bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementation of Multispectral Image Classificationon a Remote Adaptive Computer
Authors: Figueiredo Marco A. , Gloster Clay S. , Stephens Mark , Graves Corey A. , Nakkar Mouna
Published: September 2007

As the demand for higher performance computers for the processing of remote sensing
science algorithms increases, the need to investigate new computing paradigms is
justified. Field Programmable Gate Arrays enable the implementation of algorithms
at the hardware gate level, leading to orders of magnitude performance increase over
microprocessor based systems. The automatic classification of spaceborne multispectral
images is an example of a computation intensive application that can benefit
from implementation on an FPGA‐based custom computing machine (adaptive or
reconfigurable computer). A probabilistic neural network is used here to classify pixels
of a multispectral LANDSAT‐2 image. The implementation described utilizes Java
client/server application programs to access the adaptive computer from a remote site.
Results verify that a remote hardware version of the algorithm (implemented on an
adaptive computer) is significantly faster than a local software version of the same
algorithm (implemented on a typical general‐purpose computer).
Self‐checking Synchronous FSM Network Design with Low Overhead
Authors: Matrosova A. Yu. , Levin I. , Ostanin S. A.
Published: September 2007

A method of a self‐checking synchronous Finite State Machine (FSM) network design
with low overhead is developed. Checkers are used only for FSMs, which output lines
are at the same time output lines of the network. The checkers observe output lines of
these FSMs. The method is based on reducing the problem to a self‐checking synchronous
FSM design. The latter is provided by applying a special description of FSM
namely, so‐called unate Programmable Logic Array (PLAu) description. Single stuck‐at
fault on the FSM poles and gate poles are considered. PLAu realization of FSM allows a
factorized or multilevel logic synthesis. They both provide a unidirectional manifestation
of the above mentioned faults on the output lines of the corresponding FSMs. This
realization also gives rise to a transparency of each component FSM of the network for
the faults. PLAu realization is derived from the State Transition Graph (STG) description
of FSMs with using the m‐out‐of‐n encoding of its states and insignificant
expanding the products of STG. The problem of replacing an arbitrary synchronous
FSM network for the self‐checking one with low overhead is discussed.
Exact Output Response Computation of RC Interconnects Under General Polynomial Input Waveforms
Authors: Patnaik L. M. , Gupta Satrajit
Published: September 2007

Accurate output response computation of RC interconnects under various input excitations
is a key issue in deep submicron delay analysis. In this paper, we present an exact
analysis of output response computation of a distributed RC interconnect under input
signals that are polynomial in time (tn
). A simple, recursive equation that helps us to
calculate the interconnect response under higher order polynomial inputs in terms of
the lower order polynomial responses is derived. To the best of our knowledge, this is
the first exact output response analysis of RC interconnects under generalized polynomial
inputs.
νMOS‐based Sorter for Arithmetic Applications
Authors: Rodríguez-Villegas E. , Avedillo M. J. , Quintana J. M. , Huertas G. , Rueda A.
Published: September 2007

The capabilities of the conceptual link between threshold gates and sorting networks
are explored by implementing some arithmetic demonstrators. In particular, both an
(8 × 8)‐multiplier and a (15, 4) counter which use a sorter as the main building block
have been implemented. Traditional disadvantages of binary sorters such as their
hardware intensive nature are avoided by using νMOS circuits. It allows both an
improving of previous results for multipliers based on a similar architecture, and to
obtain a new type of counter which shows a reduced delay when compared to a conventional
implementation.
Circuit Partitioning for FPGAs by the Optimal Circuit Reduction Method
Authors: Bazylevych R. P. , Melnyk R. A. , Rybak O. G.
Published: September 2007

Mathematically the most difficult partitioning problem–packaging–is being considered.
Its purpose is to minimize a number of partitions and to satisfy the constraints on
the number of constituent elements and external nets. To solve the problem, the Optimal
Circuit Reduction Method, suggested by R. Bazylevych is being used. The optimal
reduction tree to reflect the hierarchical entrance of smaller clusters into bigger ones is
being built for the first step. At the second step we select one or more tree vertices which
better meet the given constraints and are the first partitions generated from. After
creating every new partition we eliminate its elements from the circuit and repeat the
procedure to complete all partitions. During the last stage optimization strategies to
exchange some elements between the partitions are being used. Better or equivalent
results among known tests confirm the effectiveness of this method.
Minimization of k‐Variable‐Mixed‐Polarity Reed‐Muller Expansions
Authors: Falkowski Bogdan J. , Chang Chip-Hong
Published: September 2007

A lookup table based method to minimize Generalized Partially‐Mixed‐Polarity Reed‐Muller (GPMPRM) expansions with k mixed polarity variables has been developed.
The new algorithm can produce solutions based on the desired cost criteria for the
systems of completely specified functions.
Model‐integrated Tools for the Design of DynamicallyReconfigurable Systems
Authors: Bapty Ted , Neema Sandeep , Scott Jason , Sztipanovits Janos , Asaad Sameh
Published: September 2007

Several classes of modern applications demand very high performance from systems
with minimal resources. These applications must also be flexible to operate in a rapidly
changing environment. Achieving high performance from limited resources demands
application‐specific architectures, while flexibility requires architectural adaptation
capabilities. Reconfigurable computing devices promise to meet both needs. While these
devices are currently available, the issue of how to design these systems is unresolved.
This paper describes an environment for design capture, analysis and synthesis of
dynamically adaptive computing applications. The representation methodology is captured
in a Domain‐Specific, Model‐Integrated Computing framework. Formal analysis
tools are integrated into the design flow to analyze the design space to produce a
constrained set of solutions. HW/SW Co‐simulations verify the function of the system
prior to implementation. Finally, a set of hardware and software subsystems are
synthesized to implement the multi‐modal, dynamically adaptive application. The application
executes under a runtime environment, which supports common execution
semantics across software and hardware. An application example is presented.
Analytical and Computational Advances for HydrodynamicModels of Classical and Quantum Charge Transport
Authors: Jerome Joseph W.
Published: September 2007

In recent years, substantial advances have been made in understanding hydrodynamic
models, both from the standpoint of analytical infrastructure, as well as the parameters
which play a decisive effect in the behavior of such models. Both classical and quantum
hydrodynamic models have been studied in depth. In this survey paper, we describe
several results of this type. We include, for example, well‐posedness for both classical
and quantum reduced models, and the relaxation drift–diffusion limit as examples of
analytical results. As examples of computational results, we include some discussion of
effective algorithms, but most importantly, some information gleaned from extensive
simulation. In particular, we present our findings of the prominent role played by the
mobilities in the classical models, and the role of hysteresis in the quantum models. All
models are self‐consistent. Included is discussion of recent analytical results on the use
of Maxwell’s equations. Benchmark devices are utilized: the MESFET transistor and
the n+/n/n+ diode for classical transport, and the resonant tunneling diode for quantum
transport. Some comparison with the linear Boltzmann transport equation is included.
Simulation of a Complete Chain of QCA Cellswith Realistic Potentials
Authors: Girlanda M. , Macucci M.
Published: September 2007

We present a numerical simulation of the operation of a chain of 3 Quantum Cellular
Automanton (QCA) cells, with the inclusion of a realistic procedure to enforce, with an
externally applied bias voltage unbalance, the polarization of the first cell. The
polarization state is shown to propagate correctly, as long as the bias unbalance applied
to the electrodes of the first cell is not so large as to directly perturb nearby cells. The
addition of dummy cells is needed to balance the asymmetries existing at the ends of a
chain: this is an indication of further difficulties, that may become relevant if fabrication
of more complex arrays is attempted.
Dynamics of Non‐equilibrium Short‐wave‐lengthPhonons in Semiconductor Heterostructures
Authors: Romanov D. A. , Eizenkop J. , Mitin V. V.
Published: September 2007

The behavior of short‐wave‐length acoustic phonons in the vicinity of a quantum well in
a GaAs/AlGaAs heterostructure has been investigated. Hot two‐dimensional electrons
in the well produce longitudinal optical phonons, which decay into almost monoenergetic
short‐wave‐length longitudinal acoustic (LA) phonons. The latter undergo
elastic scattering and down‐conversion into transverse acoustic (TA) phonons. The distribution
of the LA and TA phonons over frequency and distance to the well have
been found by solving semi‐analytically a system of two kinetic equations with nontrivial
boundary conditions and nonlinear dispersion. The distribution functions have
essentially non‐temperature form even at substantial distance from the well.
Tight Binding Simulation of Quantum Transportin Interband Tunneling Devices
Authors: Ogawa Matsuto , Tominaga Ryuichiro , Miyoshi Tanroku
Published: September 2007

We have studied quantum transport in both Si and GaAs interband tunneling diodes
(ITD′s). In the simulation, a non‐equilibrium Green′s function method based an
empirical tight binding theory has been used to take into account evanescent‐wave
matching at interfaces and realistic band structures. Comparison has been made
between the results of our multiband (MB) model and those of conventional two‐band
(2B) model. As a result, it is found that the current–voltage (I–V) characteristics of the
Si ITD have considerably smaller peak current density than the conventional 2B model,
since our MB model reflects correctly the indirect gap band structure. On the other
hand, in the GaAs ITD, there is small difference between the two models, because
tunneling occurs between the conduction band and the valence band at F point. It is
also found that the matching of evanescent electron modes is essentially necessary to
include the valley‐mixing effects at the tunneling interfaces.
Approximation of the BTE by a Relaxation‐timeOperator: Simulations for a 50 nm‐channel Si Diode
Authors: Anile Marcello A. , Carrillo Jose A. , Gamba Irene M. , Shu Chi-Wang
Published: September 2007

In this work we present comparisons between DSMC simulations of the full BTE and
deterministic simulations of a relaxation‐time approximation for a nowadays size Si
diode. We assume a field dependent relaxation time fitted to give the same drift speed
(mean velocity) as DSMC simulations for bulk Si. We compute the density, mean
velocity, force field, potential drop, energy and I‐V curves of both models and plot the
pdf of the deterministic relaxation‐time model. We also compare the results to augmented
drift‐diffusion models proposed in the literature to approximate the relaxation
time system in the quasi‐ballistic regime. The quasi‐ballistic and ballistic regimes are
distinguished by using local dimensionless parameters.
A Generalized Finite ElementMethod for HydrodynamicModeling of Short‐channel Devices
Authors: Shen Min , Cheng Ming-C. , Liou J. J.
Published: September 2007

A finite element method based on the least‐squares scheme is developed for hydrodynamic
simulation of two‐dimensional short‐channel semiconductor devices. Although
this general‐purpose finite element method has been shown in fluid dynamics to be more
universal to flow problems than other finite element approaches and has been applied in
recent years to a wide range of problems in fluid dynamics, it is still unfamiliar to the
semiconductor device community. Application of the developed hydrodynamic least
squares finite element method (LSFEM) to simulation of a 2D MESFET with a deep‐submicron
gate has demonstrated its robustness and effectiveness for the hydrodynamic
device simulation.
Self‐consistent Full‐band Modelingof Quantum Semiconductor Nanostructures
Authors: Chirico Francesco , Di Carlo Aldo , Lugli Paolo
Published: September 2007

We have developed a full‐band pseudopotential‐based approach to describe semiconductor
nanostructures. The method relies on the bulk Bloch functions expansion of
the system wavefunction, which guarantee an efficient integration of the full‐band
approach in self‐consistent schemes where Schroedinger and Poisson equations are
solved iteratively. In order to gain efficiency of the method a suitable separation between
structure dependent and material dependent contributions to the system hamiltonian is
presented. Results are shown for a typical Si/SiO2 MOS structure.
Simulation at the Start of the New Millenium:Crossing the Quantum‐Classical Threshold
Authors: Ferry D. K.
Published: September 2007

It is clear that continued scaling of semiconductor devices will bring us to a regime with
gate lengths less than 50nm within another decade. The questions that must be
addressed in simulation are difficult. Pushing to dimensional sizes such as this will probe
the transition from classical to quantum transport, and there is no present approach to
this regime that has proved effective. Contrary to the classical case in which electrons are
negligibly small, the finite extent of the momentum space available to the electron set
size limitations on the minimum wave packet–this is of the order of a few nanometers–and leads to the effective potential. The latter is an approach to find the
equivalent classical potential, by which the actual potential is modified by quantum
effects. The use of the effective potential for analyzing the effect of quantization on
semiconductor devices will be discussed. The manner in which this leads to new
formulations for quantum transport will be discussed.
2D‐Hydrodynamic Energy Model IncludingAvalanche Breakdown Phenomenon for PowerField Effect Transistors
Authors: Rousseau M. , De Jaeger J. C.
Published: September 2007

A 2D‐Hydrodynamic model is carried out to predict the breakdown voltage of
microwave field effect transistors. The model is based on the conservation equations
inferred from Boltzmann′s transport equation, coupled with Poisson’s equation. In
order to take into account the channel avalanche breakdown, the charge conservation
equations for electrons and holes are considered and a generation term is introduced.
The set of equations is solved using finite difference and different computational
methods have been tested to save computing time. The model allows us to obtain
accurate predictions for power transistors considering a usual gate recess. Results are
performed for pseudomorphic ALGaAs/InGaAs/GaAs HEMTs.
Analytic I–V Model for Single‐Electron Transistors
Authors: Wang Xiaohui , Porod Wolfgang
Published: September 2007

We present an analytical model for the I–V characteristics of a single‐electron transistor,
which may be incorporated in a conventional circuit simulator, such as SPICE. Our model
takes as its input the physical SET characteristics (capacitances and tunnel resistances,
which may be determined experimentally), and it yields I–V curves which are in excellent
agreement with the ones obtained from full‐scale Monte Carlo simulations.
Two Dimensional MESFET Simulationof Transients and Steady State with KineticBased Hydrodynamical Models
Authors: Anile A. M. , Liotta S. F. , Mascali G. , Rinaudo S.
Published: September 2007

In this paper we compare the well‐known and widely used hydrodynamical model of
Blotekjaer‐Baccarani‐Worderman (BBW model) with a new hydrodynamical model
recently proposed by Anile, Liotta and Mascali (ALM model). The benchmark utilized
is a standard two‐dimensional MESFET already employed in computational studies.
Suitable numerical methods for hyperbolic systems of balance laws have been used.
Quantum Monte Carlo Study of SiliconSelf‐interstitial Defects
Authors: Leung W.-K. , Needs R. J. , Rajagopal G. , Itoh S. , Ihara S.
Published: September 2007

We give a brief description of the variational and diffusion quantum Monte Carlo
methods and their application to the study of self‐interstitial defects in silicon. The
diffusion quantum Monte Carlo calculations give formation energies for the most stable
defects of about 4.9 eV, which is considerably larger than the values obtained in density
functional theory methods. The quantum Monte Carlo results indicate a value for the
formation+migration energy of the self‐interstitial contribution to self‐diffusion of
about 5 eV, which is consistent with the experimental data.
Numerical Simulation of Quantum Logic GatesBased on Quantum Wires
Authors: Bertoni A. , Bordone P. , Brunetti R. , Jacoboni C. , Reggiani S.
Published: September 2007

A system based on frontier mesoscopic semiconductor technology, able to perform
the basic quantum operations needed for quantum computation, is proposed. The
elementary quantum bit (qubit) is defined as the state of an electron running along a
couple of quantum wires coupled through a potential barrier with variable height and/
or width. A proper design of the system, together with the action of Coulomb
interaction of two electrons representing two different qubits, allows the implementation
of basic one‐qubit and two‐qubit quantum logic gates. Numerical simulations confirm
the correctness of the hypothesis.
An lonised‐impurity Scattering Modelfor 3D Monte Carlo Device Simulation with DiscreteImpurity Distribution
Authors: Barraud S. , Dollfus P. , Galdin S. , Rengel R. , Martin M. J. , Velázquez J. E.
Published: September 2007

An improved 3‐D Monte Carlo simulation model is developed to treat the discrete
random dopant distribution in sub‐0.1 μm MOSFET. The new atomistic model is based
on a scattering rate calculation and an algorithm that take into account many‐body effects
and the local variations of screening length according to impurity distribution and bias
conditions.

To validate this new approach low field electron drift mobility and diffusion
coefficient have been computed using simulation of 3D bars for 1015–1018 cm–3 range
of average doping concentration. A good agreement is found between calculation and
experimental mobility data at 300 K.
The Ubuntu Paradigm: Psychology's Next Force?
Authors: Hanks Tammy L.
Published: September 2007

This article examines the need for the development of new paradigms within humanistic psychology that are less ethnocentric and individualistic. The underlying, yet often unacknowledged, commitment of humanistic psychology to the importance of “self in relation to others” is explored, along with a comparison of Western individualistic worldviews and those rooted in African humanism. This article advocates for the adoption of a new humanistic psychological paradigm based on the principles and values of the African collectivistic philosophy of Ubuntu. Finally, practical applications for the adoption of Ubuntu programming within treatment milieus, particularly child and adolescent residential treatment facilities, are presented as promising alternatives to presently utilized therapeutic modalities.
The Future of Nonprofit Management Education
Authors: O'Neill Michael
Published: September 2007

Nonprofit management education has grown rapidly in the United States during the past two decades. The author makes six predictions about the future: (a) The field will remain; it is here to stay. (b) There will not be master's of business administration—like standardization of degrees; master's of public administration—based degrees will remain the most popular option, but several other models will continue. (c) There will be increasing attention to the undergraduate and doctoral levels. (d) Major foundation funding will be replaced by other external funding and tuition. (e) Nonprofit sector growth in recent decades will provide an adequate basis for the continued growth of nonprofit management education, although at a lower rate. (f) The main challenge will be the “danger of success,” the tendency of institutionalized professional education programs to become unresponsive to changes in the professions.
Lessons to be learned: a case study approach
Authors: Southgate H.J. , Egerton M. , Dauncey E.A.
Published: September 2007

Unseasonal, mid-winter, severe poisoning by deadly nightshade is reported in two adults who simultaneously ate from a pie made of frozen deadly nightshade berries, mistaken at the time of picking for bilberries. Atropine levels are report ed in the urine. Physostigmine treatment was ineffective.
Study of the quality of care at a diabetic clinic in Sri Lanka
Authors: Mulgirigama A. , Illangasekera U.
Published: September 2007

The aim was to study the quality of care at a dia betic clinic of a large hospital in Sri Lanka; a sam ple of 200 patients was randomly selected. A ques tionnaire was designed to assess patient knowledge of diabetic management and service provision. Clinic attendance records were also used. Measures of outcome were taken to be (i) the patient's level of understanding of their condition, (ii) the avail ability of diagnostic tests, (iii) the provision of reg ular screening and (iv) the length of consultation time. The average attendance at each four-hour clinic was 174 patients. With three doctors avail able, average consultation time was four minutes per patient. Procedures undertaken included mea suring blood glucose levels, testing for proteinuria and screening for hyperlipidaemia, hypertension and eye disease. The average score for knowledge regarding management and complications, obtained from analysis of the questionnaire, was 5.3 out of a maximum of 9.0 points. The study showed that the quality of care of diabetic patients did not meet the standards that should be expect ed. Two of the principal problems were lack of good organisation and poor planning of resource utilisation. An increase in funding would, of course, assist in implementing the improvements suggested.
Nitrogen dioxide and particle pollution near trunk roads and in towns of the South Midlands in England
Authors: Sauerbeck G. , Parkin C.S. , Houston S. , Whall C. , Newton A. , Carlyle J.
Published: September 2007

Nitrogen dioxide (NO 2) and particulate emis sions play an important role in atmospheric pol lution and might be a major cause of human res piratory problems in urban areas. This report provides an overview of traffic-related emis sions monitored on several trunk roads and towns of the South Midlands of England between 1996 and 1999. NO2 pollution on major trunk roads frequently exceeded British and European Union air quality standards, while particle pollution was lower. The possible effects of traffic diversion activities in the research area are discussed. Bypasses of busy trunk roads might reduce NO2 pollution between 30 and 40% in urban centres and improve air quality for inhabitants in those areas.
Dietary fibre, physicochemical properties and their relationship to health
Authors: Blackwood A.D. , Salter J. , Dettmar P.W. , Chaplin M.F.
Published: September 2007

Dietary carbohydrates that escape digestion and absorption in the small intestine include non- digestible oligosaccharides (carbohydrates with a degree of polymerisation between three and ten), resistant starch and non-starch polysaccharides. The physiological effects of this heterogeneous mixture of substrates are partly predictable on the basis of their physicochemical properties. Mono saccharide composition and chain conformation influence the rate and extent of fermentation. Water-holding capacity affects stool weight and intestinal transit time. Viscous polysaccharides can cause delayed gastric emptying and slower transit through the small bowel, resulting in the reduced rate of nutrient absorption. Polysaccharides with large hydrophobic surface areas have potentially important roles in the binding of bile acids, car cinogens and mutagens. Ispaghula is capable of binding bile acids through a large number of weak binding sites on the polysaccharide structure, and having greatest effect on the potentially more harmful secondary bile acids deoxycholic acid and lithocholic acid.
Living conditions and health promotion strategies
Authors: Ambrose Peter J.
Published: September 2007

The paper assesses the empirical evidence con cerning the interface between living conditions and health status provided by a number of case studies of urban regeneration in London, and Brighton and Hove. These studies were carried out in the theoretical framework provided by the Cost-effec tiveness in Housing Investment programme that has been seeking since 1993 to identify and mea sure additional 'exported' costs to services such as health, education and policing which derive from poor living conditions.

A chronological study of the 'health gain' asso ciated with the Central Stepney Single Regeneration Budget improvement to two run-down estates indi cates that a seven-fold health improvement in the rate of 'illness days' experienced has taken place over a four-year period (1996-2000). This 7:1 dif ferential was identical to that found in the synoptic comparison of illness days, and some health and policing costs, between the Stepney area and an area of improved housing in Paddington carried out in 1996.

The paper presents an exploratory attempt to list and categorise in various ways the exported costs associated with poor living conditions and offers some preliminary assessment of their mea surability.

Finally, a number of health promoting strategies that should be borne in mind when carrying out urban renewal programmes are discussed. It is argued that the provsion of satisfactory housing is a necessary, but not sufficient, condition to pro mote good health. Attention must also be paid to community development, especially of 'organic' activities, the quality of services especially in rela tion to benefits, access to healthy food, crime reduction and, critically, the promotion of jobs and the reduction of poverty.
Botanical perspectives on health Peppermint: more than just an after-dinner mint
Authors: Spirling Lucy I. , Daniels Ian R.
Published: September 2007

Throughout history different species of mint have been used across the globe for their varying properties, both medi cinal and culinary. Today, the commer cial sales of mints are expanding each year - and at the end of a large meal after-dinner mints are frequently served. But why do we take them?

Peppermint ( Mentha piperita ) is usu ally taken after a meal for its ability to reduce indigestion and colonic spasms by reducing the gastrocolic reflex. It is a naturally occurring hybrid cross between water mint ( M. aquatica) and spearmint ( M. spicata) and is best known for its role as a popular flavour ing agent. Less well recognised is pep permint's potential role in the manage ment of numerous other medical con ditions including certain procedures, e.g. colonoscopy.

With the growing popularity of herbal remedies, among both the pub lic and medical practitioners, it would seem that now is an opportune time to consider further what peppermint has to offer the world of medicine.
The role of traditional birth attendants in Atakumosa, Nigeria
Authors: Abioye-Kuteyi E.A. , Elias S.O. , Familusi A.F. , Fakunle A. , Akinfolayan K.
Published: September 2007

All 26 traditional birth attendants (TBAs) and their 109 in 15 settlements in Atakumosa West Local Government (LGA) in Nigeria were interviewed to assess TBA training, practices and utilisation. The study showed that more than 80% of TBAs were older women with more than four children, practised single-handedly and held other occupations. About 54% of those studied had no designated room for deliveries; twenty-one (80.8%) did not consider any pregnant woman to be at high risk; three (11.5%) perform intravaginal examinations during labour and only a few recognise complications; twelve (46.2%) never refer patients. Despite these deficiencies, TBAs continue to practise in appreciable numbers and their services continue to be on demand in the communities under study. Nearly all of the clients interviewed had started to use TBAs by the age of 25 and 50% had used TBAs for all of their deliver ies. Most TBAs provide antenatal care and 77% had a case load of less than five clients per month. Ninety-six per cent of the clients had not been referred by the TBA before. Although 61 % of clients felt TBAs were both inadequately equipped and trained, the majority (91%) were satisfied with TBA care; 62% would use a TBA in a future pregnancy and 49% would rec ommend TBA care to other women.

Low socio-economic status, illiteracy, poor awareness of modern maternal health (MCH) facilities, personalised care, strong family influence and easy access to TBA services were strong factors promoting traditional midwifery in the LGA. If adequately trained, equipped, supported and supervised, TBAs can contribute towards safe motherhood in Nigeria and in other developing countries.
Promoting the health and social care of older people: gaining a perspective from outside the UK
Authors: Ashton Loraine
Published: September 2007

With people living longer, getting sicker and entering nurs ing home care later in their lives, the global trends point to preventing premature institution as a major public health and social care goal. Compared with the UK - Australia, Canada and the USA have a longer track record for intro ducing government Acts, policies and strategies which con tribute to supporting older people in maintaining their health, safety and independence. They also have govern ment Ministers for the Aged. In the UK, it is only very recently that we are witnessing new Government pro grammes such as the NHS Plan and Modernising Social Ser vices that begin to demonstrate its more determined approach to improve the life of the older person.

An ageing population brings new challenges to policy- makers and planners in the statutory sectors. Various inter national conferences have been held to address ways in which countries are providing or developing their services, and their research regarding older people. Yet, whatever country one considers, nursing home care continues to give rise to many concerns. Developments in the USA managed care programmes have recently come under even more scrutiny from the Federal and State governments, insurance agencies, nursing home owners and, of course, older peo ple themselves.

This article raises issues that still need to be addressed in the UK. It reports briefly on an international conference (attended during the undertaking of a Winston Churchill Fellowship) which had some forward-thinking presenta tions addressing existing and future care needs of older people. It then concentrates on highlighting some of the current developments in the USA care system that might be learning lessons for UK policy-makers. It concludes with some additional considerations for delivering a National Service Framework for Older People in order that "The needs of older people are at the heart of the reform programme for health and social services."
Accessing emergency care at the time of a heart attack: why people do not dial 999 for an ambulance
Authors: Ruston A.
Published: September 2007

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the most important cause of death in the UK. Evidence suggests that between 5,000 and 10,000 deaths per year could be prevented if thrombolytic ther apy were to be administered within 12 hours of the onset of symptoms of a heart attack. As part of the requirements of the National Service Framework for CHD, health authorities will be expected to produce detailed plans and protocols which describe pre-hospital service care models. Included in these will be public education campaigns aimed at encouraging people to call 999 for an ambulance in the event of symptoms suggestive of a heart attack. The aim of this study was to explore lay deci sion-making at the time of a cardiac event and address the ques tion of why people do not call 999 for an ambulance. A sample of 43 patients, admitted to two district general hospitals who had survived a cardiac event, and 21 relatives or bystanders who were present at the time of the event, were interviewed. The interviews were tape-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using the constant comparative method. There was variation in who made the decision to call for medical help and even after the decision was made, delays occurred due to inter action between patients and relatives or bystanders. An ambu lance was called by informants in only two cases, two drove or were driven to hospital, 34 asked the general practitioner (GP) to call and five visited the GP at the surgery. Factors influencing these actions included a perception that GP services were faster and more accessible than ambulance services, misconceptions about the seriousness of the situation, misconceptions about the correct 'procedure' or way to access emergency services and a range of personal and contextual factors. The data suggest that public campaigns to encourage people to call 999 for an ambulance in the event of symptoms of a heart attack may be ineffective unless they address lay understandings and concerns about accessing emergency services.
Patients first — structure second?
Authors: Charles J.L.
Published: September 2007

This paper is submitted as a commentary on the recent Government Consultative Paper "Patients First" and on the paper by C. J. Wells, "The Royal Commission — its Task, its Work and its Report", published in the December 1979 issue o f the Journal.
Chinese Immigrant Food Habits: A study of the nature and direction of change
Authors: Newman Jacqueline M. , Linke Ruth
Published: September 2007

THIS STUDY researches the food habits of a randomly selected group of 102 Chinese immi grant mothers who live in two locations in New York City, one predominantly Chinese, namely China town, and the other Queens, a mixed ethnic commun ity. By use of detailed questionnaire and interview, it determines the relationships between traditional food habits before immigration, neighbourhood differences and three time frames since immigration to the United States: under two, two to five and over five years. Significant change has occurred in food habits when comparing those habits practiced before immigration to those practiced in the United States. Of all the items studied, food items showed the greatest changes, parti cularly with respect to meat and dairy products. Some, but not all other food habits changed. The food habits of the respondents in Chinatown, although not com pletely traditional, changed less than the food habits of those living in Queens. Comparing groups by years since immigration, those respondents in the United States fewer than two years ago showed an appreciable change while those in the United States more than five years showed a reversal in some food habits to tradi tional food habits.
Influence of Seasonal and Weather Variation on the Incidence of Coagulase Positive Staphylococci Isolates Among Nigerians with Boil Infections
Authors: Elegbe Isaac A.
Published: September 2007

THE INFLUENCE of seasonal and weather variations on recovery of Staphylococcus aureus in patients having boil infections was investigated. Recovery of the organ ism from patients was found to be higher during the dry season when there was acute shortage of water and little or no rainfall. The results showed that as the rainy season begins, prevalence of coagulas-e positive Staphylococci from the boil infections reduced con siderably. The difference in recovery rate of the causa tive agent of boil was Statistically significant (P<0.001) between the dry and the rainy seasons. Therefore lower relative humidity coupled with higher temperature and shortage of water are the most important environmen tal factors predisposing patients to Staphylococci boil infections.
Australian Aboriginal Health and Change
Authors: Gay John E.
Published: September 2007

THE MAJOR health problems facing Australia's Aboriginal population are reviewed and an attempt is made to assess the genetic and environ mental, social and cultural factors to which they may be attributed. Among Aborigines living in remote areas under semi-tribal conditions, recent improvements in health, though considerable, have not been commensurate with the greatly increased expenditure on health and welfare services. The outcome is due to loss of control by Aborigines over their own lives, including matters concerning health, and partly to failure of white medical and welfare personnel to communicate with people holding different beliefs about health and disease. Poor health of Aborigines living in cities and rural areas can be attributed largely to their poverty, which in turn stems from discrimina tion in employment, housing and community services.
Probiotics in Modern Meat Production
Authors: Walters A.H.
Published: September 2007

PROBIOTICS ARE defined as 'Growth-promoting factors produced by micro-organisms'. For the controlled nutri tion of farm animals reared under modern conditions, claims for the use of a commercial probiotic feed addi tive are described and discussed.

Meat production involving the confinement and hous ing of animals reaches far back into history especially in hostile winter climates. Even today, the henhouse, pigsty and cowshed are commonplace. With the growth of affluent societies in the First World, the demand for meat and meat products has markedly increased. This has led to the development of rearing and fattening methods for animals under controlled and continuous all-the-year-round housing conditions — the so-called factory farming.
Effect of fluoridated milk on caries: 5 year results
Authors: Bánóczy Jolán , Zimmermann P. , Hadas Éva , Pinter Adrienne , Bruszt Vera
Published: September 2007

THE AIM OF the study was to assess the caries- preventive effect of fluoridated milk after 4- and 5 years of consumption in 165 institutionalized chil ren aged 6- to 12 years. The children consumed 200 ml of milk daily, fluoridated with 0.4 mg-, or 0.75 mg F- according to age. The data were compared with those of 122 home children without preventive measures.

Analysis of the data showed a considerable increase in the ratio of caries-free children, aged 7-10 years, after 5 years of fluoridated milk consumption. The caries pre valence in the test group showed statistically significant reduction both in the primary and permanent dentition, in the latter between 60- to 67% . The caries reduction of the first permanent molars in the age-group of 7 years old was 85%. In children aged 9-12 years, after 4 years of fluoridated milk consumption, only small reductions could be observed.

Milk-fluoridated thus seems to be effective in home children; early starting-age increases the protective effect considerably.
Nutrition Situation in the Arabian Gulf Countries
Authors: Musaiger Abdulrahman Obaid
Published: September 2007

THE NUTRITIONAL status in the Arabian Gulf countries; mainly Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and United Arab Emirates (UAE), is similar. These states enjoy good economic situation with the highest per capita income in the world and sufficient supply of food; however malnutrition continue to exist.

First degree malnutrition exists in this area, though second degree malnutrition is more frequent. Marasmus and anaemia are the main undernutrition problems. Gastro entritis, intestinal parasitism and food habits are believed to be responsible for the prevalence of underweight and anaemia among the children. On the other hand obesity, diabetes, hypertension and heart diseases are the common public health problems of the adults.
Children's Opinions and Attitudes About Smoking
Authors: Thambypillai Vimala
Published: September 2007

A SELF-ADMINISTERED questionnaire on smoking was carried out on 4106 Form IV school children in A Kuala Lumpur. This study deals with the beliefs, opinions, attitudes and some factors influencing these attitudes of children towards smoking. The main reason for initiation was curiosity. The main reason for not smoking was that it is bad for health, but a majority of future smokers also gave this reason for their current non-smoking status. Knowledge alone is not enough to prevent children from smoking. The study recommends that health education in schools should also concentrate on the immediate effects of smoking and should relate it to self image. Both parents and schools should play a role in disciplining and instilling the right values and attitudes and teaching assertive skills to children. Laws to control advertisements by tobacco companies, health warnings on the hazards of smoking, prohibition of sale of tobacco to school children and restricting the sale of tobacco to licensed outlets only were also recommended.
Geochemistry and Environmental Health: Radon in Cornwall
Authors: Grainger C.R.
Published: September 2007

THE ORIGIN, distribution and health effects of radon are considered in this paper. Active and passive mechanisms exist in Cornwall which determine where radon will be found. Because of the health effects of radon there should be a continuation of geochemical research in the county to identify the distribution of radon and other radio-elements in the environment.
The Traditional Midwife in Saudian Villages
Authors: Mohammed Abdulaziz Al-Sekait
Published: September 2007

TO IDENTIFY the role of the midwife in rural Saudi Arabia, a house to house survey was conducted in 10 randomly selected communities in Riyadh district. The study showed that the midwife's role in a village is particularly significant in protecting the health of the poor and less educated mother. If effective coverage of ante-natal, delivery and post-natal services is to be achieved then it is suggested that a greater emphasis should be placed upon training the midwives.
Host Factors in Childhood Diarrhoea
Authors: Khan M.A. , Yunus M.
Published: September 2007

HOST factors play a significant role in children under five who are the worst sufferers of this widespread and global scourge, both in regard to mortality and morbidity. This study deals with some of the host factors in relation to diarrhoea in a rural population. Age was found to have a definite and direct relationship to diarrhoea. Male children were effected more. Poor hygiene, malnutrition and the receipt of supplementary feeds, were found to have a significant association with childhood diarrhoeas.
Birth Order and Birth Weight of Saudi Newborns
Authors: Simin Saedi Wong
Published: September 2007

THE EFFECT of birth order on birth weight of Saudi newborns has been evaluated. The study sample comprised 4498 Saudi newborns who were born in four major hospitals in Riyadh. For purposes of statistical analysis, birth weights were classified into four categories. These were low birth weight (<2500g), sub-optimal birth weight (2500-2999g), optimal birth weight (3000-3999g) and above optimal weight (≥4000g). Birth order was measured as the number of past pregnancies that have gone to viability and have been delivered regardless of the number of children involved. The results indicated that there is a linear relationship between birth order and birth weight, whereas the higher the birth order, the higher the proportion of optimal and above optimal birth weights. The chi-square test was significant at the probability level 0.001.
Asthma Patterns in Saudi Arabian Children
Authors: Al Frayh A.R.
Published: September 2007

IN A STUDY of 2006 school children living in two urban areas of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, we used a questionnaire to collect details of age, sex, areas of residence, occupation, education, social class, parental history of asthma and information relating to parental smoking habit. The relative importance of these factors on the likelihood of children having bronchial asthma was assessed using a linear modelling analysis. The extent to which these factors affected the severity of bronchial asthma was also examined. A number of statistically significant associations between bronchial asthma and 'breathlessness' (P <0.0087), 'Father smoker' (P <0.0001), 'usually cough' (P <0.0001), 'pets' (P <0.0067) and 'Family history of allergy' (P <0.007), were found.
Islamic Festivals and Low Birthweight Infants
Authors: Opaneye A.A. , Villegas D.D. , Abdel Azeim Ali
Published: September 2007

DURING THE period between Rajab 1405 and Jamad Thani 1407 (March 1985-January 1987) a total of 5280 babies were delivered at King Khalid Hospital, Al-Kharj, Saudi-Arabia. Out of these children, 345 i.e. 6.53% weighed less than 2500g. Seventy-three, i.e. 21% of the low birthweight (LBW) babies were born during the festival months of Rama dan and Hajj. When compared with the non-festival months, the number was statistically significant p<0.01; and Odds Ratio of 1.42. The perinatal mortality rate for the LBW infants was 176.8 per thousand compared with 25.82 for all deliveries during the same period of time. As in a previous report adolescent primiparae made a large contribution to the total number of LBW deliveries. Therefore there is a need for more vigilance in the care of pregnant patients and, more provisions for the care of LBW infants during the festival months.
Expatriate maids and food patterns in Kuwait
Authors: Amine Ezzat K. , Al-Awadi Fawzia
Published: September 2007

THE AIM of this study was to investigate the role of the maid and her nationality on infant feeding patterns, nutritional status of mothers and food pattern in Kuwait. A multistage stratified sample of 2004 Kuwaiti families was taken to represent all districts in Kuwait. Mothers were interviewed to collect data on infant feeding patterns, types of foods pre sented daily and the nutritional status of the mother was assessed. When there was no maid, 65.3% of the infants were breast fed, such rate declined to 55.1% when a maid was employed. The duration of breast feeding was prolonged from 5.43 months in the presence of a maid to 7.29 months in her absence. Obesity was more prevalent among mothers (44.7%) when a maid was employed and decreased when they received no help (35.4%).

The results show that traditional dishes are presented for lunch which is the major meal of the day. Food items presented for breakfast or dinner are more diversified. Hamburger, fried potato, macaroni and fried chicken have become popular dishes in Kuwait. The types of food presented were significantly associ ated with the nationality of the maid.
A Comparison of Two Insecticidal Shampoos in the Treatment of Head Louse Infection
Authors: Jolley J.H. , Kennedy J.P. , Miller A.J.
Published: September 2007

THE EFFICACY and tolerability of a phenothrin liquid shampoo was compared with a carbaryl shampoo in 50 children with head lice infection.

Twenty-five children were treated with a phenothrin liquid shampoo and 25 with a carbaryl shampoo. Each treatment was applied on three occasions at three-day intervals.

Reinspection two weeks after initiation of treatment revealed two apparent treatment failures in the carba ryl group and one in the phenothrin group. No side effects were reported for either treatment.

It is concluded that phenothrin liquid shampoo is a safe and effective treatment for head louse infection and is therefore a useful addition to those insecticides currently employed.