bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ineffective recruitment strategies for screening mammography: letterbox drops and invitations for friends
Authors: Turnbull Deborah , Irwig Les
Published: August 2010

Abstract: To test the effectiveness of two interventions to encourage women to attend for mammographic screening, four randomised trials of letterbox drops were conducted. Leaflets about the screening service (n = 3984) were distributed to households within defined areas. Attendance from the 79 streets where a drop was made was compared with attendance from 78 control streets before and after the drop. No major effects were found either within each trial or across trials. In the second intervention, 69 women who attended the service were offered invitations for two friends. An additional 21 attenders were approached with the offer of an incentive to recruit friends. Invitations included an explanatory letter with an appointment time, a pamphlet and a contact phone number. The final response rate was only 7% and an incentive of an instant scratch lottery ticket for the original attender did not improve the response. Thus we identified two interventions with no major effect in recruiting women to mammographic screening.
Preferences of rural Victorian women for screening mammography services
Authors: Cockburn Jill , Hill David , De Luise Trudy
Published: August 2010

Abstract: The aim of this study was to examine rural women's access to regional fixed‐site screening mammography services and their preferences for either a mobile service or a fixed‐site centre. One hundred and thirty‐seven women aged 49 to 69 from rural Victoria were interviewed in June 1991. Eighty‐five per cent of women normally go to major towns which are possible screening sites at least once every six months, spending an average of five hours each visit. Around 77% of women said they would be likely to go to a fixed site while 86% said they would be likely to go to a mobile service. If the fixed‐site centre was at a major town not usually frequented, this would be a deterrent to 58% of women. A decision to widely implement mobile screening in rural areas of Victoria is not justified at this time, but pilot mobile services should be considered.
Trends in general practitioner distribution from 1984 to 1989
Authors: Rosenman Stephen J. , Batman Gail J.
Published: August 2010

Abstract: An analysis of the distribution of general practitioners by electorates during the six years 1984 to 1989 showed that the maldistribution of practitioners in Australia has worsened despite significant increases (26%) in total general practitioner numbers. One in five rural electorates had worse population‐to‐general‐practitioner ratios in 1989 than in 1984. The changes in distribution of general practitioners ran counter to the changes in distribution of the population over the period studied. In 1984, the 38.7% of the population living in rural Australia was served by 33% of the nation's general practitioners. By 1989, more of the population (39.8%) lived in rural areas but they were served by a smaller proportion (32%) of the general practitioner workforce. It is clear that many urban electorates have fewer people per general practitioner than the most generous ideal ratios, while most rural electorates have more people per general practitioner than the least generous.
Indoor nitrogen dioxide and childhood respiratory illness
Authors: Pilotto Louis S. , Douglas Robert M.
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Nitrogen dioxide is produced from the combustion of fossil fuels and as an emission from gas‐fired appliances, and is also a component of tobacco smoke. Nitrogen dioxide has been shown in experimental animals to be toxic to the respiratory tract. A number of recent studies have suggested that children exposed to significant levels of nitrogen dioxide in the home may be more susceptible to respiratory illness than children exposed to normal ambient levels. Respiratory illness is a major cause of morbidity in children everywhere. Here, we review the available evidence of this association and explore methodological issues in measurement of nitrogen dioxide exposure— misclassification of subjects, symptom bias and confounding. It has recently been shown that some New South Wales school rooms, where unflued gas heaters are often used as a source of warmth, have nitrogen dioxide levels which are above recommended ambient levels for outside air. This has underlined the need for setting standards for indoor levels of various pollutants, and cohort studies are suggested, to include personal monitoring and prospective data collection techniques.
Smoking in Aborigines and persons of European descent in southeastern Australia: prevalence and associations with food habits, body fat distribution and other cardiovascular risk factors
Authors: Guest Charles S. , O'Dea Kerin , Carlin John B. , Larkins Richard G.
Published: August 2010

Abstract: As part of a population‐base study of risk factors for heart disease, we aimed to establish the prevalence of smoking and to indentify associations between smoking and other risk factors in Australian Aborigines (n = 306) and persons of European descent (n = 553) in two country towns. Smoking prevalence was first analysed as a dichotomy (current smokers compared with nonsmokers), and according to three levels of exposure (< 10, 10—20 and > 20 cigarettes per day), and two levels of nonexposure (never and former smoker). Other behavioural, biochemical and physical variables were included in multivariable analyses. Of the Aborigines, 64.4 per cent (95 per cent confidence interval (CI) 59.0 per cent to 69.8 per cent) were current cigarette smokers, compared with 22.8 per cent of non‐Aborigines (CI 19.3 per cent to 26.3 per cent). For persons aged 13 to 54 years, using the five categories of exposure, smoking in Aborigines again far exceeded that in non‐Aborigines in all age groups (for males χ2 = 72.8, for females χ2 = 94.6, 4 df, P = < 0.0001 for both sexes). In non‐Aboriginal females, the highest prevalence was in the youngest group (56 per cent of those aged 13 to 17 years). Food habit was associated with smoking. Subjects who ate meat without trimming the fat were more likely to smoke. In Australian country towns, Aborigines and all young women need smoking cessation programs. The nutritional status of smokers requires further study.
The rationing of health care: should Oregon be transported to Australia?
Authors: Hall Jane , Haas Marion
Published: August 2010

Abstract: The Oregon Plan is an ambitious attempt to address the widespread problem in the United States of a growing number of individuals who are without private health insurance and are not eligible for federal assistance programs. Its aim is to provide universal access for all Oregonians, without increasing total health care expenditure, by restricting the cover of some treatments. It has aroused interest in Australia and elsewhere. The appeal of the Oregon Plan lies in its explicit approach to rationing, in community participation in setting priorities, and the use of a cost‐effectiveness framework. This paper describes the beginnings and the development of the Oregon Plan, and compares the actual development of the Plan with the rhetoric. There is a gap between the rhetoric of the Plan and its reality. The Oregon plan should be considered in the context of the United States health care system. We compare the American problems with those facing the Australian health care system and conclude that the answer to the question of whether Oregon should be transported to Australia is no. Nevertheless there are elements of the rhetoric of the Plan which could be applied in rationing health care in Australia.
A holosphere of healthy and sustainable communities
Authors: Labonté Ronald
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Public health practice is in a transitory state, expanding considerably beyond medical and behavioural models of health and disease to encompass physical and social environmental health determinants. A new public health practice is emerging, apparent in initiatives like the international healthy cities/communities projects. This new public health practice must integrate the challenge of sustainable development, as defined by the 1987 World Commission on Environment and Development. The holosphere framework locates health as its central metaphor, and defines six interacting environmental spheres: a viable natural environment, a sustainable economic environment, a sufficient economy, an equitable social environment, a convivial community, and a livable built environment. There are five functional roles for local government: policy, legislation, education, partnerships and advocacy. Representative actions from each of the six environmental spheres of the holosphere framework are identified and discussed, using the five functional roles of local government. There is a need for new intersectoral forums to act upon the knowledge generated by integrative models such as the holosphere. Canadian Round Tables on Environment and Economy are encouraging examples of such intersectoralism.
Cost‐effectiveness of mammographic screening in Australia
Authors: Carter Rob , Glasziou Paul , van Oortmarssen Gerrit , de Koning Harry , Stevenson Chris , Salkeld Glenn , Boer Rob
Published: August 2010

Abstract: The purpose of this research was to estimate the cost‐effectiveness of mammographic screening to supplement the results of the National Evaluation of Breast Cancer Screening which identified the mortality benefit as the most sensitive parameter. This appraisal used a different computer model, MISCAN, which models the effects of introducing a national screening program into a previously unscreened population, rather than basing estimates on the assumption of a fully established program. For the 40 to 49 age group a mortality reduction of 8 per cent was assumed, rather than the 30 per cent estimate utilised in the National Evaluation. The revised estimate is based on the two Swedish trials (Malmo and WE). New estimates for treatment costs were also incorporated into the MISCAN model. The cost‐effectiveness of the policy recommended in the National Evaluation Report, $11 000 per life year saved with two‐yearly screening of women over 40, is estimated by the MISCAN model to be dollar;20 300. These differences arise partly from the difference in mortality effects for the 40 to 49 age group, but also from differences inherent in the steady‐state and dynamic population approaches to modelling premature deaths averted. The MISCAN results confirm that screening for women over 50 is more cost‐effective than screening women under 50. Screening all women aged 50 to 69 every two to three years is reasonable value for money. For women aged 40 to 49 the mortality benefit and cost‐effectiveness is less clear, and it would be prudent to allow screening in this group until further evidence is available.
What prevents prevention? Lessons from the failure of a university alcohol and drug policy
Authors: Lockwood Anne , Saunders Bill
Published: August 2010

Abstract: This paper describes an investigation of why an attempt at alcohol and drug problem prevention failed. Between 1986 and 1991 a comprehensive policy on alcohol and drug use was developed in a university in Western Australia. Using a key‐informant approach, 26 ‘players' central to the decision to reject the policy were interviewed, and relevant university documents were examined. The failure of the initiative was found to be caused not only by bad policy formulation (for example, the perceived poor tone of the document, concerns about content and general presentation) but also to bad process. Lack of effective consultation, suspicions about the origins of the policy, distrust and dislike of the policy presenters and concerns about the aim of the policy were cited as major impediments. The central tenet of the policy, that in order to reduce alcohol problems everyone must reduce their drinking, was rejected by most of the decision makers. Perceptions that members of the policy working party were taking an anti‐alcohol stance engendered criticisms that the policy reflected the work of ‘wowsers' and ‘health zealots’. The major lessons learned were that policy formulation, presentation and negotiation are skilled tasks. Preventers need a range of abilities with perhaps the foremost being the capacity to listen to criticism, consult genuinely and implement change slowly. The notion that preventers know what is good for other people needs to be avoided. Preventive policy, if it is to be implemented, has to be introduced by invitation not imposition.
An evaluation of a program to reduce home hot tap water temperatures
Authors: Waller Anna E. , Clarke Judith A. , Langley John D.
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Children are more likely to be hospitalised because of burns from hot liquids than from contact with fire and flames. Many of these hot liquid burns are from contact with hot tap water, usually in the home. Hot tap water burns to young children can be prevented completely by lowering the delivery temperature of the hot tap water. This study reports on the evaluation of a program designed to lower the temperature of home hot tap water in Dunedin, New Zealand. In conjunction with a national media campaign, the program provided an educational intervention to households with young children. Before and after measures were made and comparison groups were used to determine the effect of the intervention on tap water temperatures. Mean tap water temperature was 64.2°C at baseline and 61.2°C at follow‐up. The proportion of households with water temperatures above 70°C decreased by 50 per cent between baseline and follow‐up while the proportion below 60°C increased from 33 per cent to 47 per cent. The group receiving the intervention did not differ significantly from the comparison groups. There were significant decreases in tap water temperature across all groups, but the majority of households still had temperatures above 55°C at the end of the study.
Evaluating the importance of information sources for preventive health care in rural Australia
Authors: Humphreys John S. , Rolley Frances , Weinand Herb C.
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Health promotion and prevention are critical elements of public health programs designed to improve health status and extend life chances. The pattern of mortality and morbidity in rural Australia suggests a particularly important role for health promotion and preventive measures in country areas. However, the importance of preventive health measures and how people access health‐related information is not well understood. This study examines which sources of health‐related information are most valued by rural residents and whether the importance attributed to different sources varies according to age, sex and geographic location. The results demonstrate the overwhelming importance of the general practitioner and pharmacist in provision of preventive health information for all rural people. There is a need to ensure that the work carried out by all those involved with health promotion is closely integrated with that of rural general practitioners.
Background soil concentrations of phenolic compounds, chlorinated herbicides, PCDDs and PCDFs in the Melbourne metropolitan area
Authors: Sund Kelly G. , Carlo George L. , Crouch Richard L. , Senefelder Brian C.
Published: August 2010

Abstract: During June and July 1990, surface soil samples were taken in the Melbourne metropolitan area and analysed for phenolic compounds, chlorinated herbicides, polychlorinated dibenzo‐para‐dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated furans (PCDFs). A surface soil sample from a Werribee Farm Treatment Complex paddock, where cattle graze on land that is used for filtration of sewage, was also taken and analysed. No phenolic compounds or chlorinated herbicides were detected at the parts per billion detection limits in any of the samples. PCDDs and PCDFs were detected in both industrial and nonindustrial sectors of the Melbourne metropolitan area, as well as in effluent from Nufarm Limited, an agricultural chemicals manufacturer in Laverton North, in similar concentrations (toxic equivalents in the parts per trillion range). These concentrations were consistent with background levels identified in other major urban areas. There was no evidence of the Nufarm effluent fingerprint in any of the background soil samples analysed. The fingerprint profile of the sample taken from Werribee Farm, although showing traces of the Nufarm effluent fingerprint, was clearly distinct from that effluent fingerprint and consistent with the fingerprint identified in the background soils. The impact of the Nufarm effluent on the area, therefore, was considered insignificant.
Assessing the extent of the Australian HIV epidemic from AIDS surveillance data
Authors: Becker Niels G. , Watson Lyndsey F. , Marschner Ian C. , Motika Milena , Newstead Stuart V. , Carlin John B.
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Current knowledge about human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease is used to assess past and future trends in Australian HIV/AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) incidence, focusing on the precision with which such assessments can be made. The statistical method of back‐projection is applied to reconstruct the past pattern of HIV incidence from surveillance data on AIDS incidence to June 1992. The results indicate that HIV incidence rose rapidly in the early 1980s to peak in 1983–1984, followed by a sharp decline. This finding is insensitive to plausible variations from the assumptions made, and is consistent with both success in preventive strategies and high levels of infection in a subgroup having a high probability of exposure. Cumulative HIV incidence to the end of 1987 is estimated with a 90 per cent confidence interval from 9 350 to 10 350. Estimation of the cumulative HIV incidence to June 1992 is less precise, with a 90 per cent confidence interval of 12 900 to 17 800. After adjustment for underreporting the incidence could be as high as 22 000, but only if recent infection rates, which cannot be quantified accurately, were very high. Based on data to June 1992, the estimated trend in AIDS incidence indicates 680 new cases in 1993, rising gradually to 695 in 1995. The estimated rate of increase in AIDS incidence over the recent past and near future is significantly less than that observed earlier in the epidemic. This is a consequence of both the earlier peak in HIV incidence and the effect of therapy.
The health and wellbeing of informal caregivers: a review and study program
Authors: Herrman Helen , Singh Bruce , Schofield Hilary , Eastwood Robin , Burgess Philip , Lewis Virginia , Scotton Richard
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Informal caregivers are the families and other unpaid caregivers in the home who support people of all ages with severe and chronic mental or physical disabilities. Home care of this sort has been increasing over the past 30 years because of the reduced number of beds in hospitals and nursing homes and increased outpatient and community care. Moreover, with an aging population and increasing rates of disability, the demand for family caregiving will continue to rise. This has important implications for the development of health, community service and social policy. At the same time, however, very little is known about the impact such changes are having on the caregivers of various ages and in various circumstances. The Victorian Health Promotion Foundation is funding a research and intervention program in Melbourne to promote wellbeing and prevent ill‐health in caregivers.
A cluster of brain tumours in a New South Wales colliery: a problem in interpretation
Authors: Brown Anthony M. , Christie David , Devey Peter , Nie Valerie M. , Hicks Martin N.
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Following the reporting of a cluster of cases of brain tumour in the workforce of an underground coal mine (Mine A) in the Newcastle coalfield, a study was carried out to determine whether this phenomenon was due to chance alone or whether an environmental cause could be postulated. The study design was a historical cohort study over 15 years comparing the incidence of brain tumour (ICD9 191 and 192) in the index mine with that in two control mines (Mines B and C) in the same area and with that in the general Australian population. We compared environmental exposures (ionising and nonionising radiation and chemical exposure) in the three mines. With Australian brain tumour incidence rates as reference, the standardised incidence ratio for brain tumour in Mine A was 5.3 (95 per cent confidence interval (CI) 1.08 to 14.04) and in Mines B and C combined was 1.23 (CI 0.02 to 3.80). On most environmental assessments the three mines were similar but Mine A used larger volumes of solvents than the other mines. This study poses two questions: was the increase in cases of brain tumour in Mine A ‘real’ and if so, was it related to the use of solvents? Data, from an investigation of a cluster such as this, are unlikely to be conclusive. Nevertheless, such answers are demanded not only by those at risk but also by the mine management, which is responsible for a safe working environment. Some of the difficulties involved with this judgment are discussed.
Benzodiazepine utilisation in Australia: report from a new pharmacoepidemiological database
Authors: Mant Andrea , Whicker Susan D. , McManus Peter , Birkett Donald J. , Edmonds David , Dumbrell David
Published: August 2010

Abstract: This study surveys the total community prescription use of benzodiazepine agents in Australia for the years 1990 and 1991. Also included is information on the utilisation of these agents on the Pharmaceutical Benefits and Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Schemes (PBS/RPBS) over the period 1987 to 1991. The Australian data are from the Drug Utilization Subcommittee (DUSC) database, which is derived from two sources: the PBS/RPBS (subsidised prescriptions), and a national sample of Pharmacy Guild of Australia pharmacies (private and under‐copayment general prescriptions). The data are converted to defined daily doses per 1000 inhabitants per day (DDD/1000/day) in accordance with the unit of measurement for drug utilisation studies approved by the World Health Organization. Benzodiazepine utilisation was 33.96 DDD/1000/day for 1990 and 29.31 DDD/1000/day for 1991. The four drugs listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, namely diazepam, oxazepam, nitrazepam and temazepam, constituted 82 per cent of the Australian market. The availability of government subsidy appears to influence benzodiazepine‐ prescribing behaviour. Benzodiazepine utilisation has been falling in recent years. The fall may be related to the impact of new guidelines and community awareness campaigns. There are major differences in the composition of the market between Australia and the Nordic countries.
Blood lead levels in children in Perth, Western Australia
Authors: Threlfall Timothy , Kent Neil , Garcia‐Webb Peter , Byrnes Elizabeth , Psaila‐Savona Paul
Published: August 2010

Abstract: This study reports on an analysis of the lead concentrations in 123 venous blood samples collected from Perth children aged between two months and 17 years attending Princess Margaret Hospital. The overall geometric mean was 6.9 μg lead per 100 ml whole blood, with 95 per cent of results lying between 3.2 and 14.8 μg/100 ml. Among children under five years of age, those aged between 18 months and two years had the highest geometric mean blood lead (11.1 μg/100 ml). There were no consistent associations between geometric mean blood lead and area of residence, age group or sex. In this sample of Perth children, the mean blood lead concentration was lower than those reported in other studies. Less than 0.1 per cent of children of the age range studied would have been expected to have lead levels exceeding the NHMRC ‘level of concern’ (25 μg/100 ml) current at the time of the study. However, the recent adoption of goal of less than 10 μg/100 ml could mean that lead levels in up to 21 per cent of Perth children would now be regarded as excessive.
Diffusion of new technologies to treat renal stones in Australia
Authors: Hirsch Naarilla A.
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Several new therapies for treating renal stones developed since the 1980s have considerably reduced the use of open surgery and endoscopy for this condition. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) has made the biggest impact. Assessment of ESWL in the early stages of its development assisted in rational introduction of the technology in Australia. However, this effect was short‐lived and Australia would now appear to have a significant overcapacity in this technology. Use of ESWL in recent years indicates that distance is a major factor in reducing access to this technology. These observations raise several issues that need addressing, including the limited ability to avoid inappropriate proliferation of a technology, uneven distribution of ESWL units, difficulties of access and the effects of overcapacity upon indications and upon the cost‐effectiveness of a technology.
Children's lives or garden aesthetics? A case study in public health advocacy
Authors: Carey Victor , Chapman Simon , Gaffney Daniel
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Following a decade of accumulating clinical reports on child drowning in domestic swimming pools, paediatricians began advocating legislation that would require all pools to be ‘isolation' fenced. In 1990, the New South Wales Government introduced and then repealed such legislation following intense lobbying and media advocacy from a group of pool owners. This paper reviews the ways in which isolation fence advocates and opponents framed their public arguments. Five main areas of competing public discourse are identified: why pool drownings occur; the effects of fencing; expert views and community support; the role of the state in prevention; and personalised references to the value systems of those involved in the debate. Two factors seem likely to have contributed most to the overthrow of the legislation: fence opponents inhabiting the same noninterventionist ideological frame of reference as the government; and fence advocates' refusal to compromise on retrospective fencing seems likely to have inspired a commitment in opposition which would have been absent if an incrementalist, prospective fencing policy had been adopted.
Primary hepatocellular carcinoma in Aboriginal Australians
Authors: Wan Xinan , Mathews John D.
Published: August 2010

Abstract: We identified incident cases of primary hepatocellular carcinoma (PHC) in the Northern Territory from 1980 to 1989: there were 18 Aboriginal and six non‐Aboriginal cases, yielding incidence rates of 5.2 per 100 000 (Aboriginal) and 0.5 per 100 000 (non‐Aboriginal) with a relative risk of 10.4 (95 per cent confidence interval (CI) 4.0 to 26.6). The carcinoma was more frequent in males (2.3 per 100 000) than in females (0.7 per 100 000), with a relative risk of 3.4 (CI 1.3 to 9.3). Incidence increased with age; the trend was statistically significant in Aborigines (X21, = 4.7, P < 0.05) but not in non‐Aborigines (X21 = 3.4, P > 0.05). Hepatitis B virus (HBV) serology was available for 11 Aboriginal and four non‐Aboriginal cases; seven of the Aboriginal cases and two of the non‐Aboriginal cases were positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). The prevalence of HBsAg in Aboriginal patients with the carcinoma (63.6 per cent) was much higher than that (13.1 per cent) in Aborigines surveyed from communities in the Northern Territory (X21 = 21.7, P < 0.001). Our results show that the age‐specific incidence of PHC in Aborigines in the Northern Territory (30.9 for ages 40 and over) is comparable to that in high‐incidence countries such as China (36.9 for ages 40 and over), and that hepatitis B is of major aetiological importance in the Aboriginal population. This underlines the importance of universal immunisation for prevention of HBV infection and for long‐term prevention of PHC.
Diagnostic testing during pregnancy: a descriptive analysis of utilisation data
Authors: Rushworth R. Louise , Bell Sydney M. , Rob Marilyn I. , Taylor Peter T.
Published: August 2010

Abstract: To describe patterns of diagnostic testing during the antenatal period and to assess the potential benefit of using Medicare claims data in monitoring testing practice, we examined the matched claims data (with identifying details removed) on approximately 10 000 women having a confinement for which a Medicare benefit was claimed between 1 July and 30 September 1990. The results showed that almost all the women included in the study sample had an ultrasound and blood group and antibody examination. A smaller proportion had serological tests for syphilis (77 per cent), rubella (51 per cent) and hepatitis B carriage (73 per cent). Two‐thirds had urine microscopy and culture, and under half (40 per cent) had serum $aL‐fetoprotein estimation. Few (18 per cent) had a claim processed for microscopy and culture of a genital swab and fewer than 8 per cent claimed for any other pathology tests. There were differences in the proportions having tests, depending on whether the clinician managing the confinement was a specialist obstetrician or a general practitioner, and depending on geographic area and age group. While the data do not represent all women having a confinement in New South Wales, the selective use of antenatal diagnostic tests found in this study is of considerable public health importance and analysis of claims data can provide useful information for health professionals.
Cardiovascular risk factors in South Australians with diabetes
Authors: Phillips Pat , Wilson David , Taylor Anne , Esterman Adrian , Wakefield Melanie
Published: August 2010

Abstract: This study ascertained the prevalence of diabetes and compared the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors among people with and without diabetes. Data were collected as part of the South Australian Health Omnibus Survey which involved a representative population sample of 6398 adults in metropolitan and country South Australia who were interviewed in their own homes. The self‐reported prevalence of diabetes was found to be 3 per cent overall. This varied from approximately 1 per cent in the 15‐ to 39‐year age group to 10.5 per cent in people aged over 80 years. Those with diabetes had a higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors than those without diabetes. There is a need for improved vigilance with people who have diabetes and interventions to modify the risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease.
The potential benefits and harms of screening for colorectal cancer
Authors: Towler Bernie , Irwig Les , Glasziou Paul , Haas Marion , Plunkett Angela , Salkeld Glenn
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Australian guidelines for colorectal cancer screening for average‐risk populations vary from recommendations for annual screening by faecal occult blood testing for those over 40 years to recommendations that screening may be appropriate if requested by an informed patient aged 50 to 75 years. There are five large screening trials, of which three have published mortality data. A meta‐analysis of the mortality data suggests a 19 per cent reduction in colorectal cancer mortality (95 per cent confidence intervals 0.68 to 0.96) with Hemoccult screening. Because of the width of the confidence interval, decisions about the magnitude of the effect of screening should await further trial results, which should be available in the next few years. In the interim, we should examine issues of harm and costs in Australia. For example, in the major trials, over 80 per cent of positive results have been falsely positive and have required invasive investigation. Estimates of the cost‐effectiveness of screening for the Australian health system are not yet available and are essential. If the benefits of screening outweigh the harms and costs, a successful screening program would require provision of screening infrastructure and appropriate information to target populations, quality control for screening tests and investigations, recall mechanisms to ensure appropriate follow‐up of persons with positive results and the active participation of the Australian public and health practitioners.
Community nutrition education for people with coronary heart disease—who attends?
Authors: Elliott Helen
Published: August 2010

Abstract: A qualitative food‐frequency questionnaire was administered by mail to a representative sample of 137 people previously diagnosed with possible or definite myocardial infarct. Seventy‐eight per cent of subjects returned a completed questionnaire and were subsequently invited to attend local tastings of foods with the National Heart Foundation Tick of Approval. These tastings were organised and promoted with the active involvement of the local branch of the Australian Cardiac Association. The purpose of this study was to measure voluntary participation by people with coronary heart disease in community nutrition education and to identify any self‐selection bias with respect to eating habits among the participants. A dietary risk score, which was the proportion of all food choices that were high in fat, was calculated from the data. Eighteen per cent of subjects who answered also participated in the food tastings; there was a statistically significant association between membership of the Australian Cardiac Association and being a participant. Participants had a significantly lower risk score (P < 0.01) after adjustment for age, sex and membership of the association. The results suggest that voluntary participation by people with heart disease in community nutrition education is low and that there is a self‐selection bias, with those at highest dietary risk being least likely to attend. The use of existing community networks to recruit participants is also discussed.
Sun damage in teenagers' skin
Authors: Fritschi Lin , Green Adèle
Published: August 2010

Abstract: A noninvasive method of assessing the degree of sun‐induced skin damage was used to estimate the prevalence of skin damage in teenagers in four cities in Australia and one in Scotland. Information about age, sex and complexion characteristics was obtained from 1307 students aged 13 to 15 years. Silicone rubber casts were taken of the skin of the students' hands and classified as showing either no or mild skin damage. Between 40 and 70 per cent of the Australian students had detectable skin damage, compared with about a third of Scottish students of the same age. In a multivariate analysis, the risk of having sun‐damaged skin in the teenage years was up to seven times higher for Australian residents than for Scottish residents. Other risk factors were male sex (odds ratio (OR) 4.3), blistering on exposure to sun (OR 2.6), and having blond hair (OR 2.0), red hair (OR 5.3) or freckles (OR 2.7). The high prevalence of sun‐induced skin damage at such a young age reinforces the need to encourage sun‐protection behaviour in Australian children and teenagers.
Australian adult smoking prevalence in 1992
Authors: Hill David J. , White Victoria M.
Published: August 2010

To estimate the prevalence of smoking among Australian adults in 1992, 6046 adults aged 16 years and over (3063 men and 2983 women) were interviewed. A large market‐research firm interviewed the sample, face‐to‐face in their homes during weekends. Overall, 28.2 per cent of men and 23.8 per cent of women were current smokers; 32.3 per cent of men and 21.9 per cent of women were past smokers. On average, male smokers consumed 22.1 factory‐made cigarettes a day and female smokers consumed 19.1 cigarettes a day. The daily tar intake was 179 mg for male smokers and 131 mg for women. The most popular packet size was 25 (40 per cent of smokers) followed by the packet of 50 (17 per cent). Occupational and education status were inversely related to smoking prevalence. Men and women with less education and men in low‐status occupations were more likely to use cigarettes from the large packet sizes. Comparison with earlier data suggests that smoking prevalence is still declining, with a significant recent drop in female but not male smoking prevalence. While in 1992, the prevalence of smoking among women was less than that for men, projected estimates suggest that by the year 2001 more women than men will smoke.
Smoking‐related beliefs and behaviour of South Australians with diabetes
Authors: Wakefield Melanie , Wilson David , Phillips Pat , Kent Penny , Roberts Lyn , Owen Neville
Published: August 2010

Data cumulated from three representative population surveys (n = 9402) in South Australia were used to determine smoking prevalence of those aged 15 years or over with and without self‐reported medically confirmed diabetes. Overall, smoking prevalence in the two groups did not differ. However, among those aged under 40 years with self‐reported diabetes, smoking prevalence approached 55 per cent, which was significantly higher than in young respondents without diabetes (32 per cent). Diabetic smokers were no more likely than were nondiabetic smokers to have tried to quit or to be ready to quit; one‐quarter of diabetic smokers had no thought of quitting or of modifying their habit Smokers with diabetes were significantly more likely to be heavy smokers (43.5 per cent) than were nondiabetic smokers (23.4 per cent). Fewer smokers with diabetes tended to believe that smoking causes or aggravates heart disease or circulatory problems than did other smokers, although these differences did not reach statistical significance. Additional effort is required to find methods to assist people with diabetes to refrain from smoking.
Incidental depiction of cigarettes and smoking in Australian magazines, 1990–1993
Authors: Chapman Simon , Jones Quentin , Bauman Adrian , Palin Martin
Published: August 2010

The study aimed to assess evidence of any increase in apparently incidental photographic depictions of cigarettes or smoking in Australian magazines following the ban on tobacco advertising in the print media introduced in January 1991. We examined 27704 pages in 20 Australian magazines popular among young people or aimed at low socioeconomic groups during three sample periods in 1990 (before the ban), 1991 and 1993 (after the ban). All photographs showing cigarettes or smoking were counted and a smoking rate per page was calculated. When all 20 magazines were combined, there was a 75 per cent increase in the rate of photographs of smoking per page from 1990 (six months before the ban) to 1991 (six months after the ban). However, there was a reduction of 36 per cent in the rate of smoking photographs per page between 1991 and 1993 (18 months after the ban) and a nonsignificant increase of 12 per cent across the three sample periods. Photographs of smoking are infrequent in Australian magazines (mean: 1:147 pages, range: 1:17 pages to zero). There appears to be a commendable constraint by many Australian magazine editors in limiting the publication of photographs that show smoking or cigarettes. Some magazines never show smoking indicating that a goal of total absence of photographs of smoking is achievable. Some magazines have room for improvement.
Is there a role for prevention in Aboriginal mental health?
Authors: Hunter Ernest
Published: August 2010

Primary prevention is consistently identified as a priority in mental health and Aboriginal health planning. In both areas it has proved to be elusive. Aboriginal mental health therefore presents substantial challenges, particularly in remote Australia. In this paper, two brief case histories are used to demonstrate the limits of conventional psychiatric engagement in such settings and explore the dimensions of social disadvantage that compound psychiatric vulnerability. There are difficulties of primary prevention in mental health generally, and access to mental health services for those most at risk, including indigenous Australians, is unacceptably poor. Proceeding to primary prevention in Aboriginal mental health will, of necessity, include rectifying that situation and addressing the social precursors of mental disorders and distress. Such initiatives will require wide and sustained commitment toward long‐term goals, with a focus on children and families, and must include effective substance‐abuse strategies.
Food intakes of adult Melbourne Chinese
Authors: Hsu‐Hage Bridget H.‐H. , Ibiebele Torukiri , Wahlqvist Mark L.
Published: August 2010

Food intake patterns of 545 adult Melbourne Chinese were studied in 1988 and 1989 using a 220‐item food‐frequency questionnaire appropriate for Chinese eating practices. Men and women were compared, adjusting for age, time in Australia and education. Men consumed more rice and alcoholic beverages as energy. In women, the energy intake was derived from foods of traditional Chinese types. There were two types of consumption patterns: in the first group were those who acculturated towards an Australian way of eating by replacing some traditional Chinese foods, such as rice, pork, leafy green and cruciferous vegetables, soups and tea, with ‘new foods’, such as wheat products, red meats and coffee; in the second were those who limited their intake to a handful of traditional Chinese foods as the major source of energy. The educated, the professional and those with an administrative profession, the Australian‐born and those with a longer length of stay fitted into the first group, and were more acculturated towards Australia than those born in the People's Republic of China or Vietnam and who migrated at an older age. The first group may benefit from the best of both worlds, but may risk the diseases of an industrialised society. The second group may be trapped at a cultural crossroads and may be unable to make appropriate food choices. Public health efforts in Australia, where one in every five is overseas‐born, should provide for nutrition and health education for new and aged migrants of non‐European cultural backgrounds.
Metamorphic Characteristics of Granulite Facies Rocks in the Laixi‐Pingdu Area in Eastern Shandong Province
Authors: Shiqin Jin , Danchao Li , Xianzhou Li , Fulai Liu
Published: August 2010

AbstractGranulite in eastern Shandong is mainly exposed in Laixi, Pingdu, Changyi and Anqiu, and the diagnostic mineral assemblage is Opx+Cpx+Hb+Pl ± Q ± Sea. The appearance of orthopyroxene and its coexistence with hornblende indicate that the reaction Hb+Q = Opx+Cpx+Pl+H2O did not proceed completely and therefore these rocks belong to the amphibolite‐ granulite transition facies, i.e., belonging to hornblende‐granulite subfacies. According to the data obtained from such geothermometers and geobarometers as Opx‐ Cpx, Opx‐ Hb, Cpx‐ Hb, Hb‐ PI, Sca‐ Pl and Fe‐ Ti oxides, it has been determined that the temperature of the main metamorphic stage was 720° – 810°C, the pressure 0.5 GPa and fo210−15.5, showing a geothermal gradient of 41–46°C / km, and thus the rocks belong to “low‐temperature” and low‐pressure granulite facies.
Physico‐chemical Conditions and Ore‐forming Process of the Zhilingtou Au‐Ag Deposit, Zhejiang
Authors: Minghua Zheng , Jianming Liu
Published: August 2010

Abstract The mineralization of the Zhilingtou Au‐Ag deposit occurred in a heated circulation system of infiltrated meteoric water during the Indosinian and early Yanshanian, at a temperature ranging from 350 to 160°°C and at a depth of less than 2 km. The ore‐forming solution was acidic, strongly oxidized, and poor in sulfur, with moderate Cl− activity and salinity. Au and Ag migrated in the forms of AuCl−2 and AgCl−2, and then were concentrated and precipitated in a pressure‐relief, dilatant zone—a tenso‐shear fracture.

Pressure relief and boiling were the major mechanism for unloading of the fluid. The hydrothermal fluid was injected intermittently, and its boiling was characterized by pulsation. The presence of high‐valence manganese might represent the auxiliary mechanism for remobilization of Au and Ag in the Chencai Group and for their entering into the hydrothermal fluid.
A Comprehensive Study of Buried Structures in the Beijing Plain Using Multi‐Temporal Remote Sensing Data Processing And Multiple Information Sources
Authors: Sheng´ai Kuang , Jinming Li
Published: August 2010

Abstract Proceeding from gaining a knowledge of the structural settings in this area, the authors applied remote sensing techniques and selected multi‐temporal image processing to extract information of buried structures in the Beijing plain area. Good results have been achieved. Through an integrated analysis of remote‐sensing, geological, seismic and aeromagnetic data, it is pointed out that there exist two sets of buried fractures of differing trends and orders—the northeast set and the northwest set, forming a rhombic framework in the images. The two sets of fractures have still been active since the Quaternary, which is of practical signifcance for geological study, earthquake prevention and planning of urban construction in the area. The results demonstrate that the selection of multi‐temporal processing of remote sensing images and the integrated analytic method are important in the study of buried structures.
Some Recognitions on the Sedimentary‐Tectonic Development of the Meso‐Cenozoie Basins in Eastern China
Authors: Xun Liu
Published: August 2010

Abstract Since Jurassic, intense and repeated tectonic movements have taken place in eastern China, of which the Yanshanian movement is the most important. Thereby the development of the basins between the Jurassic and Eogene in the studied areas may by divided into two different stages, i.e. the Yanshanian subcycle (J‐K11) and the North China subcycle (K21‐E).

The basement and tectonic stress field of the basins played an obvious role in controlling the sedimentary‐tectonic development of the basins, and down‐faulted basins might form under different stress states. Besides, the shearing stress also played an important part while the basins were forming in the noted areas.
Nonmetallic Mineral Deposits of China and Plate Tectonics
Authors: Weiping Tao
Published: August 2010

Abstract The Chinese continent is a component part of the present Eurasian plate. The history of its geological development is a process of the convergence of palaeo‐plates, the oceanward migration of volcanic belts and volcanic island‐arcs, and the accompanying growth of the intracontinental rifts in the later stage. So the Chinese continent abounds in nonmetal resources. Based on the plate‐tectonic settings in which those deposits were formed, the nonmetallic deposits can be generally classified into those related to the sutures and ophiolites, those related to the volcanic island‐arcs, those related to the back‐arc epicontinental sea, those related to the intracontinental rifts and those within the plate interior. They all show certain characteristic regularities of distribution. The evolutionary process of the Chinese continent is so complicated that some nonmetallic deposits have various origins and are characterized by multi‐stage mineralization, multiplicity of types and superimposition of mineralization. All these are of great significance in deepening the understanding of the formation and modes of occurrence of the nonmetallic deposits and in prospecting for mineral resources.
Correlation of the Meishucunian Stage in South Asia
Authors: Zhiwen Jiang , Brasier M.D. , Hamdi B.
Published: August 2010

Abstract The determination of boundary points and their correlation are prerequisites for defining the Precambrian‐Cambrian boundary and the intercontinental correlation. A large number of good Precambrian‐Cambrian boundary sections in South Asia not only possess the conditions for selection of a boundary stratotype, but also provide the basis for the long‐distance correlation of those boundary sections.

Through a detailed study of the latest data obtained from the typical sections in South China, the Lesser Himalaya Mountains and the Alborz Mountains, the locations of boundary points have been defined, and a correlation scheme is proposed, which contributes to the solution of the problem of worldwide correlation of boundary sections.