bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Needle nutrient status of Sirococcus shoot blight‐diseased and healthy Norway spruces
Authors: Anglberger H. , Sieghardt M. , Katzensteiner K. , Halmschlager E. 
Published: March 2003

SummaryIn this study the needle nutrient status of Sirococcus shoot blight‐diseased and healthy Norway spruces (Picea abies) was investigated. Element contents were determined in the current year and 3‐year‐old needles collected in December 2000 from 72 mature trees randomly distributed in the investigated stand. Half of the trees were severely affected by Sirococcus conigenus and had a reduced crown whereas the other trees were unaffected and vigorous. Compared with the uninfected trees, contents of Mg, Ca, P and Mn were significantly lower in the current year and 3‐year‐old needles of diseased trees. Furthermore, analyses of the nutrient contents of needles from severely affected trees revealed insufficient Mg and Ca supply and enhanced N/Mg and N/Ca ratios, when compared with threshold values. The results of this study suggest that imbalanced tree nutrition either has a significant impact on the expression of Sirococcus disease symptoms or fungal infection itself is affecting needle nutrient contents.
Nursing staff satisfaction on a mental health unit
Authors: Farrell Gerald A. , Dares Gerry 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACTThe present study set out to assess the level of nurses’ job satisfaction in an acute in‐patient mental health setting. All but one (n = 22) of the full‐time nursing staff employed on the unit took part in the study. Unlike many previous studies where the level of job satisfaction was assessed using predetermined questionnaire items but without providing an understanding for workers’ choices, the present study sought an estimation of what job characteristics nurses saw as important, an estimation regarding their current satisfaction with each characteristic and, importantly, the reasons behind their choices.
The psychiatric consultation‐liaison nurse: Towards articulating a model for practice
Authors: Sharrock Julie , Happell Brenda 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACT:Psychiatric consultation‐liaison nursing (PCLN) has experienced considerable growth in the past decade in Australia. In spite of this growth, a model for PCLN practice has not been adequately developed and articulated. The aim of this paper is to begin the process of articulating a model for PCLN practice in order to redress the paucity of literature in this area. The paper includes a brief history of PCLN; articulation of the components of the PCLN role, namely consultation, liaison and culture brokering; the impact of PCLN on quality improvement; and the importance of research articulation for the development of the PCLN role.
Interpractitioner Communication: Telephone Consultations Between Rural General Practitioners and Specialists
Authors: Hollins Jane , Veitch Craig , Hays Richard 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACTThe results of a study that sought to investigate the utility of and satisfaction with telephone consultations from the perspective of general practitioners and specialists are reported. Semi‐structured interviews with rural general practitioners and specialists were used to elicit information about their most recent telephone consultations. The telephone was found to be an important means of communication for rural practitioners, primarily in terms of organising referrals. General practitioners tended to called specialists who they knew and appeared to have fairly well‐formed networks of specialists who they called for most of their concerns. Trust is an important element of interpractitioner communication as it increases understanding and confidence in the reliability of the information exchanged. Good working relationships ensure that rural general practitioners have an accessible source of acceptable specialist support.
Evaluation of a Pilot Project to use Computers in a Rural General Practice Term
Authors: Teague Michele , Talbot Jane , Ward Alison M. 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACTIn 1998, the Department of General Practice (Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Australia) ran a pilot project to use computers in a sixth year rural general practice term. Students were provided with a laptop computer to take into rural and remote areas throughout Western Australia during their 4‐week clinical attachment. An email mailing list was set up for course participants to share experiences and complete set learning activities specifically related to rural general practice. An evaluation of this pilot project found that students felt less isolated on rural attachments, course outcomes were improved and rural preceptors were more involved in the programme. The development of a teaching and learning programme that involves the use of computers in rural general practice for undergraduate students has the potential to improve the quality of their medical education.
Learning Issues for Nurses in Renal Satellite Centres
Authors: Wellard Sally , Bethune Elizabeth 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACTThe introduction of ‘satellite’ dialysis centres has increased local access to renal services for patients living in rural and remote areas across Australia and is, therefore, consistent with rural health policies. Rural health strategies also aim to maintain and improve the skills of health professionals through regular review of the scope of their practice and evaluation of the education required. Yet, the results of the present national study of nurses working in satellite dialysis centres indicate that, for many, the context of practice influences their ability to access ongoing professional education to support and extend their nursing practice. The present study showed that there was a range of educational backgrounds among nurses working in rural ‘satellite’ centres with reportedly limited access to specific dialysis‐related professional development. In the present paper we report on factors that influence the ability of nurses working in satellite dialysis centres to access ongoing professional education.
Non‐Governmental Organisations to Combine for Work on Chronic Disease in Aboriginal Peoples, Torres Strait Islanders and Rural and Remote Populations
Authors: Field Pat , Gregory Gordon 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACTAs a result of the National Health Priority Area Report on Cardiovascular Health and in particular, its remote and indigenous section, a consortium of five organisations ran a national workshop in Townsville in October 1999 on heart disease in Aboriginal peoples, Torres Strait Islanders and rural and remote populations. One of the priority areas identified at this workshop was the need for a more coordinated approach to chronic diseases and for the formation of an alliance of non‐government organisations (NGOs) to work towards this and to undertake a lobbying and advocacy role. A meeting of a wide range of NGOs working in chronic disease, led by the National Heart Foundation of Australia, was held in Sydney in May 2000. At the Sydney meeting it was agreed that an alliance of NGOs could be formed for the development of a chronic disease strategy for Aboriginal peoples, Torres Strait Islanders and rural and remote populations. The NGOs drafted a ‘Statement of Intent’, which would inform their work on both heart disease and on broader work to address chronic preventable disease in the target populations. There is a considerable amount of procedural work to be done before the proposed alliance becomes a reality but the prospect of closer collaboration between the NGOs working in chronic disease has much to offer, especially for the population groups that were the focus of the Townsville workshop. This ‘alliance’ initiative comes at a time when there are national and State/Territory moves on broader aspects of what could become a ‘national chronic disease prevention and management strategy’.
Nursing Research in Practice: The Case Study Revisited
Authors: Keyzer Dirk M. 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACTThis paper makes reference to some of the many issues and problems surrounding nursing research in the context of the rural and remote areas of Australia. The focus is on the use of case studies as an appropriate methodology for small‐scale research projects and for students preparing for examinations at higher degree levels. Throughout this paper, the term rural will be used to denote rural and remote area nursing. This is for convenience and does not deny the special qualities of rural or remote area nursing.
The needs of cancer patients and their families from rural and remote areas of Queensland
Authors: Clavarino Alexandra M. , Lowe John B. , Carmont Sue‐Ann , Balanda Kevin 
Published: March 2003

Abstract: This study examines the impact of travelling for treatment on cancer patients and their families. Twenty‐eight consecutive cancer patients, who were receiving radiation therapy treatment and 19 family carers, completed a structured needs assessment questionnaire and an in‐depth interview.Both patients and carers reported moderate to high levels of unmet psychological need. Carers were found to have higher levels of anxiety than patients, although both groups had higher anxiety levels than the general population. Taking more responsibility for household tasks and organising new living arrangements for the family were the most frequently identified demands of a dual burden of caring. Nearly 40% of carers reported some disruption to their schedule and half reported experiencing financial difficulties. The qualitative interviews highlight the disruption that parents and children experience under the present system, particularly in relation to the demands of family life and the need to maintain some level of continuity and security for children.
Leber’s idiopathic stellate neuroretinitis: Differential diagnosis and approach to management
Authors: Casson RJ , O’Day J , Crompton JL 
Published: March 2003

Background: Leber’s idiopathic stellate neuroretinitis (LISN) is a relatively uncommon clinical entity that is characterized by optic disc oedema and associated macular hard exudates. A broad range of causes can produce such a fundus appearance. Methods: The clinical experience of the authors is combined with a review of the pertinent literature to describe the features of LISN and its differential diagnosis. Conclusion: A knowledge of the potential causes of neuroretinitis is important in order to formulate an effective management strategy.
A randomized phase II trial of interferon‐α2b versus 5‐fluorouracil after trabeculectomy*
Authors: Gillies Mark C , Brooks Anne Mv , Young Stephanie , Gillies Bill , Simpson Judy M , Goldberg Ivan 
Published: March 2003

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to investigate the safety and potential efficacy of subconjunctival interferon‐α2b (IFN‐α), either alone or in combination with 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU), in reducing the risk of failure of glaucoma surgery. Methods: A prospective, masked randomized phase II study was undertaken in which patients received three subconjunctival injections per week for 3–4 weeks postoperatively. Three treatments were compared: (i) IFN‐α (1 × 106 IU per dose); (ii) 5‐FU (5 mg per dose); and (iii) alternating IFN‐α and 5‐FU (BOTH). The primary outcome measures were: (i) rate of successful control of intra‐ocular pressure without further surgery; and (ii) the incidence of side effects. Results: Fifty‐seven patients undergoing glaucoma surgery with an increased risk of failure were evaluated, including 23 patients (40%) undergoing trabeculectomy combined with extracapsular cataract extraction as well as other conventional high‐risk groups. With 53 patients (93%) completing 2 years follow up, there was no significant difference in success rates among the three groups. Intra‐ocular pressure was controlled without further surgery in 79% of patients (95% confidence interval (CI): 61, 97%) receiving IFN‐α, in 89% of patients (76, 100%) receiving 5‐FU and in 89% of patients (76, 100%) receiving BOTH. Side effects were similar among the three groups. Conclusions: These results are consistent with a beneficial effect of IFN‐α2b given either alone or in combination with 5‐FU after glaucoma filtering surgery. However, the lack of a clear and substantial benefit over conventional anti‐fibrotic therapy does not support the further clinical evaluation of these treatments.
Late presentation of a unilateral sporadic retinoblastoma in a 16‐year‐old girl
Authors: Park JJ , Gole GA , Finnigan S , Vandeleur K 
Published: March 2003

Background: Retinoblastoma is the commonest intraocular tumour of childhood with the majority of cases being diagnosed before 5 years of age. Late presentation of retinoblastoma is rare. Case history: A healthy 16‐year‐old Caucasian girl presented with a 1‐day history of blurred vision in the left eye. Examination revealed an inferonasal mass in the left retina with an overlying haemorrhage and vitreous seeding. Imaging studies revealed a 5‐mm densely calcified opacity. Other investigations, including cerebral spinal fluid examination, bone marrow aspirate trephine, toxocara serology and serum protein studies, were normal. After considering the differential diagnoses such as toxocariasis and Coat’s disease, a diagnosis of late‐presenting retinoblastoma was made. The patient subsequently underwent enucleation with a primary orbital implant. The diagnosis was confirmed histopathologically. Conclusion: Late presentation of retinoblastoma is uncommon but can be a cause of acute visual impairment in the non‐paediatric age group. Retinoblastoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a fundal mass in any age group.
Trauma-Induced Dissociative Amnesia in World War I Combat Soldiers
Authors: van der Hart Onno , Brown Paul , Graafland Mariëtte 
Published: March 2003

Objective: This study relates trauma-induced dissociative amnesia reported in World War I (WW I) studies of war trauma to contemporary findings of dissociative amnesia in victims of childhood sexual abuse. Method: Key diagnostic studies of post-traumatic amnesia in WW I combatants are surveyed. These cover phenomenology and the psychological dynamics of dissociation vis-à-vis repression. Results: Descriptive evidence is cited for war trauma-induced dissociative amnesia. Conclusion: Posttraumatic amnesia extends beyond the experience of sexual and combat trauma and is a protean symptom, which reflects responses to the gamut of traumatic events.
How is Psychiatry Taught to Australian and New Zealand Medical Students?
Authors: O'Connor Daniel W. , Clarke David M. , Presnell Ian 
Published: March 2003

Objective: This study aimed to describe the amount, format and content of psychiatry teaching programs in all 12 Australian and New Zealand medical schools. Method: A structured questionnaire which included definitions and coding instructions was completed by class coordinators for the years of 1995 or 1996. Missing and inconsistent data were checked by coordinators and results were confirmed by heads of department. Results: Most departments of psychiatry taught throughout the undergraduate course. Only three made no contribution to pre-clinical teaching. The time devoted to clinical tuition ranged from 279 to 454 h per university with a mean of 353 h. Clinical attachments occupied most time (mean = 70%), followed by small group teaching (mean = 19%) and lectures (mean = 11%). Medical schools varied greatly in the attention given to history taking and mental state examination, psychological therapies and the sub-specialties of child and aged psychiatry. Clinical attachments were mostly to adult inpatient units. Private psychiatric hospitals and clinics were used infrequently as were consultation-liaison psychiatry services and primary care. Conclusion: There is a need to broaden the clinical experience of students to better equip them for future medical practice. There appears to be a serious mis-match between the settings in which most students are taught and the settings in which most will work later as non-psychiatric practitioners. It was disappointing that psychological therapies received so little attention given the central place of counselling in modern medical practice.
Mental Health and Maori Development
Authors: Durie Mason 
Published: March 2003

Objective: The objective of this paper is to illustrate trends in Maori health, examine earlier health policies and to suggest avenues for improved mental health. Method: Several sources of historical and contemporary data have been reviewed and there has been some analysis of mental health policies as they relate to Maori. The interplay between culture, socioeconomic circumstances and personal health has been used as a context within which strategic directions are discussed. Results: Five strategies are highlighted: the promotion of a secure cultural identity, active Maori participation in society and the economy, improved mental health services, workforce development, autonomy and control. It is recommended that mental health services should be more closely aligned with primary health care, Maori youth, Maori-centred frameworks, and evidence-based practices. Conclusions: Improvements in Maori mental health require broad approaches which are consistent with Maori aspirations and coordinated across the range of sectoral and disciplinary interests. Active Maori participation in the process and the retention of a cultural base will be critical if the current trends are to be reversed.
Megavitamin and Dietary Treatment in Schizophrenia: A Randomised, Controlled Trial
Authors: Vaughan Kevin , McConaghy Nathaniel 
Published: March 2003

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of adjunctive megavitamin and dietary treatment in schizophrenia. Method: Arandom allocation double-blind, controlled comparison of dietary supplement and megavitamin treatment, and an alternative procedure was given for 5 months to 19 outpatients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. In addition to usual follow-up, the experimental group received amounts of megavitamins based on their individual serum vitamin levels plus dietary restriction based on Radioallergosorbent (RAST) tests. The control group received 25 mg vitamin C and were prescribed substances considered allergenic from the RAST test. Results: Five months of treatment showed marked differences in serum levels of vitamins but no consistent self-reported symptomatic or behavioural differences between groups. Conclusions: This study does not provide evidence supporting a positive relationship between regulation of levels of serum vitamins and clinical outcome in schizophrenia over 5 months.
Children who are Cruel to Animals: A Revisit
Authors: Luk Ernest S. L. , Staiger Petra K. , Wong Lisa , Mathai John 
Published: March 2003

Objective: There is a paucity of research regarding children who are cruel to animals (CTA). Previous studies have suggested that being CTAis linked with recurrent aggression in adulthood. In this report, children with persistent conduct problems who are CTA are examined. Method: Aclinic-referred sample of 141 children and a community sample of 36 children between the ages of 5–12 were assessed using a test battery of questionnaires for parents, teachers and the child on mental health symptoms, self-perception, demographics and psychosocial factors. Forty of the clinic-referred children and one of the community group were rated by their parents as sometimes or definitely cruel to animals. The CTA, non-CTAand community samples were compared. Results: The CTA group had more conduct symptoms compared with the non-CTA group. However, the older CTA group unexpectedly reported a higher self-esteem compared with the non-CTA group. There was no significant difference between the two clinic-referred groups in gender, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and internalising symptoms, and psychosocial factors. Conclusion: Being CTA is possibly a marker of a subgroup of conduct disorder which has a poor prognosis.
Sex Knowledge and Sexual Attitudes Among Medical and Nursing Students
Authors: McKelvey Robert S. , Webb John A. , Baldassar Loretta V. , Robinson Suzanne M. , Riley Geoff 
Published: March 2003

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between background and sociodemographic variables, attitudes toward controversial aspects of human sexuality and sex knowledge among medical and nursing students. Method: The study design was a questionnaire-based survey of medical and nursing students in Western Australia. Participants were first-through fifth-year medical students at the University of Western Australia and first-through third-year undergraduate nursing students at Edith Cowan University. Outcome measures were students' attitudes toward controversial aspects of human sexuality expressed on a five-point Likert scale and a modified version of the Kinsey Institute/Roper Organization National Sex Knowledge Test. Results: A significant relationship was found between certain background and sociodemographic variables, sexual attitudes and sex knowledge. The background variable most strongly related to both attitudes and knowledge was frequency of attendance at religious services of any religious denomination during the past month, with those attending three or more times more likely to express negative attitudes and have lower sex knowledge scores. Lower sex knowledge was related to negative attitudes toward gay/lesbian/bisexual behaviour, masturbation, premarital sex and contraception. Other important background and sociodemographic variables related to negative attitudes were: never having experienced sexual intercourse; right-wing political orientation; lower family income; gender and ethnicity. Conclusions: Negative attitudes toward controversial aspects of human sexuality and lower sex knowledge scores among medical and nursing students can be predicted on the basis of background and sociodemographic variables. Education aimed at increasing sex knowledge and modifying negative attitudes may increase students' ability to function more effectively as sexual history takers and sex counsellors.
Cognitive Changes Following Recovery from Depression in a Group Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy Program
Authors: Oei Tian P. S. , Sullivan Lyndall M. 
Published: March 2003

Objective: We report on the changes in cognitions as a result of cognitive—behaviour therapy (CBT), in 35 recovered and 32 non-recovered mood disordered patients who had undergone a 12-week group CBT program for depression. Method: An end-of-therapy cut-off score of 10 on the BDI was used to define recovered and non-recovered patients. ANOVA analyses were conducted to explore possible main effects of recovery status and time on various clinical measures, including cognitions and activity levels. Results: Mean mood and activity self-rating measures were significantly higher for the recovered as compared to the non-recovered patients over the course of the program. Similarly, scores on the Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire (ATQ) for recovered patients were within the non-clinical range, in contrast to their non-recovered counterparts. In addition, recovered patients improved significantly in their Hopelessness scores, and there was a change in the expected direction in their Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale scores, although this was not significant. Conclusion: These results are consistent with the proposition of cognitive theory (i.e. the remediation of negative cognition plays a significant role in recovery from depression during CBT).