bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Scaling on CMOS Chip Failure Rate,and Design Rules for Hot Carrier Reliability
Authors: Haggag Amr , McMahon William , Hess Karl , Fischer Björn , Register Leonard F.
Published: September 2007

Silicon‐hydrogen bonds passivate the interface defects at the silicon‐silicon dioxide
interface of CMOS transistors. The activation of these bonds and subsequent creation
of interface traps is an important source of transistor degradation at current operating
conditions. There is now evidence for a distribution in the activation energies of these
bonds instead of a single threshold value. We show that conventional CMOS scaling
rules are substantially affected by this energy distribution, as it causes an increased
probability of smaller devices having lower activation thresholds and therefore faster
activation times. Further, we quantify the voltage shift necessary to overcome the
decreased yield due to the increased number of early device failures, and show, for
0.1 μm MOSFET scaling, that this shift can be a considerable fraction of the
conventionally designed supply voltage.
Hybrid Particle‐based Full‐band Analysis of Ultra‐small MOS
Authors: Wigger S. J. , Goodnick S. M. , Saraniti M.
Published: September 2007

We report on the 2D and 3D modeling of ultra‐small MOS structures using a newly developed full‐band device simulator. The simulation tool is based on a novel approach, featuring a hybrid Ensemble Monte Carlo (EMC)‐Cellular Automata (CA) simulation engine. In this hybrid approach charge transport is simulated using the CA in regions of momentum space where most scattering events occur and the EMC elsewhere, thus optimizing the trade‐off between the fast, but memory consuming CA method and the slower EMC method. To account for the spatial distribution of the electric field and charge concentration, the hybrid EMC/CA simulator is self‐consistently coupled with a 2D and 3D multi‐grid Poisson solver. The solver is then used to simulate the performance of a 40 nm gate length n‐MOSFET structure.
A Regularly Structured Parallel Multiplier with Low‐power Non‐binary‐logic Counter Circuits
Authors: Lin Rong
Published: September 2007

A highly regular parallel multiplier architecture along with the novel low‐power, high‐performance
CMOS implementation circuits is presented. The superiority is achieved
through utilizing a unique scheme for recursive decomposition of partial product
matrices and a recently proposed non‐binary arithmetic logic as well as the
complementary shift switch logic circuits.

The proposed 64×64‐b parallel multiplier possesses the following distinct features:
(1) generating 64 8×8‐b partial product matrices instead of a single large one; (2)
comprising only four stages of bit reductions: first, by 8×8‐b small parallel multipliers,
then, by small parallel counters in each of the remaining three stages. A family of shift
switch parallel counters, including non‐binary (6, 3)∗ and complementary (k, 2) for
2 ≤ k ≤ 8, are proposed for the efficient bit reductions; (3) using a simple final adder.

The non‐binary logic operates 4‐bit state signals (representing integers ranging from
(0 to 3), where no more than half of the signal bits are subject to value‐change at any
logic stage. This and others including minimum transistor counts, fewer inverters, and
low‐leakage logic structure, significantly reduce circuit power dissipation.
Aortic Dilatation and Dissection in Turner Syndrome
Authors: Matura Lea Ann , Ho Vincent B. , Rosing Douglas R. , Bondy Carolyn A.
Published: September 2007

Background—

The risk for aortic dissection is increased among relatively young women with Turner syndrome (TS). It is unknown whether aortic dilatation precedes acute aortic dissection in TS and, if so, what specific diameter predicts impending deterioration.

Methods and Results—

Study subjects included 166 adult volunteers with TS (average age, 36.2 years) who were not selected for cardiovascular disease and 26 healthy female control subjects. Ascending and descending aortic diameters were measured by magnetic resonance imaging at the right pulmonary artery. TS women were on average 20 cm shorter, yet average aortic diameters were identical in the 2 groups. Ascending aortic diameters normalized to body surface area (aortic size index) were significantly greater in TS, and ≈32% of TS women had values greater than the 95th percentile of 2.0 cm/m
2
. Ascending diameter/descending diameter ratios also were significantly greater in the TS group. During ≈3 years of follow-up, aortic dissections occurred in 3 women with TS, for an annualized rate of 618 cases/100 000 woman-years. These 3 subjects had ascending aortic diameters of 3.7 to 4.8 cm and aortic size indices >2.5 cm/m
2
.

Conclusions—

The risk for aortic dissection is greatly increased in young women with TS. Because of their small stature, ascending aortic diameters of <5 cm may represent significant dilatation; thus, the use of aortic size index is preferred. Individuals with a dilated ascending aorta defined as aortic size index >2.0 cm/m
2
require close cardiovascular surveillance. Those with aortic size index ≥2.5 cm/m
2
are at highest risk for aortic dissection.
Measles Virus Nucleoprotein Induces a Regulatory Immune Response and Reduces Atherosclerosis in Mice
Authors: Ait-Oufella Hafid , Horvat Branka , Kerdiles Yann , Herbin Olivier , Gourdy Pierre , Khallou-Laschet Jamila , Merval; Régine , Esposito; Bruno , Tedgui Alain , Mallat Ziad
Published: September 2007

Background—

Recent studies clearly suggest that regulatory T cells play a critical role in the control of the immunoinflammatory response in atherosclerosis and substantially limit lesion development. Measles virus infection or vaccination is associated with immune depression, in part through the induction of an antiinflammatory response by measles virus nucleoprotein. We hypothesized that the antiinflammatory properties of measles virus nucleoprotein may limit the development atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results—

Here, we show for the first time that repetitive administration of measles virus nucleoprotein to apolipoprotein E–deficient mice promotes an antiinflammatory T-regulatory-cell type 1–like response and inhibits macrophage and T-cell accumulation within the lesions. Treatment with measles virus nucleoprotein significantly reduces the development of new atherosclerotic plaques and markedly inhibits the progression of established lesions. The antiatherosclerotic potential of nucleoprotein is retained in its short N-terminal segment. The protective effects on lesion size are lost in mice with lymphocyte deficiency.

Conclusions—

Our findings identify a novel mechanism of immune modulation by measles virus nucleoprotein through the promotion of a regulatory T-cell response and suggest that this property may be harnessed for treating atherosclerosis, the first cause of heart disease and stroke.
Local Delivery of Protease-Resistant Stromal Cell Derived Factor-1 for Stem Cell Recruitment After Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Segers Vincent F.M. , Tokunou Tomotake , Higgins Luke J. , MacGillivray Catherine , Gannon Joseph , Lee Richard T.
Published: September 2007

Background—

Local delivery of chemotactic factors represents a novel approach to tissue regeneration. However, successful chemokine protein delivery is challenged by barriers including the rapid diffusion of chemokines and cleavage of chemokines by proteases that are activated in injured tissues. Stromal cell–derived factor-1 (SDF-1) is a well-characterized chemokine for attracting stem cells and thus a strong candidate for promoting regeneration. However, SDF-1 is cleaved by exopeptidases and matrix metalloproteinase-2, generating a neurotoxin implicated in some forms of dementia.

Methods and Results—

We designed a new chemokine called S-SDF-1(S4V) that is resistant to matrix metalloproteinase-2 and exopeptidase cleavage but retains chemotactic bioactivity, reducing the neurotoxic potential of native SDF-1. To deliver S-SDF-1(S4V), we expressed and purified fusion proteins to tether the chemokine to self-assembling peptides, which form nanofibers and allow local delivery. Intramyocardial delivery of S-SDF-1(S4V) after myocardial infarction recruited CXCR4
+
/c-Kit
+
stem cells (46±7 to 119±18 cells per section) and increased capillary density (from 169±42 to 283±27 per 1 mm
2
). Furthermore, in a randomized, blinded study of 176 rats with myocardial infarction, nanofiber delivery of the protease-resistant S-SDF-1(S4V) improved cardiac function (ejection fraction increased from 34.0±2.5% to 50.7±3.1%), whereas native SDF-1 had no beneficial effects.

Conclusions—

The combined advances of a new, protease-resistant SDF-1 and nanofiber-mediated delivery promoted recruitment of stem cells and improved cardiac function after myocardial infarction. These data demonstrate that driving chemotaxis of stem cells by local chemokine delivery is a promising new strategy for tissue regeneration.
Regime Change and Ethnic Cleavages in Africa
Authors: Posner Daniel N.
Published: September 2007

This article explores a hitherto overlooked consequence of regime change in Africa. It shows how the shift from one-party to multiparty rule in the region altered the kinds of ethnic cleavages that structure political competition and conflict. The article demonstrates how the different strategic logics of political competition in one-party and multiparty settings create incentives for political actors to emphasize different kinds of ethnic identities: local-level identities (usually revolving around tribe or clan) in one-party elections and broader scale identities (usually revolving around region, language, or religion) in multiparty elections. The argument is illustrated with evidence from the 1991 and 1992 regime transitions in Zambia and Kenya.
Why Are German Employers Associations Declining?
Authors: Silvia Stephen J. , Schroeder Wolfgang
Published: September 2007

Considerable progress has been made during the past two decades in conceptualizing dynamics within German employers associations—in particular, explanations for declines in density—and the impact on the economy. The verification has not kept pace with theorization, however. This article provides empirics. The analysis confirms earlier conclusions that the interests of large and small employers have increasingly diverged since the mid-1980s. In contrast to the conventional wisdom, however, the authors find that organized labor has not contributed to the cost pressures that have prompted many small-and medium-sized enterprises to leave employers associations. The article also explores employers associations' response to a more challenging environment in light of the “varieties of capitalism” literature. The decision of several German employers associations to offer different classes of membership has qualitatively expanded subnational variety within the German variety of capitalism
Incentives in Mixed-Member Electoral Systems
Authors: Crisp Brian F.
Published: September 2007

Mixed-member systems have been characterized as encouraging politicians to balance the activities that enhance their personal reputations and those of their parties. Another literature challenges that legislators from one tier are not likely to behave differently from those of the other. After summarizing this debate, data from Venezuela are used to look for evidence supporting either side in a series of behaviors that span the entire legislative process—from bill initiation to committee consideration to final vote. The author concludes that the “best of both worlds” versus “contamination” debate has led to a focus on mixed-member institutions, to the exclusion of other incentive structures confronting legislators and that we need to engage in more careful theorizing about when and where they should expect the electoral tier to have an impact on legislator behavior.
Discrimination, labour markets and the labour market prospects of older workers: what can a legal case teach us?
Authors: Weller Sally A.
Published: September 2007

As governments become increasingly concerned about the fiscal implications of the ageing population, labour market policies have sought to encourage mature workers to remain in the labour force. The `human capital' discourses motivating these policies rest on the assumption that older workers armed with motivation and vocational skills will be able to return to fulfilling work. This article uses the post-redundancy recruitment experiences of former Ansett Airlines flight attendants to develop a critique of these expectations. It suggests that policies to increase older workers' labour market participation will not succeed while persistent socially constructed age- and gender-typing shape labour demand. The conclusion argues for policies sensitive to the institutional structures that shape employer preferences, the competitive rationality of discriminatory practices, and the irresolvable tension between workers' human rights and employers' property rights.
Bringing Gramsci back in: labor control in Italy's new temporary help industry
Authors: Degiuli Francesca , Kollmeyer Christopher
Published: September 2007

This article examines the labor control processes being implemented in Italy's recently developed temporary help industry. The social science literature generally predicts that voluntary forms of labor control require genuine compromises between management and its workforce. Based on interviews, observational field-work, and analysis of industry documents, the authors compare this expectation against the details of the Italian case. Overall, they find that management is attempting to build consensus not by granting temporary workers meaningful concessions, as the literature would generally suggest, but rather by reframing temporary work as a viable opportunity for upward social mobility, and reinforcing these ideological messages with coercion when needed.These findings suggest that ideological power may play a larger role in the labor control process than previously recognized, and that Gramsci's theory of ideological hegemony deserves greater attention from scholars studying such matters.
Race to the Top
Authors: Wörsching Martha
Published: September 2007

This article focuses on the myth of hegemonic masculinity in the context of discourses of gender, sport, and nature in advertising, with reference to Der Spiegel, the leading German news magazine, and to Dav Panorama, the largest European mountaineering magazine. The article considers commodity advertisements that employ masculinist sports metaphors (in Der Spiegel) and contrasts them with others designed to sell a range of outdoor sports equipment and/or to promote the idea of sustainable human interaction with the natural environment (in Dav Panorama). Advertisements targeting affluent men are critically discussed, and the symbolic codes of masculinist aesthetics—visualizations of the desire to “conquer” all social constraint—are highlighted. Sports metaphors of all-out competition are compared with broader, less masculinist concepts of sport and nature to underline the ideological character of promotional constructs produced to exploit men's—and women's—fears of failing within a social and cultural order dominated by men.
Complementary therapy: complement or threat to modern medicine?
Authors: Veeramah E.K. , Holmes S.
Published: September 2007

Some believe that medicine has lost its holistic perspective as a result of which many people now seek help from 'alternative' practitioners who seem able to devote time to their patients and listen to their concerns. Such practitioners also treat the 'whole person' rather than only their symptoms, a feature which seems to be valued by patients. The use of complementary therapies is, therefore, increasing world-wide.

This paper explores this increase, questioning whether this truly reflects dissatisfaction with 'traditional' (allopathic) medicine or rather represents an increased satisfaction with 'alternative' therapies. It also investigates the use of such therapies in mainstream medicine revealing considerable variation in attitudes towards and use

of such therapies in current medical practice questioning whether this should be seen as a threat to modem medicine or their use may enhance patient well-being and quality of life.
Health information on the web: pregnancy
Authors: Sai Sankar Nagamanickam
Published: September 2007

The internet and computers have already become an important part of the daily lives of many. Through the touch of a button we can now obtain almost any information we desire without even leaving our homes. Although pregnancy is a com mon physiological event, anxiety is one of its fre quent accompaniments and the anxiety may be of a high degree. Every woman desires to know in great detail about her own pregnancy. Even though the web is so easily accessible it is, nevertheless help ful to know which websites to surf in order to avoid wasting valuable time. The following list is a com pilation of such sites, all of which have been tested and proved to be both valuable and informative; they should, moreover, provide interesting reading.
Patients' satisfaction with physicians' services in primary healthcare centres in Kuwait City, Kuwait
Authors: Al-Doghaither A.H. , Abdelrhman B.M. , Wahid Saeed A.A.
Published: September 2007

Enhancing patient satisfaction offers a way of opti mising health status and helps in the reduction of wastage of medical resources. The direct measure ment of patient satisfaction is new in Kuwait. This study aimed to assess patient satisfaction with respect to physicians' services in primary health care (PHC) and to determine the association of patients sociodemographic variables on their satis faction level. The sample consisted of 301 patients selected systematically from five primary health care centres (PHCC) to represent various geo graphic areas in Kuwait. The data were collected by personal interview using a structured question naire. The overall mean satisfaction with physician services was 2.21 points out of a maximum of five points. The results from multiple regression analy sis indicated that gender, marital status, occupation and income are the most important predictors, with females, married, labourers and higher income levels having the highest mean satisfaction score. The principal component analysis indicated that the most important aspect is 'communication' which accounted for 54% of the total variance. The results suggested a need for an educational programme to inform patients of the objectives and limits of primary health services.
The use of anthropometric and clinical parameters for early identification and categorisation of nutritional risk in pre-school children in Benin City, Nigeria
Authors: Ojo O. , Deane R. , Amuna P.
Published: September 2007

This study was conducted in Benin City, Nigeria between June and August 1996 to assess nutritional status and health risks of three to five-year-old children, with the view to suggesting practical approaches to their early detection and intervention.

A total of 165 children comprising 90 males and 75 females was studied. Mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), weight-for-age (WFA), weight-for-height (WFH) and height-for-age (HFA) z-scores were determined and used to calculate percentage preva lence of malnutrition. Clinical features of macro- and micro-nutrient deficiency were used to develop a clinical scoring system which was subsequently matched with anthro pometric z-scores. The results showed that MUAC z-scores (-1.91 SD±0.74) gave the highest percentage prevalence of malnutrition of 45.2% in this population, followed by the WFA (-1.22 SD±1.07) and HFA (-0.84 SD±1.42) z-scores with a percentage preva lence of 23.3% and 20.6% respectively. The WFH z-score (-0.89 SD±1.06) was the least sensitive in detecting malnutrition (14.7% prevalence). The percentage prevalence calculated from MUAC z-scores matched FAO figures (43%) for the sub-Saharan African region in 1996. MUAC z-scores also correlated more closely with the clinical features of malnutrition (R2 = 0.7087). Progressively worsening clinical features were also seen with decreasing z-scores for all variables. Even though moderate differences in clinical and anthropometric variables were detected between the sexes with females fairing better than male subjects, these differences were not statistically significant. Comparisons between anthropometric variables showed only weak correlation, except for WFA vs. HFA z-scores (R2 = 0.5233) and WFH vs. WFA z-scores (R2 = 0.4559) which showed moderately positive correlation.

We conclude that whereas MUAC z-scores were most sensitive in detecting the extent of malnutrition in this population, merely using anthropometric variables alone may lead to significant under-reporting of the prevalence of malnutrition in a commu nity. A combination of various anthropometric z-scores with clinical features will how ever help in the early identification and categorisation of subjects in terms of degree of nutritional risk. The training of field health and nutrition workers should therefore emphasise the routine use and combination of anthropometric and clinical variables in the determination of prevalence of malnutrition and in the formulation of intervention strategies for nutrition rehabilitation.
Do Asians with diabetes in Sandwell receive inferior primary care? A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Stewart A. , Rao J.N.
Published: September 2007

Although diabetes is more prevalent among Asian people, Asians with diabetes are anecdotally believed to receive a lesser standard of care, compared with non-Asians.

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether Asian patients with diabetes in Sandwell receive an inferior standard of care in primary care compared with non-Asians. Standards were based on tests carried out, in compliance with Sandwell's Diabetes Local Clinical Guideline. Data were collected from records of 774 patients with diabetes in 14 Sandwell practices. Proportions were recorded of Asian patients receiving specified tests, compared with non-Asians.

No significant differences were observed between Asians and non- Asians for checks on feet, eyes, body mass index (BMI), smoking or blood pressure. Significantly fewer Asians received an HbA1c check. The mean HbA1c value was higher in Asians. More Asian patients received a urine test than non-Asians. Asian patients generally had lower BMI values. When stratified by practice however, no significant differences between Asians and non-Asians were observed for any single check. No significant differences were found between the over all proportions of checks carried out between Asians and non-Asians. A wide variation was observed in the proportion of patients who had individual checks done, between practices.

There were no systematic differences in the standard of care given to Asian and non-Asian patients. Practices varied a great deal in the extent to which they carry out, and record, checks on patients with diabetes. A possible explanation for the reason that no summary result showed a significant difference was due to the confounding effect of the practice: that general practices tended to treat all their patients - Asian and non-Asian - similarly. Nevertheless, general prac titioners should therefore take steps to ensure that all patients with dia betes have these checks at recommended intervals.
Comfort and health in commercial aircraft: a literature review
Authors: Brundrett Geoffrey
Published: September 2007

Air travel is becoming increasingly more accessible to people both through the avail ability of cheap flights and because the air lines are now able to cater for individuals of all ages and disabilities. The wide bodies of many new aircraft permit the airlines to have very flexible seating options. Airline operators currently have an important role in determin ing the comfort and spaciousness of the seat ing in their aircraft.

Passengers who remain seated for the bulk of a flight may risk oedema or deep vein thrombosis. This could be particularly impor tant for larger people in certain economy class seats. The absence of smoking on planes has encouraged designers to cut back on the rate of cabin ventilation and hence introduce fil tered recirculated air to the aircraft cabin. In new planes the ventilation rate is under pilot control and savings (economies) can be achieved by using decreased ventilation. A lower ventilation rate may lead to 'less com fortable air quality' in some parts of the plane and an increased risk of possible cross-infec tion from other passengers on the flight. Technological advances in jet engine design has permitted larger passenger planes to fly longer distances and at greater altitudes than ever before. The higher flying altitude is asso ciated with a lower cabin pressure, which has an important physiological effect on oxygen saturation in the blood of both crew and pas sengers, particularly for the very young, the elderly and those who are less fit.
Pattern of hand injuries in children and adolescents in a teaching hospital in Abha, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Mirdad Tarek
Published: September 2007

Over a seven-year period, 136 children and adolescents with hand injuries were prospectively studied at the Accident and Emergency Department of Asir Central Hospital, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Ara bia, to determine the pattern of hand injury.

The male:female ratio was 1.7:1.0, both left and right hands were relatively equally injured. The age group ranged from two months to 16 years (average 5.3 years). The finger most commonly injured was the middle finger (24.6%) followed by the index finger (18.7%). The most common type of hand injury was crush injuries caused by doors at home (52.2%), heavy objects (6.6%) and injuries caused by grinding machines (6.6%).

Since youngsters are often unaware of the dangers in their environment it is necessary to redesign the doors of our homes with safety devices to prevent injuries. Application of hydraulic auto matic door closures is a simple but useful way of ensuring smooth and safe closing of doors in homes.
Lessons to be learned: a case study approach Insulinoma presenting as a change in personality
Authors: Vig Stella , Lewis Mark , Foster Kenneth J. , Stacey-Clear Adam
Published: September 2007

A 43-year-old man presented with attacks of altered behaviour over a short period of time; they were associated with episodes of hypoglycaemia. The clinical suspicion of insulinoma prompted investigations that quickly established serum insulin and C- peptide levels to be elevated at the times when blood glucose values were low A physical lesion was found in the head of the pancreas by means of computerised tomography and endo-duodenal ultra sound scan; an octreotide scan was nega tive. The patient underwent laparotomy and enucleation of a benign tumour, mea suring 2.6 cm in diameter, lying within the head of the pancreas; histological examina tion confirmed it to be an insulinoma. Post operatively, the patient's personality gradu ally became more normal and his fasting blood glucose concentrations returned to within normal limits. The diagnosis and management of insulinoma are discussed in the context of this clinical case; there is also reference to the protean clinical mani festations that may occur in this condition- and its differential diagnosis.
Changes in public health in South Africa from 1876
Authors: Walker A.R.P.
Published: September 2007

The present population in South Africa, roughly 43 million inhabitants, is made up of Africans (77.2%), whites (10.5%), Coloureds (mixed race) (8.8%) and Indians (2.5%). In 1900 the infant mortality rate (IMR) among Africans was 330 per 1,000 live births; this has now fallen to 50-60. In Soweto, a primarily African city, IMR averages 20-25. Life expectancy in the past was only 25-30 years; by 1995, this reached 63 years. However, this could fall again due to the rapidly spreading HIV/AIDS epidemic. Life expectancy could fall to 40-45 years by 2010 with the AIDS epidem ic being the cause of half of all deaths - a disastrous change from the pre vious relatively commendable public health situation. Formerly, the most common causes of deaths in young people were infections, diseases asso ciated with malnutrition and gastroenteritis. Adults died almost solely from infections, including typhoid, dysentery, malaria and tuberculosis (TB). Even though diseases associated with malnutrition are less com mon today, many infections still remain a major problem, particularly TB, which is increasing. As late as 1970, Africans who reached 50 years had longer life expectancy than whites due to the low prevalences of the chronic diseases of lifestyle. This is no longer so, due to the recent rises in non-communicable disorders/diseases, principally obesity in women, hypertension, diabetes, stroke and the cancers of prosperity. In the not so distant future, the level of control of HIV/AIDS related diseases will be the major health/disease regulating factor among Africans. Among white, Coloured and Indian populations, there have been falls in the mor tality rates of the young and, despite rises in lifestyle diseases, increases in life expectancy are continuing. For all populations other important pub lic health regulatory factors include water supply, sanitation, clinic/hospi tal services and personal environmental factors, employment, dietary pat tern and intake, smoking practices and alcohol consumption and physical activity, particularly in urban dwellers. Unfortunately, public health expen diture, also a highly regulating factor, has fallen from 8.2% of the gross domestic product in 1994 to 4.1% in 2000.
Changes and developments in cancer prevention
Authors: Hill M.J.
Published: September 2007

During the last 125 years, there has been a massive decrease in mortality from infectious disease, as a result of improved public health and later as a result of antibiotic use. This has led to a consequent increase in life span from less than 50 (when cancer is rare) to more than 70 (when cancer is common). As a result of these changes, cancer has moved from being a very minor cause of mortality in 1876 to one of the two major causes by 2000.

During the last century theories of the causation of cancer have changed progressively. In the early phase the main cause was thought to be environ mental contamination with carcinogenic chemicals. Later, it was thought that all cancers were caused by cancers, then that cancer was caused by a breakdown in immune-surveillance. For 40 years we have known that tobacco smoke is a major cause of respiratory and other cancers, and preventive measures are cur rently having a dramatic effect on male lung cancer mortality. During the last 25 years it has become apparent that diet is the other major cause of cancer, but theories have moved steadily from a search for causal agents (eg, too much fat) to protective agents (eg, too little fruit and vegetable). Currently it is accepted that all of the above theories contribute to the total cancer risk.
Time to look beyond just lowering the serum concentration of low density lipoprotein - high density lipoprotein levels are also important
Authors: Nair D.R. , Wierzbicki A.S. , Mikhailidis D.P.
Published: September 2007

There is convincing epidemiological evi dence indicating that the serum levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol are inversely related to the risk of vascular events. Similarly, intervention trials, involving healthy populations and patients with coro nary heart disease (CHD), have shown that raising the serum levels of HDL is associat ed with a significant decrease in the risk of vascular events. It follows that serum HDL levels must be considered when assessing risk and setting therapeutic goals. Some of the currently available national treatment guide lines reflect this view The present review considers the place of serum HDL measure ment in the prevention of vascular events.
Lessons to be learned: a case study approach A case study of the temporal onset of pulmonary hypertension with pre-existent cirrhotic portal hypertension
Authors: D'Souza R. , MacFadyen R.J. , Kerr F. , Peacock A. , Steven M.M.
Published: September 2007

We report the occurrence of pulmonary hypertension in a 37-year-old male patient with cirrhosis of the liver, portal hyperten sion and oesophageal varices. Although this is a rare combination, previous reports have shown that the association of portal and pulmonary hypertension is not coinci dental; the temporal onset of primary pul monary hypertension is hard to predict and our patient was asymptomatic for a number of years. The pathogenesis of portal hypertension leading to pulmonary hyper tension is not known. Diagnosis is difficult because the clinico-pathological symptoms in both conditions are similar. Treatment is limited to calcium channel blockers, vasodilators, nitrous oxide and prostacyclin, although most patients will eventually require visceral transplantation.
Slimming experience among college students: variability in metabolic rate between and within individuals and its relevance to 'success' in slimming
Authors: Auckland J.N. , Morrison Elizabeth , Hunt C.
Published: September 2007

THE DESIRE to be slim constitutes a strong social feature in the United Kingdom. A common characteristic of slimming experiences is the large and unexplained individual variation in slimming 'suc cess', in response to similar reducing diets. A major underlying cause of this variation is the large individual variability in energy output or loss due to the resting metabolic rate (RMR) and this study set out to measure this quantum of variability amongst a group of 25 young people.

The coefficient of variation between the 25 volun teers was 22% when R.M.R. is expressed as Kcal/24 hours and nearly 17% if expressed as Kcal/24 hours/kg body weight. The regression of R. M. R. on bodyweight gave a correlation coefficient of r = 0.709; thus r = 0.503 indicating that in this investigation approximately 50% of total variability in R.M.R. between individuals is accounted for by differences in body weight. How ever, two females similar in body weight, age and height differed in R.M.R. by nearly 50%. Coefficients of variation within the same individual on different occasions were about 9% in both individuals studied, and tests showed a significant difference between the highest and lowest values within each subject. Thus a given individual does not necessarily possess a fixed and unchanging metabolic rate. The implications of these findings are discussed in relation to 'success' in slimming.
Attitude towards abortion among teenagers in Bendel State of Nigeria
Authors: Oshodin Osayuki G.
Published: September 2007

DATA on the attitude of teenagers in Bendel State of Nigeria were collected from a sample of 1,805 secondary school students. By means of frequen cy and percentages of responses to items, results showed that the majority of the students felt abortion was desirable. However the females, the older students (14-17 years old) generally felt strongly that abortion was desirable. They also feel that it is valuable to explore opinions regarding abortion, i.e. to assess ways of preventing abortion. There is then a need for emphasis on sex education and to legalised abortion on special grounds (medical reasons) in this society.
Nutritional Status of Residents in Part III Accommodation
Authors: Thomas Denise E. , Chung-A-On K.O. , Shaw D.M. , Dickerson J.W.T.
Published: September 2007

THE NUTRITIONAL status of residents of old people's homes, compared to individuals living at home, has been assessed. The residents had significantly lower means intakes of ascorbic acid, thiamin, pyridoxin, folic acid, nicotinic acid and protein. These findings were reflected in markedly lower circulating levels of ascorbic acid and folic acid in the residents. The data suggests that there should be reappraisal of the nourishment provided for the elderly in Part III accommodation.
Can Baby Feeding Equipment be Sterilised in the Domestic Microwave Oven?
Authors: Biela Angelika M. , McGill A.E.J.
Published: September 2007

DISCONCERTING reports concerning parental attempts to use the domestic microwave oven for the sterilisation of baby feeding equipment initiated an investigation into this subject. The potential use of the microwave oven for this purpose and its effectiveness was evaluated against conventional methods. Naturally con taminated bottles and teats were subjected to moist heat in a 600W, 2450 MHz microwave oven. The resultant degree of bacterial destruction was microbiologically assessed and compared with levels obtained under control conditions. Modes of operation which would provide for ease of performance and minimisation of possible error when carried out in the home were investigated. Overall, results indicated that a satisfactory 'microwave oven' sterilisation procedure could only be achieved reliably by adoption of the traditional boiling method, but that this method was uneconomical in both time and energy.
Changes in the prevalence of intestinal parasites in the human population of the Seychelles from 1917 to 1977
Authors: Grainger C.R.
Published: September 2007

THE prevalence of hookworm (Ancylostoma duo denale and Necator americana), Ascaris lumbri coides, Entamoeba histolytica and Balantidium coli infections in the Seychelles over a number of years are reported. There is an indication of a reduction in the prevalence of hookworm and roundworm but an increase in Entamoeba. There has been no change in the prevalence of Balantidium coli.
Prevention and Control of Road Traffic Accidents in Nigeria
Authors: Ezenwa Afamdi O.
Published: September 2007

The increasing trends of moribidity and mortality from road traffic accidents (RTAs) in Nigeria called for an evaluation of the counter measures. The evaluation of the counter measures. The evaluation showed that the main preventive measure is by safety Campaigns and that RTAs have not received the attention warranted by the magnitude of the problems. The efforts to combat RTAs in the country are uncoordinated, and inadequately evaluated for possible feed back and im provements. The situation calls for planned counter measures.
Growth And Development Of Saudi Infant And Pre-School Children
Authors: Al-Frayh A.R. , Jabar F.A. , Wong S.S. , Wong H.Y.H. , Bener A.
Published: September 2007

A SURVEY OF Growth and Development of Saudi Infants and Pre-School Children is currently being conducted in Riyadh, with the objective of develop ing a growth chart for Saudi infants and pre-school children. Mixed longitudinal data on growth and anthro pometric measurements are presented for 6400 infants and pre-school children from Riyadh, capital city of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This paper focuses on field survey research design and some methodological aspects of the study; sample structure, sampling design and pro cedures for data collection are discussed.
Epidemiology of Spontaneous Abortions- The Effect of Previous Abortions
Authors: Anokute Charles C.
Published: September 2007

APROSPECTIVE EPIDEMIOLOGIC study of spontaneous abortions and fetal wastage was done in Oklahoma City U.S.A. from September 1980 to September 1981 for the purpose of delineating the etiologic effects of previous abortions. 1050 pregnant women were followed from their first prenatal visit till the termination of pregnancy. In addition to the available information in the patients' medical records, a detailed questionnaire was administered to all the patients. Detailed information was sought on the patients' previous abortion history. A relationship was found between the history of previous spontaneous abortion and subsequent non-live birth, but not between induced abortion and non- live birth.
Occupational Allergy to Laboratory Animals
Authors: Lee David
Published: September 2007

ALLERGY TO laboratory animals (LAA) is a recognised problem amongst scientific and technical staff employed in research establishments. The symptoms exhibited are similar to those of immediate type allergic reactions such as hay fever but in certain cases can progress to allergic asthma. The major sources of allergenic proteins are from the urine, pelt, saliva and dander of the four commonest species used; rats, mice, rabbits and guinea pigs. Objective diagnostic tests have been developed and limited aeroenvironmental monitoring has been carried out in the further scientific evaluation of this problem.
Australian Youth and Alcohol Consumption
Authors: Gay John E.
Published: September 2007

LCOHOL USE is a fact in Australian society and so are the alcohol-related problems that it creates. The economic and social costs involved — pressure on hospital and medical services, loss of productive man-hours, marriage breakdown — to name only some of the more obvious, are now widely recognised. Thus, there is the need for effective strategies for reducing the effects of alcohol misuse. This is a two-stage process. Firstly, make adequate provision for the kinds of facilities and services needed to deal with the end results of alcohol misuse. Secondly, try to reduce the level of alcohol misuse in the com munity. This approach involves the employment of preventive measures. As far as prevention is concerned, adolescence is one of the critical periods in the formu lation of attitudes and behaviour in relation to alcohol use. It seems appropriate that preventive approaches should concentrate on young people with the aim of creating a greater awareness of the implications of alcohol misuse, and of promoting concepts of moder ation in the use of alcohol. To plan educational programmes for this purpose, it was considered necess ary to obtain an up-to-date assessment of the nature and extent of student drinking and attitudes towards alcohol.
Road Traffic Accidents in Riyadh
Authors: Bener A. , Abouammoh A.M. , Elkahlout G.R.
Published: September 2007

IN RIYADH, the capital of Saudi Arabia, develop ment has been taking place very rapidly. The Saudi government investment of oil industry revenues has played a major role in development. Naturally some problems, including road traffic accidents, has increased significantly as a result of development.

The objective of this paper is to discuss the magni tude and the epidemiology of motor vehicle accidents and their resulting casualties which have occurred during the period 1974-85. It was observed that Riyadh has higher accidents rates but lower casualty rates than Kuwait.
Lead Values in Umbilical Cord Blood and Maternal Blood
Authors: Li Kong-Ming
Published: September 2007

LOOD LEAD levels were determined from maternal and umbilical cord blood samples. There is a high correlation of lead levels of mothers and corresponding infants with a product moment coefficient of 0.7750. A significant higher mean lead level in cord blood than in maternal blood is also observed.
Subcutaneous versus intramuscular administration of Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine
Authors: Leung Alexander K.C. , Chiu Anthony S.K. , Siu T. Oswald
Published: September 2007

FOUR HUNDRED ninety eight children of 15 months to 5 years of age were immunized with 0.5 ml of b-CAPSA™ I Haemophilus influenzae type b polysaccharide vaccine (Hib). Every other child received the vaccine subcutaneously (S.C.) and the alternates received the vaccine intramuscularly (I.M.). Two hundred and two (81.1 %) children in the S.C. group and 198 (79.5%) children in the I.M. group returned for follow-up visits 48-72 hours after the immunization and had the adverse reactions documented. The rest were contacted by telephone. After matching for sex and age, we had 194 pairs (103 males and 91 females) in each group with a mean age difference between the pairs of 0.4 month. Based on paired comparisons, pain, manifested as crying, at the time of inoculation was more frequent with intra muscular administration (p<0.01). Tenderness at the injection site occurred in 4 children in the I.M. group but none in the S.C. group and was of borderline stat istical significance (p=0.06). The occurrence of other adverse reactions was not significantly different between the two groups. The findings of this study suggest that subcutaneous injection is the method of choice for Hib vaccine administration.
Food Labelling Regulations In Bahrain
Authors: Musaiger Abdulrahman O.
Published: September 2007

FOOD LABELLING regulations are important measures for food safety and control. The pur pose of this study was to determine the com pliance with labelling regulations. The study was carried out in two stages, before implementation of food labelling regulations (in 1983) and after the implementation (in 1987). Information is required on production date, expiry date, storage instruction and Arabic description. A total of 1896 and 2539 brand names of prepacked foods were studied in the first and second stages respectively. In general there was an increase in the percentage of labelling information after implementation of the regulations. The declaration of production date and expiry date, were increased by 57.3% and 49.8% respectively. Arabic description was increased by 39.3%, but increase in storage condition labelling was relatively very low (4%).
Road Accidents Costs in Jordan
Authors: Jadaan Khair S.
Published: September 2007

IT IS extremely difficult to derive an acceptable measure of the cost of road accidents and the task is even more difficult in developing countries.

This paper reviews the main approaches used to produce estimates of the cost of road accidents, presents a discussion of the attempts made to cost traffic accidents in Jordan and provides estimates for the cost of hospitalised injuries. Using the records of the two private hospitals in Irbid, hospital costs are estimated and presented as average unit costs and total costs.
Biomedical Surveillance of Workers Exposed to 4,4'-Methylene-bis-(2-Chloroaniline) (MBOCA) in Perth, Western Australia
Authors: Wan K.C. , Dare B.R. , Street N.R.
Published: September 2007

FROM 1984, a biomedical surveillance programme assessed the occupational exposure to 4, 4' methylene-bis-(2-chloroaniline) (MBOCA) in seven factories which manufactured polyurethane poly mers. Urinary MBOCA concentrations were used to assess absorption of MBOCA which is a scheduled carcinogen under the Poisons Act in Western Aus tralia.

The relevance and limitations of urinary MBOCA as a biological indicator of exposure to MBOCA, the use of spot urines based on creatinine concentrations in preference to 24 hour urine MBOCA estimations and urinary cytology are discussed.

Preventive measures to reduce exposures to as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA principle) were imple mented after a seminar held in April 1987 which was attended by representatives of the seven factories concerned.

Statistically significant falls in mean 24-hour urinary MBOCA levels were observed in follow-up levels in the five factories for which 'post-seminar' levels were measured.
Promoting Maternal Health Through Family Planning in Nigeria
Authors: Abayomit A. Opaneye
Published: September 2007

IN 1987, NIGERIA embarked on family health initiative as a matter of policy to improve maternal and child health. The prevalent rate of use of modern method of contraceptives for the whole nation is about 6% whereas the figure for high school teachers in Remo division of Ogun state is 44.8%. High school teachers are respected in the various communities and occupy middle grade socio-economic status. As the link between the youths and the adult population there is a role for them to play in the family health initiative in the country.