patient. Among the common drugs are:
| Primarily cardioselective | Non-cardioselective |
| Acebutolol | Labetalol |
| Atenolol | Nadolol |
| Betaxolol | Oxprenolol |
| Celiprolol | Propanolol |
| Metoprolol | Timolol |
These powerful drugs have various side-effects and should be prescribed and monitored with care. In particular, people who suffer from asthma, bronchitis or other respiratory problems may develop breathing diffculties. Long-term treatment with beta blockers should not be suddenly stopped, as this may precipitate a severe recurrence of the patient’s symptoms – including, possibly, a sharp rise in blood pressure. Gradual withdrawal of medication should mitigate untoward effects.... beta-adrenoceptor-blocking drugs
Action: emollient, anti-eczema, vulnerary (fresh leaf on wounds), anti-neoplasm (poultice of fresh leaves).
Uses: Ulcers that refuse to heal.
Ointment. 1oz fresh leaves simmered in 16oz lard until leaves are devoid of colour; strain. ... adder’s tongue
Adoption declined as the availability of babies fell with the introduction of the Abortion Act 1968, improving contraceptive services and increasing acceptability of single parenthood.
However, with 10 per cent of couples suffering infertility, the demand continued, leading to the adoption of those previously perceived as di?cult to place – i.e. physically, intellectually and/or emotionally disabled children and adolescents, those with terminal illness, and children of ethnic-minority groups.
Recent controversies regarding homosexual couples as adoptive parents, adoption of children with or at high risk of HIV/AIDS, transcultural adoption, and the increasing use of intercountry adoption to ful?l the needs of childless couples have provoked urgent consideration of the ethical dilemmas of adoption and its consequences for the children, their adoptive and birth families and society generally.
Detailed statistics have been unavailable since 1984 but in general there has been a downward trend with relatively more older children being placed. Detailed reasons for adoption (i.e. interfamily, step-parent, intercountry, etc.) are not available but approximately one-third are adopted from local-authority care.
In the UK all adoptions (including interfamily and step-parent adoption) must take place through a registered adoption agency which may be local-authority-based or provided by a registered voluntary agency. All local authorities must act as agencies, the voluntary agencies often providing specialist services to promote and support the adoption of more di?cult-to-place children. Occasionally an adoption allowance will be awarded.
Adoption orders cannot be granted until a child has resided with its proposed adopters for 13 weeks. In the case of newborn infants the mother cannot give formal consent to placement until the baby is six weeks old, although informal arrangements can be made before this time.
In the UK the concept of responsibility of birth parents to their children and their rights to continued involvement after adoption are acknowledged by the Children Act 1989. However, in all discussions the child’s interests remain paramount. The Act also recognises adopted children’s need to have information regarding their origins.
BAAF – British Agencies for Adoption and Fostering – is the national organisation of adoptive agencies, both local authority and voluntary sector. The organisation promotes and provides training service, development and research; has several specialist professional subgroups (i.e. medical, legal, etc.); and produces a quarterly journal.
Adoption UK is an e?ective national support network of adoptive parents who o?er free information, a ‘listening ear’ and, to members, a quarterly newsletter.
National Organisation for Counselling Adoptees and their Parents (NORCAP) is concerned with adopted children and birth parents who wish to make contact.
The Registrar General operates an Adoption Contact Register for adopted persons and anyone related to that person by blood, half-blood or marriage. Information can be obtained from the O?ce of Population Censuses and Surveys. For the addresses of these organisations, see Appendix 2.... child adoption
It can be acute or chronic.
Adrenal failure may be caused by a disorder of the adrenal glands, in which case it is called Addison’s disease, or by reduced stimulation of the adrenal cortex by ACTH, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland.... adrenal failure
In addition to the above, a Code of Practice for advertising herbal remedies has been agreed by the British Herbal Medicine Association in consultation with the Department of Health and the Scientific
Committee of the BHMA. It represents an act of self-discipline within the trade and profession, acceptance and observance of which is a condition of membership of the British Herbal Medicine Association. vIt is the responsibility of all placing and accepting advertisements to ensure that wording complies with statutory requirements. For any ailment or disease no claim for cure may be made.
The following extracts are few of a wide range of conditions appearing in the BHMA Code.
“The expression ‘treatment’ is not permitted except in respect of a ‘course of treatment’ by herbal medicines within the meaning of the Act.
“Advertising shall in no way induce unjustified concern that the reader is suffering from any illness, ailment or disease or that, without treatment, he may suffer more severely.
“Advertising shall not discourage the reader from seeking advice from a qualified practitioner.
“Advertising shall not invite the reader to diagnose specific medical conditions except those readily recognised by the layman and which are obvious to the sufferer. Advertising shall not use words such as: ‘magic’, ‘Miracle’, ‘Mystical’, ‘wonder remedy’, ‘nature’s remedy’, ‘break-through’ or similar terms.”
“Advertising shall not indicate medical or surgical consultation is unnecessary, or guarantee the effects of a medicine. It shall not indicate an absence of side-effects, or suggest that a product is better than or equivalent to another treatment. It shall not suggest health can be enhanced, or that health may be impaired by not taking the product. It should not be directed principally at children, or refer to recommendations by a health professional, a celebrity, etc. It shall not suggest a product is a food or cosmetic, or has a special benefit because it is ‘natural’. One cannot refer to a ‘licensed medicine’ or approved by the Dept of Health or use similar statements.” ... advertising
A genetic defect causes congenital adrenal hyperplasia, in which the adrenal cortex is unable to make sufficient hydrocortisone and aldosterone, and androgens are produced in excess. In adrenal failure, there is also deficient production of hormones by the adrenal cortex; if due to disease of the adrenal glands, it is called Addison’s disease. Adrenal tumours are rare and generally lead to excess hormone production.
In many cases, disturbed activity of the adrenal glands is caused, not by disease of the glands themselves, but by an increase or decrease in the blood level of hormones that influence the action of the adrenal glands. For example, hydrocortisone production by the adrenal cortex is controlled by ACTH, which is secreted by the pituitary gland. Pituitary disorders can disrupt production of hydrocortisone.... adrenal gland disorders
In severe cases, the disorder is apparent soon after birth. In milder cases, symptoms appear later, sometimes producing premature puberty in boys and delayed menstruation, hirsutism, and potential infertility in girls.
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia is confirmed by measuring corticosteroid hormones in blood and urine. Treatment is by hormone replacement. If this is started early, normal sexual development and fertility usually follow.... adrenal hyperplasia, congenital
Most people with the syndrome are fitted with a pacemaker to prevent attacks.... stokes–adams syndrome
Preservatives, such as sodium nitrate, are added to food to control the growth of bacteria, moulds, and yeasts. Other additives, such as antioxidants, improve the keeping quality of food by preventing undesirable changes (they stop rancidity in foods containing fat, for example). Additives that improve texture include emulsifiers, stabilizers, thickeners, and gelling agents. Appearance and taste are improved by the use of colourings, flavourings, sweeteners, and flavour enhancers. Artificial sweeteners, such as saccharin, may be used instead of sugar, especially in products for diabetics or slimmers.
Certain additives may produce an allergic reaction in some people, and some are thought to be a factor in behavioural problems in children.... food additives
Exposure to sunlight can affect the eyes, causing irritation of the conjunctiva, actinic keratopathy, or pterygium.
Good sunglasses help to prevent eye problems.... sunlight, adverse effects of
Drugs that stimulate these receptors (alpha agonists and beta agonists) are described as *sympathomimetic. Drugs that block their effects are the *alpha blockers and *beta blockers.... adrenoceptor
Information from the NHS Resolution website... practitioner performance advice
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