Head capsule width as an instar indicator for larvae of the cranberry fruitworm (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in southeastern New Brunswick.

The objective of this study was to determine the number of instars of the cranberry fruitworm Acrobasis vaccinii Riley in southeastern New Brunswick based on the distribution of head capsule widths from field and laboratory observations. In 2000, head capsules from field samples were measured across their widest point, and the results were plotted against observed frequencies. The data from field samples suggested that A. vaccinii exhibited five instars in 2000. In 2001, larvae were reared in the laboratory until the final molt, and head capsules were counted and measured. The results were also plotted against observed frequencies. None of the laboratory specimens exhibited more than five instars, supporting the results of the previous year. Various factors are invoked to explain the difference between these results and those of a previous study conducted 50 yr earlier and 200 km away, in which six instars and larger head capsules were reported.

Educational skills and knowledge needed and problems encountered by continuing medical education providers.

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to identify the training needs and difficulties encountered by continuing medical education (CME) providers in Quebec. METHODS: A questionnaire comprised of open-ended and closed questions was sent to 224 general practitioners across Quebec who organize CME meetings. To complement and validate the data, interviews were conducted with 18 physicians selected from this group, based on their years of experience with CME, and with the managers of two organizations involved in CME. RESULTS: The questionnaire response rate was 54%. Quantitative analysis was used to identify the main training needs expressed by CME providers affiliated with the Quebec Federation of General Practitioners, namely, methods for identifying needs (74%), group leadership techniques (69%), basic principles in adult education (69%), and organization of CME activities (66%). The main problems encountered by respondents in their duties are stimulating and maintaining the interest and participation of physicians in formal CME activities (52%), identifying and meeting physicians' educational needs (32%), and motivating physicians to get involved in any kind of CME initiative (18%). The interviews highlighted the wide disparity in the approaches used by CME providers when planning activities and the failure of providers to pass on relevant information to their successors. IMPLICATIONS: Based on the difficulties and the training needs identified, we were able to develop tools (structured training program, biannual newsletter, reference books, and resources) suited to the needs of general practitioners who organize CME activities.