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An early detection of noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) may allow more effective protection measures. Our aim was to investigate the usefulness of high-frequency audiometry to evaluate the possibility of a future use of the high frequencies audiometry as an early indicator for noise induced hearing loss. A cross-sectional study was performed involving 204 industrial noise exposed and 100 non-industrial noise-exposed workers. Each subject was tested with both conventional-frequency (0.25-8 kHz) and high-frequency (9-18 kHz) audiometry during the annually health surveillance campaign conducted in two Italian cement factories. As expected, noise exposed workers were found to have significantly higher hearing thresholds (P < 0.05) at both conventional and extended high frequencies. Marked differences were found for EHFA. Moreover, significant differences at EHFA were detected also in the subgroup of noise-exposed workers with normal findings at conventional audiometry. Our finding indicate that the use of the extended high frequency test may represent a useful tool for detecting early changes of hearing impairment and that it could be used in addition to the conventional test to better prevent the progression of noise hearing loss.

Nanotubes have a great therapeutic potential due to their astounding physico-chemical features, the possibility to be funtionalised for ad hoc uses, and the specific interaction of nanotubes as such with life molecules (DNA and proteins). These features recommend a thorough toxicological study before widespread pharmaceutic use. We provide evidence that culture cells with phagocytic potential internalise multi wall nanotubes (10-50 nm average size). This is not accompanied by cytotoxicity in terms of induction of &apoptosis or necrosis at the doses used (up to 125 microg/mI).

Noise-induced hearing loss is currently the most frequent professional disease in Italy. Genetic polymorphisms of genes involved in the pathophysiology of hearing loss may confer vulnerability to the damage. To obtain data on these polymorphisms able to make a single worker more susceptible or resistant than others to the damage of the organ of Corti after exposure to noise, may allow a more efficient prevention.