Comparison of probability density functions for analyzing irradiance statistics due to atmospheric turbulence.

A large number of model probability density functions (PDFs) are used to analyze atmospheric scintillation statistics. We have analyzed scintillation data from two different experimental setups covering a range of scintillation strengths to determine which candidate model PDFs best describe the experimental data. The PDFs were fitted to the experimental data using the method of least squares. The root-mean-squared fitting error was used to monitor the goodness of fit. The results of the fitting were found to depend strongly on the scintillation strength. We find that the log normally modulated Rician and the log normal PDFs are the best fit to the experimental data over the range of scintillation strengths encountered.

What heroin users tell us about overdose.

This study describes overdose experiences of heroin users, both the overdoses they themselves experienced, as well as those that they witnessed. A structured interview was performed with 101 current heroin users in Albuquerque, New Mexico from January 7, 2002 to February 26, 2002. Heroin-related overdoses were found to be common in this sample of heroin users. Three or more persons were reported to be present during 80 of the 95 most recently witnessed overdoses. An ambulance was called in only 42 of the 95 witnessed overdoses. Seventy-five percent of the respondents who witnessed an overdose stated concern over police involvement was an important reason for delay or absence of a 911 call for help. One hundred of the 101 respondents reported willingness, if trained, to use rescue breathing and to inject naloxone to aid an overdose victim. New methods need to be found to reduce heroin overdose death. Scientific studies are needed on the efficacy of take-home naloxone.

Take-home naloxone to reduce heroin death.

BACKGROUND: This paper reviews the relevant literature related to the distribution of take-home naloxone. METHODS: A Medline search was conducted on articles published between January 1990 and June 2004 to identify scientific literature relevant to this subject. Those publications were reviewed, and from them other literature was identified and reviewed. RESULTS: The prevalence, pathophysiology and circumstances of heroin overdose, and also bystander response are included in this review. Naloxone peer distribution has been instituted to varying degrees in the United States, Italy, Spain, Germany and the United Kingdom. CONCLUSION: At this point the evidence supporting naloxone distribution is primarily anecdotal, although promising. Although the distribution of naloxone holds promise for further reducing heroin overdose mortality, problems remain. Naloxone alone may be insufficient in some cases to revive the victim, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), especially rescue breathing, may also be needed. A second dose of naloxone might be necessary. Complications following resuscitation from overdose may infrequently need in-hospital care. Mortality from injecting without anyone else present will be unaffected by take-home naloxone. Take-home naloxone should be studied in a rigorous scientific manner.