Referral to rehabilitation following traumatic brain injury: a model for understanding inequities in access

Identifying inequities in access to health care requires critical scrutiny of the patterns and processes of care decisions. This paper describes a conceptual model. derived from social problems theory. which is proposed as a useful framework for explaining patterns of post-acute care referral and in particular, individual variations in referral to rehabilitation after traumatic brain injury (TBI). The model is based on three main components: (1) characteristics of the individual with TBI, (2) activities of health care professionals and the processes of referral. and (3) the contexts of care. The central argument is that access to rehabilitation following TBI is a dynamic phenomenon concerning the interpretations and negotiations of health care professionals. which in turn are shaped by the organisational and broader health care contexts. The model developed in this paper provides opportunity to develop a complex analysis of post-acute care referral based on patient factors, contextual factors and decision-making processes. It is anticipated that this framework will have utility in other areas examining and understanding patterns of access to health care. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.

Using machine vision classification to control access of animals to water

Invasive vertebrate pests together with overabundant native species cause significant economic and environmental damage in the Australian rangelands. Access to artificial watering points, created for the pastoral industry, has been a major factor in the spread and survival of these pests. Existing methods of controlling watering points are mechanical and cannot discriminate between target species. This paper describes an intelligent system of controlling watering points based on machine vision technology. Initial test results clearly demonstrate proof of concept for machine vision in this application. These initial experiments were carried out as part of a 3-year project using machine vision software to manage all large vertebrates in the Australian rangelands. Concurrent work is testing the use of automated gates and innovative laneway and enclosure design. The system will have application in any habitat throughout the world where a resource is limited and can be enclosed for the management of livestock or wildlife.