Volume 1, Issue 1

STUDENT PRODUCED ACADEMIC

MAGAZINE - THE MARCH 2010 ISSUE

Trans Fats: Is Canada doing enough to protect you?

Neural Interfaces: Control it with your mind!

Neglected Diseases

CONTRABAND TOBACCO:

• What do you really know?

• Who buys it?

• Are you being affected?

• Professor Spotlights • Cancer Treatment with Nanomagnets • Stress: It’s A Killer!

• ADHD in Children • Designer Babies • More inside!

Editor’s Note Shahla A. Grewal

Brock Health Team

Dear Reader, Dr. Kelli-an Lawrance for her enthusiasm and support for the project and her invaluable advice. Jackie Robb helped recruit some amazing and talented people as well. I’d like to thank our layout designer, Scott Alguire; without his skills we would still be lost in the enigma that is Adobe InDesign. Finally, I want to thank our platinum sponsor Sobey’s Pharmacy, VPSS Sohail Ahmed, SISO and the faculty of Applied Health Sciences for all their contributions.

A final thank you goes to the following people: Jenna Ventresca for In 1846, Ignaz Philipp Semmel- sponsorship letters, Joanne Boucher weis, the now famous physician, for letting us use her resources and had found the reason as to why new Deanna Vandenbroek for her supmothers were dying of childbed port as President of CHSC Student fever in his clinic and yet failed to Council. report his findings. This delayed the intervention of child bed fever: the This is an ambitious initiative simple task of hand-washing. So but I believe it is possible because with this magazine we hope to pro- of all the amazing people that are vide students with an outlet where involved with Brock Health. I hope they can report ideas or findings that you thoroughly enjoy the first issue! may advance health care and medicine without being ridiculed and I sign off by mentioning the foljudged as Semmelweis was. lowing quote of Margaret Mead:

Editor-in-Chief Shahla A. Grewal

This publication could not have “Never doubt that a small group of materialized without the numer- thoughtful, committed citizens can ous people who have worked so change the world; indeed, it’s the hard to bring it to you. This great only thing that ever has”. initiative began with myself and five core people: Yumna Ahmed, Singha Chanthanatham, Brent Gilliard, Vicky Horner and Kresimir Mijaljevic. Without the endless plenary meetings and commitment of my fellow co-founders this Brock Health issue would not be in your hands right now. I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to

Webmaster Scott Alguire

I am both honoured and privileged to present you the first publication of Brock Health! The purpose of this academic publication is to enhance the peer-to-peer educational experience and to inform the student body of current health research. This magazine covers a wide range of topics from public health issues to treating cancer because health care these days is also taking more of a multidisciplinary approach. It is through this manner that we can achieve the best health results for the community.

1

Managing Editors Singha Chanthantham Brent Gilliard Layout Design Scott Alguire Tahmina Taraky Phuc Dang Editorial Board Kresimir Mijaljevic Vicky Horner Brent Gilliard Singha Chanthantham Yumna Ahmed Steve Demetriades Shirin Pilakka Michael Carrigan Graduate Editors Megan Barkans Gregory McGarr Matthew Ratsep Val Andrew Fajardo Treasurer Brent Gilliard

Faculty Consultant Kelli-an Lawrance (PhD) CHSC Student Council President/ Liaison Deanna Vandenbroek

Contents • Trans Fats: Is Canada doing enough?

Page 3

• Academic Advising

Page 4

• Stress! Keep a Killer Under Control

Page 5

• Food Deserts: How Cities Shape Health

Page 6

• ADHD: Treatment With Drugs or Therapy?

Page 7

• Faculty Spotlights

Page 8

• Check Out These Butts

Page 9

• Neglected Diseases: Poverty and Illness out of sight

Page 11

• Neural Interfaces

Page 12

• Nanomagnets: Cancer Cured?

Page 13

• Brock Heart Institute

Page 14

• Prescription Drug Abuse

Page 15

• Mind Over Matter: Motivation for Exercising

Page 16

• Designer Babies

Page 17

• Making it All Possible

Page 18

• Headlines

Page 19

• References

Page 20

• Brock Health Team

Page 21

March 2010 - Issue 1

2

For a long time, it was thought that saturated fats were the most dangerous type of fat. It was recently determined, however, that trans fats are responsible for 2.5–10 times more risk of ischemic heart disease than saturated fats.1 Trans fats not only increase ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol levels, but reduce levels of ‘good’ HDL cholesterol. They also raise triglyceride levels in the blood, and impair endothelial function resulting in vasoconstriction and inflammation.2 Worse still, trans fatty acids affect gene expression by inserting themselves into cell membranes, which increases the risk of many chronic illnesses, especially after a lifetime of consumption.1 As a result of their detrimental effects, Health Canada urges citizens to consume as few trans fats as possible, if any at all,3 and mandated their labelling in 2005.4

Trans Fats

Is Canada doing enough?

Vicky Horner take-out foods. Up to 30% of total trans fats intake occurs outside of the home,5 so even the most diligent consumer will have trouble minimizing his or her exposure to trans fats.

fats.4 We can learn from Denmark’s trans fats policy, because it benefits the entire population and places less responsibility on individuals. In contrast with Canada, in Denmark you do not have to worry about trans fats in your food.

It is not clear if Canada’s labelling regulations are even being followed correctly, because almost Coronary heart disease has one third of “trans fat free” marga- been identified as the single most exrines did not, in one study, meet the pensive cost burden on the Canadian required low levels to legally print healthcare system and given its strong that claim on their packaging.6 Fur- relationship with trans fats,8 it is clear thermore, since there are multiple that prevention through restriction of methods used to determine the trans trans fats in food is worth the shortfat content of products, such as capil- term cost and effort. Canada’s manda Canada’s policy takes an lary gas chromatography and infrared tory labelling of trans fats is a good individualistic approach by placing spectroscopy, some labels may not be start, but will probably fall short of responsibility for healthy consump- as accurate as others.7 benefiting the entire population. In tion of trans fats on Canadian citizens order to improve the health of all Carather than reducing trans fats at the On the other hand, Denmark nadians, including those who are dissource, in processed foods. This type effectively implemented strict restric- advantaged, maximum levels of trans of policy neglects the needs of certain tions on food products and ready meals fats should be placed on packaged and groups such as those with low socio- to be no more than two percent trans prepared foods. economic status who may not have the knowledge or financial means Canada’s revised food guide: to select and purchase healthy foods [healthcanada.gc.ca/foodguide] without a lot of trans fats. Another What makes a serving of vegetables or fruit? disadvantage of this approach is that Are you getting at least seven a day? it does not apply to restaurants and 3

Academic Advising Why Should I Bother?

Jackie Robb, CHSC Undergraduate Program Coordinator & Advisor

As you (hopefully) know, the Department of Community Health Sciences has a full-time Undergraduate Program Coordinator that is available to help guide students in areas of course selection and registration, career guidance, and to help you navigate your way through University. Many of you have come in for appointments and I love getting to know students faceto-face. In this electronic world, it’s nice to actually meet the people behind the email conversations so I can get a better feel for your personality, interests and goals.

One of my main tasks is to provide academic advising to majors and prospective students in the Department. I encourage all students to make at least one advising appointment per year to ensure you are taking the proper courses to satisfy your degree requirements. These appointments can be very quick (and painless), taking between 10 – 30 minutes depending on the number and type of issues that we discuss.

SUDOKU!

Some of the things we can discuss in an appointment: • Degree and course requirements • Internship and Directed Reading opportunities • Time management pertaining to the scheduling of courses and non-academic activities • Graduate studies – prerequisites that may be needed and other application requirements • Career goals and prospects • Getting involved at Brock and in Niagara – why and how

For the inaugural edition of the Brock Health publication, I was asked to provide some course reviews and I eagerly accepted.

However, as I began to think about writing these, I realized that I can’t really provide a ‘review’ of a course because everyone has a different experience, and, I haven’t taken every course offered in the Department!

Five Ways to Pass!

CHEM 2P20 according to Yumna

So, instead here are some tips for course selection: • Think about what you want to do after your undergraduate degree at Brock. Work? Graduate school? Second undergraduate degree?

• There are so many options, but it’s important to take some time to figure out some areas of study in which you have an interest (rather than taking a course you are not at all interested in, but that fits into your schedule) • Narrow your options down to a few general areas - this will help guide your course selection because you can fit in prerequisites that may satisfy requirements for a few different graduate programs rather than taking random courses • Don’t overwhelm yourself - it’s ok to take four courses instead of five; if you know a course is very challenging and may require extra time, it’s better to take an extra term or year (or take spring/ summer courses) and do well in all of your courses, than to take five but have your other marks suffer because you had to focus so much on one class – lots of students do this!

I wish you all the best this term – don’t be afraid to stop in to say hi or to make an appointment!

SUDOKU!

1.

Go to all lectures, a lot of hints are not in the notes and are said in class 2. DO the textbook questions! Just might show up on a test 3. Understand the material, just don’t memorize (it won’t work!)

4. Know the major/basic concepts very well 5. Believe in yourself!!!

March 2010 - Issue 1

4

Stress, It’s a Killer Yumna Ahmed

Today, academics are becoming more important and have a huge impact on one’s future and eligibility for a career. University students planning to enter the work force in their future must become very educated and knowledgeable in their field of interest. Yet with assignments, tests, essays, presentations and deadlines to be met along with other commitments other than academics such as sports and social events, university proves to be very stressful. High levels of stress in the lives of university students lead to negative effects that must be dealt with properly. Some serious negative effects include anxiety and depressive disorder, gastrointestinal disorder and a weakening of the immune system.

Anxiety is a feeling of fear and is experienced by everyone. Some symptoms are sweating, nausea, hyperventilation, tachycardia, dizziness etc. University students have high amounts of anxiety and stress because of all the problems and challenges they must face in this transitional and developmental period. 1 Anxiety disorders make it difficult for one to live a healthy fulfilling life. University students are very susceptible to these disorders due to the stress in their lives. There are many treatments such as behavior therapy, cognitive therapy, relaxation exercises such as meditation and prescribed medication.

Many anxiety disorders lead to depressive disorders. Symptoms of depressive disorder are having low energy, loss of appetite, decrease in level of physical activity, loss of interest to maintain relationships, lack of sleep and suicidal thoughts. Depression can lead to major depression, dysthymia and in some cases bipolar disorder.

1 Major depression includes exces5

sive crying, and the body feeling very sore. Some treatment methods for depressive disorder are psychotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy, and medication.2 Another effect that is linked with anxiety and depressive disorder that university students experience due to high levels of stress is gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Those with IBS have psychosomatic and psychological symptoms such as depression, insomnia, cramps, bloating, headaches, anxiety and back ache.3 IBS has an impact on one’s interpersonal relationships, social connections and overall quality of life. Treatments for this syndrome are learning to manage stress, avoiding caffeine, taking medications, increasing fibre in one’s diet, emotional treatment and psychological help.

One more negative effect that university students may experience due to high levels of stress is the weakening of the immune system.

People with high levels of chronic stress tend to have fewer white blood cells than the average amount. Stress increases the likelihood to catch infectious diseases, the seriousness of the infectious disease, lowers the immune system’s ability to accept vaccines and slows healing.4 Stress actually prolongs the release of neurotransmitters and hormones from the endocrine and nervous system which assist with the functioning of the tissues and the

nerves in the body. So, a long period of inactivation of these areas will have damaging and negative effects on the human body. Some treatments are simply having a well balanced diet, setting achievable goals, drinking lots of water, exercising, learning how to manage stress, and developing a strong support system.

Thus, high levels of stress in the lives of university students have negative effects that must be dealt with and treated effectively and properly. Some negative effects are anxiety, depressive disorder, gastrointestinal disorder and the weakening of the immune system. Learning to cope with stress is an important life skill. Some techniques one can use to deal with stress are to do something they enjoy everyday, talk to friends/ family, visualize positive things and treat one’s body right. Taking responsibility for one’s life, being aware of one’s choices, setting goals and being organized are other useful techniques.

University students should be educated and knowledgeable about stress and how to deal with it, in order to live physically, emotionally, mentally and socially healthy lives.

Student Development Centre's Personal Counselling Service http://brocku.ca/sdc/counselling/

Food Deserts

Healthy eating in a Drive-Thru city

Brent Gilliard

Since the end of the Second World War, cities have sprawled with the construction of low-density, single use neighbourhoods on the fringes of existing urban areas. Many jobs have followed residents out of the city centre and urban areas have increased in size much faster than their populations. This new urban form is well suited to the automobile, but to the exclusion of all other modes of transportation.1

Living in the modern North Ameri can city, a car is usually needed to perform the most essential tasks, like commuting to work. As automobile ownership approaches (but does not reach) universality, the minority of people or households without a car are left “transport-deprived”.

The most apparent alternative, public transportation, poorly serves low-density neighbourhoods by nature of their spatial structure (i.e. culs-de-sac)and dispersed demand. Individuals and families without a car are left with few good alternatives for accessing important but distant destinations.2 March 2010 - Issue 1

Of importance, there is a tendency for grocery stores to close down in older, poorer, neighbourhoods, while new supermarkets open in the affluent suburbs. The unequal distribution of supermarkets has a disproportionate impact on transportdeprived people. When a neighbourhood with a high proportion of zero-car households loses its local supermarket, it can become part of a phenomenon known as a food desert, a socioeconomically disadvantaged area with limited food retail choices.3

Accessibility of supermarkets is important because they provide a wide selection of healthy foods at a reasonable cost. Convenience stores, on the other hand, carry a narrower selection of healthy food, and, according to a survey of Waterloo, are about 60% more expensive than supermarkets4. The problem then is, that supermarkets would be most helpful for low-income, low-mobility people but are the least accessible, while accessible retailers offer high-cost, unhealthy foods.5

It is widely accepted that unhealthy diets play a major role in the rising global burden of chronic, non-communicable diseases including type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. Of particular concern is “elevated consumption of energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods that are high in fat, sugar and salt.”6 While research proving that low-income Canadians are eating less healthy than other Canadians is limited, in other Western, industrialized countries, people with high socioeconomic status tend to eat more fruits and vegetables but less fat, oils, and meat. It is reasonable to expect these trends to exist in Canada.7,8

Access to supermarkets is not the only variable that determines healthy eating among low-income Canadians. The causes of unhealthy eating and ultimately obesity are often conceptualized as a causal web. There are dozens of interconnected elements at all levels, from global to local, that help or hinder healthy eating, including advertising, culinary culture, and the cost of food.8,9 The appearance of food deserts in cities is an important example of how decisions that seem unrelated to health (proximally, urban planning and the operating practices of supermarkets) can have profound impacts on the health of many people.

6

ADHD

Treatment with drugs or therapy?

Kresimir Mijaljevic Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a “problem with inattentiveness, over-activity, impulsivity, or a combination” beyond what is normal for a child’s age and development.1 It is more commonly diagnosed than any other behavioural disorder in children, affecting approximately 3-5% of school aged children; it is more common in boys than in girls.1 In Canada, 35% of all children referred to mental health clinics are diagnosed with ADHD.2 A prominent form of treatment noted in clinical settings was with the administration of Sertraline – marketed as Zoloft. Issued in 1996, Zoloft was developed by Pfizer for the purposes of treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). It is the Food and Drug Administration’s obligation to make certain that the therapeutic agent must ensure safety and efficacy.3 Hinshaw argues that “medication is the only viable option for treating children with ADHD, and that behavioural intervention strategies are not important for treating the core symptoms of ADHD”.4 A significant problem that arises with the administration of any drug is the problem of physiological dependence and proper adherence to the regimen. By offering a medicinal form of intervention for the treatment of a psychological disorder, new conditions and challenges arise in evaluating the efficacy of the treatment. Furthermore, the initial concern becomes a problem at the regulatory level.

On the contrary, The National Initiative for Children’s Healthcare Quality supports a chronic care model that accounts for teens and adolescents, and their families requiring supports in addition to an individualized and appropriate clinically based program.5 Lilienfield examines the treatment of 7

ADHD in the psychosocial domain.7 She notes that cognitive-training therapy programs help enrich a child’s way of expressing an underlying psychological barrier that cannot be otherwise expressed in communicated words. The play therapy was based on the notion that integrating toy props such as dolls and other inanimate play objects to help the child express an underlying psychological conflict.

In reality, these programs help highlight the child’s self-control problems by communicating self-instructional skills to advance their ability to ‘stop, look, listen’. Lilienfield highlights the fact that some controlled studies mainly focus on school-based behavioural interventions which focus on the positive reinforcement of attention sustainability.6 This exemplifies the simplicity in treating a complex disorder, in that the elementary constructs of the child’s mind are examined and manipulated in such a way to highlight undeveloped or repressed parts of the psyche. Similarly, Chronis and colleagues, examined both behavioural parent training and classroom behaviour management, in a study evaluating psychosocial treatment for children and adolescents with ADHD in a school setting.8 The study was directed toward teaching parents and teachers to implement behavioural modification principles supported by social learning principles, targeting deviant behaviours, using praise and positive attention, as well as rewarding exemplary and improved behaviour. Thus, Chronis highlights a potentially successful redirection in treatment of ADHD, which can serve as a model for many other mental disorders.7 This model highlights the importance of improving behavioural treatment and implementing it as a guide for enhancing the training of caregivers, educators, and parents working with children plagued by this

disorder.

It is clear that medicinal interventions have significant immediate effects on mediating and controlling psychosocial disorders, but for the health and well-being of the child treatment models must be re-examined. Similarly, behavioural models demonstrate the positive implications upon the child’s psychological framework as well the child’s overall wellbeing. Truly, positive implications on the individual will lead advocates to encourage various collaborative programs to help treat and possibly reduce the prevalence and future incidence of these disorders in our society.

However, this will likely be a constant battle against the pharmaceutical industry since the best interests of the child will ultimately compete with the marketing of medicine in our society.

FACULTY SPOTLIGHTS Dr. Tony Bogaert PhD, Chair of Community Health Sciences Vicky Horner

For the past 12 years, Professor Tony Bogaert has become a distinguished member of Brock University’s faculty and has helped develop the Community Health Science department from what used to be known as the Health Studies department.

broader issues of health and wellbeing”, Dr. Bogaert explains, “it [health] is not just about what is happening in the cell”. He certainly means this, as multiple profiles of his work exist in the media to target the larger community. With grounded academic routes in sexual orientation and most recent Today, he is not only the ly, the comparison of desire amongst students interested in pursuing health Chair of Community Health Sciences, genders, Dr. Bogaert’s research has related careers; I can’t think of a more who has introduced many of his own been recognized internationally. important pursuit.” courses to the department, but his work also continues outside of the When asked the importance of It is without a doubt that Dr. Tony classroom. a future career in health-related fields, Bogaert has largely contributed to and Professor Bogaert had the following continues to improve Brock’s health!

“We need to educate people about the words of inspiration, “I commend all

Dr. Brian Jeynes B.Sc, M.Sc, PhD, Associate Professor Kresimir Mijaljevic

Dr. Brian Jeynes is an associate professor at Brock University, where he teaches the undergraduate anatomy and pathology courses in the Department of Community Health Sciences. He is also a researcher, medical ethicist, and Catholic deacon who works with prison inmates.

His research interests revolve around general neuropathy, stroke, and medical ethics. In particular, his current research is focused on specific neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's Disease. Accompanied by a colleague at McMaster General Hospital, he is examining the possibility that March 2010 - Issue 1

the blood brain barrier contributes to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's Disease.

In addition, Dr. Jeynes is a medical ethicist. Medical ethics may as well be the law behind medical practice and research, and is directly related to the decisions made in diagnosis, medical treatment and lifestyle treatment of diseases. Currently, a particular bioethical debate is concerned with the invention of a 'smart pill'. Will it reshape civilization in the future, positively impacting one’s intellect? Dr. Jeynes is concerned with the impact this ‘smart pill’ will have on “personhood and individuality.” Surely, he

believes, manipulating someone's personhood ultimately leads to the infringement of his or her rights – the right to personhood.

Dr. Jeynes teaches: CHSC 2F95 Human Anatomy CHSC 4P95 Principles of Pathology

8

cations associated with contraband, this inexpensive tobacco is also a health issue. Why? Well, contraband tobacco has the potential to undermine public health strategies we have to prevent teens from initiating smoking and assist young adult and adult smokers to quit smoking. For example, higher taxes on cigarettes, bans on tobacco advertising, restrictions on who can be sold tobacco, Meagan Barkans and graphic warnings on cigarette packs are all undermined when cheap (untaxed) cigarettes can be contraband. purchased in unmarked packs or bags from sellers who do not follow

In Canada contraband to- regulations about advertising, sales bacco includes: 1) illegally manu- and warning labels. The availability factured tobacco products 2) tobac- of cheap tobacco reduces cost-barco products smuggled into Canada riers that prevent youth from startfrom international sources 3) ciga- ing to smoke and give adults more rettes obtained through theft and reason to quit. criminal activity 4) counterfeit cigarettes and 5) untaxed (cheap) ciga- Indeed, a 2009 article in rettes purchased from First Nations the Canadian Medical Associareserves by non-Native individu- tion Journal reported that Canadian als. In Ontario, ‘Native cigarettes’ youth are using contraband tobacco. are the most common form of con- The study found that 21.8% of curtraband tobacco.1 Because Native rent daily smokers in grades 9 to cigarettes are cheap and accessible, 12 identified First Nations/Native many people buy these cigarettes cigarettes as their usual brand.2 It without even realizing they are also determined that these Native breaking the law! cigarettes smokers had higher consumption rates compared to other Why contraband tobacco is a daily smokers. As for adults, in health issue 2007 Physicians for a Smoke-Free Canada released a report estimat Aside from the legal ramifi- ing the size of the contraband tobacco market at 40% of total ciga-

Check Out These Butts

Cigarette butts that is. More than 36,000 of them

Between March and April 2009, discarded cigarette butts were collected from the grounds of 25 post-secondary institutions in Ontario. Far from a garbage pick-up, these butts were collected with a research purpose in mind- to determine if post-secondary students in the province are using contraband tobacco.

Contraband tobacco

In simple terms contraband tobacco is cheap, illegal tobacco.

A more official definition from the RCMP states contraband tobacco is any product that does not comply with the requirements of all federal and provincial laws.1 In other words, if the laws regulating the manufacturing, packaging or distribution processes are broken, or if appropriate taxes or duties aren’t charged, the tobacco is illegal; it is 9

to categorize it according to their So what? filter-tip logo...Huh?

The results demonstrate

To explain, legal cigarettes that in fact some post-secondary have logos on the filters; contraband students are using illegal tobacco. cigarettes have either no logo or one This is concerning as the possibilthat RCMP records have identified ity exists that of those students usas contraband. ing contraband tobacco there might be some who would not be smoking

Based on information ob- if only fully taxed cigarettes were tained from the RCMP (and a few available. other sources) collected butts were sorted into three categories: 1) le- Based on research done in gal cigarettes 2) contraband Native adult and youth populations it is cigarettes (such as Putters, DK’s, also likely that these illegal tobacSago and unlabelled), and 3) un- co users are heavier smokers who known (that is, butts that couldn’t are less inclined to quit, compared Contraband tobacco on post-sec- be identified because they were to students who use legal tobacco. burnt, squished etc.). The propor- This is important information for ondary campuses in Ontario tion of cigarette butts that were con- health professionals to keep in mind

Collection of 36,000 plus traband/Native was then calculated so they can ensure that cessation adcigarette butts occurred at 12 uni- for each school. vice is tailored to meet the unique versities and 13 colleges. At each needs of contraband tobacco users. school, unlucky butt collectors- out- What did the results reveal? fitted with protective clothing- gath In the future, professionals Contraband use was appar- who are implementing strategies ered samples from four smoking lo- cations: 1) near the student building/ ent on all campuses, but varied con- aimed at reducing smoking in this university centre; 2) on the grounds siderably from school to school. In age group- including health proof the campus pub; 3) at an on- fact, data suggest that contraband motion messages, tobacco control campus, high-traffic bus stop; and Native cigarettes account for as policies and smoking cessation pro4) near a campus residence. They little as 1% to as much as 33% of grams will want to consider this coemptied butt receptacles or picked the total cigarette consumption at hort’s use of illegal tobacco. discarded butts off the ground, plac- any particular school! The highest ing all butts into large plastic con- proportion of contraband was found Further research is needed in on campuses in the Northern part of order to expand on the knowledge tainers.

Ontario. At colleges and Universi- attained through this study, though

Then came the truly disgust- ties in this (Niagara) region, about the present researcher assures you ing part! Researchers visually ex- 9.6% of the butts collected were she will not be doing any more studamined every single butt in order contraband/Native cigarettes. ies of this sort- no ifs, ands or butts! rette sales in Ontario.3 A 2009 study published in the journal Society for the Study of Addiction found that 25.8% of those Ontarians surveyed had purchased one or more packs of cigarettes from a reserve in the past 6 months.4 The same study also found that people who had recently purchased Native cigarettes were heavier smokers with lower intentions of quitting. So adults are using contraband tobacco and youth are using contraband tobacco but what about young adults? In order to answer that question we need to go back to that butt study.

March 2010 - Issue 1

10

Neglected Diseases

Poverty and illness out of sight Brent Gilliard

Approximately 600 million people worldwide are infected with small intestinal parasites that feed on human blood, called hookworms (Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale). The resulting blood loss can be so severe it causes anaemia, negatively affecting children’s growth, education, and future economic productivity. Importantly, there are safe, effective treatments for hookworm infection, yet we do not have the situation under control.1

This can be explained mostly due to the fact that hookworm infection is just one of several neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Of the poorest billion people in the world, almost all have at least one NTD.2 Collectively, they reduce child health, hinder education, reduce productivity, disrupt social ties, and impose steep costs for medical care. These diseases thrive in conditions of poverty, and they trap people in it. The symptoms of NTDs are diverse, including anaemia, blindness, disfigurement, organ damage, severe itching, pain, and diarrhea (Table 1). What they share is a high burden of disability and low mortality rate.2,3

The resources marshalled against NTDs have been too few despite the billion or more people with these diseases. They have a collective burden of disability in excess of better-known diseases such as malaria or tuberculosis, but investment and even awareness have been stymied by the nature of NTDs. Most are not threats to wealthy nations, because they are tied to tropical environments and do not travel well, so there is very little self-interested investment by these governments or pharmaceutical corporations. Even within affected nations, NTDs are concentrated in marginalized populations where 11

they disable, rather than kill. Cashstrapped developing nations tend to focus on visible, highly fatal diseases like HIV/AIDS. Unfortunately, the stigma attached to some NTDs means that they are neglected by even neighbours and family members.4,5

Fortunately, many NTDs might be controlled or eliminated for as little as fifty cents per person per year.2 Mass drug administration, the treatment of entire populations with safe drugs, has proven effective and affordable for several NTDs. The drugs are often donated by multinational pharmaceutical corporations.

(Not to look a gift horse in the mouth, but these are the same corporations that neglect new research and development.) When communities are trained to manage their own treatment programs the local health systems are strengthened and more people can be treated at lower cost. The burden of NTDs is already falling in some countries, thanks to successful interventions. The immediate challenge, therefore, is not developing new treatments; it is brining existing treatments to the people who need them.2,5

Despite remarkably low costs per person, NTDs are so widespread – remember, at least one billion people are affected – that $2-3 billion in financial assistance is needed in the short term to address the most important NTDs alone. This figure does not include the long term costs of managing NTDs. In addition to fundraising, there is also significant organizational work to be done; each disease and local health system is unique.2 Bringing NTD control to every person in the world is not a simple task, but it is a manageable task. It promises a tremendous return on investment by breaking a vicious cycle of disease and poverty for a billion people.

Table 1.

SEVEN MOST IMPORTANT NTDs2 Parasite Estimated Global Prevalence hookworm

600 million

ascariasis

800 million

trichuriasis

600 million

lymphatic filariasis

120 million

schistosomiasis

200 million

trachoma

84 million

onchocerciasis

37 million

Interested in joining the Brock Health team?

Contact us at: brockuhealth@gmail.com

Neural Interfaces

Exactly as creepy as it sounds

In our modern world, it’s hard to believe that anything is impossible anymore. Decades ago, mind control was something read in a fiction novel or seen on television and film. However, in recent years, it has become a reality for many.

Though nothing as extravagant as freely moving objects (yet), those with paralysis and amputations have and will benefit from a technology known as neural interface systems (NIS), also known as brainmachine interface (BMI) or bionics.

Research on this relatively young technology is being developed in an effort to return accessibility to individuals with missing or damaged appendages. It helps to restore control, communication, and independence to those individuals with paralysis when the motor control structures are disconnected from muscle output.1

Singha Chanthanatham the brain to the target muscle. Anticipation of potential errors occurring will need to be considered in the design of the system in order to predict and prevent any possibility of misinterpreted movement, such as a slip of a handgrip. In a damaged brain this would produce a significant dilemma seeing as the initial intended movement might not be the most direct one. It requires a buffer for translation to extend the signal to the limb. The ultimate goal of this buffering can lead to a beneficial improvement in speed and accuracy, reaching a more natural, nearly unconscious level of use.2

One of the first times this exciting advancement was demonstrated was in a study conducted in North Carolina on primates, sparking lots of interest. Two female monkeys were attached to computers using multiple array chips and

This amazing technology wires to both hemispheres of the detects neural signals from the in- brain. They were given simple tasks dividual’s brain, and translates the to perform using their connection, desired action from thought into an the primary one being grabbing interpreted, physical movement, ex- and gripping a pole with a specified actly the same way it occurs with a amount of force. They successfully natural body part. It bypasses mus- performed their tasks after previcles and damaged neural structures ously being trained to do so without between the brain and new pros- the NIS setup.3 thetic as though it were controlling a phantom of the original limb. In Current applications of a paralysing spinal cord injury, an this, like cochlear implants for the individual would be given an NIS deaf, are already available to those device , similar to a computer chip who have the resources available embedded on the brain, that reads to them. In the near future, assismotor cortex signals to control the tive technology in other forms of activity of a prosthetic extremity, impairment will also begin to rise. and returning feedback to the sen- Tasks such as speech assistance to sory cortex in the brain to allow for those who, literally, no longer have a control of a robotic limb. voice or even artificial vision for the blind are highly possible. Whatever

The fundamental process the possibilities, this complex techof this high-tech machinery is the nology requires stability in comtranslation of the brain’s intention in munication between man and the the communication pathways from physical machinery. Recent studies March 2010 - Issue 1

For more information on NIS, check out a great article in the January 2010 issue of National Geographic Magazine, titled Bionics.

Five Ways to Pass!

CHSC 2P27 according to Singha

1.

Know all Study Designs at all levels, including any details (biases, strengths etc.)

2. Ask questions when you’re confused…really, especially about your SSP. 3. Attend and contribute in all seminars. It can make a HUGE impact; trust me.

4. Note what the prof says is important and UNDERLINE it, then HIGHLIGHT it!

5. Study those notes in full for your midterm and exam...bribing won’t work. have shown that the technology has substantially improved in accuracy and feedback, providing more fluid communication and hope to those who need it most.4,5 Individuals who are physically unable to perform tasks, but are still cognitively intact, will have the opportunity to regain their independence through one of the most technologically advanced means in the medical field.

12

Nanomagnets Cancer Cured?

Shahla A. Grewal

The exciting field of magnetic nanoparticles is really picking up speed these days. The possibility of treating cancer through nanomagnets (hyperthermia and direct drug delivery) is slowly but surely materializing.

The idea behind this approach is to artificially induce hyperthermia with the nanomagnets to kill cancer cells. This technology began in the late 1950s when Gilchrist et al at St. Luke’s Hospital in Chicago heated various tissue samples with 20-100 nm size particles of iron oxide.2 It has improved since then and will continue improving in the future.

they are non -specific. Therapeutic drugs are typically administered intravenously, being distributed throughout the body. This results in deleterious side-effects as the drug attacks normal, healthy cells in addition to the target cancerous cells.

In magnetically targeted therapy, a cytotoxic drug is attached to a bio This interesting procedure compatible magnetic nanoparticle works through dispersing magnetic carrier. These drug/carrier complexnanoparticles, which are about a es—usually in the form of a biobillionth-of-a-meter, throughout the compatible ferrofluid—are injected target tissue and then applying an into the patient via the circulatory AC magnetic field with a set amount system.2 of strength and frequency (which varies by tissue type) to heat up the When the particles have particles. This heat, with a therapeu- entered the bloodstream, external tic threshold of 42˚C for 30 minutes high-gradient magnetic fields are or more, penetrates the immediately used to concentrate the complex at a surrounding tissue, killing the can- specific target site within the body. cerous cells.2 Once the drug/carrier is concentrated at the target, the drug can be re Indeed, Janet Raloff, senior leased either via enzymatic activity editor of ScienceNews, has called or changes in physiological condithese nanomagnets “highly local- tions such as pH or temperature, and ized space heaters”.1 This heat treat- be taken up by the tumour cells.2 ment is quite advantageous for killing these cancerous cells because MagForce Nanotechnolonot only are cancer cells much more gies (Berlin), one of the companies sensitive to heat, but radiation and at the forefront of this technology, chemotherapy tend to have a greater is exploring this idea of ‘killing effect on heat-treated cells.1 two birds with one stone”. In other words, heat treat the malignancies

Direct drug delivery is anoth- in the body and at the same time deer aspect of nanomagnet technology liver drugs directly to the tumours.1 currently under development. The Through direct delivery of drugs, major disadvantage of most chemo- the side effects of traditional chetherapy interventions today is that motherapies would be largely by13

passed.

One of the current advanced clinical trials is studying approximately 65 patients with late-stage recurrent glioblastoma multiforme brain cancer. Currently, the survival rate is approximately seven months, however, with this procedure they are hoping to increase it by at least three more months if not more.1

It is worth noting that not all of the work in this field appears in the scientific literature, but rather kept hidden in company patents or on the down low until commercialization of this technology is legally approved and full blown.3 So, for at least the next couple of months or years, the growth of such companies should be observed closely.

All in all, this field is emerging and the future looks bright for the end of these vicious diseases.

Whether it be now or a hundred years from now I believe cancer will be cured and that shining knight may very well be nanomagnetic technology.

Brock Heart Institute

Helping Hearts Steve Demetriades

Although we rarely hear about students making a difference in our community, Brock students are extremely important in the success of many community projects throughout Niagara both through Brock initiatives and individually.

Students donate their time and energy to help and improve the lives of others within our community. One specific community project occurs at the Brock University Heart Institute (BUHI) located on Lockhart Drive at the base of the Glenridge hill. Within this Institute, desperately needed cardiac rehabilitation takes place in an environment that is extremely unique for volunteers, staff and members.

attention towards the members that keeps many of them coming back and makes the facility more than just a place for them to do their exercises. Peter, a member for over a year, says that the Institute has a great atmosphere and great people.

“The volunteers really help make this place great. The atmosphere and friendliness really makes it easy to come back week after week” explains Peter. Brandon, a master’s student who prescribes exercises to new and existing members, states that research shows that only around 1/3 of people who begin treatment with exercise continue after 6 months. At the Institute he says this number is much higher due to the development of strong relation Along with the main focus ships between staff, members and being on cardiac rehabilitation, a volunteers. large part of the institute is centered on building relationships between The need for volunteers is members, volunteers, and staff. only expected to grow in the future.

They have created an atmosphere Within the Niagara Region alone, that is friendly, welcoming and there are over 4500 people who makes you want to return. This ex- need cardiac rehabilitation and only perience is invaluable for students 600 spots in the Niagara Health Sysin that it helps give faces to the sta- tem. The Brock University Heart tistics that you learn in class. Dr. Institute is in a perfect position to Brent Faught, a coordinator of the help take some of the pressure off BUHI, says that besides the academ- and provide life changing servicic aspect of the Institute he hopes es to people who may otherwise that students learn to appreciate the never get the treatment they need. knowledge that can be gained from With only 50 members currently the members. “You can get another enrolled at the Heart Institute and education at the Institute” says Dr. a maximum capacity of around 400 Faught. This education goes beyond the room for growth is thrilling to books and statistics and can only be all involved. This is a place where gained by listening to the personal everyone involved gains more than experiences of the members you in- they expect. teract with.

For students interested in

The main role of the stu- volunteering, the Heart Institute can dent volunteers is to be there for be reached by email at: the members, to help with exercises, recording results, taking pulses heartinstitute@brocku.ca and most importantly talking to the members. It is the personal time and March 2010 - Issue 1

Five Ways to Pass!

CHSC 2P91

according to Phuc

1. Attend lectures regularly for consistent learning.

2. Complete the weekly e-seminars as those marks will add up and will pay off in the end.

3. Start the Dietary Analysis early so you can earn the best mark possible!

4. Be attentive during lectures so you can absorb the class material quicker.

5. Last...but certainly not least...prepare and study for midterms in advance!

14

Prescription Drug Abuse

What’s really going on?

OxyContin. Prozac. Ritalin. For most of us, these aren’t your typical everyday items. However, popularized by every imaginable media outlet, be it from chastising celebrities or new health care technologies, prescription drugs and their abuse are increasing. If taken as directed by the doctor or physician, prescription drugs can offer relief and positive reinforcement. On the other hand, when not taken for the intended use, they pose certain dangers and hazardous consequences.

Shirin Pilakka ADHD. In healthy individuals, this leads to feelings of increased energy and capacity to do work explaining the strong tendency of students to abuse this drug.

In today’s world of instant coffee and fast-food it’s not surprising that the Internet, with its immediate access to virtually everything, has become an easy source for obtaining drugs. The FDA has identified between 200 and 400 Internet pharmacies, as well as other websites where drugs were accessible

Abuse of prescribed drugs is with a click of a mouse.2 What’s defined as “use that occurs without more, only a mere six percent of a physician’s prescription, in greater those websites required a valid preamounts than prescribed, and/or for scription. reasons other than indicated by the prescribing physician.”1

Possibly the most underestimated or disregarded source of

Among the most commonly prescription drug is the immediabused prescription drugs are opi- ate family. It is much easier to oboids, antidepressants, and stimu- tain a prescribed drug if the history lants. According to a recent report, of psychiatric distress is already for the first time opiates displaced available.4 Either deliberately or by marijuana to become the new illicit mistake, the immediate family is drug of choice.6 Opiates (e.g. Oxy- the main source of easy access to Contin) undergo considerable first- prescription drugs. Guardians must pass metabolism in the liver result- take responsibility of drug monitoring in about 15-30% bioavailability ing, even in private settings, to minwith onset taking place within 15 imize abuse of prescription drugs. minutes.7 Because of this, patients normally ingest more than the re- Nonmedicinal use of prequired amounts to achieve initial scription drugs has increased due to euphoric effects. its accessibility, increased effects, and lack of particular details. As

Antidepressants (e.g. Prozac with anything else, prior to using and Zoloft) are observed to induce prescribed drugs, consumers should excessive CNS stimulation. While be informed and involved in their the onset of action is slow, they have therapy, understand associated risks long-lasting effects. A lesser recog- and consequences, as well as proper nized trend is the non-medicinal use instructions by a certified physician. of psychostimulants (e.g. Ritalin) normally used to treat patients with Compton and Volkow have 15

Five Ways to Pass!

BIOL 3P30 according to Brent

1.

Be specific! Generalities and ambiguities will not pass.

2. Learn the experiments that show basic principles (there are no labs).

3. Do the readings before lecture.

4. Go to lecture because the slides are only outlines.

5. Keep up; each week builds on the last. studied and followed the changes in prevalence of drug use and abuse in recent studies and state, future scientific work on prescription drug abuse will include identification of clinical practices that minimize the risk of addiction, the development of guidelines for early detection and management of addiction, and the development of clinically effective agents that minimize the risks of abuse.3

Exercise Motivation Mind Over Matter Michael Carrigan

Have you ever looked at yourself and thought perhaps you should exercise more? Do you ever put your jeans on in the morning to find that they are a little too snug?

When a friend of yours invites you to run with them would you prefer to stay in and watch TV? You need motivation to get you up and moving, though often this is hard to produce. Here are some helpful tips to get you moving in the right direction.

I have found that a positive attitude can go a long way when contemplating exercise. If you want to feel and look healthier then you will be more obliged to exercise.

Remember, exercising requires both mental and physical endurance, so if you can fight the urge to relax, that is half the battle. Once you begin to exercise you will feel healthier and more confident. The will to exercise will increase because you have felt its positive effects.

If you find yourself stressed out from work and studying, physical exertion is an excellent way to relieve it. According to Cotman, Berchtold, and Christie, “This will stimulate brain activity and is recognised to increase memory and learning capacity, further protecting from neural degeneration and the alleviation of depression and stress.”1 By exercising you can relieve stress and simultaneously stimulate your brain so that when you return to study or work, you will retain more knowledge than if you had not exercised.

If you find that what would typically be a long enough sleep does not make you feel rested or it takes a long time for you to fall asleep at night, exercise can increase March 2010 - Issue 1

the depth and effect sleep takes. A study done on athletes by the Journal of Adolescent Health reported a higher quality of sleep, shorter sleep onset, fewer awakenings during the night and higher concentration during the day.2 Having a regulated sleep pattern will reflect a positive outlook on life, study and work, in addition to higher attentiveness and healthiness.

If the idea of running on a treadmill and staring at your watch discourages you from exercising then try something innovative. Take a trip somewhere like Chinguacousy Hill in Brampton and try skiing or snowboarding. These places offer classes once a week for beginners and are a great way to embrace the Canadian winters. If cold, wet snow is not your forte then perhaps a dance class in jazz or salsa will get your feet moving. This way, you will be exercising and learning a new skill as well. For something local and free, try going for a walk around the scenic Brock campus in the spring.

Try participating in something active every other day for three weeks. Although it may hurt for some time, once you get into the habit, you will soon look forward to making your body and mind healthier.

Exercising does not have to be an aggravating task; it should be a positive experience. It will increase your attentiveness, make your body and mind healthier and give you a better attitude and self-image.

HOT HEADLINES! “Health-care staff close to burnout, study finds” Katelyn Cullen Researchers say excessive demands on hospital staff and managers, and a culture of urgency, are fuelling stress and absenteeism

The fact that one in three hospital employees are at risk of burnout suggests that it is time for hospitals to start caring for their employees, in addition to caring for their patients. The demands faced by hospital employees appear to be taking excessive tolls on their mental and physical health, with over half of the respondents reporting sleeping less, and 18% saying they had used alcohol or prescription drugs as stress relievers. Insufficient amounts of rest and use of drugs or alcohol can certainly hinder the performance ability of an employee during their following shift, which could ultimately jeopardize the safety of a patient. Implementation of a health care policy seems beneficial for employees, as it would provide them with the appropriate amount of time needed to rest and recuperate from an extensive shift, thus improving their performance and general state of health. It is questionable whether to allow an employee that faces such high demands, stress and work overload, to continue a shift past a specified number of hours – or to apply a regulation that limits the number of hours clocked, and enforces a time of recuperation.

16

Designer Babies

Build a Baby Hind El-Hussein

How far would one go to create the “trophy” child? Imagine a build-a-bear store filled with different shapes, sizes, colours and even stuffing’s to create your “perfect” bear. Now imagine the same concept except replace stuffed bears with human babies.This idea comes from a medical procedure known as pre-implantation genetic diagnosis, or PGD. PGD has been used for medical purposes to avert life threatening genetic disorders in children. Briefly, a three day old embryo that consists approximately six to eight cells are examined for genetic diseases, and the cells free of any disease are implanted back into the mother’s womb.1

This highlights the potential benefits of PGD. For example, frequently diagnosed disorders include cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, Huntington’s disease and myotonic dystrophy. But the advances in science are not limited to avoiding certain traits; it is now also possible to pick and choose certain traits (analogous to build-a-bear store). For example, parents could choose to have a green eyed, blonde hair daughter.

To do this, first, a woman’s eggs are fertilized with sperm in a lab, creating several embryos. Then a single cell is removed from each embryo and tested for biomarkers associated for female gender, green eyes and blonde hair. Finally, only embryos with the biomarkers for the required traits are placed in the woman’s womb. The procedure guarantees that the child will be female, and increases the probability of having green eyes and blonde hair.2

back? Do you take legal action?

It seems foolish, but believe it or not a couple in Utah are taking legal action towards the University of Utah medical centre for allegedly using the sperm of a donor, other than one they had originally selected. The mother gave birth to three healthy triplets, but claimed that if they had used donor #183 as opposed to #83 the children would have turned out better looking, and this caused her severe emotional distress. The judge ruled there was not enough evidence of emotional distress or bodily harm and the couple lost the case. 3

This is a clear example of parental control and the idea of creating the perfect child. The idea that all is wanted is a healthy baby no matter what he or she may look like, has been diminished. These parents are only being selfish and forgetting what is best for the child, and looking for personal gain. Just like we have created genetically engineered foods, crops and animals, it is inevitable that genetically engineered babies will be coming up in the next decade. The fact is that parents will always want what is best for their children. But does designing a child take it too far? Are parents now only feeding their own desires? On one hand, it reduces the chances of a baby being born with several serious diseases. On the other hand, there is a sense of playing God. The level of biodiversity will cease to exist, and there will be discrimination towards anyone who appears different. Furthermore, parents who decide their children’s traits, eliminates what the child has to say about his or her life.

HOT HEADLINES! “Sale of junk food to be banned in Ontario schools” Jacey Allardyce A ban effective the first day of school in 2011 on the sale of junk food in schools is intended to target the rise in childhood obesity Although this proposal is being met with mixed reviews, the regulation of foods sold in schools is an example of a preventative health care approach instead of addressing the issue of obesity when it is too late and more costly to the Canadian health care system. People may feel that this is some type of privacy invasion but students are still permitted to bring in their own lunches and having healthier options at school may inspire students to request healthier choices from their homes.

Addressing obesity and the negative repercussions that can occur will no doubt save money in the long run.

bate concerning this area. Genetic engineering is complex, and knowing that one mistake can alter the lives of many should tell us this is not something to play around with.

However, what happens We never know. Mutations can lead when you order a blonde hair and to new diseases and viruses. We green eyed baby, and you’re de- The moral and ethical issues must stop trying to control everylivered a brown hair and browned of this new technology are still not thing and take the world for what it eyed baby? Do you get your money defined and there is an ongoing de- is.

17

Making it all Possible

ing, opening 5 pharmacies in 2009 alone; bringing our total number of pharmacies in Ontario to 47.

Sobeys Inc. is proud to be a Canadian company originating in the early 1900’s on the East Coast, in Stellarton, Nova Scotia. The company’s success is built on the strong ideals of three generations of Atlantic Canadian entrepreneurs and is now driven by thousands of people across this country.

Currently Sobeys Inc. has stores in 10 provinces and is continually reaching out to more communities in Canada every year. In the 1980’s, Sobeys expanded into Ontario.

Sobeys Pharmacy offers great service at a very competitive price. Our pharmacists are efficient, very knowledgeable, have a large number of resources at their fingertips. There are a number of services available through our PROfile Program – AutoFill Plus (an automatic prescription refill service), Pill Pack Plus (your medication organized in weekly blister packs), personal medication reviews, monthly information clinics, and many more. We are pleased to make time to spend with you; answering your questions

Sobeys Inc. opened a new grocery store in St. Catharines last summer at 343 Glendale Avenue, just minutes away from Brock University. This Sobeys store is unique as it is the first store in the Niagara Region equipped with a full service pharmacy. Sobeys Pharmacy Group is not new; we have over 220 pharmacies belonging to our group throughout Canada. Sobeys Pharmacy in Ontario is rapidly expand-

SUDOKU!

March 2010 - Issue 1

Five Ways to Pass!

CHSC 3P21 according to Shahla

1.

Make sure you do all the readings before going to class because this class acts as your seminar as well 2. Don’t leave your news summaries till the last minute as it really defeats the purpose 3. Have fun with your group presentations, no one likes a paper-reader 4. Participate! Participate!

Participate! Even if your shy or think your point is lame, it might be really interesting to someone else 5. Talk and discuss with people you don’t know, great things like Brock Health originated from doing this last point!

and addressing your health concerns.

Since opening its doors, Sobeys Manager, Mel Raimondo and Sobeys Pharmacy Manager, Kerri O’Kane have been busy supporting Brock University by hosting fundraising barbeques, donating food to off campus living, contributing door prizes for select events, giving away gift certificates and most recently as a Platinum Sponsor to this new and exciting magazine, Brock Health. We are happy to be working with the Brock University Community and look forward to further building the relationship in the years to come.

We welcome you to come in and visit our pharmacy to see how our services may benefit you. Pharmacy hours are 9 am – 9 pm Monday through Friday, 9 am – 6 pm on Saturdays and 11 am – 6 pm on Sundays. The grocery store is open 24 hours a day to serve the community.

SUDOKU!

18

Hot Headlines!

“Diabetes Huge Problem on Canadian Reserves” Colin Horne Diabetes is spiralling out of control among aboriginal Canadians, with women being alarmingly affected, a new study of more than 90,000 people shows.

As is well known when discussing aboriginal Canadians, the transition from a traditional and cultural lifestyle to a more sedentary one has created devastating health affects in aboriginal communities and raised many concerns for their health. With current conditions worsening by the year, changes must be made in order to help young aboriginal women most at risk of developing diabetes.

Our current healthcare policies need to acknowledge the unique situation and needs of aboriginal Canadians and in particular aboriginal women, emphasizing preventative care strategies for areas and ages most at risk.

By adjusting the accessibility to our healthcare and healthcare professionals in northern regions, many at risk aboriginal women would be able to gain the necessary education to reverse this worsening trend.

“U.S. links bisphenol-A to health risk”

we would be more aware of issues like these, especially since BPA can be found in many common household items. There is still debate as to whether it is actually harmful or not but research has proven it to be harmful in animals. In my opinion, the fact that it is even remotely controversial is enough for me to think it should be eliminated from production. This issue also makes people wonder about the government and whether there should be more policies and regulations in place to help prevent issues like this from happening in the future. BPA is found in many things that we come into contact with on a daily basis. This causes one to question what else we are exposed to frequently that could slowly be affecting our health that we aren’t even aware of? ? Did the government drop the ball when it comes to policies to prevent the mass manufacturing of potentially harmful substances?

“For sale: 1 farmhouse, great views, a bit smelly” Dan Harasymiw A century-old farmhouse included in Toronto's purchase of its new landfill site will be sold off

Toronto's garbage problem is becoming a big issue that is raisGillian McDonald ing the question “what will we do with all of our garbage after curIn a shift of position, the U.S. Food rent landfills are full?” Constantly and Drug Administration is express- buying more land just to find new ing concerns about possible health places to dump our garbage is not a risks from bisphenol-A, or BPA, a smart or economical way to spend widely used component of plastic tax payer money. Eventually there bottles and food packaging that it will be no more room and events declared safe in 2008.. such as these where peoples’ houses and good farmlands, will be turned The fact that bisphenol-A (BPA) - into a “waste of space”, no pun insuch a commonly found substance tended. The government and busi- has the potential to be detrimen- nesses should look at ways to introtal to one’s health is alarming. You duce policies which can be filtered would think that in this day and age down into individuals’ lives, with 19

the idea of creating less garbage, becoming more green, and finding a more sustainable way to deal with our garbage instead of harming the environment by finding sanctioned areas to pollute our earth. This way we will ensure that for generations to come there is an earth and environment that everyone can enjoy.

“Forget cellphones. Talking distracts drivers, study finds” Katelyn Cullen Research discovers dramatic decrease in comprehension for drivers This study found that driving a vehicle affects how well someone talks or understands what is being said to them. With such attention being placed on the use of cell phones while driving, it’s no wonder that further investigations are taking place that study similar distractions - which may also hinder one’s ability to concentrate while behind the wheel of a moving vehicle. This article raises questions as to the number of passengers a driver should be allowed to cargo, when each additional passenger can apparently increase the distraction felt by the driver. If a policy, which limits the number of passengers allowed in a vehicle were enforced, should this be done among all age groups, or should this solely be limited to the new and often less experienced drivers? It is believed that a passenger limit would be quite difficult to enforce, especially with the manufacturing of larger vehicles that have the ability to hold up to seven people – as well as the notion that good drivers are able to concentrate on their driving and allow the other things they are doing at the same time to suffer.

Trans Fats: Is Canada Doing Enough?

by Vicky Horner

1. Friesen R, Innis SM. Trans fatty acids in human milk in Canada declined with the introduction of trans fat food labeling. J Nutr. 2006;136(10):2558-2561.

2. Stender S, Dyerberg J. Influence of trans fatty acids on health. Ann Nutr Metab. 2004;48(2):61-6.

3. Health Canada. Food and Nutrition. [cited 2009 March 14] Available at: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/nutrition/reference/table/index-eng.php.

4. Stender S, Dyerberg J, Astrup A. Consumer protection through a legislative ban on industrially produced trans fatty acids in foods in Denmark. Scand J Food Nutr.

2006;50(4):155-160.

5. Trans Fat Task Force. Transforming the food supply. Health Canada 2006. Available at: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/ nutrition/gras-trans-fats/tf-ge/tf-gt_rep-rap-eng.php.

6. Ricciuto L, Lin K, Tarasuk V. A comparison of the fat composition and prices of margarines between 2002 and 2006, when new Canadian labelling regulations came into effect.

Public Health Nutr. 2009;12(8):1270-5.

7. Mossoba MM, MilosevicV, Milosevic, M, Kramer JK, Azizian, H. Determination of total trans fats and oils by infrared spectroscopy for regulatory compliance. Anal Bioanal Chem.

2007;389(1):87-92.

8. Malla S, Hobbs JE, Perger O. Estimating the health care savings from trans fat-free canola in Canada. Acta Agriculturae Scand Section C, 2005;2:175-184.

Stress, It’s a Killer by Yumna Ahmed

(1) Hunt SL, Simon SL, Wisocki P. An examination of physical health and coping styles associated with symptoms of generalized anxiety. Psychology Journal 2007;4(1):15-27.

(2) Shih JH, Eberhart NK. Understanding the impact of prior depression on stress generation: examining the roles of current depressive symptoms and interpersonal behaviours. Br J Psychol 2008;99(3),413-426.

(3) Tan YM, Goh KL, Muhidayah R, Ooi CL, Salem O. Prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome in young adult Malaysians: a survey among medical students. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2003;18(12):1412-1416.

(4) Glaser, R., Kiecolt-Glaser, JK. Stress-induced immune dysfunction: implications for health. Nat Rev Immunol 2005;5(3):243-51.

Food Deserts by Brent Gilliard

1. Miller, E. J. (2006). Transportation and communication. In T. Bunting, & P. Filion (Eds.), Canadian cities in transition (Third ed., pp. 103-122). Toronto: Oxford University Press.

2. Docherty, I., Giuliano, G., & Houston, D. (2008). Connected cities. In R. Knowles, J. Shaw & I. Docherty (Eds.), Transport geographies: Mobilities, flows and spaces (pp. 83-101). Oxford: Blackwell Publishing Ltd. 3. Kirkup, M., De Kervenoael, R., Hallsworth, A., Clarke, I., Jackson, P., & Perez del Aguila, R. (2004). Inequalities in retail choice: Exploring consumer experiences in suburban neighbourhoods. International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, 32(11), 511-522.

4. Region of Waterloo Public Health. (2004). A glance at access to food. Retrieved October 10, 2008, from http://bit. ly/4Jf2a4 5. Whelan, A., Wrigley, N., Warm, D., & Cannings, E. (2002).

Life in a ‘food desert’. Urban Studies, 39(11), 2083-2100.

6. World Health Organization. (2004). Global strategy on diet, physical activity and healthWorld Health Organization. Retrieved from http://bit.ly/7GXKjt 7. St John, M., Durant, M., Campagna, P.D., Rehman, L.A., Thompson, A.M., Wadsworth, L.A., Murphy, R.J. (2008). Overweight Nova Scotia children and youth: the roles of household income and adherence to Canada’s Food Guide to Healthy Eating. Can J Public Health, 99(4), 301-306.

8. Power, E. M. (2005). The determinants of healthy eating among low-income Canadians. The Office of Nutrition Policy and Promotion. Health Canada.

Nanomagnets by Shahla Grewal

1. J. Raloff. Fatal Attraction: Nanomagnets tackle disease.

ScienceNews. August 16th, 2008. Volume 174, Issue no. Pg. 5-6 2. Q. Pankhurst, J. Connolly, S. Jones and J. Dobson. Topical Review: Applications of magnetic nanoparticles in biomedicine. J. Phys. D: Appl. Physics. 36 (2003) R167–R181.

3. Q. Pankhurst, N. Thanh, S. Jones and J Dobson. Topical Review: Progress in applications of magnetic nanoparticles in biomedicine. J. Phys. D: Appl. Physics. 42 (2009) 224001.

Contraband Tabacco by Meagan Barkans

1. Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Contraband tobacco enforcement strategy. 2008. Available at http://www.rcmp-grc. gc.ca/ce-da/tobacco-tabac-strat-2008-eng.htm.

Accessed 19/12, 2008.

2. Callaghan RC, Veldhuizen S, Letherdale S, Murnaghan D, Manske S. Use of contraband cigarettes among adolescent daily smokers in Canada. Can Med Assoc J. 2009;181(6-7):384-6.

3. Physicians for a Smoke-Free Canada. Estimating the vol-

March 2010 - Issue 1

References

ume of contraband sales of tobacco in Canada. 2008. Available at: http://www.smoke-free.ca/pdf_1/EstimatesofContraband-2008.pdf. Accessed 05/02, 2009.

4. Luk R, Cohen JE, Ferrence R, McDonald PW, Schwartz R, Bondy SJ. Prevalence and correlates of purchasing contraband cigarettes on First Nations reserves in Ontario, Canada 2009;104(3):488-95.

Neglected Diseases by Brent Gilliard

1. Bethony J, Brooker S, Albonico M, Geiger SM, Loukas A, Diemert D, & Hotez PJ. Soil-transmitted helminth infections: ascariasis, trichuriasis, and hookworm. Lancet 2006;367(9521):1521-32.

2. Hotez PJ, Fenwick A, Savioli L, Molyneux DH. Rescuing the bottom billion through control of neglected tropical diseases.

Lancet 2009;373(9674):1570-1575.

3. Ribera JM, Grietens KP, Toomer E, Hausmass-Muela S. A word of caution against the stigma trend in tropical disease research and control. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2009;3(10):e445.

4. World Health Organization. Neglected tropical diseases: hidden successes, emerging opportunities. 2006; Available at: http://whqlibdoc.who.int/hq/2006/WHO_CDS_NTD_2006.2_ eng.pdf 5. Savioli, L. A letter from the director. World Health Organization [cited 2010 January 8]; Available from: http://www.who. int/neglected_diseases/director/en/index.html

Neural Interfaces by Singha Chanthanatham

1. Donoghue JP. Bridging the Brain to the World: A Perspective on Neural Interface Systems. Neuron 2008 11/6;60(3):511-521.

2. Patil PG, Turner DA. The Development of Brain-Machine Interface Neuroprosthetic Devices. Neurotherapeutics 2008 1;5(1):137-146.

3. Carmena JM, Lebedev MA, Crist RE, O’Doherty JE, Santucci DM, Dimitrov DF, et al. Learning to control a brain-machine interface for reaching and grasping by primates. PLoS Biol.

2003 Nov;1(2):E42.

4. Donoghue JP, Nurmikko A, Black M, Hochberg LR. Assistive technology and robotic control using motor cortex ensemblebased neural interface systems in humans with tetraplegia.

J.Physiol. 2007 Mar 15;579(Pt 3):603-611.

5. Isa T. Recent advances in brain-machine interfaces. Neural Networks 2009;22(9):1201.

Prescription Drug Abuse by Shirin Pilakka

1. Adalf, E., Fischer, B., Haydon, E., Monga, N., and Rehm, J. (2005). Prescription Drug Abuse in Canada and the Diversion of Prescription Drugs into the Illicit Drug Market. Canadian Journal of Public Health, 96, 459-461.

2. Bensinger, P.B., Bianchi, R.P., Coleman, J.J., DuPont, R.L., Gold, M.S., & Smith, D.E. (2005). Can Drug Design Inhibit Abuse? Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 37, 343-362.

3. Compton, W.M., & Volkow, N.D. (2006). Abuse of prescription drugs and the risks of addiction. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 83S, S4-S7.

4. Hurwitz, W. (2005). The Challenge of Prescription Drug Misuse: A Review and Commentary. Forensic Pain Medicine Section, 6, 152-161.

5. Kinsley, J.S, Wunch M.J., Cropsey, K.L., and Campbell, E.D. (2008). Prescription Opioid Misuse Index: A brief questionnaire to assess misuse. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 35, 380-386.

6. Kalant, H., Grant D., Mitchell J. Principles of Medical Pharmacology 7th ed. Elseiver Canada, 2007.

Exercise Motivation by Michael Carrigan

1. Cotman CW, Berchtold NC, Christie L. Exercise builds brain health: key roles of growth factor cascades and inflammation. Trends in Neurosciences 2007;30(9):433-488.

2. Wolfson AR. Adolescents and emergin adults’ sleep patterns: new developments. Journal of Adolescent Health 2010;46(2):97-99.

Designer Babies by Hind El-Hussein

Liu, J. et al. Cystic fibrosis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy and preimplantation genetic disorders. Human Reproduction Update (November 1996), 2 (6), pg. 531-539 Meisenberg, Gerhard. Designer babies on tap? Medical students’ attitudes to pre-implantation genetic screening. Public Understanding of Science (March 2009), 18 (2), pg. 149-166 David HARNICHER and Stephanie Harnicher, Plaintiffs and Appellants v. UNIVERSITY OF UTAH MEDICAL CENTER, Defendant and Appellee. Supreme Court of Utah. July 31, 1998

ADHD: Treatment by Drugs or Therapy by Kresimir Mijaljevic

1. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Attention deficit

hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); n.d. [cited 2010 February 25].

Available from: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/ article/001551.htm 2. ADHDCanada. What is ADHD?; n.d. [cited 2009 October 02].

Available from: www.adhdcanada.com/what.html 3. Internet Drug News. FDA Information; n.d. [cited 2009 September 09]. Available from www.coreynahman.com/ FDA_Page.html 4. Hinshaw SP. Treatment for children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. In: Kendall PC, editor. Child and adolescent therapy: cognitive-behavioral procedures. 3rd ed. New York: Guilford; 2006. p. 82-113.

5. Wolraich ML, Wibbelsman CJ, Brown TE, Evans SW, Gotlieb EM, Knight JR, Ross EC, Shubiner HH, Wender EH, Wilens T. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder among adolescents: a review of the diagnosis, treatment, and clinical implications.

Pediatrics 2005 Jun;115(6):1734-46.

6. Lilienfeld SO. Scientifically unsupported and supported interventions for childhood. Pediatrics. 2005 Mar;115(3):761-4.

7. Chronis AM, Chacko A, Fabiano GA, Wymbs BT, Pelham WE Jr. Enhancements to the behavioral parent training paradigm for families of children with ADHD: review and future directions. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev. 2004 Mar;7(1):1-27.

Photo Credits

1. Cover Photo “Portrait #122 - Coline - While she was smoking” by Valentin.Ottone @ flickr.com. Modified by Scott Alguire 2. Page 3 “Metzis Tasty Takeaway Hamburger” by Vanessa Pike-Russell @ flickr.com 3. Page 5 “Self Portrait As A Stressed-Out Bride To Be” by BrittneyBush @ flickr.com 4. Page 6 “Establishing Shot: The 405” by Atwater Village Newbie @ flickr.com 5. Page 7 “Jul 24, 2009 - Summertime basketball, Jul 2009 09” by Ed Yourdon @ flickr.com 6. Page 7 “Kid in the air” by Tambako the Jaguar @ flickr.com 7. Page 11 Hookworm Images courtesy of Centres for Disease Control Canada Image library. http://www.dpd.cdc.gov/ dpdx/HTML/Image_Library.htm 8. Page 14 Treadmill photo courtesy of Brock Heart institute. http://www.brocku.ca/heartinstitute/gallery.php

Five Ways to Pass!

CHSC 1F90 according to Kresimir

1. Do the readings prior to class and ask questions if uncertain about something. Use your resources.

2. Asking questions brings you one step closer to knowing something new and something that may be on the exam!

3. DO NOT miss seminars. You recieve participation marks for simply saying something relevant to the topic of discussion. Start early for your seminar presentation!

4. Dr. Faught likes stats on his exams. So be sure to jog your memory every once in a while with facts that he provides in class.

5. Be sure to set out time to look over your notes after lecture and once before the following lecture.

This will minimize cram-time in the final hours before your exam.

20

THE TEAM

Yumna Ahmed

Brent Gilliard

HOT HEADLINES! “U.S. journal heaps praise on Ontario's health teams” Phuc Dang

Scott Alguire

Shahla A. Grewal

Michael Carrigan

Vicky Horner

Singha Chanthanatham

Gregory McGarr

Phuc Dang

Kresimir Mijaljevic

Steve Demetriades

Shirin Pilakka

Ontario's push to have family doctors work in collaborative teams with other health professionals is paying off financially for the physicians and is resulting in better patient care, according to the New England Journal of Medicine.

Ontario’s desire to increase collaborative teams with family physicians and other health professionals is a good policy because it ensures that Canadians will have better patient care. The usual feefor-service model focuses only on the physicians’ advice and does not allow patients to seek other health professionals’ advice, unless there is a referral issued from their family physician whereas family health teams allow patients to have better care in a one stop shop experience. These multi-disciplinary groups expose physicians and health professionals to effective communication with sharing of expertise, which in turn, ultimately benefits the patients. Ontario’s policy for collaborative teams should be expanded throughout Canada to ensure that all Canadians have access to the best health care possible.

Tahmina Taraky

?

What’s your

Your PROfile might include...

Pill Pack Plus When it is time to take your medication, simply push out the correct bubble.

AutoFill Plus Your prescription is refilled and waiting for you.

Diabetes Care in Action Access practical information, resources and support.

PROfile Brochures Sobeys Pharmacy has programs and services to complement your prescription and help you manage your family’s medication and health care needs.

Talk to your PROfile Pharmacist today.

They can do much more for you than you’d expect!

another valued service of

Health information that you can take with you.

FLAVORx We can make your medication easier to swallow.

...and much more

Copyright Š 2010 Community Health Science Council. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution - Noncommercial-Share Alike 2.5 Canada License You are free to copy, distribute, transmit, and adapt this magazine and its contents, provided you attribute the work in an appropriate manner and do not use it for commercial purposes. Any derivative works must be licensed similarly. These conditions may be waived with the permission of the copyright holder.

Full terms of licence are found at creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.5/ca/

For more info please contact: brockuhealth@gmail.com