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Noise & HealthIn view of the hazards of occupational noise exposure, this study investigated the relationship between occupational noise exposure and gestational hypertension in...
OBJECTIVE
In view of the hazards of occupational noise exposure, this study investigated the relationship between occupational noise exposure and gestational hypertension in Taizhou City, Zhejiang Province, China to provide inspiration and reference for reducing the occurrence of gestational hypertension.
METHODS
This cross-sectional study analyzed the clinical data of 316 pregnant women in Taizhou City admitted to Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University from May 2020 to May 2023. In accordance with Acoustic Environment Quality Standards (GB3096-2008), 60 dB was used as the cut-off point. These pregnant women were divided into the low noise group (LNG, n = 161) and high noise group (HNG, n = 155) according to the noise exposure level in the working environment. This also study compared the noise exposure, blood pressure (BP), fasting blood glucose (FBG), blood lipid (BL), fetal size, and heart rate (HR), and analyzed the relationship of noise exposure with BP, FBG, BL, fetal size, HR, and occurrence of gestational hypertension.
RESULTS
The HNG had higher noise exposure level (P < 0.001), BP, FBG, BL and HR (P < 0.001), larger fetal size (P < 0.001) and higher occurrence of gestational hypertension (P < 0.05) compared with the LNG. Correlation analysis showed that noise exposure level was positively correlated with BP, FBG, BL, HR, and fetal size (P < 0.001) and had the strongest association with gestational hypertension.
CONCLUSION
Occupational noise exposure has adverse effects on pregnant women and fetuses. Pregnant women should pay attention to their exposure to occupational noise to prevent gestational hypertension. The results of this study must be further verified and generalized.
Topics: Humans; Female; Pregnancy; Hypertension, Pregnancy-Induced; China; Cross-Sectional Studies; Noise, Occupational; Adult; Occupational Exposure; Blood Pressure; Blood Glucose; Heart Rate
PubMed: 38904825
DOI: 10.4103/nah.nah_62_24 -
Noise & HealthThis study aims to explore the effect of noise in the emergency department on the occupational burnout and the resignation intentions of medical staff.
OBJECTIVE
This study aims to explore the effect of noise in the emergency department on the occupational burnout and the resignation intentions of medical staff.
METHODS
This retrospective study selected 42 medical staff (group A) in the emergency department of our hospital from March 2020 to March 2021 and 39 medical staff (group B) in the rehabilitation department during the same period as research subjects. Noise levels in the daily working environment of medical staff were collected. The Maslach Burnout Inventory General Survey and Intent to Leave Scale was used to evaluate occupational burnout and resignation intention. A multivariate linear regression analysis was adopted to explore the effects of noise exposure level in the emergency department on occupational burnout and resignation intention.
RESULTS
The scores of emotional fatigue, work apathy and sense of achievement in group A were higher than those in group B (P < 0.05), among which reverse scoring was adopted for sense of accomplishment. Group A had significantly higher scores of resignation intention I, resignation intention II and resignation intention III than group B (P < 0.001). The department of group A had significantly higher noise level than that of group B (P < 0.001). The Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that noise level in the emergency department was correlated with the occupational burnout and resignation intention of medical staff (all P < 0.05).
CONCLUSIONS
The emergency department is exposed to a high noise level, which is correlated with the occupational burnout and resignation intentions of medical staff. Therefore, hospitals should give importance to noise exposure in the emergency departments and adopt positive coping strategies to reduce the effect of noise on medical staff and the resignation rate.
Topics: Humans; Emergency Service, Hospital; Burnout, Professional; Male; Female; Adult; Retrospective Studies; Intention; Noise, Occupational; Surveys and Questionnaires; Medical Staff, Hospital; Middle Aged; Occupational Exposure
PubMed: 38904808
DOI: 10.4103/nah.nah_127_23 -
Noise & HealthExcessive noise is unpleasant and induces several physiological and psychological effects. Noise pollution is a potential threat to humans, particularly those... (Review)
Review
OBJECTIVE
Excessive noise is unpleasant and induces several physiological and psychological effects. Noise pollution is a potential threat to humans, particularly those continuously exposed for extended periods throughout the day over many years. This review aims to examine the various auditory and non-auditory outcomes associated with prolonged exposure to noise pollution.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The review utilized a combination of relevant keywords to search the electronic databases. After screening based on the applied selection criteria for title, abstract, and full text, 44 articles were finally selected for critical review.
RESULTS
We identified and analyzed research findings related to noise-induced hearing loss, tinnitus, and sleep disturbances along with non-auditory issues such as annoyance, cognitive impairments, and mental stress associated with cardiovascular disorders. Furthermore, the existing studies were compared and collated to highlight the unique challenges and significance of noise pollution as a distinctive environmental concern and to explore the ongoing efforts in its research and prevention, including the early detection and potential reversal of noise-induced hearing loss.
CONCLUSION
The fundamental health consequences of noise pollution underscore the need for extensive research encompassing emerging noise sources and technologies to establish a health management system tailored to address noise-related health concerns and reduce noise exposure risk among populations. Finally, further research is warranted to ensure improved measurement of noise exposure and related health outcomes, especially in the context of occupational noise.
Topics: Humans; Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced; Tinnitus; Noise; Environmental Exposure; Sleep Wake Disorders; Noise, Occupational; Cardiovascular Diseases; Stress, Psychological; Cognitive Dysfunction
PubMed: 38904803
DOI: 10.4103/nah.nah_124_23 -
BMJ Open Jun 2024This study aimed at investigating the relationship between occupational exposure to external ionising radiation and central nervous system (CNS) tumours mortality in...
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed at investigating the relationship between occupational exposure to external ionising radiation and central nervous system (CNS) tumours mortality in healthcare workers working in France.
DESIGN AND SETTING
The Occupational Radiation-Induced Cancer in Medical staff (ORICAMs) nested case-control study was conducted based on the dosimetric records of the national register of occupational dosimetry (Système d'information de la surveillance de l'exposition aux rayonnements ionisants).
PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS
33 CNS tumour deaths occurred between 2002 and 2012 among the ORICAMs cohort composed of 164 015 healthcare workers. Each case was matched to five controls alive at the time of the corresponding case's death, based on sex, year of birth, date of enrolment in the cohort and duration of follow-up. All participants were badge monitored for external radiation exposure, expressed in H(10). Conditional logistic regression was used to analyse the dose-response relationship between radiation dose and CNS mortality.
RESULTS
Cases were exposed to a mean cumulative career radiation dose of 5.8±13.7 (max: 54.3) millisievert (mSv) compared with 4.1±15.2 (142.2) mSv for controls. No statistically significant association was found between CNS tumour mortality and cumulative whole-body career dose (OR=1.00, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.03), duration of exposure (OR=1.03; 95% CI 0.95 to 1.12) or age at first exposure (OR=0.98; 95% CI 0.91 to 1.06).
CONCLUSION
We found no evidence of an association between external radiation exposure and CNS tumour risk in healthcare workers. Limitations of the study include low statistical power and short duration of follow-up.
Topics: Humans; Occupational Exposure; Case-Control Studies; France; Male; Female; Health Personnel; Adult; Middle Aged; Central Nervous System Neoplasms; Radiation, Ionizing; Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced; Occupational Diseases; Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation; Logistic Models; Risk Factors; Radiation Exposure
PubMed: 38904132
DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-084285 -
Sleep Advances : a Journal of the Sleep... 2024We previously reported that during a 45-day simulated space mission, a dynamic lighting schedule (DLS) improved circadian phase alignment and performance assessed once...
STUDY OBJECTIVES
We previously reported that during a 45-day simulated space mission, a dynamic lighting schedule (DLS) improved circadian phase alignment and performance assessed once on selected days. This study aimed to evaluate how DLS affected performance on a 5-minute psychomotor vigilance task (PVT) administered multiple times per day on selected days.
METHODS
Sixteen crewmembers (37.4 ± 6.7 years; 5F) underwent six cycles of 2 × 8-hour/night followed by 5 × 5-hour/night sleep opportunities. During the DLS ( = 8), daytime white light exposure was blue-enriched (~6000 K; Level 1: 1079, Level 2: 76 melanopic equivalent daytime illuminance (melEDI) lux) and blue-depleted (~3000-4000 K; L1: 21, L2: 2 melEDI lux) 3 hours before bed. In the standard lighting schedule (SLS; = 8), lighting remained constant (~4500K; L1: 284, L2 62 melEDI lux). Effects of lighting condition (DLS/SLS), sleep condition (5/8 hours), time into mission, and their interactions, and time awake on PVT performance were analyzed using generalized linear mixed models.
RESULTS
The DLS was associated with fewer attentional lapses (reaction time [RT] > 500 milliseconds) compared to SLS. Lapses, mean RT, and 10% fastest/slowest RTs were worse following 5 compared to 8 hours of sleep but not between lighting conditions. There was an effect of time into mission on RTs, likely due to sleep loss. Overall performance differed by time of day, with longer RTs at the beginning and end of the day. There were more lapses and slower RTs in the afternoon in the SLS compared to the DLS condition.
CONCLUSIONS
Future missions should incorporate DLS to enhance circadian alignment and performance. This paper is part of the Collection.
PubMed: 38903700
DOI: 10.1093/sleepadvances/zpae032 -
Frontiers in Psychiatry 2024Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder triggered by exposure to a life-threatening or sexually violent traumatic event, and is characterized by... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder triggered by exposure to a life-threatening or sexually violent traumatic event, and is characterized by symptoms involving intrusive re-experiencing, persistent avoidance of associated stimuli, emotional and cognitive disturbances, and hyperarousal for long periods after the trauma has occurred. These debilitating symptoms induce occupational and social impairments that contribute to a significant clinical burden for PTSD patients, and substantial socioeconomic costs, reaching approximately $20,000 dollars per individual with PTSD each year in the US. Despite increased translational research focus in the field of PTSD, the development of novel, effective pharmacotherapies for its treatment remains an important unmet clinical need.
OBSERVATIONS
In this review, we summarize the evidence implicating dysfunctional activity of the amygdala in the pathophysiology of PTSD. We identify the transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) ion channels as promising drug targets given their distribution in the amygdala, and evidence from animal studies demonstrating their role in fear response modulation. We discuss the evidence-based pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy treatment approaches for PTSD.
DISCUSSION
In view of the prevalence and economic burden associated with PTSD, further investigation is warranted into novel treatment approaches based on our knowledge of the involvement of brain circuitry and the role of the amygdala in PTSD, as well as the potential added value of combined pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy to better manage PTSD symptoms.
PubMed: 38903645
DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1356563 -
Frontiers in Neuroscience 2024In the evolving field of neurophysiological research, visual light flicker stimulation is recognized as a promising non-invasive intervention for cognitive enhancement,...
INTRODUCTION
In the evolving field of neurophysiological research, visual light flicker stimulation is recognized as a promising non-invasive intervention for cognitive enhancement, particularly in sleep-deprived conditions.
METHODS
This study explored the effects of specific flicker frequencies (40 Hz and 20-30 Hz random flicker) on alertness recovery in sleep-deprived rats. We employed a multidisciplinary approach that included behavioral assessments with the Y-maze, in vivo electrophysiological recordings, and molecular analyses such as c-FOS immunohistochemistry and hormone level measurements.
RESULTS
Both 40 Hz and 20-30 Hz flicker significantly enhanced behavioral performance in the Y-maze test, suggesting an improvement in alertness. Neurophysiological data indicated activation of neural circuits in key brain areas like the thalamus and hippocampus. Additionally, flicker exposure normalized cortisol and serotonin levels, essential for stress response and mood regulation. Notably, increased c-FOS expression in brain regions related to alertness and cognitive functions suggested heightened neural activity.
DISCUSSION
These findings underscore the potential of light flicker stimulation not only to mitigate the effects of sleep deprivation but also to enhance cognitive functions. The results pave the way for future translational research into light-based therapies in human subjects, with possible implications for occupational health and cognitive ergonomics.
PubMed: 38903600
DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1415614 -
Canadian Journal of Respiratory Therapy... 2024The use of volatile anesthetic agents in the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) is experiencing increased interest since the availability of the miniature vapourizing...
INTRODUCTION
The use of volatile anesthetic agents in the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) is experiencing increased interest since the availability of the miniature vapourizing device. However, the effectiveness of scavenging systems in the presence of humidifiers in the ventilator circuit is unknown.
APPROACH METHODS
We performed a bench study to evaluate the effectiveness of the Deltasorb® scavenging system in the presence of isoflurane and active humidity by simulating both infant and child ventilator test settings. A total of four ventilators were set to ventilate test lungs, all with active humidity and a Deltasorb scavenging canister collecting exhaled ventilation gas. Two ventilators also had isoflurane delivered using the Anesthesia Conserving Device- small (ACD®-S) on the inspiratory limb (also called alternative ventilator configuration). We performed instantaneous measurements of isoflurane and continuous sampling with passive badges to measure average environmental exposure over a test period of 6.5 hours. Scavenging canisters were returned to the company, where desorption analysis showed the volume of water and isoflurane captured in each canister.
FINDINGS
Both instantaneous point sampling and diffusive sampling results were below the occupational exposure limit confirming safety. The canisters collected both isoflurane and a portion of the water vapour delivered; the percentage of captured water and isoflurane collected in infants was higher than the child ventilator test settings.
PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS CONCLUSION
The tested scavenging configuration was effective in maintaining a safe working environment with active humidity and inspiratory limb (alternative) ventilator configuration of the the miniature vapourizing device.
PubMed: 38903540
DOI: 10.29390/001c.118513 -
Journal of Occupational Medicine and... Jun 2024Lead is one of the most nonessential toxic heavy metal agents found in automotive garages. The occupational exposure of garage workers to lead commonly poses acute and...
BACKGROUND
Lead is one of the most nonessential toxic heavy metal agents found in automotive garages. The occupational exposure of garage workers to lead commonly poses acute and chronic health risks that can be prevented. In Ethiopia, there have been limited studies on lead exposure among garage workers, who overemphasize exposure to lead. This study aimed to assess occupational blood lead levels and associated factors in garage workers using a cross-sectional comparative design.
METHODS
A comparative cross-sectional study design was used to compare the occupational blood lead levels of 36 randomly selected garage workers and 34 office workers who were matched by age and sex. Blood specimens were collected by trained medical laboratory experts. The collected blood samples were tested in a certified laboratory using a microwave plasma atomic emission spectrometry (MP-AES) device at a wavelength of 405.78 nm. Excel and SPSS Version 26 were used for data management and analysis, respectively.
RESULTS
The mean (SD) age of the exposed group was 39.0 (7.5) years, whereas the mean age of the unexposed group was 38.0 (6.1) years. The occupational mean (SD) blood-lead-level in the exposed groups was 29.7 (12.2) µg/dl, compared to 14.8 (9.9) µg/dl among the unexposed groups. The mean blood-lead level among the exposed workers was significantly different from that among the unexposed workers (P < 0.01). Of all the study participants, only 22.2% of the exposed groups had blood lead levels higher than the World Health Organization's recommended limit of 40 µg/dl. The main significant predictors of occupational blood-lead-level exposure among workers were extra working hours, service years, and having a previous (prior) employment history in a garage. The occupations of the two groups did not significantly differ in terms of blood-lead levels (p > 0.05).
CONCLUSIONS
The BLL of the Garage workers was significantly greater than that of the Non-Garage workers. Hence, it is advised that garage management should encourage workers to use exposure prevention methods, such as washing their hands before eating and taking showers after the completion of work, by providing regular occupational safety training.
PubMed: 38902821
DOI: 10.1186/s12995-024-00422-9 -
BMC Research Notes Jun 2024Hospital sanitation workers (SWs) are exposed to numerous occupational hazards due to workplace conditions such as unsafe and unhygienic working environment in the...
Magnitude and associated factors of occupational hazard exposures among sanitary workers: Propose RASM model for risk mitigation for the public hospitals, eastern Ethiopia.
BACKGROUND
Hospital sanitation workers (SWs) are exposed to numerous occupational hazards due to workplace conditions such as unsafe and unhygienic working environment in the hospitals. Therefore, knowing magnitude, types and source of occupational hazard exposures with their determinants are very significant for further mitigations.
METHODS
Hospital based cross-sectional study design was conducted in public hospitals, eastern Ethiopia from 1st May to August 30th, 2023. 809 SWs participated. Data was entered into Epi Data Version 3.1 and Stata 17MP version used for analysis. Descriptive analysis was applied to describe the data. While, multilevel logistic regression was explored to determine the association between outcome and independents among at individual level (model 1), at hospitals (model 2) and combination of the two (model 3). The crude odds ratio (COR) and adjusted odds ratio (AOR) for models 2 and 3 were reported. Variables with an AOR with a 95% confidence interval (CI) at a p-value < 0.05 were reported.
RESULT
Out of 809 SWs, 729 (90.11%) responded. The overall magnitude of self-reported occupational hazard exposures among SWs was 63.65% (95% CI 0.60-0.67). Of this, biological, chemical, and ergonomic hazards accounted for 82.44%, 74.76%, and 70.92%, respectively. The multilevel logistic regression shows that having social recognition (AOR: 0.37, 95% CI 0.14, 0.91), neutral attitude (AOR: 0.48, 95% CI 0.17, 1.41) as compared to negative attitude. The model also found that SWs those supervised could reduce the likelihood of occupational hazard exposures by 50% times (AOR: 0.50, 95% CI 0.18, 1.38) as compared to non-supervised SWs. The final model predicted the variation of occupational hazard exposures among sanitary workers from the hospitals to hospitals was 26.59%.
CONCLUSIONS
The concluded that hospital sanitary workers are facing biological, chemical, ergonomic, physical, psychological, mechanical, and electrical hazards. This study's findings predicted that dissatisfied with their environment, working more than 8 hr per a day, a negative attitude towards workplace risks and inadequate supervision may serve as contributing factors for the likelihood of occupational hazard exposures among these groups. Thus, the study suggested that hospitals could reduce these hazard risks if they implement the Risk Assessment and Safety Management (RASM) model, which includes multi-modal strategies, indicators and tripartite philosophy.
Topics: Humans; Ethiopia; Hospitals, Public; Male; Cross-Sectional Studies; Adult; Female; Occupational Exposure; Sanitation; Middle Aged; Young Adult; Personnel, Hospital; Logistic Models; Workplace
PubMed: 38902762
DOI: 10.1186/s13104-024-06828-2