bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regional government concerns in health services in remote areas: Case study on special capitation policies in North Bengkulu Regency
Authors: Purnamasari Try , Ayu Puspandari Diah , Hasanbasri Mubasysyir , Hafidz Firdaus , Muttaqien Muttaqien
Published: December 2020

The Minister of Health Regulation No. 52 of 2016 states that the tariff for first-level health services in remote areas and islands is determined based on special capitation tariffs, which is greater than the usual capitation tariffs. In North Bengkulu there is a primary health care that does not include a special capitation even though the criteria are the same as the primary health care that received it. The perception of stakeholders involved is needed to see whether the determination of criteria for disadvantaged areas for recipients of special capitation funds is in accordance with existing regulations or not.The study was based on in-depth interviews with 6 respondents from 6 institutions (Local Government, Regional Secretary, Health Office, the BPJS health branch office, and two Primary health care). The local government does not help question that matter to BPJS or help in other ways so that health care that do not receive special capitation funds can still provide optimal services like other remote health care. This study found the lack of socialization about health services in remote areas to non-health officials in local governments is the causes of weak support by local governments. This research shows that the application of central policies without joint review and verification with local stakeholders can lead to unproductive situations. Local governments should also look for solutions so that health care in remote areas that do not receive special capitation funds continue to run optimally.
Experimental studies of a hybrid car and electric car interference immunity
Authors: Kozlovskiy Vladimir , Nikolaev Pavel , Podgorniy Alexander , Kritskiy Alexey , Shamina Luiza
Published: December 2020

This article covers a hybrid car interference immunity research. A combined unit-power plant vehicle prototype (a hybrid car) of a famous Russian brand is a subject of this research. Its configuration included a motor control center in boot of a car and a standard internal combustion engine control system (ICE) with upgraded software for joint operation of two power plants.
Complex of measures to reduce noise on the environment and power plant personnel
Authors: Evdokimova Anastasia , Rumyantseva Nina
Published: December 2020

The article considers the sources of noise that have a negative effect on the electrician of the power plant, as well as on the environment. The analysis showed that noise is the main harmful production factor that adversely affects the working conditions of an electrician. In the course of the study, a set of measures to reduce the impact of industrial noise on the worker and the environment, including the installation of silencers, was proposed. The material used for the manufacture of the silencer, which can significantly reduce the level of industrial noise, was proposed. Recommendations for adjusting the work and rest regime were developed, and more effective personal protective equipment for an electrician was selected..
Modeling of the fuel system of a boiler turbine power plant with a homogenizer mixer to optimize the physical and chemical properties of fuel
Authors: Kotov Valentin , Barskov Viktor , Rassokhin Viktor , Chernikov Victor , Smetankin Anatolii , Nikiforova Oksana , Andreev Konstantin , Kortikov Nikolay
Published: December 2020

Improving the technical, economic, and environmental performance of the power plant is the most important direction for improving the characteristics of the ship’s propulsive complex. This issue can be solved most effectively by improving the design, repair, and maintenance of the fuel supply system, which significantly affects the quality of the fuel equipment and determines the working process of the steam boiler. Performance indicators of fuel equipment are determined not only by the stability of its design and adjustment parameters and parameters of the fuel supply process, but also by the physical and chemical composition of the fuel.
Operation of cable lines under fire conditions
Authors: Korolchenko Dmitry , Eremina Tatiana , Tanklevsky Leonid
Published: December 2020

Branched cable communications are carriers of fire load, they are tracks along which fire spreads in buildings and structures. Therefore, currently, fire safety of cables is one of the most important tasks of the cable industry. The spread of flames in vertical bunch wiring depends on the following factors: the amount of combustible material that is exposed to high temperatures, geometric shapes of cables and their mutual location when laying, the ignition temperature of gases emitted by cables, the volume of combustible gases emitted by cables at a certain elevated temperature, the room capacity and volume of air passing through the cable structure, cable devices. Analysis of regulatory documents revealed some key differences in the methodology of standards. It was found that the spread of fire is not only affected by the volume of laid cables, but also by their mutual placement in space. A direct correlation was found between the influence of the crosssection of the cable core and preservation of the cable line in case of fire. Parameters were determined for the preservation of serviceability under fire exposure in the case of bunch and in the case of single wiring. It has been determined that it is impossible to spread the results of fire tests in case of single wiring in accordance with GOST IEC 60331-21-2011 and in case of bunch wiring in accordance with GOST IEC 60332-3-22-2011 to the results of tests in accordance with GOST R 53316-2009 for the preservation of operability of cable lines. The parameters of fire resistance and operability of cable products under the influence of flame depending on the type of cables and the method of their installation have been determined.
Polycyclic Compounds from Allenes via Palladium-Mediated Intramolecular Carbopalladation/Nucleophilic Substitution Cascade Processes
Authors: Savic Vladimir M. , Jovanovic Milos D. , Petkovic Milos R.
Published: December 2020

In recent decades transition metals have made a substantial contribution to the development of novel synthetic processes, with palladium catalysis being, arguably, at the forefront of this research. The efficiency of Pd-promoted C–C or C–X bond formation along with a variety of other transformations renders this metal an indispensable tool in synthetic organic chemistry. Of particular interest are Pd-catalysed multicomponent cascade reactions as they often allow the creation of complex structures from relatively simple starting materials, mimicking in this sense biochemical processes. Allenes as partners in Pd-promoted cascades involving carbopalladation/nucleophilic substitutions have been extensively studied in recent years. Many tactical variants have been explored showing a high level of efficiency and chemoselectivity with predictable outcomes. This short review is focused on intramolecular processes of this type because they provide access to relatively complex polycyclic products, possessing structural features often found in natural products and related compounds. Various approaches are discussed with the intention to demonstrate their applicability and synthetic potential.

1 Introduction

2 Intramolecular Palladium-Promoted Cascades of Allenes

3 Class I Cyclisations

4 Class II Cyclisations

5 Class III Cyclisations

6 Class IV Cyclisations

7 Conclusion
Rapid Implementation of a Complex, Multimodal Technology Response to COVID-19 at an Integrated Community-Based Health Care System
Authors: Knighton Andrew J. , Ranade-Kharkar Pallavi , Brunisholz Kimberly D. , Wolfe Douglas , Allen Lauren , Belnap Thomas W. , Moores Todd Tamara , Srivastava Rajendu , Kapsandoy Seraphine , Ize-Ludlow Diego , Allen Todd L.
Published: December 2020

Background The rapid spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 or SARS-CoV-2 necessitated a scaled treatment response to the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Objective This study aimed to characterize the design and rapid implementation of a complex, multimodal, technology response to COVID-19 led by the Intermountain Healthcare's (Intermountain's) Care Transformation Information Systems (CTIS) organization to build pandemic surge capacity.

Methods Intermountain has active community-spread cases of COVID-19 that are increasing. We used the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Pandemic Intervals Framework (the Framework) to characterize CTIS leadership's multimodal technology response to COVID-19 at Intermountain. We provide results on implementation feasibility and sustainability of health information technology (HIT) interventions as of June 30, 2020, characterize lessons learned and identify persistent barriers to sustained deployment.

Results We characterize the CTIS organization's multimodal technology response to COVID-19 in five relevant areas of the Framework enabling (1) incident management, (2) surveillance, (3) laboratory testing, (4) community mitigation, and (5) medical care and countermeasures. We are seeing increased use of traditionally slow-to-adopt technologies that create additional surge capacity while sustaining patient safety and care quality. CTIS leadership recognized early that a multimodal technology intervention could enable additional surge capacity for health care delivery systems with a broad geographic and service scope. A statewide central tracking system to coordinate capacity planning and management response is needed. Order interoperability between health care systems remains a barrier to an integrated response.

Conclusion The rate of future pandemics is estimated to increase. The pandemic response of health care systems, like Intermountain, offers a blueprint for the leadership role that HIT organizations can play in mainstream care delivery, enabling a nimbler, virtual health care delivery system that is more responsive to current and future needs.
Höhenakklimatisation und Kontaktlinsen
Authors: Bufler Manfred
Published: December 2020

Aufgrund der besonderen meteorologischen Bedingungen und den daraus folgenden Veränderungen der kornealen Form lassen sich Kontaktlinsen bis etwa 7000–7500 Hm noch einigermaßen ertragen. Besonders dünnen und sehr sauerstoffdurchlässigen weichen Silikonhydrogelkontaktlinsen sollte der Vorzug gegeben werden. Die dünnsten Kontaktlinsen gibt es bei den Tageslinsen. Kontaktlinsenflüssigkeiten und Kontaktlinsen sollten möglichst nahe am Körper transportiert werden. Die Brille und Desinfektionstücher gehören unbedingt in den Rucksack, ebenso wie künstliche Tränentropfen und die Sonnenbrille, die rund um das Auge gut abschließen sollte.
Assessment of the Diet of the Fox, Vulpes vulpes, in Habitats of the Eastern Otway Ranges, Victoria.
Authors: Wilson B A. , Wolrige J.
Published: December 2020

The Eastern Otway Ranges, Victoria have highly diverse native mammal communities. Although the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) has been recorded in the area the extent of its distribution and effects on native mammals are unclear. The aims of this study were to analyse the diet of the Red Fox in the study area, to compare the diet between seasons and habitats (woodland, forest, heathland) and to assess the diet in the habitat of the New Holland Mouse (Pseudomys novaehollandiae) which is endangered in Victoria. Fox scats collected monthly in each habitat were analysed to determine the composition of the diet and small mammal trapping was carried out in each habitat to determine potential small mammal prey species. Overall, mammals (42%) constituted the highest proportion in the fox scats and sixteen species, including nine native species were recorded. Large-sized native mammals including Swamp Wallaby (Wallabia bicolor) and the Eastern Grey Kangaroo (Macropus giganteus) constituted 60% of the mammal diet category. The occurrence of plant material was significantly different between seasons, being more abundant in winter. There was a significant difference in the frequency of large introduced mammals in the diet between seasons, with consumption being higher in winter. The occurrence of large, native mammalian prey increased from 15% in winter to 47% in autumn. The frequency of occurrence of the major dietary categories (plant material, invertebrates, reptiles, birds, mammals) was similar across habitats. Large introduced mammals occurred in higher proportions in the diet from woodland habitat. Small mammals were more numerous in scats of heathland and scats from the forest contained the highest abundance of medium-sized mammals. There was no evidence of the endangered New Holland Mouse in scats collected from habitat where a population of the species was present.
Distribution and Conservation Status of the Black-Footed Rock-Wallaby, Petrogale lateralis (MacDonnell Ranges race), in the Northern Territory.
Authors: Gibson D.F.
Published: December 2020

The distribution and conservation status of the Black-footed Rock-wallaby Petrogale lateralis (MacDonnell Ranges race), in the Northern Territory were investigated to complement previous surveys in adjoining areas of Western Australia and South Australia. Historical data were collated and compared with recent biological survey results obtained between 1870 and 1999. From a total of 469 records, 400 were collated for the period 1975-1999. The species occurs over ten biogeographic regions, principally within the MacDonnell Ranges bioregion, but with many populations in the Burt Plain and Great Sandy Desert bioregions. It is widely distributed through pastoral, Aboriginal, conservation and urban land and, at present, retains much the same distribution as concluded from early records. Thirteen conservation areas and 30 pastoral leases currently support populations of the species. An unknown number of animals live in and about Alice Springs. Only two National Parks, the West MacDonnells and Finke Gorge, are considered large and diverse enough to ensure the long-term survival of P. lateralis. Measures of abundance are not available but numbers of animals in conservation areas are perceived to have remained stable or to have increased over the past 20 years. Surveys undertaken during the period 1975-1999 indicate that P. lateralis have disappeared from 21 of 400 sites. Petrogale lateralis were present on all major rock types, including many granite outcrops. They were most widespread and apparently abundant on major quartzite ranges such as the MacDonnells where steep cliff faces, gorges, scree slopes and fire shadow areas are common. The wide distribution of P. lateralis in the Northern Territory in comparison to other states may be due to a variety of factors: widespread, relatively contiguous and variable habitat, occupation of country north of the core distribution of Oryctolagus cuniculus and of Vulpes vulpes, the inability of Capra hircus to persist and thus to compete in rocky range habitat, and a government 1080 poisoning programme for Canis lupus dingo on pastoral land. There is however, concern for the survival of some populations on many small ranges and rock outcrops on the fringes of its known distribution where recent observations indicate that numbers of animals are low.
Kidney Structure in Two Species of Arid Zone Rodent: Lakeland Downs Short-Tailed Mouse, Leggadina lakedownensis, and the House Mouse, Mus domesticus
Authors: Moro D.
Published: December 2020

Native rodents that inhabit the arid zones of Australia produce amongst the most concentrated urines recorded in an effort to conserve water during periods when it is scarce (Mac MiiJen and Lee 1967; Hewitt 1981). Their ability to survive in the absence of free water has been inherently associated with the morphology of their kidneys. Sperber (1944) developed the relative medullary thickness (RMT) index to compare the size of the medulla, and hence the concentrating ability of the kidney among mammalian species. This concept was extended further by Schmidt-Nielsen and O'Dell (1961) and later by Greenwald (1989) and Beuchat (1990), who compared absolute and RMT with the maximum urine osmolality of mammals.
Cadmium Accumulation and Toxicity in The Bottlenose Dolphin Tursiops truncatus, The Common Dolphin Delphinus delphis, and Some Dolphin Prey Species in South Australia.
Authors: Long M. , Reid R.J. , Kemper C.M.
Published: December 2020

Twenty Tursiops truncatus and 20 Delphinus delphis from South Australia were analysed for cadmium levels, as were some fish and squid species which form part of their diet. In the dolphins, cadmium was accumulated mainly in the kidneys (range 0-38 μg/g), with levels in many individuals exceeding 20 μg/g (wet weight). On average, levels in kidney were three-fold higher than in liver and 26-fold higher than in muscle. Cadmium concentrations related to dolphin body length, but the relationship with tooth development class was less clear. 80% of the prey fish species analysed from Spencer Gulf exceeded NH & MRC health recommendations of 0.2 μg/g (wet weight) for human consumption. Sepioteuthis australis from upper Spencer Gulf contained significantly higher cadmium levels than Ceduna samples (0.21 ± 0.01 μg/g versus 0.13 ± 0.01 μg/g, p<0.001) (wet weight). On histological examination, 32% of adult dolphin kidneys showed pathological changes, proteinuria being the most common abnormality. High levels of cadmium were found in dolphins from widely spaced locations in South Australia.
Evolution, Biogeography and Palaeoecology of The Ornithorhynchidae.
Authors: Musser A.M.
Published: December 2020

This paper reviews present understanding of the evolution of the ornithorhynchids. An ancient family within the mammalian order Monotremata. Ornithorhynchidae today is represented only by the living platypus Ornithorhynchus analinus but has a history that probably predates the Tertiary and a past distribution that spanned at least three continents. Analysis of the palaeontological record has focused on the distinctive ornithorhynchid dentition, which in species of Monotrematum and Obdurodon was probably functional throughout life. The retention of functional dentition in concert with the great age of Ornithorhynchidae gives the platypus family a much larger role in analysis of the biogeographic and phylogenetic history of the monotremes than is given to the more specialised, edentate tachyglossids, or echidnas. A complete ornithorhynchid skull, recovered from Miocene deposits at Riversleigh in north-western Queensland, has allowed comparison between the cranium of a generally more plesiomorphic platypus and that of the living Or. anatinus, a study that answers some of the morphological questions posed by this enigmatic group while raising others. This review concludes with a discussion of the biogeography and palaeoecology of the family.
Electric Fields Generated by Monotreme Prey Species.
Authors: Gregory J.E.
Published: December 2020

The electric sense of the platypus may be used for the detection of prey, as may the similar but less elaborate electrosensory system in the echidna. However, for neither animal has this been shown directly. In this study, further support for the feasibility of an electrosensory role in prey detection was sought by determining whether potential prey items of either animal generate electric fields with appropriate characteristics. Prey items were placed in tap water and recordings made with a pair of electrodes placed near the specimen. Movement-related electric fields of a few to a few hundred µVcm-1 in amplitude were generated by a number of items including shrimps, fish, earthworms, mealworms and cockchafer larvae. Some recorded potentials were at a frequency consistent with an electromyogenic origin, while others were at a lower frequency and seemed more related to the movements of the animal itself than to the underlying muscle activity. No electric fields could be recorded from several other small invertebrate species tested. It is concluded that the platypus would be able to detect some prey items at close range by sensing the electric fields they generate, but this has not been demonstrated for the echidna.
The In Vitro Production of Sphaerule-Like Bodies in Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus)-Derived and Toad (Bufo marinus)-Derived Cultures of Mucor amphibiorum, and a Platypus-Derived Culture of Mucor circinelloides.
Authors: Stewart N.J.
Published: December 2020

Isolates of Mucor amphibiorum and Mucor circinelloides from ulcerated platypuses (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) in the north of Tasmania were compared with isolates of M. amphibiorum taken from cane toads (Bufo marinus) in Queensland. Sphaerule-like bodies previously associated with in vivo growth of M. amphibiorum were produced in vitro. Two types of sphaerule-like bodies were observed. Type 1 bodies were found only in +ve mating types. Type 2 were found in both +ve and -ve mating types. Both type 1 and type 2 sphaerule-like bodies were apparent in sections of tissue taken from ulcerated O. anatinus. Type 2 bodies were induced in M. circinelloides, a species not previously associated with the formation of sphaerule-like bodies, either in vivo or in vitro.
Time and Space Sharing Between Platypuses (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) in Captivity.
Authors: Hawkins M.R.
Published: December 2020

Detailed video monitoring studies of the activity patterns of platypuses, Ornithorhynchus anatinus, given free access to a variable captive system were conducted. When alone, platypuses in captivity linked their activity to the nocturnal light cycle and followed a predictable pattern of activity. This was mostly confined to the dark photo-period and with long periods of continuous presence in the water. When individuals were paired a 'dominance' relationship usually developed. The adult male was dominant over the females in all combinations. In the pairing of a sub-adult male and female, the female remained dominant and between two females there was little indication of dominance. The dominant animal's pattern of activity in the water remained similar to that when kept alone, except for a slight lengthening of its active period and spread of activity. The second animal's active period shortened and became more fragmented. The spread of its activity increased and the activity moved more into the high light periods when the dominant animal was not present. All the activity criteria examined could reflect different strategies for the separation of the activity- cycles changes to the length of the active period, leaving the tank when the other animal was present, increasing the spread of activity, extending activity into the 'daylight' period. It was concluded that one reason behind the changes of activity pattern in paired platypuses was the desire for an un-interrupted feeding time.
Distribution of the Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) in the Bombala River Catchment, South-Eastern New South Wales.
Authors: Turnbull R.W.
Published: December 2020

Distribution of the platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) in the Bombala River catchment in south-eastern New South Wales was surveyed using questionnaires. Platypuses were reported from all streams in the catchment. The majority of positive sightings were from downstream areas whereas very few positive sightings were reported from headwater areas. The difference between frequencies of headwater and downstream reports of sightings was significant. The platypus was considered common throughout the catchment.
Current and Historical Occurrence of Platypuses, Ornithorhynchus anatinus, around Sydney.
Authors: Grant T.R.
Published: December 2020

No formal survey of platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) distribution around the greater Sydney area has previously been carried out. However, using 126 records of 0. anatinus from various sources (Pre-1900 (7), 1900-69 (43), 1970-89 (57), 1990-96 (19)), an assessment of the current and historical occurrence of the species in this area has been made. The species has been observed regularly since European settlement in the upper reaches of the Nepean River and its tributaries above the sites of the current Sydney water storages. Apparently once common in the Nepean River between the current water storages and the Warragamba River junction, the species is now seldom observed in this section of the river. It was previously more common in the lower reaches of the Nepean and upper Hawkesbury Rivers and platypuses are still occasionally recorded in this part of the river system. The species also still occurs upstream of the Lake Yarrunga storage in the Kangaroo River. It is currently found in streams of the Lake Illawarra catchment and the south coast, as far south as Berry, and in the Wollondilly and Coxs Rivers upstream of Lake Burragorang. Platypuses are no longer reported from the streams flowing through the Wollongong metropolitan area. Some recent records exist for the Sydney metropolitan area, but most are from national parks. The river systems around Sydney, Wollongong and their satellite settlements have been severely degraded by a range of human activities since early European settlement. At present it is not possible to attribute changes in 0. anatinus distribution to any single human activity over that period.
A Research Project to Establish Criteria for the Reintroduction of Platypuses (Ornithorhynchus anatinus Into Selected Locations in South Australia.
Authors: Carey T.J. , Smallridge C.J.
Published: December 2020

Platypuses were once common through many waterways of South Australia but now only live in a small system of rivers on Kangaroo Island where they were introduced in 1940. There is renewed interest from individuals and organisations in re-establishing the species in areas of mainland South Australia. The main objective of this project is to identify essential criteria for maintaining platypuses in South Australian ponds. Platypuses were captured on Kangaroo Island and introduced into a two pond system at McLaren Vale south of Adelaide. The animals were radio tagged and their behaviour monitored. Prior to introduction the habitat was fenced to exclude foxes and feral cats. The ponds were improved by the removal of mosquito fish and trout, placement of snags in the water, planting of aquatic vegetation at the margin and management of the water volume and surface area. Observations indicated that soft moist soil at water level aids the creation of burrows and refuges which may take months to establish. In the interim platypuses will make use of natural earth cracks or create refuges in vegetation. The animals are active in the grassy surrounds, move freely between ponds and feed on supplements of mealworms and earthworms. Key requirements for establishing platypuses in pond systems will include the exclusion of mammalian predators, providing a habitat conducive to the establishment of burrows and optimising food availability.
Platypus Activity Areas and Patterns in a Sub-Alpine Tasmanian Lake System.
Authors: Otley H.M. , Munks S.A. , Hindell M.A.
Published: December 2020

The seasonal activity patterns and habitat usage of platypuses were examined in Lake Lea, a sub-alpine lake system in north western Tasmania. Activity data were collected by radio tracking individuals for one 24 hour period (in two 12 hour blocks) using a portable radio-receiver and 3-element Yagi antenna. In addition, the location of other individuals was recorded periodically during the 24 hour period. Information collected so far for ten individuals during late winter and mid spring will be presented. Preliminary analysis suggests that a high proportion of the population may be diurnally active. Out of five adult platypuses tracked during late winter, three were predominantly diurnally active and only two were nocturnal. Day-active individuals emerged from burrows between 0530 and 0700 and returned before 1930, thus foraging for at least 13.5 hours per day. Nocturnal individuals emerged between 1730 and 1900, foraged for approximately 12.5 hours and returned between 0600 and 0700. Mean dive times of three day-active individuals were between 29 and 34 seconds, with an intervening surface period of between 12 and 20 seconds. Maximum foraging area of three individuals were between 14 and 30 hectares (95% isopleth, Kernel analysis).
Application of a Geographic Information System (GIS) To Characterisation Of Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) Habitat At Mount Emu Creek In Western Victoria.
Authors: Prevett P. , Davidson A. , Hopf T.
Published: December 2020

Platypuses appear to have an uneven distribution in Mt. Emu and Baillies Creeks. In the southern reaches of the creek near Skipton platypuses are abundant, whilst in a tributary near Lake Burrumbeet., I0 km to the north of Skipton, platypuses are rarely seen. A comparison of the creekside habitat at the two sites was made and differences in river form, vegetation cover and adjacent land use were identified. All site and platypus data were downloaded into the GIS software mapping package Map info and stored in table format but were accessible through use of the information tool. A digital camera was used to provide supplementary photographic information of creekside conditions. The digital photographs were incorporated directly into the mapwork, facilitating visualisation of the local conditions. Radio tracking showed burrow sites used by platypuses. These were characterised and all data entered into Map info. An attempt has been made to include in the mapwork the relative intensity of use platypuses make of different areas within their home ranges. Expansion of this database with further work and knowledge of platypus requirements should eventually lead to an attempt at predictive mapping of the presence of platypuses in the region.
Distribution and Demographic Attributes of Platypus Populations Near Melbourne.
Authors: Serena M. , Williams G.A.
Published: December 2020

Information on platypus populations occurring along streams in the Melbourne region was collected by mark- release studies in the period I989-I996. In all, 256 records of animals were obtained along waterways in the Yarra River, Maribyrnong River and Dandenong Creek catchments. Ornilhorhynchus anatinus were captured at approximately one-quarter of the sites sampled by fyke nets, with animals encountered to within about 15 km of inner Melbourne. Evidence of reproduction was obtained along seven waterways in the Yarra River catchment (Badger Creek, Watts River/Graceburn Creek, Olinda Creek, Mullum Mullum Creek, Diamond Creek, Plenty River/Jacks Creek and the Yarra River itself) as well as Monbulk Creek in the Oandenong Creek catchment. The earliest date on which a juvenile was captured at any site was 24 February. Across populations, sex ratio (expressed as the number of adult or subadult females per adult male) tended to be positively correlated with population density. In all seasons, nearly all animals were found to be in moderate to good physical condition (i.e. tail fat index = 2 or 3). The three thinnest individuals encountered in this study were adult females captured in March, at least two of which were lactating. Along the Watts River and Mullum Mullum Creek, six individuals (comprising about 10% of animals captured) had one or more pieces of plastic or rubber litter caught around their neck or thorax.
Platypus Venom and Envenomation.
Authors: Temple-Smith P. , Grant T.
Published: December 2020

Curiosity and controversy have surrounded the function of the crural system of the platypus since its discovery in the late 18th century. Early work on the venom confused rather than clarified the biological significance of the crural system. Many experiments gave conflicting results, especially concerning the coagulation effects of intravenous injections of venom extracts, although consistent observations were made of general vasodilation following intravenous injection into rabbits. More recent studies have shown that crural (venom) gland activity is seasonal and in synchrony with the breeding season. Secretion from the crural glands shows proteolytic activity and contains at least three major proteins, one of which has hyaluronidase activity. Subcutaneous injection of venom produced mild toxic effects whereas intravenous doses (75-90mg protein/kg) in mice were lethal. Whole venom induced local oedema after subplantar injection in rats and a 4.2kD peptide isolated from the venom caused relaxation of rat uterus in vitro. At least 16 incidents of envenomation by the platypus have been recorded in humans but no fatalities have been reported. In most human cases, envenomation resulted in immediate and severe local pain and oedema, sometimes associated with nausea, cold sweats, dull gastric pain and vomiting, hyperaesthesia and swelling of the axillary lymph nodes. Significant functional impairment of the upper limb for some weeks or months has been observed. Various treatments have been used to alleviate the symptoms of envenomation with differing successes. Envenomation has also been recorded in platypuses and dogs. The effects of these envenomations will be discussed.
Can Flower-Feeding Marsupials Meet Their Nitrogen Requirements on Pollen in The Field?
Authors: van Tets I.G
Published: December 2020

Two arboreal marsupials, the eastern pygmy possum (Cercartetus nanus) and the sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps) have exceptionally low maintenance nitrogen requirements on pollen diets. This study compares their nitrogen requirements with the density of Banksia pollen that is available in the Barren Grounds Nature Reserve, New South Wales, a site where both species are known to forage on Banksia inflorescences. The pollen density was sufficiently high that both species were capable of meeting their maintenance nitrogen requirements on pollen whenever Banksia spp. were in flower. C. nanus required a smaller proportion of its home range than P. breviceps to do so and pollen was likely to be of much greater nutritional significance to both species in winter than in summer. This corresponds closely with the results of field studies comparing the diets of these mammals at different times of the year. Pollen is an important source of nitrogen for flower-feeding marsupials but its importance will vary between species depending on the marsupial's requirements, its body size and on the quantity of pollen that is available.
Reproduction and Growth of The Bandicoot Isoodon macrourus At Four Sites in Rockhampton, Queensland.
Authors: Attard S.M. , Mckillup S.C.
Published: December 2020

Within Australia the northern short-nosed bandicoot, Isoodon macrourus, occurs in coastal areas from the Kimberleys to the monsoonal tropics of the Northern Territory and from Cape York Peninsula to the Hawkesbury River, New South Wales (Gordon 1983). The reproductive ecology of I. macrourus has been studied in two captive (Hall 1983; Gemmell 1988) and five natural populations (Gordon 1971, 1974; Gemmell 1982; Hall 1983; Friend 1990; Kem- per et al. 1990; Budiawan 1993). Three of the latter (Darwin, the Mitchell Plateau and Townsville) were in the tropics; breeding at these sites occurred dur- ing the wetter months of the year but not during the summer of 1982/3 in Darwin when the monsoon failed (Friend 1990) or during the relatively dry winter/spring of 1991 in Townsville (Budiawan 1993), suggesting a dependence on rainfall (Friend 1990; Budiawan 1993). We report on differences in the reproduction, growth and development of I. macrourus in Rockhampton, Queensland, from March - October 1993 at four adjacent sites which received different amounts of artificial watering.
Foraging Ecology of the Two Taxa of Large-Eared Horseshoe Bat, Rhinolophus philippinensis,
on Cape York Peninsula.
Authors: Pavey C.R.
Published: December 2020

Diet, foraging behaviour, and hunting habitat of a small sample of large-eared horseshoe bats, Rhinolophus philippinensis, were studied on Cape York Peninsula. Faeces of three pregnant females of the large form of the species contained Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, and Orthoptera. Lepidoptera were present in all faeces examined (n=32) and had a high percent volume in most faeces. Upon release, the females were briefly observed hunting while in flight. A radio tagged male of the small form foraged during continuous flight both in rainforest and around buildings in a rainforest clearing, where insects were attracted to artificial light. When hunting around light, the bat captured insects (moths) by aerial pursuit and, on one occasion, through gleaning from the ground. Foraging ecology of the two taxa was similar to that of sympatric Rhinolophus megaphyllus.
Observations of the Response of Ningaui yvonneae (Marsupialia: dasyuridae) to Pit-Fall Drift Fences.
Authors: Bos D.
Published: December 2020

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An initiative to improve equity, timeliness and access to District Health Board-funded physiotherapy in Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
Authors: McGonigle Lisa , McGeoch Graham
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT
Background and contextGeneral practice teams frequently request orthopaedic and musculoskeletal physiotherapy. In the Canterbury District Health Board (DHB) region, before November 2018, the criteria for DHB-funded physiotherapy were unclear. Wait times were many months. Care was provided on hospital sites. Limited data were available about the service.
Assessment of problemA clinical project group including private and DHB hospital physiotherapists and general practitioners was established. Patients requiring orthopaedic and musculoskeletal physiotherapy who had certain criteria were seen by physiotherapists in contracted private clinics in the community instead of by physiotherapists in hospital departments. Patients received up to NZ$300 (excluding GST) of care. A claiming process was established that required the physiotherapy clinics to provide data on patient outcomes.
ResultsIn the first 12 months of the programme, 1229 requests were accepted. Patients waited an average of 11.1 days for their first appointment. There was an average Patient Specific Functional Scale increase of 3.7 after treatment.
Strategies for improvementA change environment was critical for this community-based, geographically distributed model to succeed. It was supported by key clinicians and funders with sufficient authority to make changes as required. It required ongoing clinical oversight and operational support.
LessonsDHB orthopaedic and musculoskeletal physiotherapy can be moved from hospital sites to a community-based, distributed service in a timely, effective and equitable fashion. There was a prompt time to treatment. Data collection was improved by tracking ‘before’ and ‘after’ measures.
Planning a new cherry orchard.
Authors: Long Lynn E. , Lang Gregory A. , Kaiser Clive
Published: December 2020

Growing fruit trees is a long term financial commitment and establishing an orchard is an expensive enterprise. Selecting the right orchard site is arguably the most important decision that a sweet cherry grower will make and it will affect all other managerial decisions related to the orchard. Choosing the wrong site can affect both fruit yield and quality, and ultimately the financial viability of the operation. On the other hand, choosing a good site will reduce expenses and increase profits. Properly evaluating a prospective orchard location, determining available resources and establishing the orchard takes careful planning. This chapter focuses on important factors in planning a new cherry orchard, including economics and site evaluation (climatic conditions, topography, soil characteristics, soil analysis, water availability and quality, access to key auxilliary facilities, and environmental impact).
Orchard establishment and production.
Authors: Long Lynn E. , Lang Gregory A. , Kaiser Clive
Published: December 2020

This chapter focuses on designing the orchard, site preparation, orchard structures, nursery tree source selection, successful pollination, planting and the use of plant growth regulators in cherry production.
Public Support for Judicial Philosophies: Evidence from a Conjoint Experiment
Authors: Krewson Christopher N. , Owens Ryan J.
Published: December 2020

We examine whether the public evaluates Supreme Court nominees on the basis of judicial philosophies when presented with a description of those philosophies. Employing a conjoint experiment, we find that the public will evaluate nominees’ judicial philosophies as well as the nominees’ partisanship, ideology, and qualifications. We also discover significant differences between Republicans and Democrats. These results have important implications for the future of judicial nominations, framing, and public support for the judiciary.
Simultaneous Determination of Nitrite and Azide Ions in Valsartan
Authors: Liu Xueyun , Hu Tianjiao
Published: December 2020

Objective

This study aimed to establish an ion chromatography for the simultaneous determination of nitrite and azide ions in valsartan.

Methods

Dionex IonpacAG18 (4 × 50 mm2) and Dionex IonpacAS18 (4 × 250 mm2) were used as the 2D guard column and analytical column, respectively. Dionex AMGTMC18 (4 × 30 mm2) was used as a 1D pre-separation column and Dionex UTAC-ULP1 as the concentration column. KOH solution generated by an online eluent generator (EG) was used as the 2D mobile phase, and gradient elution was performed at 1 mL/min. Water and acetonitrile were used as 1D mobile phase, and gradient elution was performed at 0.5 mL/min. Suppressed conductivity detector (suppressor, ASRS 300 4 mm) was used for detection. The column temperature was 30°C, while that of the detector was 35°C.

Results

This method showed satisfactory reproducibility and recovery. The linear range and the correlation coefficient for both nitrite and azide ions were 0.01–0.2 mg/L and 0.9998, respectively. However, the recovery rate was 85–115% for nitrite and 90–110% for azide ions.

Conclusion

This method was suitable for the simultaneous determination of nitrite and azide ions in valsartan and other sartan drugs.
Last Place of Care and End-of-Life Quality of Life in the United States: Evidence From a National Representative Data Set
Authors: Lou Yifan , Jiang Nan , Ornstein Katherine
Published: December 2020

Background: Quality of life (QoL) during last stage of life has raised expanded interests as an important aspect of person-centered care. Last place of care (LPC), refer to the last place decedents received their formal end-of-life care (EOLC), has been identified as a key indicator of older adults’ end-of-life QoL, but the relationship was understudied. This study explores the association between LPC and end-of-life QoL among American older adults. Methods: Data used seven waves of Last Month of Life data with a total sample of 3068 Medicare decedents in NHATS. Outcome is end-of-life QoL assessed by eleven measures on four domains: pain and symptoms management (SP), quality of healthcare encounter (HE), person-centered care (PC), and overall quality of care (QC). LPC was categorized into home, hospital, nursing home, and residential hospice. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to examine the relationship with covariates. Results: LPC varied by most demographic characteristics, except immigration status and education. Older adults whose LPC is hospital, compared to those who had home-care, were less likely to have great experiences on HE, PC, and QC. People dying at nursing homes are more likely to receive care meeting their dyspnea and spiritual needs. Residential hospice is negatively related to respected care, clear coordination, and keeping family informed, but are more likely to provide PS and spiritual care. Discussion: Home-based end-of-life care has certain advantages but still has room to improve on SP and religious concerns. Hospitals should keep reforming their service delivery structure to improve patients’ QoL.
Rates of Diagnoses Indicating Opioid Dependence After Hospice Live Discharge: A National Study
Authors: Christian Thomas , Breunig Ian , Teno Joan , Gozalo Pedro , Plotzke Michael
Published: December 2020

Opioids are an important tool for managing Medicare Hospice beneficiaries’ pain and symptoms. Little is known about the prevalence of opioid dependence among patients discharged alive from hospice. Using 100% Medicare hospice, acute inpatient, and Part B claims from Federal Fiscal Years (FY) 2017-2018, we identified hospice beneficiaries that were discharged alive during FY2017-2018 and associated with diagnosis codes in subsequent health care incidents indicating opioid dependence. We used a crosswalk from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality to determine which codes represented opioid dependence. We characterized beneficiaries and their hospice providers using information from the Medicare Enrollment Database and Provider of Services file. There were 468,204 live hospice discharges during FY2017-2018, among which 9,282 (2.0%) were associated with subsequent health care events including a diagnosis code signifying opioid dependence. Post-hospice opioid diagnoses were more frequent among beneficiaries who were younger (for ages <65 relative to 85-89; Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]=6.23, 95% Confidence Intervals [CI] 5.73-6.77); dual-eligible (AOR=1.40, 95% CI 1.34-1.47); and relative to cancer, diagnosed with lung (AOR=1.83, 95% CI 1.72-1.95), heart (AOR=1.23, 95% CI 1.14-1.34), or liver diseases (AOR=1.25, 95% CI 1.10-1.42). Beneficiaries with opioid incidents tended to have survived much longer after hospice (150.9 days with opioid incidents vs. 13.6 days no opioid-related incidents). The states with the highest rates of post-hospice opioid-incidents per 10,000 live discharges were Kentucky (435.2), Wyoming (386.0), Tennessee (359.3), Washington (345.6), and Idaho (342.9). Further monitoring can ensure that hospice beneficiaries receive appropriate care during and after hospice enrollment.
Does the Structure of Aging Services Matter? A Comparative Case Study of California Communities
Authors: Gallo Haley , Marnfeldt Kelly , Navarro Adria , Wilber Kathleen
Published: December 2020

As the older adult population grows and Federal funding remains stagnant, coordination of services at the local level becomes more critical. Building on the Federal Administration for Community Living model, California’s Master Plan for Aging creates opportunities for innovative restructuring of the way aging services are delivered through the Area Agencies on Aging (AAA). We conducted a comparative case study of California AAAs (N=5) representing different levels of integration, from standalone departments of aging (Los Angeles City, Riverside County), to partial integration (Los Angeles County), to full integration with aging and disability programs (San Diego County, San Francisco County). We examined the impact of departmental organization and integration on the AAAs’ service delivery for older adults. Interviews with leaders of the AAAs were coded by two researchers using constant comparative analysis to identify themes within and between the AAAs. Emerging themes revealed the role that “structure,” “politics,” “funding,” and “visibility” play in service delivery for AAAs with varying levels of integration. Findings suggest that integrating the AAA with other departments (i.e., Health and Human Services) and programs (e.g., Adult Protective Services, In-Home Supportive Services) improves coordination and allows for greater visibility of the AAA. Key stakeholders in standalone AAAs, however, fear that integration would hinder their visibility and “agility” in service provision. Findings shed light on best practices for locally coordinated aging service delivery during a window of opportunity for California AAAs, yet they can also inform how aging services are provided for local governments nationwide.