bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproductive mechanisms and dynamics of habitat colonization inMicrocerotermes biroi(Isoptera: Termitidae)
Authors: LEPONCE M. , ROISIN Y. , PASTEELS J. M.
Published: March 2008

Abstract.1. Previous studies on the arboreal termite community in coconut plantations of northern New Guinea showed thatMicrocerotermes biroiis the most abundant species, despite the fighting superiority of two competitor speciesNasutitermes princepsandN.novarumhebridarum.In this study we tested the hypothesis that the success ofM.biroiis due to its efficiency at colonizing new habitats following nuptial flights.

2. We demonstrated experimentally the ability ofM.biroicolonies to replace their reproductives when removed, or to produce reproductives in satellite nests when isolated from the remainder of the colony. Replacement reproductives were always neotenics, derived from nymphs or workers.

3. Despite the ability of neotenics to differentiate within their home colonies, 84% of field colonies were headed by dealated imagos. This value constitutes a minimum estimate of the proportion of field colonies founded independently by imagos after the nuptial flight.

4. The monitoring of a young plantation during the first 31/2 years of its colonization by arboreal nesting termites revealed its invasion byM.biroi, which colonized 63% of the trees while neitherNasutitermesspecies appeared.

5. Our results demonstrate thatM.biroiis actually a pioneer species, able to invade a new habitat by means of nuptial flights. They outline the importance of each species' reproductive strategy in shaping the arboreal‐nesting termite community.
Mating systems and sexual division of foraging effort affect puddling behaviour by butterflies
Authors: SCULLEY COLLEEN E. , BOGGS CAROL L.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. 1. Foraging effort can vary among age classes and between the sexes. In many Lepidoptera, young males feed from mud, dung or carrion in a behaviour known as ‘puddling’, whereas females rarely puddle. In at least one species, males transfer sodium gained from puddling to females at mating for use in egg production.

2. Here we examine sex‐ and age‐specific puddling patterns in seven montane butterfly species. We also test the hypothesis that among species in which young males predominate at puddles, differences in age‐ and sex‐specific puddling patterns for a given species are related to mean female lifetime mating numbers.

3. For five species, young males fed proportionately more at puddles than other sex and age classes. Two species showed anomalous feeding patterns. In one, young females predominated at puddles; in the other, butterflies were rarely found at flowers.

4. As predicted, among the five species in which young males feed proportionately more at puddles, mean number of lifetime matings by females was negatively correlated with frequency of mud puddling by older females. A second prediction that mean number of lifetime matings by females is positively correlated with frequency of mud puddling by older males was not supported.

5. The results provide support for interspecific variation in division of responsibility between the sexes for resource acquisition for female reproduction, indicating close coordination between the sexes of foraging and life‐history tactics.
Expression of a mutated phospholipase A2 in transgenic Aedes fluviatilis mosquitoes impacts Plasmodium gallinaceum development
Authors: Rodrigues F. G. , Santos M. N. , De Carvalho T. X. T. , Rocha B. C. , Riehle M. A. , Pimenta P. F. P. , Abraham E. G. , Jacobs‐Lorena M. , Alves de Brito C. F. , Moreira L. A.
Published: March 2008

The genetic manipulation of mosquito vectors is an alternative strategy in the fight against malaria. It was previously shown that bee venom phospholipase A2 (PLA2) inhibits ookinete invasion of the mosquito midgut although mosquito fitness was reduced. To maintain the PLA2 blocking ability without compromising mosquito biology, we mutated the protein‐coding sequence to inactivate the enzyme while maintaining the protein's structure. DNA encoding the mutated PLA2 (mPLA2) was placed downstream of a mosquito midgut‐specific promoter (Anopheles gambiae peritrophin protein 1 promoter, AgPer1) and this construct used to transform Aedes fluviatilis mosquitoes. Four different transgenic lines were obtained and characterized and all lines significantly inhibited Plasmodium gallinaceum oocyst development (up to 68% fewer oocysts). No fitness cost was observed when this mosquito species expressed the mPLA2.
Molecular cloning and characterization of cDNAs encoding dopamine receptor‐1 and ‐2 from brain‐suboesophageal ganglion of the silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Mitsumasu K. , Ohta H. , Tsuchihara K. , Asaoka K. , Ozoe Y. , Niimi T. , Yamashita O. , Yaginuma T.
Published: March 2008

In order to better understand the relationship between dopamine and the release of diapause hormone into the blood, we cloned and characterized cDNAs encoding Bombyx mori dopamine receptor‐1 and ‐2 (BmDopR1 and 2) from the pupal brain‐suboesophageal ganglion. BmDopR1 and 2 had high similarities to group 1 (Drosophila melanogaster DOP1 and Apis mellifera DOP1) and group 2 (D. melanogaster DopR99B, A. mellifera DOP2 and Papilio xuthus DOP1), respectively. When BmDopR1 and 2 were expressed in human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells, they responded to dopamine by increasing intracellular cAMP levels, thus indicating the presence of D1‐like receptors. There were no clear differences in BmDopR1 and 2 mRNA levels between brain‐suboesophageal ganglion complexes of diapause and nondiapause egg producers during pupal–adult development. BmDopR1 and 2 mRNAs were concentrated in the mushroom body calyx rather than in the suboesophageal ganglion. Taking into account the results of earlier experiments on excised regions corresponding to mushroom bodies, BmDopR1 and 2 in the mushroom body apparently play a role in the release of diapause hormone.
Quantitative RT‐PCR analysis of pacifastin‐related precursor transcripts during the reproductive cycle of solitarious and gregarious desert locusts
Authors: Breugelmans B. , Simonet G. , Van Hoef V. , Claeys I. , Van Soest S. , Vanden Broeck J.
Published: March 2008

In locusts, little is known about the physiological and biochemical mechanisms regulating complex processes, such as reproduction and phase transition. The pacifastin family constitutes a family of peptidic inhibitors of serine proteases that are considered to be important regulators of several physiological processes in arthropods. We have performed a detailed transcript profiling analysis of two pacifastin‐related peptide precursors, SGPP‐2 and SGPP‐4, during the reproductive cycle of adult desert locusts (Schistocerca gregaria). This quantitative real‐time (RT)‐PCR analysis revealed a temporal regulation of both transcripts, which is paralleled by several events that occur during the reproductive cycle of adult locusts. The observed temporal transcript profiles display a strong tissue‐, gender‐ and phase‐dependence. In addition, a partial regregarization experiment suggests that both transcript levels are regulated during phase transition and can be employed as molecular markers of the gregarization process.
Improved cloning vectors and transformation procedure for Lactococcus lactis
Authors: Wells J.M. , Wilson P.W. , Le Page R.W.F.
Published: March 2008

Four shuttle vectors (pMIG 1, 2, 2H and 3) have been constructed based on the broad host‐range plasmid pCK1. All the pMIG vectors possess a multiple cloning site containing 12 or more unique restriction enzyme sites, and are stably maintained at either high or low copy number in Lactococcus lactis and in Escherichia coli. By cloning the E. coli pUC replicon into one of these vectors a plasmid was constructed which can replicate to high copy number in recA strains of E. coli. The broad host‐range of the pCK1 replicon may enable these cloning vectors to be used in a number of Gram‐positive bacteria. One of these vectors was used to optimize an electroporation procedure for transformation of a commonly used plasmid‐cured strain MGI363 of L. lactis which routinely yielded 1 times 107 to 5 times 107 transformants μg‐1 supercoiled DNA using stored, snap‐frozen cells. This transformation efficiency was obtained by growing the cells in medium containing the cell wall weakening agent glycine, to an upper limit of 2·5% w.v. Although growth of L. lactis strain MGI363 was inhibited by the use of 0·5 mol 1‐1 sucrose as an osmotic stabilizer, the presence of sucrose in the electroporation buffer was critical for high transformation efficiency. Other variables which were tested for their effect on the efficiency of transformation were cell concentration, DNA concentration, pulse time and field strength. These results provide a model procedure which can be followed to optimize conditions for the genetic transformation of various strains of L. lactis.
Production and properties of an alkaline protease by Aureobasidium pullulans
Authors: Donaghy J.A. , McKay A.M.
Published: March 2008

A strain of the yeast‐like fungus Aureobasidium pullulans was grown on whey to produce an extracellular protease. The protease was totally inhibited by the serine inhibitor, phenyl methyl sulphonyl fluoride (PMSF), and partially inhibited by the chelating agent EDTA. The enzyme showed maximal activity in the alkaline range with an optimum pH of 9·5–10·5. The optimum temperature for protease activity was 41d̀C. As well as being active against the non‐specific proteolytic substrate Azocoll, the protease readily degraded purified α‐casein. A molecular weight of 27000 ± 350 was determined for the protease using gel filtration chromatography.
An examination of the impact of learning objects in secondary school
Authors: Kay R.H. , Knaack L.
Published: March 2008

Very few studies have systematically evaluated the effect of learning objects in secondary school classrooms. The vast majority of studies have focussed on higher education. The current study examined the impact of learning objects from the perspective of 850 students and 27 teachers (50 classrooms) of science, mathematics, or social science. The results suggest that teachers typically spend 1 to 2 h finding and preparing for learning object based lesson plans that focus on the review of previous concepts. Both teachers and students are positive about the learning benefits, quality, and engagement value of learning objects, although teachers are more positive than students. Student performance increased significantly – almost 30% – when learning objects were used in conjunction with a variety of teaching strategies. It is reasonable to conclude that learning objects are a viable teaching tool in a secondary school environment.
Health and sleep problems in Cornelia de Lange Syndrome: a case control study
Authors: Hall S. S. , Arron K. , Sloneem J. , Oliver C.
Published: March 2008

Background  Self‐injury, sleep problems and health problems are commonly reported in Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) but there are no comparisons with appropriately matched participants. The relationship between these areas and comparison to a control group is warranted.

Method  54 individuals with CdLS were compared with 46 participants with intellectual disability (ID) of mixed aetiology who were similar in terms of degree of ID, mobility, age and gender using informant‐based measures of health problems, sleep and self‐injury.

Results  Participants with CdLS experienced significantly more current and lifetime health problems with eye problems and gastrointestinal disorders prominent. Although 55% of those with CdLS experienced sleep problems this prevalence was not different from the comparison group. Sleep disorder was not associated with self‐injury in the CdLS group, skin problems were associated with severity of self‐injury but not presence.

Discussion  People with CdLS experience a range of significant health problems and have more health concerns than others with the same degree of ID. Although this has been well documented in the past, the current high prevalence of health concerns indicates the need for regular health assessment and appropriate intervention.
Inverse transcriptional activities during complementary chromatic adaptation are controlled by the response regulator RcaC binding to red and green light‐responsive promoters
Authors: Li Lina , Alvey Richard M. , Bezy Ryan P. , Kehoe David M.
Published: March 2008

Complementary chromatic adaptation (CCA) provides cyanobacteria with the ability to shift between red and blue‐green phenotypes that are optimized for absorption of different wavelengths of light. Controlled by the ratio of green to red light, this process results from differential expression of two groups of operons, many of which encode proteins involved in photosynthetic light harvesting antennae biogenesis. In the freshwater species Fremyella diplosiphon, the inverse regulation of these two classes is complex and occurs through different mechanisms. It also involves a two‐component pathway that includes a phytochrome‐class photoreceptor and the response regulator RcaC. Here we uncover the mechanism through which this system controls CCA by demonstrating that RcaC binds to the L Box within promoters of both classes of light‐regulated operons. We provide functional evidence that complementary regulation of these operons occurs by RcaC's simultaneous activation and repression of transcription in red light. We identify rcaC and L Boxes in the genome of a marine cyanobacterium capable of CCA, suggesting widespread use of this control system. These results provide important insights into the long‐standing enigma of CCA regulation and complete the first description of an entire two‐component system controlled by a phytochrome‐class photoreceptor.
Coding Information in Plant Cells: the Multiple Roles of Ca2+ as a Second Messenger
Authors: Malhó R.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: “Kalzium macht alles”. With this sentence, the physiologist L. V. Heilbrunn described several decades ago what is still believed by many. The enormous attention this subject has received in the past 15 years has generated a vast amount of information which is helping us to understand how cells perceive and transduce a signal. This review focuses on some recent aspects of Ca2+ research and the perspectives that they open for future studies. However, Ca2+ is not the only element involved in signal transduction and its action depends on a complex network of signalling molecules, the role of which is discussed. Particular attention is given to the parallels emerging between plant and animal signalling and how we should explore them.
Differential Expression and Nuclear Localization of Response Regulator‐Like Proteins from Arabidopsis thaliana1
Authors: Lohrmann J. , Buchholz G. , Keitel Claudia , Sweere Uta , Kircher S. , Bäurle Isabel , Kudla J. , Schäfer E. , Harter K.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The inducible two‐component signal transduction mechanism typically involves two common signaling molecules. First, a sensor kinase that consists of a signal‐sensing input domain physically coupled to a transmitter module and, second, a response regulator that contains a receiver module and a signal‐output domain. Such sensor kinase/response regulator pairs trigger a variety of cellular activities in response to environmental stimuli. Recently, several components of this signaling mechanism including sensor kinases and response regulators have been identified in eukaryotes, including plants. Here, we describe a new subclass of eukaryotic Arabidopsis response regulator‐like protein (ARLP) genes that are differentially expressed in plant tissues. The receiver modules of the encoded proteins contain the amino acid residues conserved in all response regulators and have a predicted response regulator‐like secondary structure. These novel ARLPs are localized in the nucleus, are transcriptionally active in yeast when fused to the heterologous Gal4 DNA‐binding domain and, within their output domains, show structural homology to basic helix‐loop‐helix (bHLH) transcription factors. These results strongly suggest that response regulators with transcription factor properties exist in higher plants.
Feulgen Densitometry: Importance of a Stringent Hydrolysis Regime
Authors: Greilhuber J. , Baranyi Monika , Greilhuber J.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Feulgen densitometry is still a widely used method for DNA content measurements, but experimental procedures and results are often controversial. The present note is concerned with a recent report in the literature that optimum Feulgen staining required a remarkably longer hydrolysis time with 5 M HCI in Dactylis glomerata L. than in Hordeum vulgare L. (i.e., 62 min versus 20 min at 25 d̀C). As this result is prone to question the usual practice of maintaining unified hydrolysis times for test material and internal standard, we established hydrolysis curves for D. glomerata, H. vulgare, Pisum sativum L. and Allium cepa L. at 20 d̀C and 25d̀C for 0 to 100 min. No striking differences between the species and, in particular, between Doctylis and Hordeum were found. Optimum staining occurred after 60 min with hydrolysis at 20 d̀C and after 25 min at 25 d̀C. It is strongly recommended to conduct the quantitative Feulgen reaction at a precisely controlled temperature instead of an inexact room temperature. The broader plateau of optimum staining at 20 d̀C makes this regime preferable.
Responses of Sexual and Apomictic Genotypes of Taraxacum officinale to Variation in Light
Authors: de Kovel Carolien G. F. , de Jong Gerdien , de Kovel Carolien G. F.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The mode of reproduction, sexual or asexual, will influence the way populations respond to selective pressures. This can cause genetic and ecological divergence between sexual and asexual forms of the same species. Here we examine differences in morphology and phenology between sexual and apomictic types of dandelion, Taraxacum officinale. Sexual and apomictic dandelions were collected from a mixed population on the banks of the river Rhine, The Netherlands. Clonal copies of both sexual and apomictic genotypes were planted in an experimental garden under two light levels. Sexual plants flowered four days later on average than apomicts, but the number of capitula was the same. Apomicts had longer leaves and were heavier than sexual plants, especially under shaded conditions. In apomicts plasticity for leaf length and height was larger than in sexuals, but for most other measured traits no differences in plasticity were observed. Trait values of apomicts were within the same range as those of sexual plants.
Pollination and Reproductive Biology of Rauvolfia grandiflora (Apocynaceae): Secondary Pollen Presentation, Herkogamy and Self‐Incompatibility
Authors: Lopes Ariadna Valentina , Machado Isabel Cristina
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The pollination and reproductive biology of Rauvolfia grandiflora were studied in natural populations in the forest of the Recife Botanical Garden. R. grandiflora is a shrubby species (2 to 5 m), the flowers are hermaphrodite and salverform. The corolla tube is white and the five free lobes of the corolla are flushed with violet. The five stamens are attached to the corolla tube; the anthers are introrse and form a cone situated immediately above the stigmatic head. There is a space between the anthers and the stigmatic head, where the pollen is deposited. The stigmatic head has three functional regions: a) an upper sterile region; b) a median region that produces a sticky substance and c) a lower receptive region, which is located beneath a basal collar. The secondary pollen presentation and the herkogamy mechanisms are discussed. Sugar concentration in nectar was, on average, 31.7%. The pollen viability was 97.4%. R. grandiflora is melittophilous and in the study area was found to be pollinated by only one species of long‐tongued bee, Exaerete smaragdina. R. grandiflora was found to be self‐incompatible, and the percentage of fruit set under natural conditions was low.
Host‐Derived Acetogenins Involved in the Incompatible Parasitic Relationship between Cuscuta reflexa (Convolvulaceae) and Ancistrocladus heyneanus (Ancistrocladaceae)1
Authors: Bringmann C. , Schlauer J. , Rückert M. , Wiesen B. , Ehrenfeld K. , Proksch P. , Czygan F.‐C.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The twining parasitic plant Cuscuta reflexa is able to attack the tropical liana Ancistrocladus heyneanus by invading the stem tissues and forming haustoria that penetrate the vascular bundles of the host. Subsequent reactions by the host, including phytoalexin production and hypersensitive reactions, lead to a degeneration of the parasite's haustonria and eventually to the abortion of parasitic tissues. In experiments with callus cultures of both plants, acetogenic secondary metabolites produced by the host, in the first line the naphthoquinone plumbagin, are demonstrated to be major antipathogenic factors involved in this incompatible relationship.
Seed Type and Seed Size Variation in the Heteromorphic Saltmarsh Annual Spergularia salina along the Coast of Sweden
Authors: Telenius A. , Torstensson P.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: We investigated habitat characteristics, seed type and seed size variation between and within 41 populations of the heteromorphic saltmarsh annual Spergularia salina. 95% of the investigated populations were truly heteromorphic regarding unwinged or winged seeds but either of the seed types could dominate in individual populations. 39% of all seed capsules contained mixed seed types, in 43% of capsules the seeds were exclusively unwinged, and in 18% only winged seeds were found. In a closer survey in one of the populations (at Tullgarn, 58d̀50'N, 17d̀37'E), albeit predominantly heteromorphic, again capsules either contained mostly unwinged or winged seeds: 59% of the capsules had mixed contents, 21% contained exclusively unwinged seeds, and 21 % produced only winged seeds. Seed weight varied up to 10‐fold, with an overall mean of 77.2μg. 27% of this variation was due to variation among populations, 52% was explained by variation between individuals, and 21% was due to variation within individuals. Seed weight was positively correlated with the frequency of winged seeds per capsule, especially within populations, and negatively correlated to seed number. The frequency of winged seeds in each capsule and seed weight was positively correlated with population density both between and within populations.
How Healthy is Life in the Bush? Problems Associated with the Assessment of Health Status in Rural Australia
Authors: HUMPHREYS JOHN , ROLLEY FRANCES , WEINAND HERB C.
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: In order to ensure that adequate and appropriate health care services are provided to rural inhabitants, it is vital to have a comprehensive understanding of their health care needs. The lack of conclusive evidence on the health status of rural inhabitants to date reflects problems associated with how best to measure health status, and the fact that insufficient research has been conducted to ascertain whether health status differs within rural Australia. This article evaluates different measures used to assess rural health status. It also reports the results of a study which investigates whether the pattern of ill health varies between farm and small rural town residents, and according to remoteness from health care services.
The Role of the National Rural Health Alliance
Authors: CHATER A B
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: This paper outlines the history and subsequent development of the National Rural Health Alliance. The mission statement and objectives of the Alliance are presented. An outline of the role and function of the Alliance both now and in the future is given. Details are given of the rural associations who are members of this national rural body and key players in rural health in Australia.
Coronary Heart Disease in Rural NSW: One Country Hospital's Experience A SURVEY OF PATIENTS ADMITTED WITH MYOCARDIAL INFARCTIONS TO THE ARMIDALE AND NEW ENGLAND DISTRICT HOSPITAL, ARMIDALE NSW
Authors: JOHNSON PATRICIA
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: Rural Australians are often viewed as living in idyllic surroundings and enjoying good health. A retrospective study of 62 patients admitted to the Armidale and New England District Hospital between January 1989 and December 1990 with a diagnosis of myocardial infarction was carried out with the purpose of identifying the characteristics and risk factor prevalence of those people who had suffered a myocardial infarction in a specific rural area demonstrated inconsistencies with this view. Age, gender, occupation, cigarette smoking, previous history of hypertension, weight, and serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels were examined to provide information for community based prevention programs and nursing discharge planning. Results were consistent with those of the National Heart Foundation (1988), and demonstrated a high incidence of smoking and a previous history of hypertension, which was particularly prevalent in blue collar workers/farmers. Conclusions were problematic regarding weight and levels of serum cholesterol and triglycerides as insufficient data was documented.
Road Trauma — A Rural Public Health Problem
Authors: CONNOR BRIAN
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: In economic terms road trauma is Australia's major public health problem. It discriminates against the young, the elderly and the rural community. In order to be resolved, the issue must be firmly placed on the health care agenda and more research needs to be carried out in relation to rural road trauma. There are many reasons why rural health professionals should be involved with traffic safety. These include the recognition of road trauma as a health care issue in public debate and health professional training and education; emergency trauma management and continuity of care; research, social advocacy and preventive strategies. Networking and inter‐professional cooperation are also seen as vital to the promotion of a safer Australia. The issue has environmental implications and is part of the promotion of healthy communities. The understanding of the implementation problems relating to road safety initiatives is the great traffic safety issue of the decade and health care professionals can help to stimulate debate about these matters.
A Rural Health Education, Training and Research Network for Queensland
Authors: ANDERSON DEBRA , CRAIG DR MARK
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: The purpose of the Rural Health Education, Training and Research Network is to support the education and training of rural health practitioners and research in rural health through the optimum use of appropriate information and communication technologies to link and inform all individuals and organisation involved in the teaching, planning and delivery of health care in rural and remote Queensland. The health care of people in rural areas has the potential to be enhanced, through providing the rural and remote health professionals in Queensland with the same access to educational and training opportunities as their metropolitan colleagues. This consultative, coordinated approach should be cost‐effective through both increasing awareness and utilisation of existing and developing networks, and through more efficient and rational use of both the basic and sophisticated technologies which support them. Technological hardware, expertise and infrastructure are already in place in Queensland to support a Rural Health Education, Training and Research Network, but are not being used to their potential, more often due to a lack of awareness of their existence and utility than to their perceived costs. Development of the network has commenced through seeding funds provided by Queensland Health. Future expansion will ensure access by health professionals to existing networks within Queensland. This paper explores the issues and implications of a network for rural health professionals in Queensland and potentially throughout Australia, with a specific focus on the implications for rural and isolated health professional.
The University of Sydney Rural Careers Project
Authors: Hays Richard B. , Acklin Fay , Chan Phillip , Davis Alan , McAllister Lindy , Murphy Barbara , Romanini Judith , Williams Vicki , McEwen Ellen
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: This article describes the activities of the University of Sydney Rural Careers Project, which was established to increase the opportunities for undergraduate students in the health professions to learn more about what it is like to live and work within a rural community. After 18 months of operation, the project has attracted wide support among students and staff, and could be seen as a model worth replicating in other universities. Stimulating interest in rural practice may increase the numbers of health professionals interested in entering rural careers after graduation.
A new approach to the assessment of aged community service users
Authors: CABAN PETER
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: This paper was written in response to the recognition of problems with multiple assessment of frail aged clients wishing to access various rural community services. Primarily under the Home and Community Care program, these offer a range of services with the aim of maintaining independence and preventing premature admission into long‐term residential care. To gain access, each service conducts an assessment—some of which have been shown to be lengthy and detailed, with some bordering on invasion of privacy. Research has shown that multiple assessment of clients by multiple agencies can be threatening to the client and can give them the feeling they are being judged. Further, there appears to be poor coordination and liaison between service agencies which exacerbates the problems inherent in multiple assessment, and provides an avenue for overservicing. This paper presents a solution to these problems. A pilot project is foreshadowed whereby the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) undertakes all assessments and enters the details into a communal database for access by all care providers via computer network. The paper suggests that such a multiscreen database with service provider access codes to ensure confidentiality would markedly reduce client stress. It is shown that community service administrative costs would be reduced enabling funds to be directed to actual field hours. Some redefining of staff roles and redeployment of staff would be necessary and these issues are discussed.

The writer recognises that the proposal is somewhat idealistic. However it does address some significant problems with the current methods of client assessment. Potential solutions are offered and may provide a useful basis for future development.
Postnatal depression: improving the experience of country women through professional and community awareness
Authors: CREEDY DEBRA
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: The needs of women who are depressed during the postnatal period are not being adequately addressed by health workers. In response to community demand and national initiatives, a group of health professionals in rural Victoria developed and implemented a program which attempted not only to support women experiencing postnatal depression (PND) but also to address the needs of rural health workers. This paper provides an overview of PND and describes therapeutic interventions on an individual and group basis. Continuing education activities for rural health workers are outlined, as well as processes which aimed to increase community awareness and improve contact between self‐help groups, health services and private practitioners.
Rural doctors are naturally effective teachers
Authors: MIFLIN BARBARA , PRICE DAVID
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: As part of a larger project, the authors observed the teaching of nine rural doctors in rural centres in southern Queensland. The observations were designed to provide data about the realities of teaching and learning in rural settings, so that they could be used to refine an existing model which described effective clinical teaching in hospital settings. Once refined, the model is to form the foundation of a video‐based rural teaching resource kit for use in rural general practice and hospital settings. While the observation strategy was excellent in serving the wider purpose, the observations also revealed important information about effective teaching per se. Essentially, rural practitioner—teachers in the sample were very effective facilitators of quality learning,1 despite their lack of formal teacher education. This paper reports the characteristics of their effective teaching, taken from a synthesis of the observation data. The proposition is that a great deal about effective teaching can be learnt from them. A second, broader proposition is that there are implications for those who seek to provide teacher education for medical teachers in all situations.
Intraosseous infusion — Emergency resuscitation in children
Authors: PREBBLE JEFF
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: Intraosseous infusion provides a relatively safe, simple, rapid and therapeutically successful technique for the provision of fluids, blood, and parenteral medications to critically ill children. The article describes the history, physiology, technique, success and incidence of complications. This form of vascular access has particular application for paediatric resuscitation in rural Australia.
Diabetes Health Care and Education — The Challenge of Isolation
Authors: DUNNING PATRICIA L. , BROWN LYNETTE , PHILLIPS PATRICK , AYERS BERNARD
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: Many rural diabetes educators feel isolated professionally. Access to resources, skilled peers and opportunities for ongoing education may be lacking or not known. Rural diabetes educators often have multiple roles and may be confused about their responsibilities in specific areas. Geographic and professional isolation and lack of role definition may prevent appropriate diabetes care. Some sole educators in metropolitan hospitals also experience lack of support and interaction with their peers, A survey was designed to identify and address the issues facing isolated educators, determine the proportion of diabetes educators who consider themselves isolated, identify the reasons for isolation and the difficulties which result from isolation, and elicit suggestions for addressing the problems identified. Reasons given for isolation included professional isolation, distance, lack of resources and lack of network/support. The most frequently suggested methods of decreasing isolation were networking, regional meetings, teleconferences, distance education and provision of a practice manual. Professionals working in isolated areas of Australia need organised continuing medical education, quality assurance programs, systems for networking and access to expert advice. Modem information technology, distance education programs and models for effective networking offer the potential to meet these needs.
Primary Health Care: A Darling Downs Focus
Authors: BLACKBURN KAYE
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: Primary health care is a policy model Which integrates social principles into the functioning of the health system at the local level. There is increasing interest in primary health care policy development and in the implementation of primary health care due in part to: the challenge which primary health care raises to existing practice in health service planning and delivery; the changes in roles of health service professionals and consumers which primary health care demands, and the claims on resources which the implementation of primary health care may engender.

The conceptual basis of primary health care demands that decision‐making be devolved to the local level. The organisational structure of the public health care system in Queensland, since regionalisation in July 1991, provides an environment which favours this localised decision‐making. The Darling Downs Regional Health Authority, one of 13 regional health authorities in Queensland, released a ‘Primary Health Care Discussion Paper’ as an element in its strategy for primary health care implementation at the regional level. This paper was intended to demystify the concept, raise the level of debate and stimulate discussion about how primary health care might affect health professionals and the community.

This article analyses that discussion paper to illuminate the concept of primary health care emerging in the region and in Queensland Health. It also identifies potential barriers to the implementation of primary health care and outlines activities being undertaken in the region which illustrate ways in which primary health care can be manifested in local communities.
Accreditation of General Practice
Authors: HOYAL DIGBY
Published: March 2008

If we ask the who, what, why, how and when of these four key factors, do we obtain satisfactory replies?

Can we satisfy ourselves that the whole process will save life or improve the outcomes of our treatments? If so, it were knavery to oppose it.

Are we convinced that anything more than a voluntary adherence to proper standards produced carefully by our College is really necessary?

If these are the questions, what are the answers?
Scabies: Treatment Failures and Hope for New Success
Authors: WOLTMAN LEIGH
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: The literature shows that scabies has been considered endemic in Aboriginal communities for some time, that similar situations have been effectively treated overseas with community participation and education and that strains resistant to medication currently considered effective in Australia have been identified overseas.

The article will briefly define the disease, describe the particularly debilitating form, Norwegian Scabies, then give a description of a recent drug trial combined with patient education, family and community discussion and treatment which is currently still in progress in an area of the Northern Territory of Australia.
Strategies for and Problems Associated with Maximising and Monitoring Compliance with Antibiotic Treatment for Otitis Media with Effusion in a Remote Aboriginal Community
Authors: KEMP KATHY , NIENHUYS TERRY , BOSWELL JUDITH , LEACH AMANDA , KANTILLA COLLEEN , TIPUAMANTAMIRRI MAUREEN , MATHEWS JOHN
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: Poor compliance with prescribed treatment is a problem that all health tare providers have to manage on a daily basis as it directly influences patient outcome to treatment. This takes on even greater significance in the context of Australian Aboriginal health where poor compliance is an important factor limiting health advancement along with many other social and economic factors.

This paper describes educational and other strategies used to maximise and monitor compliance in the context of an antibiotic treatment trial for infants with otitis media (OM) in a remote, traditionally‐oriented Aboriginal community. It uses a model of interaction that recognises that positive cross‐cultural interactions facilitate mutual cooperation. A maximum compliance rate with antibiotic treatment of 54 per cent was achieved in a group of 23 infants.
The National Rural Health Unit: The Consultation and Planning Phase
Authors: STRASSER ROGER , HARVEY DAVID
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: The National Rural Health Unit is Australia's peak body for rural and remote area health research. It has been established as a national network by a consortium led by the Monash University Centre for Rural Health in Moe, Victoria. During the consultation and planning phase, the Unit has sought input from interested individuals and organisations through a questionnaire survey and a national consultation and planning workshop. Priority issues identified by the survey were: rural health service policy and delivery; rural health workforce recruitment and retention: rural health workforce continuing education and professional development and Aboriginal health. The workshop brought together key opinion leaders with broad representation of the various health disciplines, geographic locations, health authorities, professional organisations and rural health research centres. From the workshop emerged recommendations for five‐year and one‐year goals of the Unit.
RETENTION OF RURAL DOCTORS
Authors: Hoyal Francis M. D.
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: The saddest feature of rural medicine is the continuous loss of trained doctors from the bush. The rural medical workforce depends on the recruitment, training and retention of medical practitioners. While considerable funding and research effort has been directed to recruitment and training, minimal attention seems to have been paid to the retention of medical practitioners by either researchers or governments. The effectiveness of the major efforts of universities, governments and organizations of rural doctors to improve the medical workforce through recruitment and training is set at risk by high rates of attrition. Regrettably there is a dearth of literature on the retention of rural doctors. This paper seeks to review the literature to identify significant factors causing doctors to leave rural practice and to stimulate a search for solutions.
EMERGENCY AIRWAY MANAGEMENT IN RURAL PRACTICE: USE OF THE LARYNGEAL MASK AIRWAY
Authors: Brimacombe J.
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: The laryngeal mask airway is a new general purpose airway that has revolutionized anaesthetic practice and has a potential role in emergency airway management, including neonatal resuscitation. It fills a niche between the face mask and tracheal tube and sits in the hypopharynx where it forms a circumferential low pressure seal around the glottis. All doctors involved in emergency airway management should have an understanding of the device and acquire skills in its use.
ANALGESIA‐FREE REDUCTION OF ANTERIOR DISLOCATION OF THE SHOULDER JOINT
Authors: Zagorski M.
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: In the well‐staffed casualty department, anterior dislocation of the shoulder joint can be achieved comfortably under intravenous sedation but the patient requires observation and airway protection until the sedation wears off. In a small busy clinic that does not have the luxury of observation beds and spare nursing staff, a sedated patient lying around occupying a bed presents a logistical problem. This article describes a technique for reducing anterior shoulder dislocation without the need for any sedating or narcotic analgesics.
RURAL AND REMOTE ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS: IS DISTANCE EDUCATION A VIABLE OPTION FOR POSTGRADUATE STUDY?
Authors: Sheppard Lorraine
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: The community expectations and professional needs of rural and remote area allied health professionals differ from their city counterparts. For example, career opportunities within the rural and remote area service are limited as is access to continuing education and peer group support. In addition, their role is more diverse than that of their city counterparts as they are called upon to provide expert knowledge over a wider range of areas.

Community expectations of rural and remote area allied health professionals has led to differences in educational needs. Clearly continuing education needs to be broadly based across specialisations and delivered in ways that allow access and are supportive of the circumstances of rural and remote area service workers.

This paper aims to introduce research about the professional educational needs of rural and remote area physiotherapists in South Australia and the Northern Territory. In a response to these needs a trial and evaluation of two postgraduate distance education subjects in relation to their suitability in meeting these needs is discussed. Finally, a Graduate Certificate in Physiotherapy (Rural and Remote Area Studies) will be presented as one possible solution to these dilemmas.
AVIATION NURSING IN THE WESTERN AUSTRALIAN KIMBERLEY
Authors: Jarvis Cecily M.
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: This article provides a brief overview of the Western Australian (WA) Kimberley Royal Flying Doctor Service and the role of the flight nurse who accompanies patients requiring aerial medical evacuation from rural and remote WA. Two short case histories of head injured patients evacuated from the Kimberley region will be outlined and some of the potential concerns associated with transferring patients at altitude in a confined and altered working environment will be discussed.
IMPROVING EQUITY AND EFFICIENCY IN THE BUSH: A NEEDS‐BASED METHOD FOR HEALTHCARE RESOURCE ALLOCATION IN REMOTE COMMUNITIES
Authors: McDermott Robyn
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: Outback Australia still exists as a frontier economy, relying on public sector provision of the vast majority of services, including health care. In the Northern Territory (NT), high mortality ratios and hospitalisation rates reflect the poor health status of Aborigines who, in 1990‐91, accounted for 25% of the population but 40% of hospital patients and 53% of hospital bed days. Funding for primary health care continues to be based on historical utilisation rates, which perpetuates the existing bias towards the urban hospital sector. Health care expenditure analysis suggests that current expenditure patterns fail to fulfil national goals of equity of access and allocation efficiency (maximisation of health outcomes) for the NT Aboriginal population.

This paper outlines a population needs‐based resource allocation formula for remote communities, which takes account of three factors: mortality, cost of remoteness and demographic structure. National per capita health care utilisation data are used as a baseline and an allocation weighting is proposed based on the above three factors. This formula is then applied to a typical remote central Australian community. The cost‐benefit implications of this alternative funding strategy are explored.
RURAL HEALTH POLICY: THE THIRD NATIONAL RURAL HEALTH CONFERENCE
Authors: Hamphreys John S. , Nichols Anna
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: The Third National Rural Health Conference was convened at Mt Beauty in February 1995, by the National Rural Health Alliance, to promote the continuing improvement of the health and well‐being of people in rural and remote Australia. The agenda reflected the initiatives of the National Rural Health Strategy, developed as the result of earlier National Conferences. The conference aimed to share information and direct it to relevant institutions, to strengthen bonds and communication within the rural health field and to encourage the advocacy role of delegates within their own organisations. By drawing the themes together, the conference program highlighted the principle of equity, the plight of Aboriginal health, the right of the community to self determination and participation, and the needs, entitlements and roles of consumers. The conference further emphasised the need for an integrated or holistic approach to service planning and the need for service delivery to reflect the specific needs of rural communities. Delegates, led by the Federal Minister for Health, identified specific strategies for reinforcing and implementing programs that promote dialogue between community, workforce and government and contribute to a cohesive national and state agenda in rural health. Delegates recognised that the rural health community is now much better organised, but considerable inequities remain and must be addressed urgently.