Between 2002 and 2012, the number of individuals > 55 years of age in the workforce is projected to climb by approximately 50%. Few studies have substantiated that severe occupational injury to older workers is a significant problem. To identify the variables related to traumatic injuries of older workers, data were abstracted retrospectively from a regional trauma center database, including demographic and injury characteristics, length of hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) stay, and cost. The results showed that older workers had higher fatality rates than younger workers. As age increased, the Injury Severity Score also increased. Most injuries were the result of falls, with orthopedic injuries being the most common type of injury. Patients spent an average of 6 days in the ICU at a cost of > 4920 US dollars/day. By identifying the characteristics associated with older workers' severe occupational injuries, further research and better industry programs targeting this group can be implemented.

While tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) is currently the standard "clot-busting" drug used to treat patients with acute ischemic stroke, another new option for treatment is now under clinical study. Desmodus rotundus plasminogen activator (DSPA), an enzyme found in the saliva of vampire bats, may offer another therapeutic option instead of tPA, a current therapy for stroke. Animal research indicates that tPA may mediate neuronal death as well as increase systemic plasminogen consumption and fibrinogenolysis. Conversely, DSPA's activity is dependent on the presence of fibrin and therefore has not been associated with the systemic plasminogen consumption and fibrinogenolysis that potentially may occur in those receiving tPA. In animal studies, tPA was found to exhibit "inherent neurotoxic properties" not seen with DSPA. In addition, DSPA may be administered up to 9 hours after the onset of symptoms, unlike tPA, which cannot be given after 3 hours without potential risk of additional brain injury. Phase II clinical trials have demonstrated a positive result in human subjects. Phase III trials are currently under way in stroke populations.

No abstract