1
|
Bufano P, Di Tecco C, Fattori A, Barnini T, Comotti A, Ciocan C, Ferrari L, Mastorci F, Laurino M, Bonzini M. The effects of work on cognitive functions: a systematic review. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1351625. [PMID: 38784613 PMCID: PMC11112082 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1351625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cognitive functions play a crucial role in individual's life since they represent the mental abilities necessary to perform any activity. During working life, having healthy cognitive functioning is essential for the proper performance of work, but it is especially crucial for preserving cognitive abilities and thus ensuring healthy cognitive aging after retirement. The aim of this paper was to systematically review the scientific literature related to the effects of work on cognitive functions to assess which work-related factors most adversely affect them. Method We queried the PubMed and Scopus electronic databases, in February 2023, according to the PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO ID number = CRD42023439172), and articles were included if they met all the inclusion criteria and survived a quality assessment. From an initial pool of 61,781 papers, we retained a final sample of 64 articles, which were divided into 5 categories based on work-related factors: shift work (n = 39), sedentary work (n = 7), occupational stress (n = 12), prolonged working hours (n = 3), and expertise (n = 3). Results The results showed that shift work, occupational stress, and, probably, prolonged working hours have detrimental effects on cognitive functioning; instead, results related to sedentary work and expertise on cognitive functions are inconclusive and extremely miscellaneous. Discussion Therefore, workplace health and well-being promotion should consider reducing or rescheduling night shift, the creation of less demanding and more resourceful work environments and the use of micro-breaks to preserve workers' cognitive functioning both before and after retirement. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023439172, identifier CRD42023439172.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pasquale Bufano
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - Cristina Di Tecco
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Italian Workers' Compensation Authority (INAIL), Rome, Italy
| | - Alice Fattori
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Science and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Teresa Barnini
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Comotti
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Catalina Ciocan
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Luca Ferrari
- Department of Clinical Science and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Mastorci
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Laurino
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - Matteo Bonzini
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Science and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rajeshwari R, Rao CR, D'Silva RM, Chandrasekaran B. Do energy expenditure differences across work postures influence cognitive processing speed? A counter-balanced randomised cross-over trial. Work 2022; 74:549-563. [PMID: 36278368 DOI: 10.3233/wor-205315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anecdotal evidence links occupational sedentary behaviour, low energy expenditure (EE) and cognitive dysfunction. Nevertheless, EE across different work postures including active workstations remains unclear and its influence on cognitive processing speed is yet to be established. OBJECTIVE We aimed to investigate differences in EE across various work postures and its influence on cognitive processing speed. METHODS Sixteen desk-based employees performed simulated work tasks (typing, reading and cognitive tasks) in three different work positions (sitting, standing, and walking) in three different days. EE was measured for three days consecutively for 30-minutes in three simulated working postures using indirect calorimetry. Cognitive processing speed was assessed through computer-based choice reaction times during each work posture. The outcome variables of interest (EE, reaction times and accuracy) were compared between three work postures using repeated measures ANOVA and Pearson correlation. RESULTS EE in walking posture was higher (5.57±0.45 Kcal) than sitting (1.07±0.12 Kcal) and standing (1.88±0.42 Kcal). Total EE was significantly higher in walking than standing (35.17±6.86 Kcal) and sitting postures (41.37±8.46 Kcal). We did not find any significant differences in cognitive processing speed between different work postures except within standing work condition (60.22±13.97 ms). Accuracy was found to be reduced in walking compared to sitting (0.76±0.83%) and standing (0.43±0.09%) but not reached significance. CONCLUSION Although significant differences in EE were observed between work postures, walking or standing at work did not affect the cognitive processing speed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Rajeshwari
- Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences, Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Chythra R Rao
- Department of Community Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Ruth Mary D'Silva
- Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences, Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Baskaran Chandrasekaran
- Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences, Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sui SX, Balanta-Melo J, Pasco JA, Plotkin LI. Musculoskeletal Deficits and Cognitive Impairment: Epidemiological Evidence and Biological Mechanisms. Curr Osteoporos Rep 2022; 20:260-272. [PMID: 35764750 PMCID: PMC9522710 DOI: 10.1007/s11914-022-00736-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Cognitive impairment is associated with obesity, sarcopenia, and osteoporosis. However, no critical appraisal of the literature on the relationship between musculoskeletal deficits and cognitive impairment, focusing on the epidemiological evidence and biological mechanisms, has been published to date. Herein, we critically evaluate the literature published over the past 3 years, emphasizing interesting and important new findings, and provide an outline of future directions that will improve our understanding of the connections between the brain and the musculoskeletal system. RECENT FINDINGS Recent literature suggests that musculoskeletal deficits and cognitive impairment share pathophysiological pathways and risk factors. Cytokines and hormones affect both the brain and the musculoskeletal system; yet, lack of unified definitions and standards makes it difficult to compare studies. Interventions designed to improve musculoskeletal health are plausible means of preventing or slowing cognitive impairment. We highlight several musculoskeletal health interventions that show potential in this regard.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophia X Sui
- Epi-Centre for Healthy Ageing, Deakin University, IMPACT - Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, PO Box 281 (Barwon Health), Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia.
| | - Julián Balanta-Melo
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 635 Barnhill Drive, MS5022A, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
- Indiana Center for Musculoskeletal Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Richard L. Roudebush Veterans Administration Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Universidad del Valle School of Dentistry, Cali, Colombia
| | - Julie A Pasco
- Epi-Centre for Healthy Ageing, Deakin University, IMPACT - Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, PO Box 281 (Barwon Health), Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
- Department of Medicine-Western Campus, The University of Melbourne, St Albans, VIC, Australia
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- University Hospital Geelong, Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Lilian I Plotkin
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 635 Barnhill Drive, MS5022A, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA.
- Indiana Center for Musculoskeletal Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
- Richard L. Roudebush Veterans Administration Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Karimi Z, Mazloumi A, Sharifnezhad A, Jafari AH, Kazemi Z, Keihani A, Mohebbi I. Nonlinear analysis of postural changes related to the movement interventions during prolonged standing task. ERGONOMICS 2022:1-15. [PMID: 36039393 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2022.2119284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This study assessed the effects of movement-based interventions on the complexity of postural changes during prolonged standing. Twenty participants, equally distributed in gender and standing work experience (SWE), completed three simulated prolonged standing sessions: without movement (control), leg exercise and footrest. The amount and complexity of variability in the centre of pressure (COP) and lumbar curvature angle were quantified using linear and nonlinear tools. Lower leg swelling and back/leg discomfort were also monitored. Participants in the SWE group showed significantly greater postural complexity during the standing. Regular leg exercise resulted in significantly higher postural complexity and lower leg discomfort and swelling. The footrest led to significant changes in amount of COP variability. Both interventions significantly reduced back discomfort. Overall, the nonlinear analysis of postural changes provided different findings compared to linear ones, considering the standing time, interventions and standing job experience. Nonlinear results were consistent with leg discomfort and swelling. Practitioner summary: The effect of movement-based interventions on dynamics of postural alterations over prolonged standing were characterised using nonlinear techniques. The effect of standing work experience was also considered. Previous experience of standing jobs and leg movements increase the complexity of postural behaviour over standing period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zanyar Karimi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Health, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Adel Mazloumi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Sharifnezhad
- Department of Sport Biomechanics and Technology, Sport Sciences Research Institute, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Homayoun Jafari
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zeinab Kazemi
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Ahmadreza Keihani
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Iraj Mohebbi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Does breaking up prolonged sitting improve cognitive functions in sedentary adults? A mapping review and hypothesis formulation on the potential physiological mechanisms. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2021; 22:274. [PMID: 33711976 PMCID: PMC7955618 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-021-04136-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prolonged (excessive) sitting is detrimentally associated with cardiovascular, metabolic and mental health. Moreover, prolonged sitting has been associated with poor executive function, memory, attention and visuospatial skills, which are important cognitive aspects of work performance. Breaking up prolonged sitting with standing or light-intensity exercises at the workplace is recognized as a potential measure in improving cognition. However, preliminary evidence, primarily from acute laboratory experiments, has enabled formulating hypothesis on the possible mechanistic pathways. Hence, the aim of this mapping review is to gather preliminary evidence and substantiate possible physiological mechanisms underpinning the putative effects of breaking prolonged sitting on improving cognitive function among sedentary office workers. Mapping method We searched four databases to identify relevant studies that explored the effects of uninterrupted sitting on cognitive function. First, we introduce how prolonged sitting increases the risks of hyperglycemia, autonomic stability, inflammation, adverse hormonal changes and restrictions in cerebral blood flow (CBF) and alters cognitive function. Second, we elucidate the direct and indirect effects of breaking up prolonged sitting time that may prevent a decline in cognitive performance by influencing glycaemic variability, autonomic stability, hormones (brain derived neurotrophic factor, dopamine, serotonin), vascular functions, and CBF. We highlight the importance of breaking up prolonged sitting on metabolic, vascular and endocrine functions, which in turn may improve cognitive functions and eventually foster work productivity. Improved synaptic transmission or neuroplasticity due to increased brain glucose and mitochondrial metabolism, increased endothelial shear and CBF, increased brain neurotrophic factors (dopamine) and accelerated anti-inflammatory functions are some of the hypothetical mechanisms underpinning improved cognitive functions. Conclusion We postulate that improving cognitive function by breaking up prolonged sitting periods is biologically plausible with the myriad of (suggested) physiological mechanisms. Future experimental studies to ascertain the aforementioned hypothetical mechanisms and clinical trials to break sedentary behavior and improve cognitive functions in sedentary office workers are warranted. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12891-021-04136-5.
Collapse
|
6
|
Lu L, Megahed FM, Cavuoto LA. Interventions to Mitigate Fatigue Induced by Physical Work: A Systematic Review of Research Quality and Levels of Evidence for Intervention Efficacy. HUMAN FACTORS 2021; 63:151-191. [PMID: 31596613 DOI: 10.1177/0018720819876141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We present a literature review on workplace physical fatigue interventions, focusing on evaluating the methodological quality and strength of evidence. BACKGROUND Physical fatigue is a recognized workplace problem, with negative effects on performance and health-related complaints. Although many studies have focused on the mechanisms and consequences of fatigue, few have considered the effectiveness of interventions to mitigate fatigue. METHOD A systematic review of the workplace safety literature for controlled trials of physical fatigue interventions was conducted. Data on intervention type, subject characteristics, targeted tasks and body locations, outcome measures, and study design were extracted. The methodological quality for each study was evaluated using the PEDro scale, and the level of evidence was based on quality, amount, and consistency. RESULTS Forty-five controlled trials were reviewed, examining 18 interventions. We categorized those interventions into individual-focused (N = 28 studies, nine interventions), workplace-focused (N = 12 studies, five interventions), and multiple interventions (N = 5 studies, four interventions). We identified moderate evidence for interventions related to assistive devices and task variation. There was moderate evidence supporting no fatigue attenuation for the garment change category of interventions. The interventions in the remaining categories had limited to minimal evidence of efficacy. The heterogeneity of the included trials precludes the determination of effect size. CONCLUSION This review showed a lack of high levels of evidence for the effectiveness of most physical fatigue interventions. APPLICATION Due to a lack of high levels of evidence for any category of reviewed physical fatigue interventions, further high-quality studies are needed to establish the efficacy of others.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Lu
- Auburn University, Alabama, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Jung JY, Cho HY, Kang CK. Brain activity during a working memory task in different postures: an EEG study. ERGONOMICS 2020; 63:1359-1370. [PMID: 32552557 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2020.1784467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
While working is more comfortable in a supine position and healthier in a standing, most people work in a sitting. However, it is unclear whether there are differences in brain activity efficiency in different postures. Here, we, therefore, compared changes in brain activity across three different postures to determine the optimal posture for performing working memory tasks. Their effect on brain activity was examined using EEG signals together with the information of accuracy and reaction times during 2-back task in 24 subjects. Substantial differences in brain waves were observed at sitting and standing positions compared to the supine, especially in delta waves and frontal lobe, where is known to improve the modulation of brain activity efficiently. Brain efficiency was higher during standing and sitting than in a supine. These findings show that postural changes may affect the efficiency of brain activity during working memory tasks. Practitioner summary: Differences in brain efficiency between different postures during working memory tasks have not been explored. This study suggests that efficiency in several brain areas is higher during sitting and standing than in a supine position. This finding has important implications regarding workplace environments. Furthermore, this result would be useful to improve accomplishment and reduce negative effects of work posture. Abbreviations: EEG: electroencephalogram; PSQI: Pittsburgh sleep quality index; KSS: Karolinska sleepiness scale; FFT: fast fourier transform; ROI: region of interest; ANS: autonomic nervous system; Fp: prefrontal; AF: anterior frontal; frontal; Fz: midline frontal; temporal; central; Cz: midline central; P: parietal; Pz: midline parietal; O: occipital; Oz: midline occipital.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Yeon Jung
- Department of Health Science, Gachon University Graduate School, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hwi-Young Cho
- Department of Health Science, Gachon University Graduate School, Incheon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Physical Therapy, Gachon University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Ki Kang
- Department of Health Science, Gachon University Graduate School, Incheon, Republic of Korea
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Gachon University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
- Gachon Advanced Institute for Health Sciences and Technology, Gachon University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Radiological Science, Gachon University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Standing Desks in a Grade 4 Classroom over the Full School Year. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16193590. [PMID: 31557874 PMCID: PMC6801749 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16193590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
School-aged children are spending increasingly long periods of time engaged in sedentary activities such as sitting. Recent school-based studies have examined the intervention effects of introducing standing desks into the classroom in the short and medium term. The aim of this repeated-measures crossover design study was to assess the sit-stand behaviour, waking sedentary time and physical activity, and musculoskeletal discomfort at the start and the end of a full school year following the provision of standing desks into a Grade 4 classroom. Accelerometry and musculoskeletal discomfort were measured in both standing and traditional desk conditions at the start and at the end of the school year. At both time points, when students used a standing desk, there was an increase in standing time (17–26 min/school day) and a reduction in sitting time (17–40 min/school day). There was no significant difference in sit-stand behaviour during school hours or sedentary time and physical activity during waking hours between the start and the end of the school year. Students were less likely to report discomfort in the neck and shoulders when using a standing desk and this finding was consistent over the full school year. The beneficial effects of using a standing desk were maintained over the full school year, after the novelty of using a standing desk had worn off.
Collapse
|
9
|
Straker L. Evidence to design 'just right' work using active workstations is currently limited. Occup Environ Med 2019; 76:279-280. [PMID: 30852490 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2018-105671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Leon Straker
- School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|