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Industrial wool textile production exposes workers mainly to the biomechanical loading of the shoulder joint. In this work context, which is characterized by poor machine ergonomics, exposure to biomechanical risk factors, and variable work organization, exoskeletons could facilitate work processes or could be a valuable means to protect workers from overuse injuries. Field evaluation is essential to verify the suitability of specific devices and their acceptance by users. As part of a pilot study, we examined the short-term subjective effects of a passive Arm-Support Exoskeleton (ASE) on workers performing repetitive overhead tasks. In a textile factory, eight workers participated in the study, answering questionnaires after carrying out a work session with (ASE) and without an exoskeleton (FREE). Participants had been using the Paexo exoskeleton for 4.2±5.8 months (min 0–max 12). Subjective evaluations were collected regarding the workload (NASA-TLX) and relief (Borg’s CR10 scale) obtained from the use of the exoskeleton, satisfaction (Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST)), usability (System Usability Scale (SUS)), and opinions on the ergonomics of the device (Ergonomics questionnaire). Workers reported a high workload (NASA 7.2±1.0) and assessed a 46% reduction in effort on the CR10 in ASE conditions compared to FREE. They expressed high satisfaction with most characteristics of the ASE (100% satisfied with durability and effectiveness), high level of usability (62% of scores above 80, out of a maximum score of 100), and ergonomics of the device (88±12, out of a maximum score of 110). In addition to the objective effects (electromyography (EMG) reduction) already demonstrated in a previous publication, these qualitative results demonstrate a positive perception by textile workers regarding the effectiveness, usability, and suitability of the exoskeleton. The adoption of ASE in the textile industry appears beneficial in the short term, but the impact associated with individual variables and long-term effects remains to be explored.

Drivers occupy a workstation that require safety measures. The objective of this paper was to assess the causes of occupational unfitness of professional drivers. This is a descriptive, retrospective study covering all cases of drivers sent for an evaluation of their fitness to work, carried out in the Department of occupational medicine at Farhat Hached teaching hospital in Sousse, from January 1st, 2008, until December 30th, 2020. 155 drivers were enrolled in this study. Most drivers drove buses (52.3%), 26.5% were diabetic, 29% had ophthalmological pathologies and 36.8% had chronic lower back pain. Seventy-four percent were defined unfit. Subjects over 50-years-old (p=0.034; OR = 2.45; 95% CI [1.05-5.71]), high job seniority (p=0.015; OR= 1.71; 95% CI [-7.60-0.81]), cardiac pathology (p=0.022; OR = 7.7; 95% CI [1.0-59.5]) and right and left single ocular visual acuity ≤ 5/10 (p=0.008; OR = 10.43; 95% CI [1.31-82.91] and p

Objective To assess the effect of transitioning to remote working during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in a population of adults affected by chronic low back pain (cLBP). Methods An online questionnaire was sent by email to teleworkers affected by cLBP. Demographic data, remote working features and tasks, and LBP burden were analyzed. The psychological burden of remote working was evaluated with the World Health Organization Five Well-Being Index and the Patient Health Questionnaire-2. LBP severity was evaluated using a visual analogue scale. LBP-related disability was assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index. The effect of LBP on working capacity was examined with the Occupational Role Questionnaire. Independent risk factors related to LBP worsening were identified using a multivariate logistic regression model. Results During remote working, LBP severity was significantly higher compared to previous in-person working (p < 0.0001), as well as average weekly work hours (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the risk of LBP worsening was associated with higher depression scores (odds ratio [OR], 1.38; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00–1.91; p = 0.048), increased stress levels (OR: 3.00, 95% CI: 1.04–8.65; p = 0.042), and being divorced (OR: 4.28, 95% CI: 1.27–14.47; p = 0.019). Conversely, living with others (OR: 0.24, 95% CI: 0.07–0.81; p = 0.021), and reporting unchanged stress levels (OR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.08–0.65; p = 0.006) were associated with a lower risk of LBP worsening. Conclusion Our findings highlight key factors to consider for improving remote workers’ physical and mental wellbeing and decrease their LBP burden.

BackgroundThe endocrine-disrupting effects of phytopharmaceutical active substances (PAS) on human health are a public health concern. The CIPATOX-PE database, created in 2018, listed the PAS authorized in France between 1961 and 2014 presenting endocrine-disrupting effects for humans according to data from official international organizations. Since the creation of CIPATOX-PE, European regulations have changed, and new initiatives identifying substances with endocrine-disrupting effects have been implemented and new PAS have been licensed.ObjectivesThe study aimed to update the CIPATOX-PE database by considering new 2018 European endocrine-disrupting effect identification criteria as well as the new PAS authorized on the market in France since 2015.MethodsThe endocrine-disrupting effect assessment of PAS from five international governmental and non-governmental initiatives was reviewed, and levels of evidence were retained by these initiatives for eighteen endocrine target organs.ResultsThe synthesis of the identified endocrine-disrupting effects allowed to assign an endocrine-disrupting effect level of concern for 241 PAS among 980 authorized in France between 1961 and 2021. Thus, according to the updated CIPATOX-PE data, 44 PAS (18.3%) had an endocrine-disrupting effect classified as “high concern,” 133 PAS (55.2%) “concern,” and 64 PAS (26.6%) “unknown effect” in the current state of knowledge. In the study, 42 PAS with an endocrine-disrupting effect of “high concern” are similarly classified in CIPATOX-PE-2018 and 2021, and 2 new PAS were identified as having an endocrine-disrupting effect of “high concern” in the update, and both were previously classified with an endocrine-disrupting effect of “concern” in CIPATOX-PE-2018. Finally, a PAS was identified as having an endocrine-disrupting effect of “high concern” in CIPATOX-PE-2018 but is now classified as a PAS not investigated for endocrine-disrupting effects in CIPATOX-PE-2021. The endocrine target organs associated with the largest number of PAS with an endocrine-disrupting effect of “high concern” is the reproductive system with 31 PAS. This is followed by the thyroid with 25 PAS and the hypothalamic–pituitary axis (excluding the gonadotropic axis) with 5 PAS.DiscussionThe proposed endocrine-disrupting effect indicator, which is not a regulatory classification, can be used as an epidemiological tool for occupational risks and surveillance.

This study evaluated nuclear medicine occupational radiation doses at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, a 700-bed tertiary care teaching hospital in Oman. Personal effective whole-body doses, Hp(10), and extremity doses, Hp(0.07), were collected for 19 medical radiation workers over a 7-year period (2015–2021). Personal doses for four professional groups were measured using calibrated thermo-luminescence dosemeters ((LiF:Mg,Ti) TLD-100). The average, median and maximum cumulative doses were compared against the annual whole-body and extremity dose limits (20 mSv and 500 mSv y−1, respectively) and local dose investigation level (DIL; 6 mSv y−1). Personal whole-body doses (average:median:maximum) for technologists, medical physicists, nuclear medicine physicians and nurses were 1.8:1.1:7.8, 0.3:0.3:0.4, 0.1:0.1:0.2 and 0.1:0.1:0.2 mSv, respectively. Personal extremity doses for left and right hand (average and maximum doses) follow similar trends. Average annual effective whole-body and extremity doses were well below the recommended annual dose limits. The findings suggest lowering local DIL for all staff except for technologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the American Board of Preventive Medicine's (ABPM) update of the content outline for the Occupational Medicine (OM) initial certification examination and the longitudinal assessment program, reflecting the evolution of practice to include environmental medicine. Topics include the name change of the specialty from OM to OEM, the practice analysis process, and the shift towards recognizing the broader scope of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (OEM).

Total synthesis offers a key approach to the production of natural medicines if sufficient quantities cannot be obtained due to low natural abundance or lack of efficient fermentation or semi-synthesis methods. This Viewpoint outlines the previous and current states of research as they apply to the total synthesis of natural medicines on an industrial scale and provides a holistic view on the potential for future developments in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Over recent years, the global healthcare system has experienced a notable increase in the prevalence of obesity and its associated health complications such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, lipid disorders, etc. What is more, one of the significant phenomena is the increasing demand for bariatric procedures among individuals of working age due to the high prevalence of type III obesity and type II obesity with co-morbidities. This trend is pronounced in Poland, due to the increasing number of patients meeting the qualifying criteria for surgery among professionally active and inactive patients. The aim of this study is to characterize the alarmingly high number of candidates for bariatric procedures among professionally active Poles. In total, the results of 2,056,861 initial, control, and periodic visits as part of the occupational medicine certificate were analyzed—collected from 1,342,749 unique patients (51.7% men; mean age of whole group: 36.81, SD = 10.91). Statistical calculations were performed, qualitative data were assessed using percentage and occurrence counts, while qualitative data were described using mean (M), standard deviation (SD), median, skewness, kurtosis, and range values. Results with p < 0.05 were deemed significant. Chi-square analysis and one-way ANOVA (with Scheffe's post hoc test) were employed. Charts were created in the R program. It was noticed that there was a consistent rise in the proportion of individuals classified as candidates for bariatric procedures (an increase of 0.3%) alongside a notable decrease in the percentage of individuals maintaining a healthy body weight. Moreover, it is imperative to conduct yearly evaluations of the prevalence of obesity and its associated health conditions. It should be noted that hypertension occurred in 42.2% of patients, type 2 diabetes in 6.2% of patients, and lipid disorders in 8.4% of patients with third-degree obesity. This proactive approach is essential in order to adequately equip the healthcare system to address the increasing population of obese individuals, especially candidates for bariatric procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Risk factors for the severity of occupational asthma (OA) are often attributed to occupational exposure. However, some recent epidemiological data suggest a link with obesity. The study aimed to analyze the relationship between obesity and the severity of (OA) assessed by non-specific bronchial provocation. Materials and Methods: We conducted an epidemiological descriptive retrospective study including patients who were referred to the Occupational Medicine Department of Farhat Hached University Hospital of Sousse, for (OA) and who have completed a non-specific bronchoprovocation test to metacholine. Results: Our population consisted of 131 cases of (OA) with a female predominance. The average BMI was 27.34 ±5.30 kg. Obesity was observed in 29.8% of cases. The non-specific metacholine bronchial provocation test revealed an average dose of PD20 at 750.4 ±656.3 µg. Severe (OA) was observed in (35.1%). After univariate analysis, obesity in asthmatics had a significant association with age (p<0.001), marital status (p=0.005), average professional seniority (p<0.001), the evolution of complaints (p=0.035) and abnormal initial spirometry (p=0.044). As for the severity of (OA), the univariate analytical study did not show a significant link with obesity (p=0.68). Conclusion: The association between obesity and OA is not an easy task and should be made using more accurate tools to measure body fat percentage. The preventive role of the occupational physician is essential in factories in order to make more prudent decisions when employing workers with a high BMI in high-risk occupations. Hence the importance of regular monitoring of weight in workers exposed to asthmatics during periodic examinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plan for the application of preventive measures against occurrence and spread of infectious diseases is valid for all workplaces and in the work environment of the organization and is implemented in order to prevent epidemics of infectious diseases and eliminate risks to safe and healthy work of employees. The aim of this paper was to point out the importance of the existence of a plan for the implementation of preventive measures against occurrence of infectious diseases and the role of the occupational medicine service in the implementation of this plan. The results of the paper present the experiences in the implementation of preventive measures in the event of an epidemic of infectious diseases caused by the coronavirus and the method of treatment of patients with this disease. The views and activities of the occupational medicine service in the case of work ability assessment in persons after a previous illness and declaring the disease caused by the coronavirus an occupational disease were presented. It was concluded that it is extremely important to act according to the established plan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• COPD is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. • Endothelial function is a surrogate marker of cardiovascular risk. • Endothelial function may improve in COPD after pulmonary rehabilitation. • Changes in endothelial function may be related to changes in lung function. • Controlled studies with adequate follow-up are needed to confirm the above results. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with subclinical atherosclerosis and endothelial dysfunction, thereby leading to increased cardiovascular risk. In the present study, we evaluated the changes in endothelium-dependent flow-mediated dilation (FMD) in a cohort of severe COPD patients undergoing pulmonary rehabilitation. Consecutive COPD patients referred to our Pulmonary Rehabilitation Unit were screened for inclusion. All study procedures were performed at hospital admission and discharge. Of 78 patients screened for eligibility, a total of 40 participants (67.5% males, median age 72.5 years) were included. After pulmonary rehabilitation, a significant improvement in functional parameters, exercise capacity, and measures of disability and quality of life were documented. FMD changed from 3.25% (IQR: 2.31–4.26) to 4.95% (IQR: 3.57–6.02), corresponding to a 52.3% increase of its median value (P < 0.001). Significantly lower changes in FMD were documented in COPD patients with hypercholesterolemia as compared to those without (+0.33% ± 1.61 vs. +1.62% ± 1.59, P = 0.037). Changes in FMD (ΔFMD) were positively associated with changes in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV 1), when expressed both as absolute values (ΔFEV 1) (r = 0.503, P = 0.002) and as percentages of predicted values (ΔFEV 1 %) (r = 0.608; P < 0.001). In multiple linear regressions, after adjusting for major cardiovascular risk factors, ΔFEV 1 (β=0.342; P = 0.049) and ΔFEV 1 % (β=0.480; P = 0.015) were both confirmed as independent predictors of ΔFMD. Results of our study suggest that endothelial function may improve in COPD after pulmonary rehabilitation. The potential beneficial effect in terms of cardiovascular risk prevention should be evaluated in ad hoc designed studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Records from occupations of workers in information systems mean much more than just sociodemographic data. In Occupational Medicine and Occupational Health Epidemiology, they are especially relevant as they indicate possible occupational risk factors. Objective: To estimate quality indicators of the record of occupation of asbestos-related diseases in the Mortality Information System (SIM), Brazil. Method: Cross-sectional study, conducted with death records of people over 16 years of age, registered in SIM, from 2000 to 2016, with diagnoses of asbestos-related diseases (ARD): mesothelioma, asbestosis, and pleural plaques. The “occupation” field was analyzed for completeness and consistency. Results: From a total of 3,764 death records, for which 60.3% (n=2,268) of missed/inconsistent occupation records were observed. Invalid occupation data accounted for 40.1% (n=1,508), mainly filled with “retired” or “housewives”, not recognized as formal job titles. The poor occupancy record quality among ARD records was over 50.0% in all regions of the country. Conclusions: The quality of the occupation records in SIM was poor for both ARD and other diagnoses, especially regarding the completeness and consistency of the data, in relation to the Brazilian Classification of Occupations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Religación: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades is the property of Religacion: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Occupational Health Services (OHS) are comprehensive, multidisciplinary services supplied by various trained workers, including occupational physicians (OP), whose specialty is focused on workers' health. Aims: Our study questions are whether the OP/worker ratio may reflect the scope and availability of OHS. Methods: This comparative study, conducted on globally different OHS, was based on literature analysis of peer-reviewed articles published in journals covering topics of occupational medicine and public health that addressed parameters on the type and scope of OHS provision. Results: We described the number of OP/worker ratio, and the correlation to economic parameters (Gross domestic product—GDP, health expenditure, Gini Index—GI) by country. We found that among countries with a GDP per capita higher than US$30,000, only three (US, South Korea and Israel) had a very low OP/worker ratio (about 1:50,000 compared to 1:5,000 in other countries). Looking at all the countries together, there was a statistically significant negative correlation between health expenditure percentage of GDP per capita and OP/worker ratio (rs = -0.54, p = 0.01) and a significant positive correlation between GI and OP/worker ratio (rs = 0.47, p = 0.04). Conclusions: The lesser the percentage of health expenditure of GDP and the subsequent greater general inequality as reflected by the GI, the lower the OP/worker ratio. The data collected in our comparative study show that the OP/worker ratio is a parameter both easy to define and obtain which best represents the status and disparity of OHS in each country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

3D printing (3DP) is an accessible platform being increasingly utilized by independent researchers in fields ranging from industrial manufacturing to medicine. 3D bioprinting is a form of 3D printing that makes use of "bioinks," organic or synthetic polymer formulations that are often laden with cells. The wide range of materials available means that bioinks can be tailored to the types of tissue that they are meant to emulate. Human skin has a complex microenvironment consisting of numerous layers, cell types, growth factors, and molecular signaling pathways. 3D bioprinting's flexibility and ability to create complex, bioactive structures means that it has great potential in creating artificial skin constructs for skin wound regeneration. While the available materials and cell types for 3DP are large, an ideal bioink for printing artificial skin remains yet to be found. This review will cover the various types of 3DP, the bioinks commonly used, the functionalization of printed artificial skin constructs, challenges that arise in the 3D bioprinting of skin, and future directions for the field. The structure of skin and the wound healing process will also be discussed, as sufficient understanding of these subjects is key to the development of therapeutic artificial skin constructs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various terms used in sport and exercise science, and medicine, are derived from other fields such as epidemiology, pharmacology and causal inference. Conceptual and nomological frameworks have described training load as a multidimensional construct manifested by two causally related subdimensions: external and internal training load. In this article, we explain how the concepts of training load and its subdimensions can be aligned to classifications used in occupational medicine and epidemiology, where exposure can also be differentiated into external and internal dose. The meanings of terms used in epidemiology such as exposure, external dose, internal dose and dose–response are therefore explored from a causal perspective and their underlying concepts are contextualised to the physical training process. We also explain how these concepts can assist in the validation process of training load measures. Specifically, to optimise training (i.e. within a causal context), a measure of exposure should be reflective of the mediating mechanisms of the primary outcome. Additionally, understanding the difference between intermediate and surrogate outcomes allows for the correct investigation of the effects of exposure measures and their interpretation in research and applied settings. Finally, whilst the dose–response relationship can provide evidence of the validity of a measure, conceptual and computational differentiation between causal (explanatory) and non-causal (descriptive and predictive) dose–response relationships is needed. Regardless of how sophisticated or "advanced" a training load measure (and metric) appears, in a causal context, if it cannot be connected to a plausible mediator of a relevant response (outcome), it is likely of little use in practice to support and optimise the training process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Zentralblatt fuer Arbeitsmedizin, Arbeitsschutz und Ergonomie is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction. Work-related psychosocial risks have been identified as significant occupational health and safety risks; the occupational physicians must assess and monitor the health status of workers in order to verify that work is not a source of harm to exposed operators. The aim of the study was to investigate the outcomes related to anxiety and depression traits in workers exposed to stress-related work. Methods. A questionnaire was administered to a large population of Italian public administration workers; the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies - Depression Scale questionnaire was used to measure depression, the Self rating Anxiety Scale was used to measure anxiety, the UK Management Standards Indicator tool questionnaire was used to assess work adjustment. A descriptive analysis, a multivariate analysis, as well as logistic regression models were used to assess the health outcomes related to stress. Results. A total of 292 workers participated in the study; 100% of participants had a Centre for Epidemiologic Studies - Depression Scale score over the cut-off; 41.78% had a Self rating Anxiety Scale score over the cut-off; the results support a correlation between the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies - Depression Scale results and the UK Management Standards Indicator tool results; and a correlation between Self-rating Anxiety Scale results and the UK Management Standards Indicator tool results. Conclusions. The Demand, Management, Support and Relationship results were associated with mental health outcomes, and it could be a useful tool in occupational medicine, to identify workers at risk for negative mental health outcomes, becoming an essential tool in workers' health assessment and for prevention of mental health disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objectives The study assessed quality of life and depression in working people during COVID-19 pandemic, relative to their physical activity. Material and Methods The study involved 1194 people living in south-eastern Poland, and assessed life satisfaction ( Life Satisfaction Questionnaire – 9 [LISAT-9]), quality of life ( World Health Organization Quality of Life – BREF [WHOQoL-BREF]), depression ( Beck Depression Inventory [BDI]) and physical activity. Results The respondents on average scored 4.32 in LISAT-9; respectively 66.2, 68.3, 69.6 and 63.5 in physical, psychological, social and environment domains of WHOQoL-BREF and 9.2 in BDI. Regularly performed physical activity positively affected the scores in all the psychometric tests in women with higher and secondary education and in men with vocational education. Women presented lower life satisfaction, poorer quality of life and higher level of depression than men. The psychometric scores were also differentiated by type of employment and job. Depression was identified in 44% of all the respondents. Conclusions Individuals who are economically active during the pandemic report good quality of life and no or only mild signs of depression. Working people with higher education cope more effectively with adversities of the pandemic, compared to those with lower education. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2023;36(2):274–90

The article describes the current issues in occupational medicine and the ways to resolve them in the context of the spread of a new coronavirus infection COVID-19. The risks of COVID-19 infection in medical and non-medical workers are considered. Modern approaches to establishment of COVID-19 causal relationship with occupation and medical examinations in patients with COVID-19 are presented. The main provisions of the National concept of healthcare-associated infections relevant in the context of COVID-19 pandemic are presented. Problems in public health care related to restructuring of work of medical organizations in conditions of COVID-19 spread are shown. Attention is paid to mental health disorders in medical workers providing medical care to patients with COVID-19. The prospects of development and implementation of measures for prevention of COVID-19, its complications and adverse outcomes taking into account complex assessment of working environment and professional health of workers are considered from the position of occupational medicine.

Abstract Purpose Occupational health programmes have been successfully implemented to improve body composition, physical fitness and cardiovascular risk. However, most programmes have been small and have not included long-term evaluation. Therefore, we evaluated a twelve-month life-style change programme in a German refinery. Methods We offered a supervised six-week endurance exercise programme (2 × 90 min/week), starting after a two-day life-style seminar. After the active intervention and a half-day refresher seminar, employees were encouraged to continue exercising over one year on their own, with monthly supervised sessions to maintain adherence. Anthropometry, bicycle ergometry, cardio-metabolic risk profile, inflammatory parameters, and vascular function e.g. endothelial function was studied at baseline, after three and after twelve months. Results Of 550 employees, n = 327 (age 40.8 ± 9.7 years, 88% males) participated in the study. Twelve-month intervention was associated with a reduced waist circumference (92.6 ± 12.2 to 90.8 ± 11.7 cm, 95% confidence interval for the mean change (CI): -2.5 to -1.1 cm) and a gain in maximal exercise capacity (202 ± 39.6 to 210 ± 38.9 Watt; 95% CI: + 5.1 to + 10.9 Watt). Metabolic and inflammatory parameters likewise HbA1c and C-reactive protein improved in central tendency at a local 95% level of confidence. Vascular function e.g. Reactive-Hyperaemia-Index revealed a slight reduction, whereas no statistically robust changes in mean Cardio-Ankle-Vascular-Index and mean Ankle-Brachial-Index were observed. Conclusion Health education added by a six-week supervised exercise programme was associated with minor long-term twelve-month improvements of body composition as well as physical fitness and a concomitant improvement of inflammatory state. These changes were, however, not clinically relevant and not accompanied by statistically robust improvements of vascular function. Trial registration ClinTrialsGov: NCT01919632; date of registration: August 9, 2013; retrospectively registered.

Background: the precision agriculture field optimizes resource use, enhancing performance. However, this leads to exposure to ergonomic risks for operators, in particular, tractor drivers, potentially causing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). This study investigates how the display position in a semi-automatic tractor system influences operator comfort and muscle activation during harrowing operations. Methods: the assessment of muscular strain involved the use of surface electromyographic devices, while posture was evaluated throughout the analysis of the distribution of pressure exerted by the operator’s body on the seat, which was observed using two barometric pads, each positioned on the backrest and base of the seat. Finally, infrared thermography (IRT), a non-invasive tool to assess muscle activation, was used to measure the surface temperature of the driver’s back. The results showed a significantly greater muscular activation display for the position of display in semi-automatic driving at 50° and 80°. Conclusions: this study showed how the position of the display on the vehicle negatively influences posture, exposing workers to the risk of developing fatigue and, therefore, discomfort, with the potential onset of MSDs. The combined use of sEMG and IRT allowed for a non-invasive, cheap, and repeatable mechanical and functionality analysis.

Objective: Perceived injustice, a concept that arose in pain medicine, refers to an individual's experiences and perceptions of victimisation from injuries resulting in chronic pain. Here, we have undertaken a historical and clinical review on the role of perceived injustice medicine in psychiatry and a systematic review on psychotherapeutic interventions for perceived injustice. Method: For the systematic review, two studies were identified from a search of six databases. Results: Though evidence is limited, psychotherapeutic interventions show promise in addressing perceived injustice and associated symptomatology. Conclusion: Perceived injustice is a concept which may have great potential utility to psychiatry, particularly in occupational and medicolegal areas. Interventions addressing perceived injustice may help improve clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sneddon's syndrome is a rare condition characterized by the presence of neurocutaneous lesions, including reticular livedo and an increase in thrombotic risk, and it is associated with a greater risk of cerebrovascular disease. It is diagnosed through a skin biopsy and neurological manifestations. In this study, we present a clinical report of a 39-year-old nurse exposed to shift and night work in an intensive care unit. She was diagnosed with Sneddon's syndrome, whose workplace had to be readapted, considering the complications and restrictions of her condition and aiming her protection and healthcare promotion. Night work can exacerbate cerebral and cardiovascular events due to its impact on metabolism, blood pressure profile, and hormone concentrations. Therefore, given a syndrome characterized by an increased thrombotic risk associated with cerebrovascular events, the restriction of night work is imperative. The occupational physician is responsible for intervening in the workplace and preventing long-term consequences for employees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We aimed in this study to evaluate the impact of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) on patients’ professional life and to determine predictors of severe work productivity loss (WPL). Materials & methods: A cross sectional study including patients with a confirmed diagnosis of IBD. Work productivity was evaluated with the work productivity and activity impairment score. Results: Severe absenteeism and WPL were found in respectively 7 (5.1%) and 54 (39.1%) patients. In multivariate analysis, the following features were found to be independently associated with severe WPL: penetrating Crohn’s disease (p: 0.001, OR: 6), anemia (p: 0.031, OR: 3.23), diarrhea (p

To assess vaccine coverage rates before and after implementation of a COVID-19 vaccine mandate among Health care Personnel (HCP) and demographic characteristics associated with vaccine uptake Design, Setting, and Participants: Cohort study conducted among 10,889 hospital employees followed from Dec 16, 2020 - October 31, 2021, at a large academic hospital in Philadelphia. Main Outcome and Measures: Time to COVID-19 vaccination and vaccine series completion rates before and after implementation of a COVID-19 vaccine mandate based on age, gender, race/ethnicity, and level of patient contact/occupational group. The vaccination series completion rate was 86.0% prior to mandate announcement, and increased to 98.7% after mandate implementation. Rates before mandate announcement were highest among Asians (96.2%), Whites (94.0%), males (89.7%), employees ≥ 65 years of age (95.2%), and employees with direct patient care (physicians, 99.0%, and nurses, 93.3%). Hospital educational initiatives (including Town Halls and discussions with Black and Hispanic employees with the lowest vaccination rates) appeared to improve uptake. The largest increase in series completion after mandate announcement occurred among Blacks, those of other/multiracial backgrounds, and Hispanics (35.6%, 22.4%, and 10.8%, respectively) as well as those with some or no direct patient contact (24.5% and 18.3%, respectively). Medical or religious exemptions were approved for 64 (<0.6%) employees and 38 (<0.4%) left their positions (8 voluntary, 30 involuntary) specifically due to the COVID-19 vaccine mandate. No clinically meaningful differences by age, gender, or race/ethnicity for those who were vaccinated under the mandate versus those who left their positions were noted. These results suggest that while mandates may be challenging to institutions and enforcement unpopular, they play an important role in reducing hesitancy and securing high vaccination rates among HCP, a group at high risk of COVID-19 given their employment and who can be a source of disease transmission to patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new role of occupational medicine was experimented during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sanchez et al. [[5]] focused their attention on the mediation of work engagement in the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and work performance in front-line HCWs throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Occupational medicine is a clinical discipline that draws attention to the health of workers and their ability to work. In modern and global occupational medicine, it is crucial to promote measures to improve the work environment that can combine adherence to legislations related to worker health and safety protection with health promotion programmes [[11]]. [Extracted from the article]

Furthermore, as the cohort only includes register data, other important information from patient records such as data on clinical examination findings (aside from diagnosis), duration and severity of symptoms, functional limitations and whether or not the presented symptoms were assessed to be causally related to working conditions, are not available at the moment. Key Messages The Danish Occupational Medicine Cohort was established to conduct long-term follow-up for large groups of patients with work-related disease. The administrative data comprise identification of the patient (the unique personal identification number - CPR-number), the municipality of the patient, identification (ID) of the hospital ward, date and time of activity. However, in part due to large organizational merges that had taken place during 2000-18 and in part due to information back in time not always being available from the departments (due to, for example, closure of old patient IT systems), we only obtained information on 91 354 patients corresponding to 75% of the requested years (seven departments over 19 years). [Extracted from the article]

BACKGROUND: The coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic acts as a recent driver for telework on a global scale. While visual display unit (VDU) workplaces are usually subject to regulatory requirements or occupational health and safety controls, mobile workplaces may increase the risk of developing work-related musculoskeletal complaints (MSCs). OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore the influence of work from home (WFH) on musculoskeletal complaints in the context of German municipal administrations. METHODS: This paper is based on an online survey conducted as part of the Health and Digital Change project in cooperation with three municipal administrations in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. A multivariate model was constructed to calculate the odds ratio for MSCs including various control variables. RESULTS: While bivariate analysis showed a 0.96-fold risk for employees who work from home, the multivariate model with a split between occasional (OR = 0.79) and frequent (OR = 1.59) WFH revealed a more complex effect. Both odds did not reach the significance level. However, the influence of being female (OR = 3.34) and being overweight (OR = 1.51) was confirmed. Regarding age the OR increases by 1.02 per year of life. Other control variables were the municipal affiliation, university entrance qualification, working hours and feeling overstrained. The regression model improved by 0.07 (McFadden R2) compared to the null model. CONCLUSION: Although WFH is discussed as a rising risk factor for MSCs, the findings in this study indicate, that occasional WFH acts as a rather protective factor against work-related MSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Moringa oleifera Lam. is a tropical tree that has been traditionally used for food, medicine and industrial purposes. All parts of the tree have been utilized and have biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, wound healing, cardiovascular, anti-asthmatic, hepatoprotective, protection of the central nervous system and more. The leaves and seeds of moringa are particularly rich in phytochemicals, including glucosinolates and isothiocyanates (ITCs). Glucosinolates are inactive precursors that are hydrolyzed into bioactive ITCs. Isothiocyanates, such as 4-(α-L-rhamnopyranosyloxy) benzyl isothiocyanate (moringa isothiocyanate 1, or MIC-1), are known for their diverse biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer properties. The unique sugar moiety in moringa's ITCs contributes to its stability and distinct properties compared to other cruciferous vegetables. In vitro models, such as the TIM-1 model and in vivo murine models demonstrate MIC-1's bioaccessibility and bioavailability, with no statistical difference in state. Inflammation, as a defense mechanism, is implicated in a wide range of diseases such as diabetes, cancer, obesity, cardiovascular disease, arthritis and multiple sclerosis. In vivo models were used to evaluate the efficacy of MIC-1 against acute skin inflammation, which inhibited the inflammatory pathway. Additional studies into Moringa oleifera seed extract effects on acute inflammation can contribute to future development of therapies managing chronic inflammatory conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study provides an overview of the relationships between exposure to work-related hand-arm vibration and the occurrence of pre-defined disorders of the hands. We searched Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central, and PsycINFO for cross-sectional and longitudinal studies on the association between work-related vibration exposure and the occurrence of hand-arm vibration syndrome (including vibration-induced white finger), Dupuytren's contracture, or hypothenar hammer syndrome. We used a 16-item checklist for assessing the risk of bias. We present results narratively, and we conducted random effects meta-analyses if possible. We included 10 studies with more than 24,381 participants. Our results showed statistically significant associations between the exposure to hand-arm vibrations and the occurrence of the selected disorders, with pooled odds ratios ranging between 1.35 (95% CI: 1.28 to 2.80) and 3.43 (95% CI: 2.10 to 5.59). Considerable between-study heterogeneity was observed. Our analyses show that exposure to vibrating tools at work is associated with an increased risk for the occurrence of selected disorders of the hands. Due to the majority of studies being cross-sectional, no firm conclusion is possible regarding causal relationships between vibration exposure and disorder occurrence. Future research should specifically address whether reducing exposure to hand-held vibrating tools at work reduces the incidence of the disorders of the hands investigated in this systematic review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on the importance of incorporating occupational health data into electronic health records (EHRs) for all clinicians caring for workers. The topics covered include the support of the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM) for collecting and sharing occupational health information in EHRs, the criteria for EHR systems to effectively share this information, and the recommendations for recording and using occupational information in EHRs.

Musculoskeletal diseases (MSDs) are the first cause of medical unfitness for work. Among MSDs, back disorders are the most frequently encountered in medical unfitness for work. An half of unfitness for MSDs have been reported as being related to occupational exposure. The standard profile of unfit for musculoskeletal diseases concerns a woman, aged over 45, working as an employee or worker. Objective: To describe the various musculoskeletal diseases resulting in work-related permanent unfitness for work. Methods: In 2017, a multicenter cross-sectional employee survey in the South of France was conducted by 323 occupational physicians. Results: Of the 359,966 employees monitored, 2788 had permanent unfitness for work. This number included 1078 for musculoskeletal diseases, which was more frequent in women (odds ratio, 1.42; confidence interval, 1.20 to 1.68) and showed an increase in women older than 55 years (odds ratio, 6.42; confidence interval, 4.4 to 6.60). Back disorder was the most common work-related disorder reported (n = 488 [45.4%]), with soft tissue conditions being (n = 237 [22.0%]). Arthropathy (n = 157 [14.6%]) had occupational origins in 282 (44.3%), 169 (26.6%), and 55 (8.6%) cases, respectively. Conclusions: Musculoskeletal disability prevention should be encouraged to avoid resultant employment attrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic began in Brazil on 26 February 2020. By 6 May 2023, 37.4 million cases had been confirmed, causing 701 thousand deaths in the country. We aimed to describe the epidemiological profile and clinical development of COVID-19 cases among the employees of a health institution, from acute infection to long COVID. Methods: This was a longitudinal study using a retrospective and prospective approach via questionnaires referring to epidemiological investigation, which was the inclusion criteria, and about long-term symptoms. Results: A total of 809 employees were detected with SARS-CoV-2 infection via RT-PCR, 466 of them answered the epidemiological investigation, and 101 completed the Long COVID Symptom Questionnaire. The most commonly affected employees were women (88.6%) working in patient care (68.6%). Headache, myalgia, cough, odynophagia, and runny nose were the most frequent symptoms. Only three employees (0.6%) required hospitalization, while the other employees required outpatient management due to mild symptoms. We identified 19 (4.1%) cases of reinfection, and 42 (41.6%) employees reported long-term symptoms, such as myalgia, dyspnea, and headache. Conclusions: Although most cases were mild with good outcomes, long COVID cases identified are noteworthy, as these symptoms may impact quality of life even months after SARS-CoV-2 infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes mellitus is an ever-increasing disease and is defined as a "social disease" due to the significant economic damage it causes to the affected individuals and the community involved in its care. This paper presents the process of certification of diabetic disease and the application for invalidity in order to obtain welfare and economic benefits provided by law; it, also, describes the prescription process and the appropriateness of therapeutic prescription for the diabetic patient in terms of clinical-prescriptive appropriateness and economic-prescriptive appropriateness. Finally, it reports on the side effects of the most common antidiabetics, the off-label use of metformin and the physician's responsibilities in the light of the Gelli-Bianco law. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Nutrición Clínica y Dietética Hospitalaria is the property of Sociedad Espanola de Dietetica y Ciencias de la Alimentacion and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

A chronic medical condition known as hypertension (HT) is characterised by persistently high blood pressure (BP) in the arteries. Although HT is initially asymptomatic, it eventually develops into a significant risk factor for renal, cardiovascular, and cerebrovascular conditions, which in turn are major contributors to morbidity and mortality in industrialised nations. A complicated disorder called HT is thought to affect more than one-fourth of adult humans worldwide. Both its pathophysiology (primary and secondary HT) and the measurements of the resting blood pressure (elevated systolic, diastolic, and pulse pressure) are used to categories it. It results from a complex interplay between genes and a number of environmental risk factors, including as ageing, smoking, inactivity, being overweight or obese, eating too much salt, stress, depression, and anxiety. Millions of people are affected by anxiety and depressive disorders each year, which are the most often diagnosed mental illnesses. These conditions are both characterised by emotional, cognitive, psychomotor, and neurovegetative symptoms. Additionally, stress at work has been identified as a significant risk factor for heart disease (CVD) and HT. Despite the fact that numerous writers have looked into and proposed connections between HT, stress, anxiety, and depression over the past few decades, a complete knowledge of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms has not yet been attained, particularly with regards to young people. The purpose of this study was to examine the role that stress and anxiety from the workplace play in the HT development of young students of health care professions as well as any potential links to early CVDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]