[Evaluation of the dustiness of a bakery: an integrated system with an experimental electronic device]. / Valutazione della polverosità ambientale in un panificio: un sistema integrato con un dispositivo elettronico sperimentale.

In this paper we describe a novel approach to environmental control in a bakery, based on an integration system of qualitative and quantitative information. The aim is to identify prevention policy for allergic disease. Specifically, the dust concentration evaluated continuously by deposimeters and the realization of chemical-analytical investigations on flours samples, used in the production cycle, have given qualitative evaluation on powders dispersion; the integration of an electronic device, characterized by measurement reliability and low cost implementation, supported the development and evaluation of an environmental monitoring system in a bakery. The environmental control system could be used in other work environments where occupational asthma occurred.

[AOR characterization and zoning: a dosimeter for blue light]. / Caratterizzozione e zonizzazione per R.O.A.: un dosimetro per luce blu.

The paper presents the results obtained thanks to an innovative experimental device for the assessment of artificial optical radiation (AOR) exposure in workplace. This . device was developed by 'Politecnico di Bari-DIASS'. The wearable personal dosimeter has three sensors: one is used for measuring head position/movement, therefore there is a color light sensor to determine the AOR and finally there is a video camera to localize sources. Our system is connected to a netbook via USB cable that allows one to obtain the real and extimated value of worker's exposure, also with "augmented reality". The aim of this paper is realizing work place safety zoning for the classifacation of not only specific dangerous areas through the analysis of overlapping information from the device.

Spontaneous pneumothoraces, pneumomediastinum, and pneumoperitoneum: consequences of smoking crack cocaine.

The combination of pneumothoraces, pneumomediastinum, and pneumoperitoneum is a rare consequence of smoking crack cocaine. This is a report of this trilogy of findings in a 17-year-old girl who attempted suicide by smoking crack cocaine. This case is important to the emergency physician because the increase in crack cocaine use among the adolescent population.

HMOs and the barriers to access for the pediatric population requiring emergency medical services.

The main objectives of this study are to analyze the Massachusetts Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) in order to determine their standard definition of an emergency, the HMOs instructions for seeking emergency care, and distribution of such instructions for the pediatric population. A 15-question survey concerning pediatric emergency care policies and procedures was asked of each of the 20 HMOs contacted. Quarterly statements of each of the 20 HMOs were obtained from the Division of Insurance as well as the HMO's written materials distributed to the enrollees as member handbooks. Ninety percent of the HMOs had a definition of emergency care for the adult population, whereas 0% had a definition of emergency care specifically for the pediatric population. One hundred percent of the HMOs had instructions for emergency care, but 0% had specific provisions for pediatric emergency care. All 20 HMOs inform their enrollees about emergency policies through a member handbook. The results of this study reveal the lack of a standard definition of an emergency for HMOs. The current definitions of "urgent," "emergency," and "life-threatening emergency" care do not reflect the pediatric population, rather, these definitions are based on the adult population. The lack of specific pediatric guidelines could compromise the health of the children in HMOs.

Review: autoerotic asphyxiation in the United States.

The purpose of this article is to define autoerotic asphyxia and present the enigma as a preventable problem. Articles published between 1856 and 1994 are identified through medline, referenced citations, and expert opinion. The literature selected were those most often cited and for which the methodological assumptions could be identified. Interventional strategies determined included legislation/regulation, technology, and education. Injury and death from autoerotic asphyxia can be controlled by pre-event, event, and post-event phase control. However, there are formidable barriers in the way.