Meanwhile, affiliation discussions proceeded, going so far as to convene a meeting with infirmary surgeons, assistant surgeons, attending surgeons, and assistant attending surgeons to discuss the matter further. Difficulties occasioned by the shortage of professional staff, personnel changes among the employees, rationing restrictions, and continuing increase in operating costs, the managing board of the institution is determined to carry on the work of the infirmary during the war, maintaining its high standard and preparing to meet any emergency demands which may develop.