Factors influencing law enforcement decisions to adopt an evidence-based robbery prevention program.

Homicide is the leading cause of workplace death among small retail and service businesses in the United States. Evidence-based programs have been shown to reduce robbery and robbery-related crimes in small retail businesses; however, reaching small businesses with programs has been difficult. As small businesses typically have no corporate backing or trade affiliation, police departments have been identified as potential vehicles for program dissemination. A national sample of 300 law enforcement agencies was surveyed to identify facilitators and barriers to adoption and sustainability of an evidence-based program. The questionnaire was developed using behavioral theory concepts and administered via telephone. Preliminary findings suggest the primary facilitators to program adoption included organizational capacity factors such as staff buy-in, dedicated personnel and financial support. Competing responsibilities was the primary barrier identified by agencies. Agency size and program complexity were identified as potential predictors of program adoption. Identifying agency and program-specific characteristics that influence program adoption by law enforcement agencies will be valuable for marketing programs to agencies that have the infrastructure to support and sustain program dissemination. Understanding these factors will optimize the reach of evidence-based strategies to small businesses.

Pediatric neurologist as consultant in evaluation of syncope in infants and children: when to refer.

The features and incidence of syncope in pediatric patients are different from those in adults. While serious medical problems may underlie the problem in children and adolescents, they tend to be less frequent, both in absolute numbers and in percentages of involved patients. This article introduces a less rigid classification compared to more classical classifications. It is the author's hope that this classification system may help define the individual in need of further, more detailed neurological evaluation and possible consultation. The importance of the history and examination in this evaluation will be emphasized.

Ocular myasthenia and nitrofurantoin.

PURPOSE: To report a case of ocular myasthenia associated with administration of nitrofurantoin. METHODS: Case report and review of the literature. RESULTS: While taking nitrofurantoin after urinary tract surgery, a 10-year-old female developed diplopia and ptosis. Sleep test confirmed ocular myasthenia. Signs and symptoms resolved after discontinuation of the drug. CONCLUSION: Ocular myasthenia may be associated with nitrofurantoin administration.