Archives of Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology Feed

Retraction: “Noise exposure patterns and health risk assessment among nurses in a Chinese paediatric intensive care unit”

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Tissue-specific variability in protein expression of cytochrome P450 and glutathione S-transferase isoenzymes in non-small cell lung carcinoma

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Earlier tissue-based studies report heterogeneous CYP and GST protein expression in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but simultaneous assessment of phase I and II enzymes in paired tumour and peripheral normal tissues remains limited and their expression patterns poorly characterised across the two major NSCLC histological subtypes, namely adenocarcinoma (AC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). To address these gaps, this retrospective study evaluated CYP1A1, CYP1B1, CYP2E1, GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTP1 expression immunohistochemically in tumour and peripheral normal lung tissues of 50 patients with NSCLC, 27 of whom with AC and 23 with SCC. Cytoplasmic staining intensity was scored from 0 to 3. Tissue and subtype comparisons were performed using the Mann-Whitney U test, and associations with clinical variables were assessed using Spearman's rank correlation. CYP2E1 expression was significantly higher in tumour than in normal tissue in the combined NSCLC group and in both histological subtypes (p<0.05). CYP1A1 expression was higher in AC tumours than in normal tissue and SCC tumours (both p<0.05). GSTM1 expression was higher in tumour tissue in the combined NSCLC group and in the SCC subgroup and was also higher in SCC than in AC tumours (p<0.05). GSTT1 expression was higher in AC than SCC tumours (p<0.05). CYP1B1 and GSTP1 were highly expressed in both tissue compartments but showed no significant tumour-specific increase. CYP and GST isoenzymes therefore showed tissue- and subtype-dependent rather than uniform expression patterns in NSCLC. The differences observed in CYP2E1, CYP1A1, GSTM1, and GSTT1 suggest that AC and SCC may differ in xenobiotic metabolism and cellular defence, and that these isoenzymes may contribute to metabolic processes associated with NSCLC pathogenesis.

Antimicrobial stewardship challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic: implications of antibiotic overuse and antimicrobial resistance

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic significantly influenced antimicrobial prescribing practices worldwide, raising concerns about antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This narrative review assesses the relationship between COVID-19 and antibiotic use, focusing on bacterial co-infections, prescribing patterns, long-term implications for AMR, and the role of multidisciplinary antimicrobial and diagnostic stewardship, preventive strategies, and the One Health approach in reducing disproportionate antibiotic exposure. To this end we ran a subject search across PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Ovid, and Google Scholar for studies selected according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Despite relatively low rates of confirmed bacterial co-infections, antibiotic use remained disproportionately high, particularly during the early stages of the pandemic, highlighting challenges in clinical decision-making under diagnostic uncertainty. Excessive and inappropriate antibiotic prescribing may have contributed to the global AMR burden. Strengthening antimicrobial stewardship programmes, improving diagnostic accuracy and promoting evidence-based prescribing are therefore essential. Multidisciplinary antimicrobial stewardship interventions, rapid molecular diagnostics and vaccination-associated reductions in antibiotic prescribing emerge as complementary strategies for limiting unnecessary antimicrobial exposure, while the environmental consequences of antibiotic use further emphasise the relevance of the One Health approach. Continued surveillance and research are needed to better understand the long-term impact of the pandemic on AMR.

Fisetin attenuates oxidative and haemolytic damage induced by quinuclidine derivatives in human erythrocytes

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Quinuclidine derivatives are potent bioactive compounds investigated as cholinesterase inhibitors with potential intravenous therapeutic application. However, the cytotoxic properties of some, particularly those linked to oxidative stress, pose significant safety concerns. This study aimed to evaluate if flavonoid fisetin could protect cells from such toxic effects. Erythrocytes were chosen due to high susceptibility to reactive oxygen species (ROS) and well-characterised endogenous antioxidant system, making them a sensitive and physiologically relevant model. Over 24 h, human erythrocytes were exposed to QOH-C12–16 or QNOH-C12–16 derivatives to establish their 25, 50, and 75 % inhibitory concentrations (IC25, IC50, and IC75, respectively). As the compounds with the C12 side alkyl chain showed no significant haemolytic effects, they were excluded from further experimentation. In the next steps, we assessed the protective effects of fisetin (1, 10, 100 μmol/L) against quinuclidine-induced haemolysis over 24 h and against reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and potential glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) depletion over 4 h. Fisetin at 10 and 100 μmol/L significantly reduced ROS to near-control levels, restored SOD activity, and decreased haemolysis by 10–40 %, most effectively in cells exposed to quinuclidines at IC50. However, GSH measurements in combined treatment were not reliable, as fisetin exhibited autofluorescence, but single quinuclidine exposure showed no significant effects on GSH levels. In summary, fisetin showed a promising potential to make quinuclidine intravenous therapies safer.

Official incidence and trends of occupational musculoskeletal disorders in Turkey in 2014–2024: implications of possible underreporting

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

In Turkey, official incidence figures for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) remain notably low despite established ergonomic risks. The aim of this longitudinal study was to determine national incidences of all recognised occupational MSD cases among insured workers included in the publicly available registry of the Social Security Institution of Turkey (SGK) between 2014 and 2024, to calculate annual rates per million insured workers, and to establish temporal, gender-specific, and diagnostic trends. A total of 744 cases were recorded, with recognised incidence increasing from 1.74 per million in 2014 to a peak of 9.03 in 2021. Lateral epicondylitis and chronic crepitant synovitis were the most frequent diagnoses. Whilst male workers accounted for most cases, female incidence rates equalled or exceeded male rates in 2020–2021, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. Our findings point to structural flaws and barriers in the current, compensation-based registry system that may result in under-recognition and consequent underreporting of occupational MSDs, which calls for strengthening prevention-oriented surveillance to inform robust healthcare policies.

Adverse effects of vaping on human health: a brief review of mechanisms and long-term consequences

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Vaping, often advertised as a safe alternative to traditional tobacco smoking, has recently been subjected to active scientific research due to its potential adverse effects on human health. This narrative review synthesises selected recent literature to provide a comprehensive view of the systemic risks associated with the use of electronic cigarettes. It lists key chemical components (propylene glycol, vegetable glycerine, nicotine, and flavourings) and thermal decomposition products of vape aerosol (formaldehyde, acrolein, propylene oxide, glycidol) and evaluates their multi-systemic toxic effects and clinical manifestations, as well as specific effects on the respiratory, cardiovascular, immune, and nervous systems. Current data suggest that vaping can lead to a wide range of acute and chronic diseases, including the e-cigarette or vaping-associated lung injury (EVALI) and obliterative bronchiolitis and increase the risk of developing oncological, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases. Particularly sensitive is the developing adolescent brain. A growing body of evidence indicates that vaping is not "less harmful" but merely "differently" harmful and calls for further long-term research and strengthened public health regulation.

Occupational injuries entail longer sick leave than non-occupational ones: evidence from a developing country and possible implications

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Occupational injuries are an important public health and socioeconomic issue due to their effects on morbidity, productivity, and healthcare costs. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to compare the frequency of occupational and non-occupational injuries, the duration of respective sick leaves, and whether it is related to demographic and clinical factors. To this end, we analysed the data obtained from the information system of the Institute of Occupational and Sports Medicine of the Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The study included 2,075 patients with temporary work incapacity lasting longer than 30 days registered between 1 January and 31 December 2024. Variables included gender, age, ICD-10 diagnosis, and duration of sick leave. The economic burden of occupational injuries was estimated by calculating excess lost workdays compared to those lost to non-occupational injuries and multiplying them by the average gross daily wage in the Republic of Srpska. To approximate employer-related costs, including productivity loss and direct costs, were multiplied by a factor of two. Occupational injuries accounted for 46.2 % of cases and non-occupational injuries for 53.8 %. The mean duration of temporary work incapacity was significantly longer for occupational injuries (91.1±71.5 days) than for non-occupational injuries (78.4±49.6 days; p<0.001). Age significantly influenced sick leave duration, with the longest absences observed in workers aged ≥51 years. Occupational injuries resulted in 12,167 more lost workdays than non-occupational injuries, with an estimated total economic burden of about €885,000. Our findings show that, although less frequent, occupational injuries cause longer sickness absence and greater economic burden and therefore call for improved prevention and post-injury management strategies.

Synergistic effects of combined exposure to hydroquinone and nitrofurantoin in T24 bladder cells: an in vitro toxicology study with implications for risk assessment

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Hydroquinone, the main active component of bearberry [Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (L.) Spreng.], is sometimes used together with the antibiotic nitrofurantoin to treat urinary tract infections. The aim of this in vitro study was to test the hypothesis that co-exposure to hydroquinone and nitrofurantoin would result in greater cytotoxic, oxidative, and genotoxic effects than exposure to either compound alone. To do that, we assessed single and combined toxic effects of two- and eight-hour exposure to both compounds in T24 human bladder carcinoma cells due to their stability and retention of key signalling pathways involved in oxidative stress, DNA repair, and apoptosis. Cytotoxicity and oxidative stress were assessed with the neutral red and 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate assays and genotoxicity with the cytokinesis-block micronucleus cytome assay. Proteomic changes were examined using tandem mass tag labelling followed by mass spectrometry. Combined exposure to hydroquinone and nitrofurantoin produced a synergistic increase in cytotoxic and genotoxic effects compared to single-compound treatments, including reduced nuclear division index and activation of pathways related to oxidative stress, DNA damage, and proteotoxic stress. These findings highlight the importance of evaluating interactions between plant-derived hydroquinone and nitrofurantoin in risk assessment of combined exposure during therapy.

Residential exposures associated with adiposity and proinflammatory markers in obese adults with metabolic syndrome: a cross-sectional study

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Although current research supports associations between residential environment and inflammation and/or adiposity, evidence remains limited and partly contradictory for combined exposures, especially in vulnerable populations. To address this issue, this cross-sectional study, taking place in 2023 and 2024, investigated the associations between residential factors and adiposity and proinflammatory markers in 90 obese adults with metabolic syndrome from Bulgaria. All underwent clinical, anthropometric, and laboratory examinations, and completed a questionnaire. We measured their serum proinflammatory cytokines [interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)], C-reactive protein (CRP), and adipokines (visfatin, leptin, adiponectin). Adiposity-related markers included body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), body fat, and visceral fat percentage. Residential air pollution (NO2, PM2.5, PM10), road traffic noise (Lden), domestic burning of solid fuel, total greenness, tree cover, and time spent in nature were linked to these data. There was suggestive evidence that every 10 μg/m3 increase in NO2 levels was associated with higher concentrations of TNF-α (36.27 %; 95 % CI: −5.66 %, 96.83 %), IL-6 (41.63 %; 95 % CI: 8.16 %, 85.46 %), CRP (37.80 %; 95 % CI: 5.89 %, 79.32 %), leptin (25.61 %; 95 % CI: −8.73 %, 72.88 %), and lower adiponectin-leptin ratio (−33.83 %; 95 % CI: −56.59 %, 0.85 %). Additionally, NO2 was associated with higher BMI (6.37 %; 95 % CI: −0.82 %, 14.08 %) and visceral fat (7.52 %; 95 % CI: 1.30 %, 14.12 %). For every 2 h/week spent in nature, TNF-α concentration was lower (−20.49 %; 95 % CI: −37.56 %, 1.23 %), and adiponectin was higher (10.30 %; 95 % CI: 1.36 %, 20.03 %). Other observed associations were largely null, inconsistent, or occasionally showed an unexpected protective direction. These findings can serve as a general roadmap, and only larger longitudinal studies may provide a better insight into the environmental determinants of metabolic inflammation, which could in turn support the development of alternative preventive strategies.

Occupational noise effects on hearing thresholds, speech perception, and self-reported hearing abilities in young adult dental hospital personnel

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the effects of occupational noise exposure on objective auditory function and self-reported hearing difficulties in young adult dental professionals. It included 56 young adults (aged 18–40), divided into the noise-exposed (n=31) and unexposed control group (n=25). Auditory assessments consisted of pure-tone audiometry (250–8000 Hz), word recognition in clinical speech-in-noise (SIN) test at 0 dB and −5 dB signal-to-noise ratios, and the self-reported Speech, Spatial and Qualities of Hearing Scale (SSQ). No significant differences were observed between the exposed and control groups in pure-tone thresholds or SIN performance, but the exposed group reported significantly poorer hearing abilities on the SSQ Speech (7.53, 8.30; p=0.043) and SSQ Qualities (8.30, 8.91; p=0.014) subscales. These findings suggest that standard clinical assessments may overlook early functional deficits associated with occupational noise and that self-reported hearing difficulties may complement conventional audiometric assessment before measurable threshold shifts occur.

Glyphosate internal dose estimation: comparing passive dosimetry and biomonitoring in simulated heavy residential herbicide application

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Glyphosate exposure is commonly assessed using either passive dosimetry or biomonitoring. This study tests the hypothesis that internal dose estimates derived from passive dosimetry are higher and more uncertain than those derived from biomonitoring by comparing concurrently collected passive dosimetry and biomonitoring data from a controlled simulation of heavy residential herbicide application. The two predominant exposure routes were evaluated separately: six applicators were protected from dermal exposures with hooded Tyvek® coveralls and gloves and six were protected from inhalation exposure with a respirator. Urine was serially collected from all applicators between 30 min prior to and up to 36 h after application, while breathing-zone air samplers (left and right lapel) and four dermal patches were collected from dermally protected applicators. Internal doses were independently estimated from air and dermal patch measurements (passive dosimetry) and from urinary glyphosate residues (biomonitoring; dilution-adjusted). Average total internal daily doses of glyphosate estimated from passive dosimetry were approximately seven times greater than biomonitoring-based estimates. This overestimation appeared attributable to the dermal pathway and was consistent with the uncertainty in the assumed dermal absorption and clothing penetration factors as well as with the uncertainty introduced by extrapolating a limited number of dermal patch measurements to larger body regions. Even so, the highest individual internal daily dose of glyphosate derived from passive dosimetry remained below the internal-dose benchmark derived from conservative regulatory health-based guidance values (60 µg/kg/day), suggesting a low likelihood of adverse health effects under the tested conditions. By directly comparing concurrently collected passive dosimetry and biomonitoring data in applicators with detectable urinary glyphosate, this study provides empirical support for using biomonitoring to evaluate and refine dermal passive-dosimetry assumptions in glyphosate exposure assessment.

Testicular toxicity of Aroclor 1254 in selenium-deficient and selenium-supplemented rats

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Aroclor 1254 (A1254) is a mixture of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners known to induce testicular toxicity through oxidative stress, apoptosis, and hormonal disruption. Selenium (Se), an essential trace element for male reproduction, contributes to antioxidant defence, DNA repair, and spermatogenesis. Given the worldwide prevalence of Se deficiency and its potential impact on reproductive health, this study investigated the effects of A1254 exposure on testicular function in Sprague-Dawley rats with different Se status. Rats assigned to the Se-deficient group were receiving a ≤0.05 mg/kg Se diet, while those assigned to the Se-supplemented group were receiving 1 mg/kg Se for five weeks. A1254-treated groups were receiving 10 mg/kg/day of A1254 by oral gavage for 15 consecutive days. A1254 exposure caused significant reductions in testis weight, sperm count, motility, and plasma testosterone levels, accompanied by extensive germ cell apoptosis and enhanced lipid and protein oxidation. Total antioxidant capacity also dropped significantly, confirming redox imbalance in A1254-exposed testes. These adverse effects were substantially exacerbated in the Se-deficient group, whereas Se supplementation ameliorated but did not fully prevent histological and biochemical changes induced by A1254. Our findings demonstrate that Se plays a crucial protective role against PCB-associated testicular injury, primarily by mitigating oxidative stress and apoptotic pathways. However, Se supplementation alone may not completely counteract the reproductive toxicity caused by persistent environmental contaminants such as A1254.

Acute toxicity and genotoxicity assessment of environmental contaminants using Artemia salina

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The widespread presence of pharmaceuticals and industrial pollutants in aquatic environments necessitates rapid screening tools capable of detecting hazards and adverse biological effects. In this study, we selected the nauplii of Artemia salina (brine shrimp) as a model to screen for the acute toxicity and genotoxicity of three cytostatics (5-fluorouracil, cisplatin, and etoposide), one pesticide (glyphosate), one surfactant (benzalkonium chloride), and one antifouling agent (tributyltin chloride), all applied in graded concentrations for 24 and 48 h. Acute toxicity was quantified by determining median lethal concentrations (LC50), and the genotoxicity of cytostatics was assessed using the alkaline comet assay. All substances caused concentration and time-dependent mortality. Among cytostatics, cisplatin was the most toxic (48 h LC50≈35 µg/mL), followed by etoposide (~130 µg/mL), while 5-fluorouracil was the least toxic (>500 µg/mL). Tributyltin chloride showed the strongest effect among non-pharmaceuticals (0.55 µg/mL), followed by benzalkonium chloride (~7.5 µg/mL) and glyphosate (~43 µg/mL). Cytostatics induced concentration-dependent DNA damage, with etoposide exhibiting the highest tail intensity (~60 %). These findings demonstrate that A. salina is an effective model for early, cost-effective hazard screening and highlight the importance of including genotoxic endpoints, particularly when assessing chemicals with DNA-targeting mechanisms.

Combined in vitro effects of temozolomide and erucic acid on U87 MG cell viability, oxidative stress, and expression of genes involved in apoptotic signalling

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Limited efficacy of glioblastoma treatment with temozolomide (TMZ) due to resistance has prompted researchers to look for adjuvants capable of enhancing TMZ-associated cytotoxicity. The aim of our in vitro study was to evaluate such effects of erucic acid when combined with TMZ in human U87 MG cells. Cells were treated for 24 or 72 h with vehicle (control), TMZ (200 ng/mL), or TMZ plus EA (20, 40, 80, or 160 µg/mL). Cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay, membrane integrity with lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, and intracellular redox balance by measuring total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total oxidant status (TOS). The mRNA expression of apoptosis-related genes (p53, p21, Bax, Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, and caspase-3) was analysed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Compared with the vehicle control, TMZ plus EA reduced cell viability and increased LDH release, with more pronounced effects at higher EA concentrations and at 72 h. These changes were accompanied by lower TAC and higher TOS, indicating a shift toward a pro-oxidant intracellular environment. At the transcriptional level, the combination induced increased pro-apoptotic Bax, caspase-3, p53, and p21 expression and reduced Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL expression. In conclusion, EA potentiated TMZ-associated cytotoxic responses in U87 MG cells with accompanying oxidative imbalance and apoptosis-related transcriptional changes.

Marked variations in the effectiveness of commercial disinfectants against clinically relevant antibiotic-resistant bacteria and fungi

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Effective disinfection of noncritical hospital surfaces may be essential for limiting the transmission of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB), which seem to persist despite clear disinfection guidelines and raise concern about the potency of real-world disinfectants and about the consistency of disinfection practices. This study compared the bactericidal efficacy of eight commercially available disinfectants – alcohols, hydrogen peroxide, quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), and chlorhexidine (CHX) – against multidrug-resistant clinical isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecium, carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and model organism Candida albicans as the most frequent causes of hospital-acquired infections in Croatia. Several formulations, particularly those based on QACs and CHX, retained full bactericidal activity even when diluted 10–32 times after only 1 min of contact, while alcohols were ineffective when diluted more than twice. However, all the formulations were effective when applied at full concentration. These findings highlight marked differences in the intrinsic bactericidal strength of commercial products, especially if not applied properly, which may explain variable outcomes observed in routine hospital disinfection practices. These issues may be overcome by rotating different disinfectant classes during routine surface decontamination and by optimising disinfectant strength to improve ARB and fungal control in clinical settings.

Colonisation potential of microplastic particles containing organic pollutants by a river-isolated environmental Acinetobacter baumannii

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Microplastics in aquatic environments raise concern about their role as potential carriers of pathogens and organic pollutants. This study investigates the survival of the extensively drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in the presence of selected priority substances including benzene derivatives (trichlorobenzene, pentachlorobenzene, and hexachlorobenzene), trifluralin, and primary polyethylene microplastics. The results indicate that the amount of adsorbed priority substances on microplastics from a mixture solution is slightly lower than the adsorption from individual solutions. Furthermore, GC/MS analysis shows that other chemicals used in plastic manufacturing can be released from microplastics into the environment over time and should be taken into account when assessing the environmental impact of microplastics. The proliferation of the environmental Sava 4 A. baumannii strain was not affected by the presence of benzene derivatives and microplastic particles at concentrations of up to 10 g/L in the water medium, and microscopy confirmed that it can colonise and form a biofilm on microplastic particles with adsorbed benzene derivatives, which demonstrates that microplastics have the potential to spread pollutants and potentially harmful bacteria over long distances and introduce them into various aquatic environments.

Fatal pufferfish poisoning 1000 km inland: a case series from eastern Turkey

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

We report the first tetrodotoxin (TTX) poisoning cases from Van, Eastern Turkey, a city located more than 1000 km inland. Three male patients presented in December 2020 after eating Lagocephalus sceleratus, which a local vendor mistook for an edible fish. One patient, a 41-year-old man who consumed the fish liver, rapidly developed severe signs of poisoning (adverse event grade 4) with complete paralysis and respiratory failure. Arterial blood gas analysis showed severe acidosis (pH 7.179) and high lactate levels (5.3 mmol/L). Despite intensive care, including mechanical ventilation and high-dose vasopressors, the patient died on the fourth day of hospitalisation due to refractory cardiac arrest. The other two patients, who consumed less fish and no liver, had only mild symptoms (adverse event grades 1 and 2) and recovered completely within 24 h. This incident illustrates the extreme danger of consuming pufferfish and particularly its visceral organs, which typically contain substantially higher tetrodotoxin levels. Finding these cases so far inland reveals serious gaps in the Turkish food distribution system. The fish likely travelled from Mediterranean ports to Van in mixed fish crates without having been identified. Fish vendors need proper training to identify toxic species, and supply chains require better oversight to prevent such tragedies.

Nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus and hygiene practices among food handlers in Skopje, North Macedonia

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Nasal carriage plays a key role in Staphylococcus aureus transmission, particularly among individuals working in the food sector. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the relationship between personal hygiene and nasal carriage of S. aureus among workers in food production, distribution, and trade. It was conducted in Skopje from November 2021 to March 2022 and included 289 workers undergoing mandatory health and hygiene examinations. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and microbiological testing of nasal swabs. The overall prevalence of S. aureus nasal carriage was 12.5 % (95 % CI: 8.7–16.3 %). Methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) prevailed in 11.8 % (95 % CI: 8.1–15.5 %) and the methicillin-resistant variety (MRSA) in only 0.7 % (95 % CI: 0–1.7 %). We found no significant associations between nasal carriage and demographic or hygiene variables (assessed using the chi-squared test) but did observe higher carriage rates among men (15.7 %), cooks (28.6 %), and individuals with untidy nails (17 %). However, our findings should be interpreted with caution, and future studies should address the limitations of the present study. Targeted training, routine screening, and consistent adherence to good hygiene practices remain important for minimising colonisation and reducing the risk of S. aureus transmission.

Noise exposure patterns and health risk assessment among nurses in a Chinese paediatric intensive care unit

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Starting from the hypothesis that occupational noise exposure among paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) nurses at our hospital exceeds the recommended health guidelines and is associated with adverse non-auditory health outcomes, the aim of this cross-sectional study was to quantify personal noise exposure patterns and assess correlations with perceived stress, sleep quality, and hearing handicap in a convenience sample of 60 registered nurses wearing personal noise dosimeters over a 12-hour shift. The participants also completed a survey including the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and the Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults (HHIA). The main finding was that the cohort’s mean 8-hour time-weighted average (LAeq,8 h) exposure to noise was 78.5±4.2 dBA, and that all measured shifts exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) hospital guidelines. Peak noise levels (LCpeak) frequently surpassed 115 dBC. Most nurses (N=39) were classified as “poor sleepers” (PSQI>5). Significant positive correlations were found between LAeq,8 h and PSS-10 scores (r=0.45, p<0.001) and global PSQI scores (r=0.52, p<0.001). For every 1 dBA increase in LAeq,8 h, the odds of being a poor sleeper increased by 25 % (odds ratio 1.25; 95 % CI: 1.05–1.48). Even though this is a “snapshot study”, it clearly indicates that PICU noise bears significant occupational risks of high stress and poor sleep, which warrants immediate intervention. Further research should focus on longitudinal measurements to get a better idea of noise exposure in healthcare environments, PICUs in particular.

Coasting effect of n-hexane-induced neuropathy evidenced by electroneuromyography and clinical symptom scales: a 12-month follow-up study

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

To the best of our knowledge, no study so far has investigated the coasting effect of neuropathy caused by occupational exposure to n-hexane through more detailed clinical evaluations than nerve conduction measurements, such that would also include pain assessment and functional status. The aim of our study was therefore to see if our measurements, which include all three elements, would support the coasting effect and reveal associations between electrophysiological measurements and clinical symptom assessments over a 12-month follow-up. Our study included eighteen patients working in the same shoe factory who were diagnosed with occupational neuropathy most likely caused by exposure to n-hexane. After identification of occupational exposure to high, yet unspecified VOC levels by local health authorities, production was suspended and all patients removed from further exposure. All underwent detailed neurological examination, including electroneuromyography (EMG) and the assessment of self-rated pain severity, symptoms, and functionality in everyday activities. All clinical, laboratory, and electrophysiological assessments were performed at baseline and at months 4 and 12 of follow-up. The patients presented with different degrees of numbness, muscle weakness, and sensory disturbances. EMG measurements and clinical scales at month 4 revealed significant worsening from the baseline (p<0.05), and the assessments at month 12 a significant improvement from month 4 (p<0.05), which confirms the coasting effect. Significant correlations were found between baseline motor conduction velocities and subsequent functional outcomes, and between selected sensory parameters and pain severity. Regardless of its limitations, our study points to the real-life consequences of exposure to harmful VOCs in poorly controlled shoe factory environments and establishes the coasting effect through more than one diagnostic parameter. From a preventive perspective, our findings suggest that early electrophysiological evaluation, together with simple and validated clinical scales, may help identify workers at risk of developing neuropathy before irreversible functional impairments occur. Such an approach could inform timely exposure control, medical surveillance, and occupational interventions in high-risk settings.