Search

Introduction: During heatwaves, it is important to monitor workers' cardiovascular health since 35% of those working in hot environments experience symptoms of heat strain. Wearable technology has been popularized for monitoring heart rate (HR) during recreational activities, but it can also be used to monitor occupational heat strain based on core and skin temperatures and HR. To our knowledge, no devices estimate the cardiovascular strain directly based on stroke volume (SV) or cardiac output (CO). In addition to the hardware, there are limitations regarding the lack of suitable algorithms that would provide such an index based on relevant physiological responses. The validation of the formulae already existing in literature was the principle aim of the present study. Methods: We monitored the cardiovascular responses of our participants to a supine and 60° head-up tilt at the same time each day. During the test, we measured blood pressure derived by finger photoplethysmography, which also provided beat-by-beat measures of SV and CO. Afterwards, we compared the SV derived from the photoplethysmography with the one calculated with the different equations that already exist in literature. Results: The evaluation of the formulae was based on comparing the error of prediction. This residual analysis compared the sum of the squared residuals generated by each formula using the same data set. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that estimating SV with existing formulae is feasible, showing a good correlation and a relatively small bias. Thus, simply measuring workers' blood pressure during breaks could estimate their cardiac strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the joint kinematics between the front squat (FS) conducted in the upright (natural gravity) position and in the supine position on a short arm human centrifuge (SAHC). Male participants (N = 12) with no prior experience exercising on a centrifuge completed a FS in the upright position before (PRE) and after (POST) a FS exercise conducted on the SAHC while exposed to artificial gravity (AG). Participants completed, in randomized order, three sets of six repetitions with a load equal to body weight or 1.25 × body weight for upright squats, and 1 g and 1.25 g at the center of gravity (COG) for AG. During the terrestrial squats, the load was applied with a barbell. Knee (left/right) and hip (left/right) flexion angles were recorded with a set of inertial measurement units. AG decreased the maximum flexion angle (MAX) of knees and hips as well as the range of motion (ROM), both at 1 and 1.25 g. Minor adaptation was observed between the first and the last repetition performed in AG. AG affects the ability to FS in naïve participants by reducing MAX, MIN and ROM of the knees and hip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study examined the impact of different upper‐torso sportswear technologies on the performance and physiological heat strain of well‐trained and national‐level athletes during prolonged running in moderately hot conditions. Methods: A randomized crossover design was employed in which 20 well‐trained (n = 16) and national‐level (n = 4) athletes completed four experimental trials in moderately hot conditions (35°C, 30% relative humidity). In each trial, participants ran at 70% of their peak oxygen uptake (70% V̇O2peak) for 60 min, while wearing a different upper‐body garment: cotton t‐shirt, t‐shirt with sweat‐wicking fabric, compression t‐shirt, and t‐shirt with aluminum dots lining the inside of the upper back of the garment. Running speed was adjusted to elicit the predetermined oxygen consumption associated with 70% V̇O2peak. Physiological (core and skin temperatures, total body water loss, and urine specific gravity) and perceptual (thermal comfort and sensation, ratings of perceived exertion, and garment cooling functionality) parameters along with running speed at 70% V̇O2peak were continuously recorded. Results: No significant differences were observed between the four garments for running speed at 70% V̇O2peak, physiological heat strain, and perceptual responses (all p > 0.05). The tested athletes reported larger areas of perceived suboptimal cooling functionality in the cotton t‐shirt and the t‐shirt with aluminum dots relative to the sweat‐wicking and compression t‐shirts (d: 0.43–0.52). Conclusion: There were not differences among the tested garments regarding running speed at 70% V̇O2peak, physiological heat strain, and perceptual responses in well‐trained and national‐level endurance athletes exercising in moderate heat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In October 2022, the Human Factors and Medicine (HFM) panel of the NATO Science and Technology Organization convened a review of progress in military biomedical research for cold weather operations. This paper represents a summary of the research presentations and future directions. The importance of realistic training was an overarching theme. Many reported studies took advantage of cold weather training exercises to monitor soldiers' health and performance; these are valuable data, using winter exercises as a platform to gain further knowledge regarding human performance in the cold and represent an excellent extension of controlled laboratory studies. Topics also included prevention of Cold Weather Injuries (CWI); effects of cold weather stressors on cognitive function; field treatment of freezing cold injuries (FCI); and new consideration to injury and trauma care in the cold. Future work programmes re-emphasise development of cold weather training and establishment of consensus diagnostic criteria and treatments for FCI and non-FCI. CWI prevention should take advantage of biomathematical models that predict risk of CWI and provide guidance regarding optimal clothing and equipment and move from group averages to personalised predictions. The publication of selected presentations from the symposium in this special issue increases attention to military cold weather research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prevention plays a key role in ensuring health and safety and is particularly important in scenarios when life is threatened. Adverse thermal conditions are experienced by billions of people daily, affecting the human capacity for thermoregulation and increasing the risks of life-threatening accidents, diseases, and fatalities. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a new, freely accessible method that will ultimately allow health, as well as exercise and labour organizations, to predict and potentially mitigate the physiological strain experienced by people who exercise or work in thermally stressful environmental conditions. Methods: First, we used concurrent technological advances and thermophysiological modelling to (i) develop a mobile phone application that predicts the physiological heat strain experienced by individuals conducting physical activity in adverse environmental conditions, and (ii) provide them with individualized heat mitigation strategies. Second, to examine the construct validity of the newly developed mobile phone application, core body temperature was recorded using gastrointestinal thermometry in 37 healthy soldiers during different activities. These data were used to examine the predictive capacity of our application in pre-classifying individuals with an increased risk of experiencing elevated physiological heat strain during work based on the guidelines (core body temperature ≥ 38 °C) of the World Health Organization. Results: The core body temperature predictions made by the mobile phone application were positively related (r = 0.57, p < 0.05) with the actual physiological measurements taken by our participants (mean absolute error: 0.28 °C). More importantly, our application correctly predicted 93% of occurrences of elevated physiological heat strain and 90% of those that were not (overall accuracy: 92%). Conclusions: Mobile phone applications integrating thermophysiological models can predict the physiological heat strain experienced by an individual, but it remains to be studied whether the suggested heat mitigation strategies can reduce or prevent adverse impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical inactivity increases cardiometabolic risk through a variety of mechanisms, among which alterations of immunological, metabolic, and autonomic control systems may play a pivotal role. Physical inactivity is frequently associated with other factors that may further worsen prognosis. The association between physical inactivity and hypoxia is particularly interesting and characterizes several conditions—whether physiological (e.g., residing or trekking at high altitude and space flights) or pathological (e.g., chronic cardiopulmonary diseases and COVID-19). In this randomized intervention study, we investigated the combined effects of physical inactivity and hypoxia on autonomic control in eleven healthy and physically active male volunteers, both at baseline (ambulatory) conditions and, in a randomized order, hypoxic ambulatory, hypoxic bedrest, and normoxic bedrest (i.e., a simple experimental model of physical inactivity). Autoregressive spectral analysis of cardiovascular variabilities was employed to assess cardiac autonomic control. Notably, we found hypoxia to be associated with an impairment of cardiac autonomic control, especially when combined with bedrest. In particular, we observed an impairment of indices of baroreflex control, a reduction in the marker of prevalent vagal control to the SA node, and an increase in the marker of sympathetic control to vasculature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Technological advances have made high-altitude ski slopes easily accessible to skiers of all ages. However, research on the effects of hypoxia experienced during excursions to such altitudes on physiological systems, including the ocular system, in children is scarce. Retinal vessels are embryologically of the same origin as vessels in the brain, and have similar anatomical and physiological characteristics. Thus, any hypoxia-related changes in the morphology of the former may reflect the status of the latter. Objective: To compare the effect of one-day hypoxic exposure, equivalent to the elevation of high-altitude ski resorts in North America and Europe (~3,000 m), on retinal vessel diameter between adults and children. Methods: 11 adults (age: 40.1 ± 4.1 years) and 8 children (age: 9.3 ± 1.3 years) took part in the study. They spent 3 days at the Olympic Sports Centre Planica (Slovenia; altitude: 940 m). During days 1 and 2 they were exposed to normoxia (Fi O2 = 0.209), and day 3 to normobaric hypoxia (Fi O2 = 0.162 ± 0.03). Digital highresolution retinal fundus photographs were obtained in normoxia (Day 2) and hypoxia (Day 3). Central retinal arteriolar equivalent (CRAE) and venular equivalents (CRVE) were determined using an Automated Retinal Image Analyser. Results: Central retinal arteriolar and venular equivalents increased with hypoxia in children (central retinal arteriolar equivalent: 105.32 ± 7.72 µm, hypoxia: 110.13 ± 7.16 µm, central retinal venular equivalent: normoxia: 123.39 ± 8.34 µm, hypoxia: 130.11 ± 8.54 µm) and adults (central retinal arteriolar equivalent: normoxia: 105.35 ± 10.67 µm, hypoxia: 110.77 ± 8.36 µm; central retinal venular equivalent: normoxia: 126.89 ± 7.24 µm, hypoxia: 132.03 ± 9.72 µm), with no main effect of group or group*condition interaction. A main effect of condition on central retinal arteriolar and venular equivalents was observed (central retinal arteriolar equivalent: normoxia: 105.34 ± 9.30 µm, hypoxia: 110.50 ± 7.67 µm, p < 0.001; central retinal venular equivalent: normoxia: 125.41 ± 7.70 µm, hypoxia: 131.22 ± 9.05 µm, p < 0.001). Conclusion: A 20-hour hypoxic exposure significantly increased central retinal arteriolar and venular equivalents in adults and children. These hypoxia-induced increases were not significantly different between the age groups, confirming that vasomotor sensitivity of the retinal vessels to acute hypoxia is comparable between adults and prepubertal children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Haemoglobin mass (Hbmass) assessment with the carbon monoxide rebreathing method is a more accurate estimate than other measures of oxygen-carrying capacity. Blood may be collected by several means and differences in the measured variables may exist as a result. The present study assessed the validity and reliability of calculated Hbmass and intravascular volumes obtained from capillary blood (CAP) when compared to venous blood (VEN) draws. Methods: Twenty-two adults performed a carbon monoxide rebreathing procedure with paired VEN and CAP draws at baseline, pre-rebreathing and post-rebreathing (POST). Thirteen of these participants performed this protocol on two occasions to assess the data reliability from both blood sampling sites. In a second experiment, 14 adults performed a 20-min seated and a 20-min supine rest to assess for the effect of posture on haematological parameters. Results: Haemoglobin mass (CAP = 948.8 ± 156.8 g; VEN = 943.4 ± 157.3 g, p = 0.108) and intravascular volume (CAP = 6.5 ± 1 L; VEN = 6.5 ± 0.9 L, p = 0.752) were statistically indifferent, had low bias (Hbmass bias = 14.45 ± 40.42 g, LoA -64.78 g—93.67 g) and were highly correlated between sampling techniques. Reliability analysis demonstrated no difference in the mean change in variables calculated from both sampling sites and good to excellent intraclass correlation coefficients (>0.700), however, typical measurement error was larger in variables measured using CAP (VEN Hbmass TE% = 2.1%, CAP Hbmass TE % = 5.5%). The results indicate that a supine rest prior to the rebreathing protocol would have a significant effect on haemoglobin concentration and haematocrit values compared to a seated rest, with no effect on carboxyhaemoglobin %. Conclusion: The present study demonstrates that CAP and VEN were comparable for the calculation of Hbmass and intravascular volumes in terms of accuracy. However, reduced reliability and increased error in the CAP variables indicates that there are methodological considerations to address when deciding which blood drawing technique to utilise. To reduce this CAP error, increased replicate analyses are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acclima(tiza)tion to heat or hypoxia enhances work capacity in hot and hypoxic environmental conditions, respectively; an acclimation response is considered to be mediated by stimuli-specific molecular/systemic adaptations and potentially facilitated by the addition of exercise sessions. Promising findings at the cellular level provided the impetus for recent studies investigating whether acclimation to one stressor will ultimately facilitate whole body performance when exercise is undertaken in a different environmental condition. The present critical Mini-Review examines the theory of cross-adaptation between heat and hypoxia with particular reference to the determinants of aerobic performance. Indeed, early functional adaptations (improved exercise economy and enhanced oxyhemoglobin saturation) succeeded by later morphological adaptations (increased hemoglobin mass) might aid acclimatized humans perform aerobic work in an alternative environmental setting. Longer-term acclimation protocols that focus on the specific adaptation kinetics (and further allow for the adaptation reversal) will elucidate the exact physiological mechanisms that might mediate gains in aerobic performance or explain the lack thereof. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a series of three companion papers published in this Journal, we identify and validate the available thermal stress indicators (TSIs). In this third paper, we conducted field experiments across nine countries to evaluate the efficacy of 61 meteorology-based TSIs for assessing the physiological strain experienced by individuals working in the heat. We monitored 372 experi-enced and acclimatized workers during 893 full work shifts. We continuously assessed core body temperature, mean skin temperature, and heart rate data together with pre/post urine specific gravity and color. The TSIs were evaluated against 17 published criteria covering physiological parameters, practicality, cost effectiveness, and health guidance issues. Simple meteorological parameters explained only a fraction of the variance in physiological heat strain (R2 = 0.016 to 0.427; p < 0.001), reflecting the importance of adopting more sophisticated TSIs. Nearly all TSIs correlated with mean skin temperature (98%), mean body temperature (97%), and heart rate (92%), while 66% of TSIs correlated with the magnitude of dehydration and 59% correlated with core body temperature (r = 0.031 to 0.602; p < 0.05). When evaluated against the 17 published criteria, the TSIs scored from 4.7 to 55.4% (max score = 100%). The indoor (55.4%) and outdoor (55.1%) Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature and the Universal Thermal Climate Index (51.7%) scored higher compared to other TSIs (4.7 to 42.0%). Therefore, these three TSIs have the highest potential to assess the physiological strain experienced by individuals working in the heat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a series of three companion papers published in this Journal, we identify and validate the available thermal stress indicators (TSIs). In this first paper of the series, we conducted a systematic review (registration: INPLASY202090088) to identify all TSIs and provide reliable information regarding their use (funded by EU Horizon 2020; HEAT-SHIELD). Eight databases (PubMed, Agricultural and Environmental Science Collection, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, Russian Science Citation Index, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar) were searched from database inception to 15 April 2020. No restrictions on language or study design were applied. Of the 879 publications identified, 232 records were considered for further analysis. This search identified 340 instruments and indicators developed between 200 BC and 2019 AD. Of these, 153 are nomograms, instruments, and/or require detailed non-meteorological information, while 187 can be mathematically calculated utilizing only meteorological data. Of these meteorology-based TSIs, 127 were developed for people who are physically active, and 61 of those are eligible for use in occupational settings. Information regarding the equation, operating range, interpretation categories, required input data, as well as a free software to calculate all 187 meteorology-based TSIs is provided. The information presented in this systematic review should be adopted by those interested in performing on-site monitoring and/or big data analytics for climate services to ensure appropriate use of the meteorology-based TSIs. Studies two and three in this series of companion papers present guidance on the application and validation of these TSIs, to guide end users of these indicators for more effective use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a series of three companion papers published in this Journal, we identify and validate the available thermal stress indicators (TSIs). In this second paper of the series, we identified the criteria to consider when adopting a TSI to protect individuals who work in the heat, and we weighed their relative importance using a Delphi exercise with 20 experts. Two Delphi iterations were adequate to reach consensus within the expert panel (Cronbach's α = 0.86) for a set of 17 criteria with varying weights that should be considered when adopting a TSI to protect individuals who work in the heat. These criteria considered physiological parameters such as core/skin/mean body temperature, heart rate, and hydration status, as well as practicality, cost effectiveness, and health guidance issues. The 17 criteria were distributed across three occupational health-and-safety pillars: (i) contribution to improving occupational health (55% of total importance), (ii) mitigation of worker physiological strain (35.5% of total importance), and (iii) cost-effectiveness (9.5% of total importance). Three criteria [(i) relationship of a TSI with core temperature, (ii) having categories indicating the level of heat stress experienced by workers, and (iii) using its heat stress categories to provide recommendations for occupational safety and health] were considered significantly more important when selecting a TSI for protecting individuals who work in the heat, accumulating 37.2 percentage points. These 17 criteria allow the validation and comparison of TSIs that presently exist as well as those that may be developed in the coming years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Around the planet, in many different scenarios, skin temperature is being used as a surrogate measure of deep body (core) temperature in the assessment of whether an individual is infected with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), which causes the coronavirus disease (Covid‐19), as indicated by the presence of fever. The key question is whether this is a valid methodology. If it is not, we run the risk of falsely excluding individuals from places they may want, or need, to go. We also run the risk of falsely allowing people into places where they can spread the undetected infection they have. In this review, we explore these and associated questions. We establish the limited utility of the current methodology for the mass screening of individuals for Covid‐19 related fever using infrared thermography. We propose the development of an alternative method that may prove to be more sensitive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]