Implementation Of Preventive Measures Research Articles

Bullying victimization among adolescents: Prevalence, associated factors and correlation with mental health outcomes.

Knowledge of the risk factors of bullying victimization in adolescents is crucial for the implementation of preventive measures. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of bullying victimization and to identify its correlation with mental health outcomes among middle school students in Tunisia. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a multi-stage cluster sampling technique to recruit a sample of 1111 students from 10 middle schools in El kef (Tunisia). The revised Olweus Bully/Victim Questionnaire was used to assess the prevalence and types of bullying victimization and the perceived efforts of others to counteract bullying. The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was used for screening emotional and behavioral problems. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine associated factors of bullying victimization. Additionally, we tested whether emotional and behavioral problems were present for bullying victims. The findings reported that 45.8% (95%CI = 45.5-46.0), of the total number of participants experienced school bullying victimization. Multivariate logistic regression analysis, revealed that repeating a grade (OR = 1.82, 95%CI = 1.31-2.54), having a working father (OR = 17.68; 95%CI = 2.29-136,15), and having a working mother (OR = 1.88, 95%CI = 1.39-2.53) were the factors significantly associated with bullying victimization. Nevertheless, a higher mother's educational level (OR = 0.76, 95%CI = 0.67-0.88) was a protective factor against bullying victimization. The self-reported SDQ revealed that the total difficulties score was significantly higher among victims (17.46 ± 5.30 vs. 20.86 ± 5.06, p<0.01). This study showed that the prevalence of bullying in middle schools was high and it significantly led to mental health problems. National policies for bullying prevention within schools are potentially needed. Improving students' problem-solving and soft skills is also essential.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices towards COVID-19 among healthcare workers: A cross-sectional survey from Kiambu County, Kenya.

The knowledge possessed by healthcare workers (HCWs), along with their attitudes and practices play a vital role in effectively managing a pandemic. This is crucial considering that HCWs are exposed to great risk at the forefront of such crises. We aimed to describe the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of HCWs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Kiambu county, Kenya. A cross-sectional study using a structured questionnaire was conducted from 11th March 2021 to 12th August 2021. Bloom's cutoff points were used to determine KAP scores (>80%: good, 60-79%: medium and <60% poor). Multivariable ordinal logistic regression analyses were conducted, calculating adjusted odds ratios (AOR) at a 95% confidence interval. Spearman's rank correlations were used to examine the relationship between KAP scores. 438 HCWs participated in the study, majority of whom were female (64.5%), had obtained a diploma (59.6%) and were informed through government websites (78.6%). 43.0% had good knowledge, 17.5% good attitudes, and 68.4% good practice. 23.0% had medium knowledge, 35.6% medium attitude, 15.7% medium practice, while 34.0% had poor knowledge, 46.9% poor attitude and 15.9% poor practice. Only 68.9% of the caregivers correctly recognized the county's COVID-19 isolation centre and only 7.9% chose the two correct documents for the entry of data for a suspected COVID-19 case. Furthermore, the general attitude towards their own personal safety and their training regarding PPEs (17.8% and 23.8% strongly agreed with the contrary) were less compelling. There was a significant positive association between obtaining information from international government sites [AOR: 1.382 (1.058-1.807); p = 0.0178)] and good knowledge. Referring to local government sites for information regarding COVID-19 produced better attitudes [AOR: 1.710 (1.194-2.465); p = 0.0036] and produced almost twice the odds of having better practice [AOR: 1.800 (1.181-2.681); p = 0.0048]. There was a significant correlation between knowledge and practice (r = -0.330, p = 2.766×10-11), and knowledge and attitude (r = -0.154, p = 6.538×10-3). This study emphasizes the substantial impact that governing bodies have on shaping favorable KAP. As a result, it's crucial for local government platforms to prioritize the dissemination of up-to-date information that aligns with international standards. This information should be tailored to the specific region, focusing on addressing deficiencies in healthcare practices and patient management. The identification of a significant number of HCWs lacking confidence in managing COVID-19 patients and feeling unprotected underscores a clear need for improvement in their understanding and implementation of preventive measures. This gap can be bridged by adequately equipping HCWs with locally manufactured PPEs. This aspect is crucial for pandemic preparedness, and we further advocate for the creation of a locally produced repository of medical equipment. These actions are pivotal in improving future crisis management capabilities.

Enhanced risk of disordered eating in female athletes: Exploring the contribution of sport types and competitive levels

This study examined the frequency of attitudes and behaviours characteristic of eating disorders as well as the self-regulation of eating attitudes in exercising women practicing three types of sport considered as at-risk for disordered eating (artistic, endurance or combat) at recreational or competitive level. The 135 participants were asked to complete the EAT-26, the SREASS (Self-Regulation of Eating Attitudes in Sports Scale) and to self-report their current and ideal weights. General linear models (GLM) showed different main effects of the type of sport on EAT scores (F = 45.27; p < 0.001; η2 = 0.41), continuous SREASS scores (F = 30.25; p < 0.001; η2 = 0.32), but not on the Δ weight values. GLM revealed a significant main effect of the level of sport participation on EAT scores (F = 6.11; p < 0.015; η2 = 0.04) and on Δ weight values (F = 9.37; p = 0.003; η2 = 0.068). No significant effect was found on continuous SREASS scores. There was no evidence of an interaction effect of the type and the level of sport participation on EAT and continuous SREASS scores. But a significant interaction effect was observed for Δ weight values (F = 3.63; p =0.02; η2 = 0.05). The endurance group showed the greatest frequency of disrupted eating attitudes and behaviours compared to the artistic (Mean Difference = 11.87; p < 0.001) and the combat group (Mean Difference = 12.44; p < 0.001). SREASS scores suggested “underregulated” and “overregulated” eating attitudes in participants practicing a combat or an endurance sport.The specific characteristics of each sport may influence DE and regulation of eating attitudes in exercising women. Competitive settings could enhance the likelihood of disordered eating development. Additional research is necessary to identify protective factors and implement preventive measures in vulnerable sports.

Size, material type, and concentration estimation for micro-particles in liquid samples

The on-site examination and characterization of microparticles are becoming crucial due to the significant rise in plastic pollution in natural resources. Hence, identifying the specific microplastic composition and quantity would enable the implementation of preventive measures. This paper presents a cost-effective setup that utilizes the Random Forest algorithm to detect the size and refractive index of micro particles, hence facilitating the identification of the material type. The system utilizes the scattering patterns of laser light from the dispersion of microparticles, namely within the concentration range of 0.05 fM to 3.00 fM. The refractive indices and particle sizes of melamine (Me8) spheres with a size of 8 μm, as well as polystyrene (PS8) spheres with a size of 8 μm and (PS10) 10 μm, were estimated using the Random Forest algorithm and recorded scattering patterns. The proposed method may deliver findings with an average deviation of 0.23 μm for particle size and 0.015 for particle refractive index. The statistical analysis indicated that there was no notable disparity between the experimental findings and the predictions derived from the machine learning system. The existing configuration can be readily converted into a point-of-use system that can be employed on-site for the purpose of monitoring and identifying microplastic contamination.

Relationship between Dairy Cow Health and Intensity of Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

The dairy industry is facing criticism for its role in exacerbating global GHG emissions, as climate change becomes an increasingly pressing issue. These emissions mostly originate from methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and carbon dioxide (CO2). An optimal strategy involves the creation of an economical monitoring device to evaluate methane emissions from dairy animals. Livestock production systems encounter difficulties because of escalating food demand and environmental concerns. Enhancing animal productivity via nutrition, feeding management, reproduction, or genetics can result in a decrease in CH4 emissions per unit of meat or milk. This CH4 unit approach allows for a more accurate comparison of emissions across different animal production systems, considering variations in productivity. Expressing methane emissions per unit allows for easier comparison between different sources of emissions. Expressing emissions per unit (e.g., per cow) highlights the relative impact of these sources on the environment. By quantifying emissions on a per unit basis, it becomes easier to identify high-emission sources and target mitigation efforts accordingly. Many environmental policies and regulations focus on reducing emissions per unit of activity or output. By focusing on emissions per unit, policymakers and producers can work together to implement practices that lower emissions without sacrificing productivity. Expressing methane emissions in this way aligns with policy goals aimed at curbing overall greenhouse gas emissions. While it is true that total emissions affect the atmosphere globally, breaking down emissions per unit helps to understand the specific contributions of different activities and sectors to overall greenhouse gas emissions. Tackling cattle health issues can increase productivity, reduce GHG emissions, and improve animal welfare. Addressing livestock health issues can also provide favourable impacts on human health by reducing the prevalence of infectious illnesses in livestock, thereby mitigating the likelihood of zoonotic infections transmitting to humans. The progress in animal health offers the potential for a future in which the likelihood of animal diseases is reduced because of improved immunity, more effective preventative techniques, earlier identification, and innovative treatments. The primary objective of veterinary medicine is to eradicate clinical infectious diseases in small groups of animals. However, as the animal population grows, the emphasis shifts towards proactive treatment to tackle subclinical diseases and enhance production. Proactive treatment encompasses the consistent monitoring and implementation of preventive measures, such as vaccination and adherence to appropriate nutrition. Through the implementation of these measures, the livestock industry may enhance both animal well-being and mitigate the release of methane and nitrous oxide, thereby fostering environmental sustainability. In addition, advocating for sustainable farming methods and providing farmers with education on the significance of mitigating GHG emissions can bolster the industry's endeavours to tackle climate change and infectious illnesses. This will result in a more robust and environmentally sustainable agriculture industry. This review seeks to conduct a thorough examination of the correlation between the health condition of cattle, the composition of milk produced, and the emissions of methane gas. It aims to identify areas where research is lacking and to provide guidance for future scientific investigations, policy making, and industry practices. The goal is to address the difficulties associated with methane emissions in the cattle industry. The primary global health challenge is to identify the causative relationship between climate change and infectious illnesses. Reducing CH4 and N2O emissions from digestive fermentation and animal manure can be achieved by improving animal well-being and limiting disease and mortality.

Mathematical Model and Optimal Control of Covid-19 in Nigeria

The global pandemic, Covid-19, caused by corona virus disease is responsible for a significant number of deaths and huge economic losses in almost all the countries of the world, including Nigeria. In order to manage the spread of this disease in Nigeria, the Nigeria Center for Disease Control(NCDC) has proposed and implemented various control and preventive measures such as vaccination, use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers, social distancing, and others. The aim of this paper is to model the transmission dynamics of Covid-19 in Nigeria, and obtain, by using Pontryagin Maximum Principle, the combination of these control strategies for effective control of the disease in Nigeria. Numerical experiments with Nigeria Covid-19 data show the effectiveness optimal use of these preventive and control measures for Covid-19.

Comparison of Land Cover Change Prediction Models: A Case Study in Kedungkandang District, Malang City

The infrastructure of Malang City is currently being directed towards the eastern and southeastern parts, Kedungkandang District. Infrastructure plays an important role in the aspect of land cover change, which raises the complexity of the emergence of urban forms and dynamics. This study compares three models, Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Logistic Regression (LR), and Multi-Criteria Evaluation (MCE), to predict changes in land cover in the Kedungkandang District using the Cellular Automata (CA) approach. The prediction results indicate that the ANN and MCE models have the highest overall Kappa values (prediction accuracy), while the ANN and LR models have the highest location-specific Kappa values. However, overall, the ANN model demonstrates the highest accuracy and performance among the other two models. This research makes a significant contribution to urban planning by highlighting the importance of using machine learning-based technology to predict land cover changes in Malang City, particularly in the Kedungkandang District. Stakeholders can leverage this technology to design more effective and sustainable infrastructure policies and implement preventive measures to mitigate the negative impacts of uncontrolled urban growth.

ECLAMPSIA: PERSPECTIVE ON THE POSSIBLE REPERCUSSIONS ON THE CHILD'S HEALTH

Eclampsia is a serious complication of pre-eclampsia, which is characterized by high blood pressure, proteinuria and edema during pregnancy. Eclampsia can cause seizures, coma and maternal and fetal death, being one of the main causes of perinatal morbidity and mortality in the world. Furthermore, eclampsia can have repercussions on the child's health, such as prematurity, low birth weight, perinatal asphyxia, intracranial hemorrhage, cerebral palsy, delayed neuropsychomotor development and increased risk of cardiovascular and kidney diseases in adulthood. Despite the importance of the topic, there are few studies that address the consequences of eclampsia on child health in a comprehensive and up-to-date manner. Objective: was to identify and analyze scientific articles that investigated the effects of eclampsia on children's health, from birth to school age, considering clinical, neurological, cognitive, behavioral and social aspects. Methodology: A search was carried out in the PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science databases, using the following descriptors: eclampsia, child health, child development, child outcome and child morbidity. Articles published in the last 10 years, in Portuguese, English or Spanish, that evaluated children born to mothers with eclampsia, whether or not compared with children born to mothers without eclampsia or with pre-eclampsia, were included. Articles that did not address the outcomes of interest, that had insufficient samples, that presented selection bias or confusion, that were reviews, case reports or letters to the editor were excluded. The selection of articles was made according to the PRISMA checklist, following the steps of identification, screening, eligibility and inclusion. The data extracted from the articles were: authors, year, country, study design, sample size, children's age, evaluated outcomes and main results. Results: 16 studies were selected. The outcomes evaluated were: mortality, morbidity, growth, neuropsychomotor development, cognition, behavior, quality of life and risk factors for chronic diseases. The main results were: higher perinatal and neonatal mortality in children born to mothers with eclampsia; higher incidence of neonatal complications, such as asphyxia, hypoglycemia, jaundice, infection, hemorrhage and convulsions; higher frequency of prematurity, low birth weight, intrauterine growth restriction and small for gestational age; greater risk of delay in neuropsychomotor development, cognitive deficit, behavior problems, low quality of life and lower school performance; higher prevalence of hypertension, obesity, dyslipidemia and insulin resistance in childhood. Conclusion: Eclampsia is a condition that negatively affects a child's health, from the perinatal period to school age, compromising their growth and development potential. It is necessary to expand research on this topic, as well as implement prevention measures, early diagnosis and adequate treatment of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia, aiming to reduce their impacts on maternal and child health.

Time trends in liver cancer mortality rates in Montenegro from 1990 to 2018.

Liver cancer is the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Hepatitis B and C infections are the main factors affecting mortality. During recent years, Montenegro conducted activities on eradication of viral hepatitis according to the global strategy for the primary prevention of liver cancer mortality. The objective of this study was to assess the liver cancer mortality trend in Montenegro for the period of 1990-2018 using regression techniques. liver cancer mortality data in Montenegro from 1990 to 2018 were collected. Mortality rates were age standardized to the World Standard Population. The joinpoint, linear and Poisson regressions were used to assess liver cancer mortality trends both overall and gender specific. The mortality trend was constant, with no significant increase or decrease in mortality rates both at the overall level and by gender. The number of cases, however, increases significantly at the overall level by an average of 1.4% per year [average annual percentage change (AAPC) (95% confidence interval, CI): 1.4 (0.5-2.3); P = 0.004] and in women by 1.9% per year [AAPC (95% CI): 1.9 (0.8-3.1); P = 0.002]. In men, there was no change in the number of cases. The three age groups most burdened by mortality from liver cancer were 65-74 (34.9%), 75-84 (26.6%) and 55-64 (25.8%). The consistent implementation of prevention measures and hepatitis virus infection treatment has played a role in partially favorable liver cancer mortality trends in Montenegro. It is crucial to closely monitor guidelines for this cancer and give particular attention to the elderly population as the most affected.

Candida auris in US Correctional Facilities.

Candida auris is an emerging fungal pathogen that typically affects patients in healthcare settings. Data on C. auris cases in correctional facilities are limited but are needed to guide public health recommendations. We describe cases and challenges of providing care for 13 patients who were transferred to correctional facilities during January 2020-December 2022 after having a positive C. auris specimen. All patients had positive specimens identified while receiving inpatient care at healthcare facilities in geographic areas with high C. auris prevalence. Correctional facilities reported challenges managing patients and implementing prevention measures; those challenges varied by whether patients were housed in prison medical units or general population units. Although rarely reported, C. auris cases in persons who are incarcerated may occur, particularly in persons with known risk factors. Measures to manage cases and prevent C. auris spread in correctional facilities should address setting-specific challenges in healthcare and nonhealthcare correctional environments.

Characteristics and incidence of infections in patients with multiple myeloma treated by bispecific antibodies: a national retrospective study

ObjectivesBispecific antibodies (BsAbs) are an effective treatment used in relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. Despite a well-tolerated safety profile, infectious events appear to be frequent in clinical trials. Real-world data on epidemiology, characteristics, risk factors, and outcomes of infections in patients treated with BsAb are still needed. MethodsA retrospective, multicentre study in BsAb-treated patients with multiple myeloma was performed in 14 French centres from December 2020 to February 2023. The primary objective was to describe the incidence of infections that required hospitalization, specific treatment, or adaptation in BsAb administration. ResultsAmong 229 patients with multiple myeloma treated with BsAb, 153 (67%) received teclistamab, 47 (20%) received elranatamab, and 29 (13%) talquetamab. We reported a total of 234 infections, including 123 (53%) of grade of ≥3. Predominant infections affected the respiratory tract (n = 116, 50%) followed by bacteraemias (n = 36, 15%). The hospitalization rate was 56% (n = 131), and 20 (9%) infections resulted in death. Global cumulative incidence of the first infection was 70% in all patients, 73% in patients treated with B-cell maturation antigen-targeting, and 51% with GPRC5D-targeting BsAb. In univariate analyses, corticosteroids for cytokine release syndrome (CRS)/immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) were associated with a higher risk of first infection (HR = 2.13; 95% CI, 1.38–3.28), whereas GPRC5D-targeting BsAb and anti-bacterial prophylaxis were associated with a lower risk (HR = 0.53; 95% CI, 0.3–0.94 and HR = 0.65; 95% CI, 0.46–0.9). Fine and Gray multivariate model found that only corticosteroids for CRS/ICANS were correlated with a higher risk of first infection (HR = 2.01; 95% CI, 1.27–3.19). DiscussionsThe implementation of preventive measures that aim to mitigate the risk of infection under BsAb is pivotal, notably in patients who received corticosteroids for CRS/ICANS.

Association between subclinical atherosclerosis burden and unrecognized myocardial infarction detected by cardiac magnetic resonance in middle-aged low-risk adults.

Evidence on the association between subclinical atherosclerosis (SA) and cardiovascular (CV) events in low-risk populations is scant. To study the association between SA burden and an ischaemic scar (IS), identified by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), as a surrogate of CV endpoint, in a low-risk population. A cohort of 712 asymptomatic middle-aged individuals from the Progression of Early SA (PESA-CNIC-Santander) study (median age 51 years, 84% male, median SCORE2 3.37) were evaluated on enrolment and at 3-year follow-up with 2D/3D vascular ultrasound (VUS) and coronary artery calcification scoring (CACS). A cardiac magnetic study (CMR) was subsequently performed and IS defined as the presence of subendocardial or transmural late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). On CMR, 132 (19.1%) participants had positive LGE, and IS was identified in 20 (2.9%) participants. Individuals with IS had significantly higher SCORE2 at baseline and higher CACS and peripheral SA burden (number of plaques by 2DVUS and plaque volume by 3DVUS) at both SA evaluations. High CACS and peripheral SA (number of plaques) burden were independently associated with the presence of IS, after adjusting for SCORE2 [OR for 3rd tertile, 8.31; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.85-24.2; P < 0.001; and 2.77; 95% CI, 1.02-7.51; P = 0.045, respectively] and provided significant incremental diagnostic value over SCORE2. In a low-risk middle-aged population, SA burden (CAC and peripheral plaques) was independently associated with a higher prevalence of IS identified by CMR. These findings reinforce the value of SA evaluation to early implement preventive measures. Progression of Early Subclinical Atherosclerosis (PESA) Study Identifier: NCT01410318.

Malignant catarrhal fever: pathogenesis, problems of prevention and control (review)

Malignant catarrhal fever is a non-contagious infectious disease that occurs sporadically in the population of cattle and wild artiodactyls. The source of the causative agent of the disease is wildebeest, sheep, and goats, in which the infectious process is usually asymptomatic. The manifestation of clinical and pathological signs is variable, often characterized by damage to the nervous, respiratory and digestive systems, in the organs and tissues of which signs of lymphocytic and histiocytic vasculitis are noted. Diagnosis of the disease is carried out comprehensively using clinical and histological methods, but the main method is the detection of viral DNA in the material using PCR. However, control and prevention of the disease have a number of difficulties due to insufficient efficiency of diagnostic measures, lack of vaccines and outdated regulatory framework. There are no commercially available kits for diagnosing the disease in Russia. This diagnosis is available to research organizations, where complex research protocols are used. Due to insufficient knowledge of the pathogenesis, attempts to create effective vaccines against malignant catarrhal fever have not yet been successful, which does not allow for the full implementation of preventive measures. Regulatory acts defining approaches to control and elimination of the disease have not been updated for more than 20 years. The complex of these problems significantly distorts the objective epizootic situation on malignant catarrhal fever and contributes to its hidden spread with unclear economic and economic damage.

The Risk Assessment and Human Risk Control in Indonesian Power Plant

Efforts to enhance labor productivity are intrinsically linked to the improvement of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards. The research focused on the optimization of OHS by conducting a COVID-19 risk assessment, with the goal of identifying and implementing Human Resource (HR) risk control measures to augment employee performance. In employing a qualitative methodology, the data were amassed through a combination of interviews, observations, and document analysis involving a diverse group of 23 respondents from various departments. The risk assessment process was meticulously structured into four phases: identification of causes, implementation of preventive measures, development of recovery strategies, and evaluation of consequences. The researchers organized the data into primary and secondary categories for analysis and utilized the Bow Tie method to elucidate the findings. The analysis reveals that the human factor, specifically employees’ non-compliance with safety protocols, poses the greatest risk for virus transmission. The result identifies the warehouse, workshop, administration building, and Coal Handling Control Building (CHCB) as the most critical areas requiring stringent risk controls. The results also provide an overview in preparing the basis for Corrective Action and Preventive Action (CAPA). It provides benefits for implementing OHS in power plant companies through recommendations such as evaluation, preventive action, and risk control through COVID-19 risk assessment. Finally, the research delineates strategies for managing risks through preventive measures and recovery processes to mitigate the impacts and consequences associated with these hazards.

THE ROLE OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND SAFETY PRACTICES IN THE AUTOMOTIVE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

The automotive manufacturing industry plays a pivotal role in global economic development, providing transportation solutions while simultaneously facing multifaceted challenges related to environmental health and safety (EHS) practices. This review investigates the indispensable role of EHS practices within the automotive manufacturing sector, highlighting their significance in mitigating environmental impact, ensuring workplace safety, and complying with regulatory standards. Effective EHS practices are integral to managing environmental sustainability within automotive manufacturing. These practices encompass waste management, emissions reduction, and resource conservation strategies aimed at minimizing the industry's ecological footprint. Additionally, the adoption of eco-friendly technologies and processes, such as renewable energy integration and material recycling, contributes to the industry's overall environmental stewardship. Furthermore, prioritizing workplace safety is imperative in the automotive manufacturing sector due to its inherently hazardous operational environments. EHS initiatives focus on risk assessment, hazard identification, and the implementation of preventive measures to safeguard employees from occupational injuries and illnesses. Moreover, fostering a culture of safety awareness through training programs and regular audits promotes a conducive working environment conducive to employee well-being and productivity. Compliance with regulatory standards is a cornerstone of EHS management in the automotive manufacturing industry. Adherence to local, national, and international regulations ensures operational legality and enhances corporate reputation. Through continuous monitoring and assessment, automotive manufacturers strive to stay abreast of evolving regulatory frameworks, thereby aligning their practices with industry best practices and societal expectations. The integration of robust EHS practices is indispensable for sustainable operations and corporate responsibility within the automotive manufacturing industry. By addressing environmental concerns, ensuring workplace safety, and meeting regulatory requirements, automotive manufacturers can uphold their commitment to environmental stewardship and social accountability while maintaining operational efficiency and competitiveness in the global market.&#x0D; Keywords: Environment, Health, Safety, Automotive, Manufacturing, Industry.

Risk and safety assessment in the foundry process in the metallurgical industry

The metallurgical industry, crucial for the global economy, faces considerable challenges in the casting process, with workers exposed to physical, chemical, and ergonomic risks. This study emphasizes the importance of risk management, utilizing tools such as the Ishikawa Diagram, Pareto Diagram, and GUT Matrix. Regulatory Standards (NRs), like NR 4 and NR 9, play a crucial role in safety by establishing guidelines for specialized services and environmental risk prevention. Risk assessment, essential for the safe operation of the metallurgical industry, involves identifying and controlling potential threats such as high temperatures, hazardous chemicals, and ergonomic risks. Moreover, effective risk management, addressing challenges like dehydration, burns, and intoxication, contributes not only to workplace safety but also to compliance with government regulations and the industry's sustainability. Quality tools like the GUT Matrix, Ishikawa Diagram, and Pareto Analysis are fundamental for optimizing processes and identifying root causes of issues. The Effort X Impact matrix, derived from the GUT Matrix, allows prioritizing actions, focusing efforts where they are most needed. In conclusion, risk analysis and the implementation of preventive measures are essential to ensure safe working environments, comply with regulations, and promote operational efficiency in the metallurgical industry.

Relationship between shift work, night work, and headache and migraine risk: A meta-analysis of observational studies

BackgroundTo date, there is insufficient research on whether shift work and night work increase the risk of experiencing headaches and migraines. ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate the potential association between shift work, night shift work, and headache/migraine. MethodsWe conducted a thorough search of the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases up until October 2023 to identify relevant studies. Our inclusion criteria focused on observational studies that investigated the association between shift work exposure and headache/migraine outcomes. We extracted adjusted risk estimates from each study and calculated pooled odds ratios using either fixed or random-effects models. Our methodology followed the Meta-Analysis Group guidelines for observational studies in epidemiology. To ensure accuracy and consistency, two investigators independently reviewed the retrieved records and extracted data based on the predefined inclusion criteria. ResultsThis meta-analysis included a total of seven studies involving 422,869 participants. The pooled analysis revealed a significant association between shift work and an increased risk of headaches (HR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.15–1.52, P < 0.001). Specifically, individuals working night shifts had a 44% higher risk of developing headaches (HR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.09–1.90, P = 0.011). Furthermore, shift work was also found to be associated with a higher incidence of migraines (HR = 1.63, 95% CI: 1.27–2.08, P < 0.001). Interestingly, night shift work was associated with a decreased incidence of migraines (HR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.57–0.96, P = 0.024). ConclusionOur study found a noteworthy association between shift work/night work and the occurrence of headaches and migraines. However, it is important to note that our study does not establish a causal relationship. Future research should investigate potential common vulnerability factors, such as genetics or health behaviors. This knowledge can help inform the implementation of preventive measures and interventions to mitigate the health risks associated with shift work.

Acute occupational inhalation injuries-United States, 2011-2022.

Inhalation injuries due to acute occupational exposures to chemicals are preventable. National surveillance of acute inhalation exposures is limited. This study identified the most common acute inhalation exposure-related incidents by industry sector among US workers. To characterize inhalation-related injuries and their exposures during April 2011-March 2022, state and federal records from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Occupational Safety and Health Information System (OIS) accident database were analyzed. Industry-specific injury, hospitalization, and fatality rates were calculated. The most frequent acute inhalation incidents investigated by OSHA were caused by inorganic gases (52.9%) such as carbon monoxide (CO) or acids, bases, and oxidizing chemical agents (12.9%) such as anhydrous ammonia. The largest number of fatal and nonfatal injuries were reported in the manufacturing (28.6%) and construction (17.2%) sectors. Workers were affected by acute inhalation exposures in most industries. Using this surveillance, employers can recognize frequently-occurring preventable acute inhalation exposures by industry, such as inorganic gases in the manufacturing sector, and implement prevention measures. Training of workers on exposure characteristics and limits, adverse health effects, and use of protective equipment by exposure agent can prevent inhalation injuries.

An Overview of Tick-Borne Encephalitis Epidemiology in Endemic Regions of Continental Croatia, 2017-2023.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) represents an important public health problem in Europe. We analyzed the epidemiology of TBE based on data from humans, animals, and Ixodes ricinus ticks in endemic regions of continental Croatia. In the period from 2017 to 2023, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum samples of 684 patients with neuroinvasive diseases, 2240 horse serum samples, and 300 sheep serum samples were tested for TBEV. In addition, 8751 I. ricinus ticks were collected. CSF samples were tested using RT-PCR. Serological tests (serum, CSF) were performed using commercial ELISA, with confirmation of cross-reactive samples by a virus neutralization test. Eighty-four autochthonous human TBEV cases were confirmed. The majority of patients were in the age group of 40-69 years (58.3%) with a male predominance (70.2%). TBE showed a bimodal seasonality with a large peak in April-August and a small one in October-November. In addition to humans, TBEV IgG antibodies were found in 12.2% of horses and 9.7% of sheep. Seasonal tick abundance corresponds to the reported number of human infections. Continental Croatia is still an active natural focus of TBE. Continuous monitoring of infections in humans, sentinel animals, and ticks is needed for the implementation of preventive measures.

The status of work-related COVID-19 prevention measures and risk factors in hospitals.

Health care workers (HCWs) in hospitals are at risk of infection with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Prevention measures are necessary to protect HCWs against COVID-19. This study aimed to determine the status of occupational risk factors and prevention measures for COVID-19 in hospitals. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Iranian hospitals. Based on the results of reviewing the literature and guidelines, two checklists on occupational risk factors and prevention measures for COVID-19 in hospitals were designed and validated. The status of occupational risk factors and prevention measures against COVID-19 in governmental, non-governmental public, private, and military hospitals were determined using designed checklists. Results confirmed the validity of checklists for assessing the status of COVID-19 prevention measures in hospitals. The military hospitals had the lowest mean risk factors compared to other hospitals, but there was no significant difference in occupational risk factors of infection with COVID-19 among governmental, non-governmental public, private, and military hospitals (P-value > 0.05). In the checklist of occupational risk factors of Covid-19, the type of hospital had a significant relationship with the provision and use of personal protective equipment (P-value<0.05). The mean of implementation of prevention measures among all hospitals were not statistically significant difference (P-value > 0.05). The provided checklists could be a suitable tool for monitoring of status of prevention measures for COVID-19 in hospitals. Improving ventilation systems is necessary in most of the hospitals.