Olho seco e COVID-19: uma revisão narrativa / Dry eyes and COVID-19: a narrative review

RESUMO Com o advento do cenário pandêmico causado pelo SARS-CoV-2, no início do ano de 2020, foi notado um vasto quadro clínico entre os indivíduos infectados. Dentre os sintomas oculares mais comuns ocasionados pela COVID-19, o olho seco tornou-se bastante prevalente nesse meio. O estudo do tipo revisão narrativa busca avaliar os fatores de risco associados ao surgimento ou à intensificação dos quadros de olho seco na população durante o período pandêmico. A partir da análise bibliográfica, foi descrita a influência da ventilação por pressão positiva, do uso de máscaras de forma incorreta e de telas eletrônicas e da ansiedade e da depressão como fatores predisponentes ao desenvolvimento da doença do olho seco. No entanto, ainda é notada a necessidade de estudos mais explicativos para estabelecer a relação direta entre a causalidade dos fatores.

ABSTRACT With the advent of the pandemic scenario caused by SARS-CoV-2 in the beginning of the year 2020, a vast clinical picture was noticed among the infected individuals. Among the most common eye symptoms caused by Covid-19, dry eye (DE) has become quite prevalent in this environment. The narrative review study seeks to assess the risk factors associated with the emergence or intensification of DE conditions in the population during the pandemic period. A literature review showed the influence of positive pressure ventilation, incorrect use of masks, as well as electronic screens, in addition to anxiety and depression as predisposing factors for the development of dry eye disease. However, the need for more explanatory studies and for establishing a direct relationship between the causality of the factors is still noted.

Astenopia digital em controladores de tráfego aéreo: diagnóstico e avaliação na Força Aérea Portuguesa / Digital-related eye strain in air traffic control specialists: diagnosis and evaluation in the Portuguese Air Force staff

RESUMO A função de controlador aéreo exige várias horas de visualização de ecrãs, o que torna esses profissionais um grupo particularmente exposto à astenopia digital. Procuramos, com este artigo de revisão, compreender quais os métodos quantitativos e qualitativos usados atualmente para diagnosticar e avaliar a fadiga ocular em controladores de tráfego aéreo. Trata-se de pesquisa bibliográfica utilizando as bases de dados PubMed® e ClinicalKey®, usando palavras-chave, tendo sido selecionados artigos de revisão e estudos observacionais com publicação posterior ao ano 2000, de modo que os termos buscados estivessem no título e/ou resumo do trabalho. Excluímos artigos em línguas que não inglesa. Existem vários métodos para melhor caracterizar a astenopia digital, destacando-se os subjetivos, como questionários, e os objetivos, que procuram, por um lado, diagnosticar o olho seco, bem como alterações da acomodação e da convergência. Da análise efetuada, ressaltou-se uma escassez de estudos prospectivos com Níveis de Evidência moderados e altos relacionados com a aplicação dos vários métodos de diagnóstico. A Computer-Vision Symptom Scale parece ser um questionário confiável e que pode ser aplicado aos controladores de tráfego aéreo, para diagnóstico de astenopia digital. Vários métodos objetivos podem também ser utilizados para essa avaliação, sendo importante, numa fase posterior, aplicar esses dois tipos de métodos de diagnóstico para avaliar a prevalência dessa patologia em controladores de tráfego aéreo.

ABSTRACT The work of air traffic control specialists require several hours looking at screens, and they comprise a group particularly exposed to digital-related eye strain. In this review we aim to understand the quantitative and qualitative methods currently used to diagnose and evaluate asthenopia in air traffic control specialists. A bibliographic search was carried out at the databases PubMed® and ClinicalKey®, using keywords, and selecting review articles and observational studies, dated after 2000, containing the keywords in the title and/o abstract. Articles not published in English were excluded. There are several subjective and objective methods to better describe digital-related eye strain, including questionnaires, aiming to make diagnosis of dry eye disease or changes in accommodation and convergence. From our analysis, there are few prospective studies with moderate and high levels of evidence regarding these diagnostic methods. The Computer-Vision Symptom Scale seems to be a reliable questionnaire to be applied to air traffic control specialists, for diagnosis of digital-related eye strain. Several objective methods can also be employed in this evaluation, and, in a later stage, it will be important to apply both diagnostic methods to evaluate the prevalence of this condition in air traffic control specialists.

Pantallas: discordancias entre las recomendaciones y el uso real / Screens: discrepancy between recommendations and actual use

La utilización de dispositivos electrónicos con pantallas y su introducción cada vez más temprana en la vida de los niños presentan un desafío que debe ser reconocido por el pediatra para contribuir a evitar su exceso. Se ha detectado una manifiesta discordancia entre las recomendaciones ideales y el uso real de las pantallas en los niños pequeños. Un correcto asesoramiento dentro de un contexto familiar, junto con una evidencia más sólida sobre los impactos a largo plazo del uso de la tecnología digital, permitirán a los pediatras apoyar adecuadamente a las familias.

The use of electronic devices with screens and the early introduction in small-age children present a challenge that must be recognized by the pediatrician, who must contribute to avoid the excess in their use. We have detected a manifest discrepancy between the ideal recommendations and the actual use of screens in young children. Correct counseling within a family context, with stronger evidence on the long-term impacts of the use of digital technology, will allow pediatricians to adequately provide support to families.

Ergophthalmology in accounting offices: the computer vision syndrome (CVS) / Ergoftalmologia em escritórios de contabilidade: a síndrome visual do computador (SVC)

Abstract Purpose: This study aimed to determine the presence of the symptoms of computer vision syndrome (CVS) accounting office employees. Methods: The research tools used were a questionnaire based on the set of symptoms of CVS rated by Likert scale (1-5) and workplace observations based on Ergonomic Workplace Analysis (EWA). Results: The participants who worked with a viewing angle of less than 10º relative to the screen had more symptoms, particularly of pain in the back of the neck and back (p = 0.0460). The participants who used lighting other than 450 and 699 lux reported significant headache (p = 0.0045) and dry eye (p = 0.0329) symptoms. Younger workers had more headaches (p = 0.0182), and workers with fewer years of employment had more headaches and dry eyes symptoms (p = 0.0164 and p = 0.0479, respectively). A total of 37% of the participants reported a lack of guidance regarding prevention and painful symptoms in the back of the neck and back (p = 0.0936). Conclusion: Younger participants with fewer years of employment, who had not received information regarding proper computer use, who did not use lighting between 450 and 699 lux or who worked with viewing angles of less than 10º had more computer vision syndrome symptoms.

Resumo Objetivo: Este trabalho objetivou averiguar a presença dos sintomas da Síndrome Visual dos Computadores (SVC) trabalhadores de escritórios de contabilidade. Métodos: Como instrumentos de pesquisa utilizou-se um questionário baseado no conjunto de sintomas da SVC, avaliado por Escala Likert (1-5), e foram realizadas observações no local de trabalho baseadas na Avaliação Ergonômica de Postos de Trabalho. Resultados: Os participantes que trabalhavam com o ângulo de visão menor do que 10º em relação à tela foram os que apresentaram mais sintomas sobretudo de dor na parte posterior do pescoço e nas costas (p=0,0460). Aqueles que usavam iluminação diferente de 450 e 699 lux reportaram sintomas significativos para dor de cabeça (p=0,0045) e ressecamento ocular (p=0,0329). Os mais jovens apresentaram mais dor de cabeça (p=0,0182) e aqueles com menor tempo de trabalho mais sintomas de dor de cabeça e ressecamento ocular (respectivamente p=0,0164 e p=0,0479). A falta de recebimento de orientações sobre prevenção foi confirmada por 37% participantes que referiram mais sintomas de dor na parte posterior do pescoço e nas costas (p=0,0936). Conclusão: Os participantes mais jovens, com menor tempo de trabalho, que não haviam recebido informações sobre o uso de computador, não utilizavam iluminação entre 450 e 699 lux ou trabalhavam com o ângulo de visão menor do que 10º apresentaram mais sintomas da síndrome visual do computador.

Percepción de desórdenes musculoesqueléticos y aplicación del método RULA en diferentes sectores productivos: una revisión sistemática de la literatura / Perception of musculoskeletal disorders and RULA method application in different productive sectors: a systematic review of literatura

RESUMEN Introducción: Los desórdenes musculoesqueléticos (DME) constituyen una de las principales causas de enfermedad relacionadas con el trabajo. Numerosos esfuerzos se han realizado a fin de prevenir su aparición; por tanto, múltiples instrumentos de evaluación ergonómica han sido usados. Esta revisión tiene como objetivo identificar la información disponible en bases de datos sobre evaluación del riesgo biomecánico (RULA) y percepción de DME en trabajadores de diversos sectores económicos (Cuestionario Nórdico), para el periodo 2004-2015. Materiales y Métodos: Se realizó una revisión sistemática de los estudios recientes enfocados en la evaluación del nivel de riesgo ergonómico y percepción de DME. Asimismo, fueron tenidas en cuenta las recomendaciones de la declaración PRISMA, tras obtener los artículos en las bases de datos Science direct, Scopus, Pubmed, Springer link, Embase y Ebsco. 13 estudios que cumplieron con los criterios de selección fueron incluidos; se identificaron dos tipos de estudios: de diagnóstico y de intervención. Resultados: Prevalencias altas en espalda alta-baja, cuello, tronco, hombros, mano/ muñeca y rodilla fueron evidenciadas, siendo el género femenino el más afectado. Conclusiones: Los hallazgos sugieren asociación entre índice de masa corporal, edad (≥ 25 años), antigüedad en el trabajo (≥ 3 años), trabajo por destajo, horas de trabajo diario ≥ 8 horas, número de pacientes atendidos, RULA (nivel 3 y 4) y DME en cuello, tronco, brazos, antebrazos, espalda baja y zonas corporales del grupo B.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are one of the main causes of work-related diseases; numerous efforts have been made in order to prevent its occurrence. Therefore, multiple ergonomic evaluation instruments have been used. This review aims to identify the available information in databases related to biomechanical risk assessment (RULA) and perception of DME in workers from various economic sectors, period 2004-2015 (Nordic Questionnaire). Materials and Methods: A Systematic review about the recent studies focused on the evaluation of the level of ergonomic risk and perception of DME was performed. The recommendations of the PRISMA statement were taken into account after obtaining the studies from the Science Direct, Scopus, Pubmed, Springer link, Embase and Ebsco databases. 13 studies that complied the selection criteria were included; 2 types of studies were identified: diagnosis and intervention. Results: High prevalence in upper and lower back, neck, trunk, shoulders, hand/wrist, and knee were evidenced, being the female gender the most affected. Conclusions: These findings suggest an association between body mass index, age (≥ 25 years), seniority at work (≥ 3 years), piecework, daily hours of work ≥ 8 hours, number of patients attended, RULA (level 3 And 4) and DME in the neck, trunk, arms, forearms, lower back and group B body areas.

Visual Display Terminal Syndrome, Sleep Quality and Physical Activity according to Smartphone Addiction in Nursing Students / 재활간호학회지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate visual display terminal (VDT) Syndrome, syndrome, sleep quality and physical activity level according to smartphone addiction level in nursing students. METHODS: The study subjects were 211 nursing students who gave informed consent. The VDT syndrome symptoms, sleep quality, physical activity, smartphone addiction level were measured by structured questionnaires. The data were analyzed using x2 test, Fisher's exact test, one way ANOVA, Pearson's correlation coefficient by IBM SPSS 20.0 program. RESULTS: The average score of smartphone addiction was 35.89 and the high risk group of smartphone addiction was 11.9%, potential risk group was 17.5% and normal group was 70.6%. Smartphone addiction level was significantly associated with gender, grade point, satisfaction with college life, smartphone fare, smartphone using time, smartphone using period, daily using time. In the high risk group, VDT syndrome score was higher, and sleep quality was lower than normal group. Physical activity had no significant difference according to smartphone addiction. Smartphone addiction level was significantly positive correlation with VDT syndrome and sleep quality score, and negative correlation with physical activity. CONCLUSION: Based on the outcomes of this study, it is necessary to develop a smartphone addiction management program with concrete measures to prevent VDT syndrome and poor sleep quality and multidisciplinary approach for controlling smartphone addiction in nursing students.

Factors influencing Video Display Terminal Syndrome in Clinical Nurses / 한국간호교육학회지

PURPOSE: The present research is a descriptive study aimed at understanding clinical nurses' Video display terminal (VDT) syndrome and identifying the factors that affect their VDT syndrome. METHODS: Data were collected from 239 clinical nurses working in two metropolitan cities. Research tools included subject's VDT syndrome assessing musculoskeletal, ophthalmic, dermal, psychiatric, and whole body syndromes. The data were analyzed using frequency analysis, average and standard deviation, t-test, One-way ANOVA, and multiple regression analysis with the SPSS/WIN 20.0 program. RESULTS: The subjects' VDT syndrome score was 1.34 out of 5. There were significant differences in participating subjects' VDT syndrome, hospital's size, working unit, health status, diagnosis of illness, having an Order Communication System (OCS), having an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) System, continuous VDT working for more than one hour, break time during VDT use, VDT use time, comfort of the chair, adjustability of the height of the chair, size of the VDT's desk, distance between the monitor and the user's eyes, resolution of the monitor, and frequency of eye exercise during VDT use. According to the research, influencing factors on VDT syndrome in clinical nurses included size of the VDT's desk, frequency of eye exercise during VDT use, having an EMR system, break time during VDT use, diagnosis illness, and having an OCS' system. CONCLUSION: The findings from this study can be used as a basis for future VDT syndrome prevention education and programs for clinical nurses.

Change in Musculoskeletal Pain in Patients With Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorder After Tailored Rehabilitation Education: A One-Year Follow-Up Survey

OBJECTIVE: To apply tailored rehabilitation education to video display terminal (VDT) workers with musculoskeletal pain and to assess changes in musculoskeletal pain after rehabilitation education. METHODS: A total of 8,828 VDT workers were screened for musculoskeletal disorders using a self-report questionnaire. Six hundred twenty-six VDT workers selected based on their questionnaires were enrolled in musculoskeletal rehabilitation education, which consisted of education on VDT syndrome and confirmed diseases, exercise therapy including self-stretching and strengthening, and posture correction. One year later, a follow-up screening survey was performed on 316 VDT workers, and the results were compared with the previous data. RESULTS: Compared with the initial survey, pain intensity was significantly decreased in the neck area; pain duration and frequency were significantly decreased in the low back area; and pain duration, intensity, and frequency were significantly decreased in the shoulder and wrist after tailored rehabilitation education. In addition, pain duration, intensity, and frequency showed a greater significant decrease after tailored rehabilitation education in the mild pain group than in the severe pain group. CONCLUSIONS: This study found that work-related musculoskeletal pain was reduced after tailored rehabilitation education, especially in the shoulder, wrist, and low back.

Exposición a pantallas, sobrepeso y desacondicionamiento físico en niños y niñas / Exposure to screens, being overweight and physical deconditioning in children

Antecedentes. El sobrepeso y la obesidad infantil son un problema grave de salud. La actividad física determina la capacidad cardiorespiratoria. Los datos relacionados con el sobrepeso, obesidad y exposición a pantallas no son concluyentes.Métodos. Encuestamos a niños y niñas de edades entre 10 y 12 años acerca del tiempo frente a pantallas. Adicionalmente realizamos mediciones antropométricas y funcionales.Resultados. Estudiamos a 325 niños y niñas. El tiempo promedio frente a pantallas fue de 4.96 horas/día, permaneciendo los hombres más tiempo frente a pantallas. La prevalencia de sobrepeso fue de 22.8% y de obesidad 2.8%. El estudio no demostró diferencias antropométricas entre los sujetos con permanencias superiores e inferiores a 2 horas/día frente a pantallas.Conclusiones. Es elevado el número de horas de exposición frente a pantallas.

Efficacy evaluation of acupoints massage on asthenopia of video display terminal under different exposure dose / 中国针灸

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To observe the efficacy differences of acupoints massage for asthenopia of video display terminal (VDT) under different exposure dose.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>One hundred and two cases (204 eyes) were divided into a low exposure group and a high exposure group, fifty-one cases in each group. The same intervention of acupoints massage on Cuanzhu (BL 2), Jingming (BL 1), Sizhukong (TE 23), Sibai (ST 2) and Taiyang(EX-HN 5) were given to the two groups, one acupoint for 5 min and once everyday, one month of which made a course. The symptom score, tear film break-up time (BUT) and Schirmer I test(SIT) were observed before and after treatment.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>(1) The correlation coefficient of cubic curve model of the exposure dose was the biggest with symptom improvement index (P = 0.000), which indicated that the lower VDT exposure index was, the more obvious the symptom improved. The symptom improvement indices of low exposure group and high exposure group, which were (52.31 +/- 16.65)% and (28.93 +/- 13.35)% respectively, were statistical significant difference (P = 0.000). (2) Compared to before treatment, the levels of BUT and SIT in the two groups were both significantly higher (P < 0.05). Compared with the high exposure group, the levels of BUT and SIT in the low exposure group were increased by 0.826 s (P = 0.022) and 1.029 mm (P = 0.033), respectively, after the impact of BUT and SIT was corrected before the research.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The acupoints massage can improve the symptoms and ocular physiology for patients with VDT asthenpia, and it is more effective for the low exposure cases.</p>

Monitor Preference for Electronic Medical Record in Outpatient Clinic / 대한의료정보학회지

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this paper is to assess which wide type monitor configurations are preferred when physicians use an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system in an outpatient clinic setting. METHODS: We selected three kinds of monitor configurations available for adoption at outpatient clinics with reference to monitor market trends. Fifteen attending physicians of the Seoul National University Bundang Hospital used each monitor configuration in their outpatient clinics. After completing the outpatient sessions, they selected the best monitor configuration for criteria described in five questionnaire items. We counted the number of votes and reviewed opinions of participants. RESULTS: The Wide Quad High Definition (WQHD) 27-inch single monitor configuration was most preferred for all questionnaire items. All participants answered that the WQHD 27-inch single monitor configuration was the best for desk space utilization. Eleven out of fifteen participants chose the WQHD 27-inch single monitor configuration as the most suitable monitor for outpatient practice. CONCLUSIONS: This study found that physicians preferred the WQHD 27-inch single monitor configuration in outpatient clinic settings. Healthcare organizations need to consider this finding when they purchase wide type monitors for EMR systems instead of the standard type monitor.

Efecto del tiempo de exposición a pantallas de visualización de datos sobre la fatiga visual en digitadores del HNGAI - EsSalud / Effect of the time of exposure to Visual Data Terminal and visual fatigue in typist of the HNGAI-EsSalud

Se realizó un estudio con enfoque cuantitativo de tipo descriptivo de corte transversal en una muestra de 66 digitadores del Departamento de Admisión del Hospital Nacional Guillermo Almenara Irigoyen (HNGAI), durante el período comprendido entre Febrero y Junio del 2003. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar la asociación entre tiempo de exposición a pantallas de visualización de datos (PVD) y fatiga visual en este grupo. Metodología: Identificados los digitadores que cumplían los criterios de inclusión y exclusión, se revisaron sus historias clínicas ocupacionales elaboradas por la Unidad de Salud Ocupacional de este hospital, verificando antecedentes de patología oftalmológica de cada sujeto de estudio. En su puesto de trabajo, se les aplicó una encuesta elaborada específicamente a fin de determinar la sintomatología característica de fatiga visual y junto con su aplicación se les realizó un examen clínico ocular básico, tanto al inicio como al final de jornada laboral del evaluado. Complementariamente, se hicieron mediciones de iluminación de superficie de trabajo y sobre la PVD, de la distancia visual y para calcular el ángulo visual. Resultados: Se encontró una prevalencia de fatiga visual de 59% en este grupo. Respecto a la asociación entre las variables en estudio, el análisis multivariado demostró una asociación significativa entre el tiempo de exposición a las PVD y la fatiga visual (p=0.009) (RP=1.4). Conclusión: Se concluye que existe una mayor posibilidad de padecer fatiga visual a mayor tiempo de trabajo frente a PVD

It was done a study with cuantitative design, descriptive, type cross sectional of sample of 66 visual data terminal operators of the National Hospital Guillermo Almenara Irigoyen (HNGAI) among February and June 2003. Objective: To determine the association among time of exposure to visual data terminal (VDT) and visual fatigue in this group. Methodology: We identified whom had inclusion and exclusion criteria for study, reviewed their occupational clinical histories elaborated by the Unit of Occupational Health HNGAI, verifying records of ophthalmological pathology. In their workplace, it was applied an specific questionnaire for symptoms of visual fatigue and a basic ocular clinic exam, in the start and end of shift work did them. Complementary, measurement of lighting on work surface and on VDT, viewing distance and other for calculate viewing angle were did it. Outcome: Prevalence of visual fatigue was 59% in this group. For other variables of study, multivariate analysis showed a significant association among time of exposure to VDT and visual fatigue (p=0.009) (RP=1.4). Conclusion: The probability of visual fatigue increase with prolonged exposure to VDT in the workplace

Study on visual display terminal mental fatigue status based on physiological information / 生物医学工程学杂志

A visual display terminal (VDT) mental fatigue task was designed to search for the objective indicator to diagnose and evaluate the VDT mental fatigue status. The signals of temperature and electrocardiograph (ECG) are collected from the subjects. The temperature, heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) are extracted as the objective parameters after analyzing the temperature signals in time domain and the ECG signals in time domain and frequency domain. Compared with mental fatigue pre-experiment, the temperature increased significantly (P<0.001), and the RR-PNN50 increased obviously (P<0.05), while the S wavelet of ECG signals decreased obviously (P<0.05) after mental fatigue experiment. Compared with the end of mental fatigue experiment, the temperature increased, the changes of RR-PNN50 were not obvious, the S wavelet increased significantly (P<0.01), and the mental fatigue was somewhat remittance after natural recovery. The results showed that the objective indicator to evaluate the VDT mental fatigue status would be hopeful to be found out by analyzing the signals of temperature and ECG.

Association between duration of daily visual display terminal work and sleep disorders among statistics center staff in Iran

Computers have become ubiquitous in the workplace offices and since computerized jobs are more sedentary, requiring more cognitive processing, mental attention and less physical expenditure of energy, many jobs that require heavy computer use have been found to be stressful. Three hundred and sixty two clerks of national statistics centre of Iran participated in this analytic cross-sectional study. All the employees that had worked with computer during the previous three months were enrolled. The subjects with diseases affecting the patient's sleep were excluded. In addition to demographic variables, for assessment of insomnia, we designed a questionnaire consisting of 20 items. Among 362 subjects, Male and female distribution was equal [Mean age: 35.27 +/- 8.48 years, range: 20-65 years]. The most common degree was bachelor [40.6%]. We couldn't find any significant changes with respect to well-being during the day, final awakening earlier than desired, functioning during the day and with increasing the hours of working with computer. An association was observed between the duration of daily visual display terminal work and each of the eight sleep-related symptoms on the AIS, such as difficulty in falling asleep and early awakening

Comparative study of the blinking time between young adult and adult video display terminal users in indoor environment / Estudo comparativo do tempo de piscadas entre adultos jovens e adultos usuários de monitor de microcomputador em ambiente climatizado

OBJECTIVE: Investigate the average blinking time in conversation and in Video Display Terminal use of young adults and adults in the presbyopic age group. METHODS: A transversal analytical study in a readily accessible sample consisting of Volkswagen do Brasil - Curitiba, Paraná employees was performed. The cohort group consisted of 108 subjects divided into two age groups: Group 1, the young adult group (age range 20-39): 77 employees, mean age of 30.09 ± 5.09; Group 2, the presbyopic adult group, (age range 40-53): 31 employees, mean age of 44.17 ± 3. Subjects under 18 years of age, with a history of ocular disorders, contact lens wearers and computer non-users were excluded. The subjects had their faces filmed for 10 minutes in conversation and VDT reading. Student's t-test was used and the statistical significance level was 95 percent. RESULTS: The average time between blinks in Group 1 for conversation and VDT reading was 5.16 ± 1.83 and 10.42 ± 7.78 seconds, respectively; in Group 2. 4,9 ± 1.49 and 10.46 ± 5.54 seconds. In both age groups, the time between blinks in VDT reading situations was higher (p<0.0001). There was no statistically meaningful difference for conversation and VDT reading situations when the two studied age groups were compared (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: There was an increase in the blinking time between young adults and the presbyopic group in VDT use situations when compared with reading situations. The difference in the blinking frequency between young adults and the presbyopic group in VDT use and reading situations was not statistically significant.

OBJETIVOS: Investigar o intervalo entre as piscadas em adultos jovens e em présbitas, durante conversação e leitura no monitor do computador. MÉTODOS: Realizou-se estudo transversal, analítico, em amostra prontamente acessível, composta por funcionários da Volkswagen do Brasil, em Curitiba (Paraná-Brasil). A amostra foi dividida em dois grupos de acordo com a idade: grupo 1 (20-39 anos); grupo 2 (40-53 anos). Foram excluídos menores de 18 anos, portadores de doenças oculares, usuários de lentes de contato e não usuários de computador. Os participantes tiveram suas faces filmadas por 10 minutos durante atividades de conversação e leitura no monitor do computador. Utilizou-se teste t de Student,com nível de significância de 95 por cento. RESULTADOS: A amostra compôs-se de 108 indivíduos, sendo o grupo 1 com 77 indivíduos, com idade média 30,09 ± 5,09 anos e grupo 2 com 31 indivíduos, com idade média 44,17 ± 3 anos. O tempo médio entre as piscadas, no grupo 1, em conversação foi de 5,16 ± 1,83 e leitura no monitor de 10,42 ± 7,78 segundos; no grupo 2, em conversação foi de 4,9 ± 1,49 e leitura no monitor de 10,46 ± 5,54 segundos. Encontrou-se distância maior entre as piscadas, durante a leitura no monitor (p<0,0001) nos dois grupos etários. Conferindo os resultados encontrados nos dois grupos, nas situações de conversação e leitura no monitor, não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa (p>0,05). CONCLUSÃO: Houve um aumento no intervalo entre as piscadas, em adultos jovens e em présbitas, durante a leitura em monitor quando comparada com situação de conversação. Não se evidenciou diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os participantes dos dois grupos, nas situações de conversação e leitura no monitor.

A community-based study of asthenopia in computer operators.

CONTEXT: There is growing body of evidence that use of computers can adversely affect the visual health. Considering the rising number of computer users in India, computer-related asthenopia might take an epidemic form. In view of that, this study was undertaken to find out the magnitude of asthenopia in computer operators and its relationship with various personal and workplace factors. AIMS: To study the prevalence of asthenopia among computer operators and its association with various epidemiological factors. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: Community-based cross-sectional study of 419 subjects who work on computer for varying period of time. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four hundred forty computer operators working in different institutes were selected randomly. Twenty-one did not participate in the study, making the nonresponse rate 4.8%. Rest of the subjects (n = 419) were asked to fill a pre-tested questionnaire, after obtaining their verbal consent. Other relevant information was obtained by personal interview and inspection of workstation. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Simple proportions and Chi-square test. RESULTS: Among the 419 subjects studied, 194 (46.3%) suffered from asthenopia during or after work on computer. Marginally higher proportion of asthenopia was noted in females compared to males. Occurrence of asthenopia was significantly associated with age of starting use of computer, presence of refractive error, viewing distance, level of top of the computer screen with respect to eyes, use of antiglare screen and adjustment of contrast and brightness of monitor screen. CONCLUSIONS: Prevalence of asthenopia was noted to be quite high among computer operators, particularly in those who started its use at an early age. Individual as well as work-related factors were found to be predictive of asthenopia.

A Study on the Usefulness of the AAPM TG18 Evaluation Tool for Diagnostic Monitor QC

PURPOSE: We created an 'AAPM TG18 Evaluation Tool' and we determined its usefulness for the quality control of a diagnostic monitor. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We created an evaluation tool (the AAPM TG18) for conducting quality control of a diagnostic monitor, and we evaluated the measurement items of the AAPM TG18 evaluation tool. The measurement items were geometric distortion, fixed quantity assessment and visual assessment of the veiling glare, and we carried out adjustment for the luminance meter 0% calibration, which was used to revise the diagnostic monitor DICOM LUT. RESULTS: With the AAPM TG18 Evaluation Tool, we measured the 2-dimensional length when evaluating the quantitative geometric distortions in the TG18-QC test pattern, and we measured the veiling-glare ring response function, which provided information regarding the spatial extent of the luminance spread, and this measurement of the can be performed using the TG18-GV pattern. Additionally, the AAPM TG18 Evaluation Tool can be used for sensor calibration to standardize the basic rate of 0% luminance when performing periodic calibration. CONCLUSION: The evaluation tool is a very useful for easily evaluating many of the examination items of the AAPM TG18 for performing quality control of a diagnostic monitor.

Factors leading to the computer vision syndrome: an issue at the contemporary workplace

INTRODUCTION: Vision and eye related problems are common among computer users, and have been collectively called the Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). METHODS: An observational study in order to identify the risk factors leading to the CVS was done. Twenty-eight participants answered a validated questionnaire, and had their workstations examined. The questionnaire evaluated personal, environmental, ergonomic factors, and physiologic response of computer users. The distance from the eye to the computers' monitor (A), the computers' monitor height (B), and visual axis height (C) were measured. The difference between B and C was calculated and labeled as D. Angles of gaze to the computer monitor were calculated using the formula: angle=tan-1(D/A). Angles were divided into two groups: participants with angles of gaze ranging from 0 degree to 13.9 degrees were included in Group 1; and participants gazing at angles larger than 14 degrees were included in Group 2. Statistical analysis of the evaluated variables was made. RESULTS: Computer users in both groups used more tear supplements (as part of the syndrome) than expected. This association was statistically significant (p < 0.10). Participants in Group 1 reported more pain than participants in Group 2. Associations between the CVS and other personal or ergonomic variables were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings show that the most important factor leading to the syndrome is the angle of gaze at the computer monitor. Pain in computer users is diminished when gazing downwards at angles of 14 degrees or more. The CVS remains an under estimated and poorly understood issue at the workplace. The general public, health professionals, the government, and private industries need to be educated about the CVS.

Association Between Job-Stress and VDT Work, and Musculoskeletal Symptoms of Neck and Shoulder Among White-Collar Workers / 대한산업의학회지

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the association of job stress and working with video display terminal (VDT) to musculoskeletal symptoms of the neck-shoulder which were most common in white-collar workers. METHODS: From 122 workplaces, 1,790 white-collar workers with no trauma, and no history of musculoskeletal disease were selected for the study. The questionnaire survey included general characteristics, work related characteristics, Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) and musculoskeletal symptoms. Multiple logistic regression, adjusted for age, smoking status, drinking habit, housekeeping, work time, job tenure, and work-load change, were used to evaluate the effects of job stress and VDT-work on the symptoms. RESULTS: The prevalence of neck-shoulder symptoms was overall 24.3% overall. The prevalence odds ratio of job demand (high/low) to neck-shoulder symptoms, adjusted for general and work-related factors, was 1.56 (95% confidence interval 1.12~2.17), and that of job strain (high strain/low strain) was 1.72 (1.07~2.79). However, VDT-work was not associated with neck-shoulder symptoms in the multiple logistic regression model. CONCLUSIONS: To prevent musculoskeletal disorders in white-collar workers, it is important to consider psychosocial factors such as job demand and job strain, as well as VDT-work.

The Effect of Height and Tilt Adjustable Keyboard Tray on Work-related Musculoskeletal Pain

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of height and tilt adjustable keyboard tray on work-related musculoskeletal pain in visual display terminal (VDT) workers. METHOD: Twenty-one VDT workers, who had myofascial pain in upper trapezius (UTZ) and extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL) or brevis (ECRB) during VDT work, were randomly assigned to a control (n=10) that used conventional keyboard or experimental group (n=11) that used height and tilt adjustable keyboard tray. A pretest assessed the visual analog scale (VAS), pain threshold of UTZ and ECRL or ECRB, and grip and tip pinch strength as well as upper extremity function index (UEFI). Post-test was conducted 1 month later. Additionally, differences in working posture between the two groups were evaluated. RESULTS: For the UTZ, the decrease of VAS (p<0.05) and increase of pain threshold (p<0.01) in experimental group were significantly greater than control group after 1 month. Increase of right grip strength (p<0.01) and UEFI (p<0.05) in the experimental group were significantly larger than control group. Experimental group showed lower keyboard height (p<0.01) and smaller elbow angle (p<0.01) as well as more anterior tilted keyboard angle (p<0.01) than the control group. CONCLUSION: Application of height and tilt adjustable keyboard tray seems to affect the working posture, thus reduce the work-related musculoskeletal pain of UTZ as well as enhance the strength of right grip strength and upper extremity function in VDT workers. Additionally, anterior keyboard tilting may help to reduce wrist extension in low keyboard height which contributes to decreasing UTZ muscle tension.