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Chen D, Werder EJ, Stewart PA, Stenzel MR, Gerr FE, Lawrence KG, Groth CP, Huynh TB, Ramachandran G, Banerjee S, Jackson Ii WB, Christenbury K, Kwok RK, Sandler DP, Engel LS. Exposure to volatile hydrocarbons and neurologic function among oil spill workers up to 6 years after the Deepwater Horizon disaster. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 231:116069. [PMID: 37149022 PMCID: PMC10330421 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the 2010 Deepwater Horizon (DWH) disaster, oil spill response and cleanup (OSRC) workers were exposed to toxic volatile components of crude oil. Few studies have examined exposure to individual volatile hydrocarbon chemicals below occupational exposure limits in relation to neurologic function among OSRC workers. OBJECTIVES To investigate the association of several spill-related chemicals (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, n-hexane, i.e., BTEX-H) and total petroleum hydrocarbons (THC) with neurologic function among DWH spill workers enrolled in the Gulf Long-term Follow-up Study. METHODS Cumulative exposure to THC and BTEX-H across the oil spill cleanup period were estimated using a job-exposure matrix that linked air measurement data to detailed self-reported DWH OSRC work histories. We ascertained quantitative neurologic function data via a comprehensive test battery at a clinical examination that occurred 4-6 years after the DWH disaster. We used multivariable linear regression and modified Poisson regression to evaluate relationships of exposures (quartiles (Q)) with 4 neurologic function measures. We examined modification of the associations by age at enrollment (<50 vs. ≥50 years). RESULTS We did not find evidence of adverse neurologic effects from crude oil exposures among the overall study population. However, among workers ≥50 years of age, several individual chemical exposures were associated with poorer vibrotactile acuity of the great toe, with statistically significant effects observed in Q3 or Q4 of exposures (range of log mean difference in Q4 across exposures: 0.13-0.26 μm). We also observed suggestive adverse associations among those ≥ age 50 years for tests of postural stability and single-leg stance, although most effect estimates did not reach thresholds of statistical significance (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Higher exposures to volatile components of crude oil were associated with modest deficits in neurologic function among OSRC workers who were age 50 years or older at study enrollment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dazhe Chen
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Emily J Werder
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - Mark R Stenzel
- Exposure Assessment Applications, LLC, Arlington, VA, USA
| | - Fredric E Gerr
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Kaitlyn G Lawrence
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Caroline P Groth
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Tran B Huynh
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Gurumurthy Ramachandran
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sudipto Banerjee
- Department of Biostatistics, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California - Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Kate Christenbury
- Social & Scientific Systems, Inc, a DLH Holdings Company, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Richard K Kwok
- Population Studies and Genetics Branch, National Institute on Aging, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Dale P Sandler
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Lawrence S Engel
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
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Estill CF, Rice CH, Morata T, Bhattacharya A. Noise and neurotoxic chemical exposure relationship to workplace traumatic injuries: A review. JOURNAL OF SAFETY RESEARCH 2017; 60:35-42. [PMID: 28160812 PMCID: PMC5577555 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsr.2016.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Revised: 07/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION More than 5,000 fatalities and eight million injuries occurred in the workplace in 2007 at a cost of $6 billion and $186 billion, respectively. Neurotoxic chemicals are known to affect central nervous system functions among workers, which include balance and hearing disorders. However, it is not known if there is an association between exposure to noise and solvents and acute injuries. METHOD A thorough review was conducted of the literature on the relationship between noise or solvent exposures and hearing loss with various health outcomes. RESULTS The search resulted in 41 studies. Health outcomes included: hearing loss, workplace injuries, absence from work due to sickness, fatalities, hospital admissions due to workplace accidents, traffic accidents, hypertension, balance, slip, trips, or falls, cognitive measures, or disability retirement. Important covariates in these studies were age of employee, type of industry or occupation, or length of employment. DISCUSSION Most authors that evaluated noise exposure concluded that higher exposure to noise resulted in more of the chosen health effect but the relationship is not well understood. Studies that evaluated hearing loss found that hearing loss was related to occupational injury, disability retirement, or traffic accidents. Studies that assessed both noise exposure and hearing loss as risk factors for occupational injuries reported that hearing loss was related to occupational injuries as much or more than noise exposure. Evidence suggests that solvent exposure is likely to be related to accidents or other health consequences such balance disorders. CONCLUSIONS Many authors reported that noise exposures and hearing loss, respectively, are likely to be related to occupational accidents. Practical applications: The potential significance of the study is that findings could be used by managers to reduce injuries and the costs associated with those injures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl Fairfield Estill
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1090 Tusculum Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45226, United States.
| | - Carol H Rice
- University of Cincinnati, 160 Panzeca Way, Kettering Lab, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0056, United States
| | - Thais Morata
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1090 Tusculum Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45226, United States
| | - Amit Bhattacharya
- University of Cincinnati, 160 Panzeca Way, Kettering Lab, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0056, United States
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Ross JA, Shipp EM, Trueblood AB, Bhattacharya A. Ergonomics and Beyond: Understanding How Chemical and Heat Exposures and Physical Exertions at Work Affect Functional Ability, Injury, and Long-Term Health. HUMAN FACTORS 2016; 58:777-795. [PMID: 27125533 PMCID: PMC6894162 DOI: 10.1177/0018720816645457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 03/12/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To honor Tom Waters's work on emerging occupational health issues, we review the literature on physical along with chemical exposures and their impact on functional outcomes. BACKGROUND Many occupations present the opportunity for exposure to multiple hazardous exposures, including both physical and chemical factors. However, little is known about how these different factors affect functional ability and injury. The goal of this review is to examine the relationships between these exposures, impairment of the neuromuscular and musculoskeletal systems, functional outcomes, and health problems with a focus on acute injury. METHOD Literature was identified using online databases, including PubMed, Ovid Medline, and Google Scholar. References from included articles were searched for additional relevant articles. RESULTS This review documented the limited existing literature that discussed cognitive impairment and functional disorders via neurotoxicity for physical exposures (heat and repetitive loading) and chemical exposures (pesticides, volatile organic compounds [VOCs], and heavy metals). CONCLUSION This review supports that workers are exposed to physical and chemical exposures that are associated with negative health effects, including functional impairment and injury. Innovation in exposure assessment with respect to quantifying the joint exposure to these different exposures is especially needed for developing risk assessment models and, ultimately, preventive measures. APPLICATION Along with physical exposures, chemical exposures need to be considered, alone and in combination, in assessing functional ability and occupationally related injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Ross
- Texas A&M University, College StationUniversity of Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Eva M Shipp
- Texas A&M University, College StationUniversity of Cincinnati, Ohio
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether short-term jet propulsion fuel 8 (JP-8) exposure is associated with balance measurements in JP-8-exposed air force personnel. METHODS As part of a larger neuroepidemiology study, balance tasks were completed by JP-8-exposed individuals (n = 37). Short-term JP-8 exposure was measured using personal breathing zone levels and urinary biomarkers. Multivariate linear regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between workday JP-8 exposure and postural sway. RESULTS Balance control decreased as the task became more challenging. Workday exposure to JP-8, measured by either personal air or urinary metabolite levels, was not significantly related to postural sway. Increases in workday postural sway were associated with demographic variables, including younger age, being a current smoker, and higher body mass index. CONCLUSION Results suggest that short-term workday JP-8 exposure does not significantly contribute to diminished balance control.
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Kim Y, Bowler RM, Abdelouahab N, Harris M, Gocheva V, Roels HA. Motor function in adults of an Ohio community with environmental manganese exposure. Neurotoxicology 2011; 32:606-14. [PMID: 21840336 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2011.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2011] [Revised: 07/27/2011] [Accepted: 07/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of the present study was to evaluate motor function in order to assess the effects of long-term, low-level environmental manganese (Mn) exposure in residents of an Ohio community where a large ferro- and silico-Mn smelter has been active for more than 50 years. METHODS One hundred residents from the Mn-exposed Ohio community were evaluated using the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), a postural sway test, and a comprehensive questionnaire exploring demographics and general health. The results were compared to those of 90 residents from a demographically similar comparison town in Ohio. Mn exposure was assessed using modeled airborne Mn and blood Mn (Mn-B). The UPDRS was employed to evaluate parkinsonian motor features. Postural sway was measured using a CATSYS 2000 (Danish Product Development). RESULTS No significant difference between the exposed and comparison groups was evident as to Mn-B, demographics or major health outcomes. The risk of abnormal UPDRS performance using "Motor and Bradykinesia" criteria was increased in the Mn-exposed group after adjustment for potential confounders such as the presence of other neurotoxic metals, factors affecting susceptibility to Mn, potential factors influencing motor performance, and other possible demographic confounders. No participant was diagnosed with clinical manganism by neurological examination. After adjustment for various potential confounders, the Mn-exposed group showed significantly higher postural sway scores under eyes-open conditions than the comparison group. CONCLUSIONS Subclinical findings on the UPDRS and postural sway in the Mn-exposed group may possibly reflect early subtle effects of chronic low-level Mn exposure. However, the cross-sectional study design, the small to medium effect sizes, and the little biological plausibility are limiting the possibility of a causal relationship between the environmental Mn-air exposure and the early subclinical neurotoxic effects observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangho Kim
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Dong-Gu, Ulsan, South Korea.
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Murata K, Inoue O, Akutsu M, Iwata T. Neuromotor effects of short-term and long-term exposures to trichloroethylene in workers. Am J Ind Med 2010; 53:915-21. [PMID: 20698023 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.20850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health effects of long-term exposure to organic solvents at low levels are a major concern in industrialized countries. To assess the neuromotor impact of trichloroethylene objectively, static postural sway and hand tremor parameters, along with urinary trichloroethanol (TCOH) and trichloroacetic acid (TCAA) levels, were investigated in 57 workers without obvious neurological disorders and 60 control subjects. METHODS The workers had been occupationally exposed to trichloroethylene for 0.1-37 years. The cumulative exposure index (CEI) was calculated from their occupational history and total trichloro-compounds (TCOH + TCAA). RESULTS Median levels in the workers were 1.7 mg/L for TCOH and 2.5 mg/L for TCAA, and the maximum ambient trichloroethylene concentration was estimated to be <22 ppm from the previously reported equation using TCOH + TCAA. Sway parameters with eyes open and tremor intensity in dominant hand were significantly larger in the exposed workers than in the control subjects when adjusting for possible confounders. A significant dose-effect association was seen between two sway parameters and urinary TCOH level in the workers. Tremor intensities in non-dominant hand differed significantly among three groups of the workers divided according to the CEI. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that trichloroethylene exposure, even at low levels of less than the short-term exposure limit by the ACGIH, can affect the neuromotor function of workers. The postural instability appears to result from recent exposure, and the increased tremor may occur due to short-term and long-term exposures. Hereafter, such objective measures, along with subjective symptoms, should be carefully used for the occupational exposure limit setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsuyuki Murata
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Akita University School of Medicine, Akita, Japan.
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Park JB, Lee KJ, Lee KW, Lim KJ. Neurotoxic effect of occupational exposure to mixed organic solvents in Korea: Posturographic study. Am J Ind Med 2009; 52:429-37. [PMID: 19212948 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.20679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study used static posturography to investigate the neurotoxic effects on workers exposed to mixed organic solvents at low concentrations under the levels of the threshold limit values (TLV). METHODS Forty-one workers from four plants exposed to mixed solvents and 90 non-exposed referents were examined. The lifetime cumulative biological exposure (CE) was estimated according to subject's occupational history and biological monitoring results. Static posturography and questionnaire were the basis of data collection. RESULTS The mean exposure index of mixed organic solvents of four plants was 0.47 (SD: 0.33, range: 0.08-1.39). The exposed group showed a larger sway area and length under the eye open condition than did the non-exposed group. In a multiple linear regression, a significant positive association was demonstrated between postural sway area and CE. CONCLUSIONS This study results suggest that the exposure to organic solvents under TLV levels may cause disturbance in postural stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae-Beom Park
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ajou University School of Medicine, Woncheon-dong, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon, South Korea
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Effect of Chronic and Subchronic Organic Solvents Exposure on Balance Control of Workers in Plant Manufacturing Adhesive Materials. Neurotox Res 2009; 15:179-86. [DOI: 10.1007/s12640-009-9018-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2008] [Revised: 09/01/2008] [Accepted: 09/01/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Standridge JS, Bhattacharya A, Succop P, Cox C, Haynes E. Effect of chronic low level manganese exposure on postural balance: a pilot study of residents in southern Ohio. J Occup Environ Med 2008; 50:1421-9. [PMID: 19092498 PMCID: PMC2756152 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0b013e3181896936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine the effect of non-occupational exposure to manganese (Mn) on postural balance. METHODS Residents living near a ferromanganese refinery provided hair and blood samples after postural balance testing. The relationship between hair Mn and postural balance was analyzed with logistic regression. Following covariate adjustment, postural balance was compared with control data by analysis of covariance. RESULTS Mean hair Mn was 4.4 microg/g. A significantly positive association was found between hair Mn and sway area (eyes open on the platform, P = 0.05; eyes closed on the platform, P = 0.04) and sway length (eyes open on the platform, P = 0.05; eyes closed on the platform, P = 0.04). Postural balance of residents was significantly larger than controls in 5 out of 8 postural balance outcomes. CONCLUSION Preliminary findings suggest subclinical impairment in postural balance among residents chronically exposed to ambient Mn. A prospective study with a larger sample size is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Shawn Standridge
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267-0056, USA
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Herpin G, Gauchard GC, Vouriot A, Hannhart B, Barot A, Mur JM, Zmirou-Navier D, Perrin PP. Impaired neuromotor functions in hospital laboratory workers exposed to low levels of organic solvents. Neurotox Res 2008; 13:185-96. [PMID: 18522898 DOI: 10.1007/bf03033502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Solvents are ubiquitous in industrial societies in a wide range of processes, and long-term exposure to these organic compounds may impair neuromotor functions such as equilibrium function. However, there is limited knowledge of effects on posture and gaze control after organic solvent exposures below workplace threshold limit values. The aim of this study was to evaluate the consequences of low-level co-exposure to organic solvents on balance and gaze control in hospital laboratory workers. Twelve hospital laboratory female subjects mainly exposed to toluene and ethanol, with median exposure duration of 24 years, and 12 non-exposed female controls were submitted to posturography and oculomotricity testings including sensory organization and motor control tests and saccade and smooth pursuit tests. Although current measured exposure values to toluene and ethanol were much below workplace threshold limit values (current median exposure levels of 32.5 mg/cubic meter and 39.9 mg/cubic meter, respectively), exposed workers displayed a weaker balance and a less precise gaze control. They presented, on the one hand, a reduced ability to resolve sensorial conflict situations compared to controls, particularly when situations were managed by the vestibular information, and, on the other hand, longer saccadic reaction time. Organic solvents might have an impact on vestibular pathways involved in postural control and exert a depressant central pathway effect implicated in the management of oculomotor response. Evaluating balance control in sensory conflicting situations and saccadic reaction time is proposed as a way to reveal subclinical neurotoxicological effects due to low-level exposure to organic solvents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Herpin
- Nancy-University, Henri Poincaré University, Balance Control and Motor Performance, UFR STAPS, Villers-lés-Nancy, France
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Nisfiiwaki Y, Imai A, Takebayashi T, Nishiwaki N, Omae K. Stabilometry in Epidemiological Use —Measurement Bias by Different Instructions—. J Occup Health 2006. [DOI: 10.1539/joh.41.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yuji Nisfiiwaki
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public HealthSchool of Medicine, Keio University
| | - Azusa Imai
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public HealthSchool of Medicine, Keio University
| | - Toru Takebayashi
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public HealthSchool of Medicine, Keio University
| | - Noriko Nishiwaki
- Department of OtorhinolaryngologySchool of Medicine, Keio University
| | - Kazuyuki Omae
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public HealthSchool of Medicine, Keio University
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Sobeih TM, Davis KG, Succop PA, Jetter WA, Bhattacharya A. Postural balance changes in on-duty firefighters: effect of gear and long work shifts. J Occup Environ Med 2006; 48:68-75. [PMID: 16404212 DOI: 10.1097/01.jom.0000181756.38010.d2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of long work shifts and turnout gear, including the self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) on firefighters' postural stability. METHODS Sixteen firefighters were assessed using a portable forceplate system at the fire station. Postural sway parameters were recorded at the beginning of the work shift and repeated until the work shift ended. RESULTS Task had the greatest impact on postural stability for all sway parameters. Turnout gear, with and without SCBA, improved postural stability. Postural stability decreased as firefighters spent more time on duty. CONCLUSIONS Prolonged work shifts may be an important contributor to the high prevalence of slips and falls among firefighters. In all, the results indicate that many aspects of the firefighters' job may adversely impact their postural stability and potentially increase the risk of falling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarek M Sobeih
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0056, USA.
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Karita K, Nakao M, Nishikitani M, Iwata T, Murata K, Yano E. Effect of Overtime Work and Insufficient Sleep on Postural Sway in Information‐Technology Workers. J Occup Health 2006; 48:65-8. [PMID: 16484765 DOI: 10.1539/joh.48.65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kanae Karita
- Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Kaga, Tokyo, Japan.
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Toppila E, Forsman P, Pyykkö I, Starck J, Tossavainen T, Uitti J, Oksa P. Effect of Styrene on Postural Stability Among Reinforced Plastic Boat Plant Workers in Finland. J Occup Environ Med 2006; 48:175-80. [PMID: 16474266 DOI: 10.1097/01.jom.0000199510.80882.7b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Many drugs are vestibulotoxic and may impair balance. Styrene is both ototoxic and neurotoxic, but its effect on balance has been little studied. We evaluate the effect of low concentrations of styrene on balance among Finnish fiberglass-reinforced plastic boat manufacturers. METHODS From 252 male employees, we measured postural stability and urine mandelic and phenylglycolic acid concentrations. Individual exposure to styrene in breathing zone was measured for 148 workers. For analysis, 88 matched pairs were selected. RESULTS The postural stability of laminators was aggravated compared with nonlaminators. This impairment was observed in young workers, and it worsened with age. CONCLUSIONS This study documents styrene as an additional risk factor in impaired postural stability, with the negative effects of the styrene exposure starting already in younger workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esko Toppila
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Topeliuksenkatu 41a A, FI-00250 Helsinki, Finland
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Vouriot A, Hannhart B, Gauchard GC, Barot A, Ledin T, Mur JM, Perrin PP. Long-term exposure to solvents impairs vigilance and postural control in serigraphy workers. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2005; 78:510-5. [PMID: 15918036 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-005-0609-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2004] [Accepted: 01/13/2005] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the effects of solvent exposure (mainly aromatic hydrocarbons) on central regulation of vigilance and postural control, particularly in occasional difficult situations that provide sensorial conflicts. METHODS Twenty-two workers occupationally exposed to solvents for an average of approximately 6 years and 21 controls were compared by the use of a questionnaire on their state of vigilance and quality of sleep and on performance measurements of postural control under six different sensorimotor conditions. Their current median exposure levels to aromatic hydrocarbons was 80.1 mg/m(3). RESULTS Exposed workers reported reduced alertness but not disturbance of sleep quality compared with controls. Moreover, they had the worst postural performance in all sensory conditions and demonstrated a reduced ability to resolve sensory conflict situations. The precision of stance was clearly affected by solvent exposure in contrast with energy consumption required to regulate proper balance control. CONCLUSIONS The depressive effect of aromatic hydrocarbon exposure on cortical and subcortical structures controlling vigilance and postural stability could lead to increased risk of occupational accident, especially due to falls. The detection of central neurotoxic effects by posturographic and vigilance tests could be useful in preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Vouriot
- Faculty of Medicine, National Institute for Health and Medical Research, Henri Poincaré University, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France
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Thorn J, Beijer L. Work-related symptoms and inflammation among sewage plant operatives. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2004; 10:84-9. [PMID: 15070030 DOI: 10.1179/oeh.2004.10.1.84] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Sewage operatives at five sewage treatment plants (n = 59) and controls not exposed to sewage (n = 55) were examined to determine work-related symptoms and inflammatory responses. Symptoms were elicited using a questionnaire, and spirometry was performed. Inflammatory markers were determined in blood and nasal lavage. Workplace endotoxin and hydrogen sulfide were measured and adeno- and enterovirus antibodies were evaluated in blood. Gastrointestinal and airway symptoms, joint pains, unusual tiredness, and toxic pneumonitis were more common among operatives, and the proportion of blood neutrophils was higher among operatives as compared with controls. A relationship was found between several reported symptoms and the inflammatory markers. Hydrogen sulfide levels were very low. Endotoxin levels were generally low, but high at some work sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jörgen Thorn
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Göteborg University, Göteborg, Sweden.
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Thorn J, Kerekes E. Health effects among employees in sewage treatment plants: A literature survey. Am J Ind Med 2001; 40:170-9. [PMID: 11494345 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.1085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over the years, there have been regular reports in the media of work-related symptoms among employees at sewage treatment plants. Concern has spread among employees over the lack of knowledge of risk agents' symptoms, and diseases in that environment. This paper reviews the investigations of health risks in employees working in the sewage treatment plants. METHODS A literature search was performed with the search terms; sewage, waste water, health effects, infection, and health hazards. Articles on health effects in relation to sewage were selected. RESULTS Work in sewage water plants can involve exposure to different types of microorganisms and chemicals. The bacterial exposure is dominated by bacteria that naturally occur in nature. However, different bacteria and viruses that give rise to infections can be present in this environment and thus there exists a risk of infection, especially of hepatitis A. Investigations suggest that gastrointestinal tract symptoms are more common among employees at sewage treatment plants than among controls. Respiratory symptoms, fatigue, and headache have also been reported in several investigations. The cause of the symptoms is unknown, although certain data suggest that they are caused by inflammation. The results suggest that endotoxin in Gram-negative bacteria may be one of the causative agents. As regards cancer, some studies report an increased risk of stomach cancer and a few studies report an increased risk of cancer in the larynx, liver or, prostate or of leukemia. The spread of the cancers over a multitude of organs does not support a hypothesis of causality with agents commonly found in sewage treatment plants. CONCLUSIONS Further investigations are needed to determine the work-related effects and ascertain the causal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Thorn
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Göteborg University, Sweden.
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Kuukkanen TM, Mälkiä EA. An experimental controlled study on postural sway and therapeutic exercise in subjects with low back pain. Clin Rehabil 2000; 14:192-202. [PMID: 10763797 DOI: 10.1191/026921500667300454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe postural sway and its associations to background factors, low back pain and functional capacity. To evaluate the changes in postural sway after three months of therapeutic exercise in the gym or at home. DESIGN A one-year randomized experimental trial evaluated postural sway in three study groups: intensive training, home exercise and control group. SETTING Subjects were recruited from seven local occupational health care centres in Central Finland and were examined at Central Finland Hospital by medical doctors. Measurements and therapeutic exercise programmes were carried out in the Research Laboratory of Sport and Health Sciences at Jyväskylä University. SUBJECTS Initially, 49 male and 41 female subjects (aged 20-55 years) with nonspecific and subacute low back pain were examined. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Postural sway using a force platform, the Oswestry Index, as well as a measure of low back pain intensity were measured at the initial stage of the study, directly after interventions, as well as at three and nine months after the interventions. RESULTS The background variables were not strongly correlated with postural sway. No changes occurred in the amplitude of sway during the study, but the sway velocity of the home exercise group increased. CONCLUSIONS Postural sway measurements with a force platform may be suitable for detecting impairments of balance performance among subjects with pronounced functional or activity limitations and severe low back pain problems. In order to enhance balance performance, specific and customized exercise programmes are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- T M Kuukkanen
- School of Health and Social Care, Jyväskylä Polytechnic, Finland.
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Bhattacharya A. Quantitative posturagraphy as an alternative noninvasive tool for alcohol/drug/chemical testing--preliminary thoughts. Drug Chem Toxicol 1999; 22:201-12. [PMID: 10189579 DOI: 10.3109/01480549909029732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
This article provides preliminary ideas regarding how the quantitative posturagraphy technique can be used as an alternative noninvasive tool to currently available blood/urine test for alcohol/drug/chemical exposure. It is argued that the urine or blood level of any chemical is highly dependent on the individual's metabolism without providing any insight into individual's task performance abilities under exposure to neurotoxic chemicals. On the other hand, the quantitative posturagraphy if carried out as proposed in this article will provide quantitative data regarding individual's ability to maintain "safe" upright balance while carrying out certain tasks. The proposed evaluation method is simple, portable, quick, and noninvasive and has been found to be sensitive to detecting low level solvent induced modifications in postural stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bhattacharya
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati Medical College, OH 45267-0056, USA.
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