Study of The Impact of Users' Features on Dimensional Allowances Resulting from the Use of Personal Protective Equipment.

Up-to-date anthropometric data on the human population are needed for designing safe and ergonomically efficient workplaces. An important determinant of safety and ergonomic comfort at work is knowledge of the value of dimensional allowances (DAs) when using personal protective equipment (PPE) as the dimensions and space occupied by workers increase. This is particularly important in environments characterized by spatial constraints. However, it is not well known to what extent the aforementioned DAs are affected by the users' features. The anthropometric dimensions of 200 people (151 males and 49 females) were obtained from 3D scans, and these became the basis for calculating DAs when using PPE kits normally worn by rescue and technical workers. DAs were determined for the entire body shape of a person wearing three types of PPE kits designed for firefighters, mine rescuers, and welders. In the study, maximum and mean values of height, width, and circumference DAs were obtained. In addition, percentage dimensional increments (DIs) were calculated. A three-dimensional analysis of the human body with and without PPE, involving a 3D scanning methodology, was applied to address the research question. Test results clearly indicate that the values of DAs do not depend on the anthropometric features of users, such as sex, age, and body height percentile-they remain constant for a given type of PPE. The presented data are useful for designing PPE products as well as work tools and infrastructure, including machinery, devices, workstations, means of transport, interiors, and building equipment. The results of the presented study indicate that dimensional allowances play a significant role in interactions between persons wearing PPE and their work environments. The obtained results (DAs and percentage DIs) are included in a new anthropometric atlas of human measures developed by the CIOP-PIB in 2023.

Studies of Acceleration of the Human Body during Overturning and Falling from a Height Protected by a Self-Locking Device.

The use of individual fall protection equipment is one of the most commonly applied methods of protecting workers whose worksites are located above the floor level. The safety of the user in such a situation depends on both the proper selection and correct use of such equipment. Additionally, aspects such as minimizing the free-fall distance before the fall arrest, as well as quick notification of an accident and efficient rescue operation, are important factors influencing safety. This paper presents a new testing method for fall arrest equipment using a test stand consisting of the Hybrid III 50th Pedestrian ATD anthropomorphic manikin and measuring set with three-axis acceleration transducers. The proposed method and test stand were developed for the design and testing of new fall protection devices equipped with electronic detection and alarm systems, for which it is necessary to determine acceleration limits in order to determine the alarm threshold. The proposed method is based on the measurement of accelerations that occur during tipping and falling from the height of an anthropomorphic manikin secured by a self-locking device. Two places of attachment of the measuring set with a three-axis acceleration sensor were analyzed at the waist belt of the manikin (abdomen and back). Moreover, the self-locking device lanyard was attached to the two points of the safety harnesses (the front and back point). The aim of the research was to check whether the acceleration values depend on the places of attachment of the measuring and anchored system, as well as to determine their maximum values. Acceleration values corresponding to fall arrest and tipping were analyzed. Limits of acceleration have been established in order to determine the threshold of alarm triggering. The non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test was used to check whether the location of the three-axis acceleration transducer and the position of the self-locking device lanyard attachment affect the value of the recorded acceleration. For results of acceleration measurements when testing the behavior of the manikin during fall arrest, no statistically significant differences were found. For results of acceleration measurements when testing the tipping behavior of the manikin, statistically significant differences occurred. This means that during fall arrest, the location of the three-axis acceleration transducer and the position of the self-locking device lanyard attachment do not matter. This work is a continuation of previous research on accelerations characterizing human body positions occurring during normal physical activities (ADL-activities of daily living).

Procedure for Determining Dimensional Allowances for PPE Using 3D Scanning Methods.

The article describes the importance of dimensional allowances, which are a consequence of the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for work safety. The method of 3D scanning was proposed for determining the dimensional allowances which has been preliminary validated. Two geometric solids (a cylinder and a cuboid) were used to approximate the minimum space around the person using PPE. The solids are a simplified representation of the silhouette of a human subject performing activities in a confined work environment. They also correspond to the typical shapes of access openings and confined spaces, reflecting the real working conditions of welders, firefighters, mine rescuers, and other rescue teams. A detailed analysis of dimensional allowances for a full welding PPE set is provided. Based on the adopted parameters: the dimensions of the body, the base area and the volume, the differences in the dimensions of the body of a person dressed in underwear and in PPE were compared. The results of the presented studies indicate a significant role of dimensional allowances in interactions between persons wearing PPE and the work environment. The results are planned to be implemented in a new anthropometric atlas of human's measures used for ergonomic design.

The Influence of Intraocular Lenses (IOLs) on the Properties of Filters Protecting Human Eyes against Optical Radiation in the Work Environment.

Under the specific illumination conditions of many workplaces, e.g., in the metallurgical industry, decreased lighting may impair workers' vision and, as a result, their productivity. Spectrophotometric tests of two types of protective optical filters (welding filters and infrared protection filters), two types of intraocular lenses (IOLs with and without yellow chromophore), and filter-IOL systems were carried out. In spectrophotometric studies, the spectral characteristics of transmission and the coefficients for the assessment of light transmission were determined. This study explores the relationship between the eye protection levels offered by filters and the use of intraocular lenses (IOLs), and especially those containing a yellow chromophore which may lower the luminous transmittance of protective filters. In our previous works, we studied a large number of optical protective filters and many factors influencing their performance. A review of the literature has shown the absence of prior research on the subject. For this purpose, transmittance reduction factors were defined for the evaluation of the filter-IOL system. The spectral characteristics of luminous transmittance for the tested IOLs indicate a significant decrease of transmittance for those with yellow chromophore within the range up to approx. 475 nm, as compared to IOLs without chromophore. The main objective of this study was to determine whether people with IOLs need different protective filters against harmful optical radiation as well as whether IOLs may change the required category of protective filters. The key finding is that while the use of IOLs in conjunction with protective filters does change the light transmission coefficient, it does not affect the filter protection levels. The transmittance reduction factors were similar (0.95 to 0.99 relative units) for all filter-IOL systems irrespective of the presence or absence of yellow chromophore. It must be said clearly that, in reference to the requirements specified in the standards, IOLs did not affect the filter protection levels. This means that the quality of vision did not change significantly when using the analyzed filters and IOLs.

Modelling and Evaluation of the Absorption of the 866 MHz Electromagnetic Field in Humans Exposed near to Fixed I-RFID Readers Used in Medical RTLS or to Monitor PPE.

The aim of this study was to model and evaluate the Specific Energy Absorption Rate (SAR) values in humans in proximity to fixed multi-antenna I-RFID readers of passive tags under various scenarios mimicking exposure when they are incorporated in Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS), or used to monitor Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The sources of the electromagnetic field (EMF) in the modelled readers were rectangular microstrip antennas at a resonance frequency in free space of 866 MHz from the ultra-high frequency (UHF) RFID frequency range of 865-868 MHz. The obtained results of numerical modelling showed that the SAR values in the body 5 cm away from the UHF RFID readers need consideration with respect to exposure limits set by international guidelines to prevent adverse thermal effects of exposure to EMF: when the effective radiated power exceeds 5.5 W with respect to the general public/unrestricted environments exposure limits, and with respect to occupational/restricted environments exposure limits, when the effective radiated power exceeds 27.5 W.

Analysis of selected mechanical parameters for foamed materials with non-Newtonian liquid characteristics in terms of their use in aspects of protective helmets.

This article presents the results of measurements of mechanical parameters for foamed materials with non-Newtonian liquid characteristics (energy suppressed in the sample, force transferred to the anvil during the dynamic tests). In dynamic studies, the following characteristics were determined: the pressure forces exerted on the anvil as a function of the sample deflection during the impact, the energy suppressed in the sample depending on the temperature and the energy suppressed in the sample depending on the sample density. Foamed materials with non-Newtonian characteristics are currently used as elements protecting against impacts. Such materials have been used for the first time in protective helmets, and in particular in those designed for workplace applications.

[Potential impact of colors of filters used in sunglasses on the melatonin suppression process]. / Potencjalny wplyw barwy filtrów w okularach chroniacych przed olsnieniem slonecznym na wydzielanie melatoniny.

BACKGROUND: In this article the methods for determining spectral transmittance of optical radiation in the visible waveband range through selected materials used as optical filters against solar glare were described. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Transmittance coefficients specified for the fraction of light passing through tested filters, taking into account the mechanism of eye adaptation to daylight and night vision and the melatonin suppression process were compared for 4 dyed sunglass filters. RESULTS: The values of transmittance coefficients specified for wavelength bands, 380-780 nm (for visible range) and 425-560 nm (for blue light range affecting the melatonin suppression process) were determined. CONCLUSIONS: The use of sunglasses with different color filters modifies the spectral characteristics of transmittance (spectrum) of visible light reaching the eye (including blue radiation) in such a way that it may have a potential impact on the melatonin suppression process. Med Pr 2017;68(5):629-637.

Analysis of the selected mechanical parameters of coating of filters protecting against hazardous infrared radiation.

This article presents a comparison of the test results of selected mechanical parameters (hardness, Young's modulus, critical force for delamination) for protective filters intended for eye protection against harmful infrared radiation. Filters with reflective metallic films were studied, as well as interference filters developed at the Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute (CIOP-PIB). The test results of the selected mechanical parameters were compared with the test results, conducted in accordance with a standardised method, of simulating filter surface destruction that occurs during use.

Glistening phenomenon in acrylic hydrophobic intraocular lenses ­ how do perioperative factors and concomitant diseases effect it's incidence and severity.

The aim: To evaluate the effect of selected perioperative factors and concomitant diseases on glistening of acrylic hydrophobic intraocular lens after phacoemulsification in a prospective study. Material and methods: 252 consecutive patients undergoing phacoemulsification with IOLs AcrySof IQ implantation were enrolled. The relationship between glistening and such factors as time of the surgery, the mean power and time of ultrasound energy, temperature of infusion fluids, type of cartridge, mean power of intraocular lens, trypan blue staining as well as some concomitant systemic and local diseases were analysed. The aforementioned factors were assessed a month 1. and 6. as well as after 1 and 2 years postoperatively. Results: Glistening incidence and severity increased significantly at each follow up. The use of cartridge D during intraocular lens implantation was related with significantly higher incidence of glistening as compared to using cartridge C. Higher refractive power of intraocular lens was related with increased incidence of glistening. Significantly higher intensity of the glistening was assessed in patients who suffered from diabetes. In turn, patients with uveitis presented with statistically lower severity of glistening. There was no association between other analysed factors and glistening. Conclusion: Glistening commonly occurs in patients after phacoemulsification and acrylic hydrophobic intraocular lenses (AcrySof Alcon Labs) implantation. Some intraoperative factors such as refractive power of the lens and smaller diameter of the cartridge were assessed to be significantly correlated. It might indicate that potential damage to the intraocular lens may play a role in development of glistening. Significantly higher severity of glistening was shown in patients with diabetes, which may imply the role of breakdown of physiological intraocular barriers. It is further supported by the demonstrated lower intensity of glistening in patients uveitis receiving high intensity steroid therapy.

Analysis of the selected optical parameters of filters protecting against hazardous infrared radiation.

The paper analyses the selected optical parameters of protective optic filters used for protection of the eyes against hazardous radiation within the visible (VIS) and near infrared (NIR) spectrum range. The indexes characterizing transmission and reflection of optic radiation incident on the filter are compared. As it follows from the completed analysis, the newly developed interference filters provide more effective blocking of infrared radiation in comparison with the currently used protective filters.

Light transmission through intraocular lenses with or without yellow chromophore (blue light filter) and its potential influence on functional vision in everyday environmental conditions.

In this research the factors used to evaluate the light transmission through two types of acrylic hydrophobic intraocular lenses, one that contained yellow chromophore that blocks blue light transmission and the other which did not contain that filter, were defined according to various light condition, e.g., daylight and at night. The potential influence of light transmission trough intraocular lenses with or without yellow chromophore on functional vision in everyday environmental conditions was analysed.

[Modern knowledge based about glistening phenomenon in artificial intraocular lenses]. / Wspólczesny stan wiedzy na temat zjawiska "glistening" w sztucznych soczewkach wewnatrzgalkowych.

Glistening formations is relatively common phenomenon in acrylic IOLs that appears as a tiny clear to white sparkling areas within the material of the lens optic. While the process of glistening include not only monofocal IOLs but also multifocal IOLs and phakic IOLs and even can occur in IOLs made of other materials, problem seems to be clinically crucial. Publication comprises contemporary knowledge about glistening phenomenon. glistening phenomenon, acrylic intraocular lens, phacoemulsification.

Salvage brachytherapy for local recurrences of prostate cancer treated previously with radiotherapy.

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to analyze early effects and toxicity of salvage high dose rate brachytherapy for local recurrences of adenocarcinoma of the prostate after external beam radiotherapy (EBRT). MATERIAL AND METHODS: In MCS Memorial Institute of Oncology in Gliwice a research programme on salvage HDR brachytherapy for local recurrences of prostate cancer treated previously with EBRT has been ongoing since February 2008. The treatment consisted of 3 fractions of 10 Gy each given every 14 days. Maximal urethral doses were constrained to be ≤ 120% of the prescribed dose. Maximal bladder and rectum doses were constrained to be ≤ 70% of the prescribed dose. RESULTS: Fifteen eligible patients were treated and analyzed from February 2008. All patients completed the treatment without major complications. The most common early complications were: macroscopic haematuria, pain in lower part of the abdomen, and transient dysuria. During the first week after the procedure a transient increase in IPSS score was noticed. The Foley catheter was removed on day 2 to 5. No complications after spinal anaesthesia were observed. Acute toxicity according to EORTC/RTOG was low. For bladder EORTC/RTOG score ranged from 0 to 2. Only in two patients grade 1 toxicity for rectum was observed. The follow-up ranged from 3 to 9 months. In one patient grade 2 rectal toxicity was observed, and one had urethral stricture. Other patients did not have any other significant late toxicity of the treatment. Two patients developed bone metastases. CONCLUSIONS: Salvage brachytherapy for localized prostate cancer (3 × 10 Gy every 14 days) seems to be a safe and well tolerated procedure. A significant decline in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level is seen in patients with hormone-responsive cancer. Long-term efficiency and toxicity of the procedure are yet to be established.

Quantitative thermographic analysis of viscoelastic substances in an experimental study in rabbits.

PURPOSE: To measure the temperature parameters on the corneal surface during the delivery of standardized ultrasound energy assisted with ophthalmic viscosurgical devices (OVDs) or different temperatures of irrigating solutions in an experimental animal model. SETTING: Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Rehabilitation, Medical University of Lodz, and Central Institute for Labor Protection, National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland. METHODS: Thirty rabbits (60 eyes) were randomly divided into 6 groups in which different OVD or balanced salt solutions (BSS) were used: group 1: Viscoat (sodium hyaluronate 3%-chondroitin sulfate); group 2: Provisc (sodium hyaluronate 1%); group 3: soft-shell technique; group 4: Celoftal (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose 2%); group 5: BSS 22 degrees C; and group 6: BSS 4 degrees C. After the nucleus and lens cortex were removed, the anterior chamber was filled with OVD or BSS and a phaco tip was introduced into the pupillary plane and switched on. The same phaco tip parameters were used in all groups. For thermographic measurements (ie, maximal temperature [MT], dynamic rise in temperature [DRT], and time when the maximal level of temperature [TMLT] was achieved), a thermocamera was used. RESULTS: Mean preoperative temperature on the rabbit corneal surface was 22.76 degrees C +/- 1.48 degrees C (SD). Working with a phaco tip increased the temperature in each group. A significantly higher MT was observed in group 5 (27.85 degrees C +/- 0.52 degrees C), followed by group 2 (27.75 degrees C +/- 0.54 degrees C), group 3 (27.74 degrees C +/- 0.46 degrees C), and group 4 (27.25 degrees C +/- 0.60 degrees C), than in group 6 (26.81 degrees C +/- 0.34 degrees C) and group 1 (26.52 degrees C +/- 0.48 degrees C) (P<.05). Significantly higher values of DRT and shorter TMLT values were observed in group 5 (1.16 degrees C/s +/- 0.42 degrees C/s, 4 seconds) and group 6 (0.91 degrees C/s +/- 0.13 degrees C/s, 5 seconds) than in groups 2, 3, 1, and 4 (0.09 degrees C/s +/- 0.07 degrees C/s, 30 seconds; 0.08 degrees C/s +/- 0.04 degrees C/s, 40 seconds; 0.07 degrees C/s +/- 0.03 degrees C/s, 45 seconds; 0.06 degrees C/s +/- 0.02 degrees C/s, 50 seconds, respectively) (P<.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Currently used OVDs potentially offer different levels of protection against the increase in temperature that occurs during phacoemulsification. Therefore, the surgeon should consider this aspect when choosing an OVD, particularly in difficult cases (ie, hard nucleus, shallow anterior chamber, endothelial abnormalities).

Investigations of single and multilayer structures using lock-in thermography--possible applications.

This paper presents a study of the possibilities of evaluating thermal parameters of single and multilayer structures using dynamic thermography. It also discusses potential uses of lock-in thermography. It presents a simulation of a periodic excitation of a multilayer composite material. In practice, the described methods can be employed in various applications, for example, in multilayer nonwoven microelectronic components manufactured from hemp fibers, chemical fibers, with an addition of electrically conducting fibers, and in medicine and biology. This paper describes tests conducted with lock-in thermography on carbon fibre reinforced composites with implanted delamination defects. Lock-in thermography is a versatile tool for non-destructive evaluation (NDE). Lock-in thermography is a fast, remote and non-destructive procedure. Hence, it has been used to detect delaminations in the composite structure of aircraft. This method directly contributes to an improvement in safety.

[Multicentric giant cell tumour. The case report]. / Mnogie wystepowanie guza olbrzymiokomórkowego. Opis przypadku.

The case of a 28 year old woman with multicentric giant cell bone tumours was described. Seven tumours' locations were found: Th3, the right and left humerus and tibia, the right femur and the right hip bone. All tumours were treated by a local resection with a following alcohol adjuvant therapy. Considering young age of the patient and multicentric location no radiotherapy was performed. During follow up no relapse in long bones and in the hip bone was found. After 6 months the relapse in Th3 was reoperated. During the last control examination, the next tumour of a distal part of right tibia was found.

[Eye surface temperature after different techniques of local anesthesia--preliminary report]. / Zmiany temperatury powierzchni oka po róznych metodach znieczulenia miejscowego-- doniesienie wstepne.

PURPOSE: To assess temperature on the eye surface after local anesthesia due to phacoemulsyfication. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 15 patients treated with local anesthesia: peribulbar - 5, retrobulbar - 5 and sub Tenon anesthesia. Mean temperature on both eye surface was assessed with termovision camera (Inframetrics 760) before surgery, 20 minutes and 1 hour after anesthesia. RESULTS: In all examined groups changes in temperature values in anesthetized and contralateral eye were observed. Significant decrease of temperature was observed after sub Tenon anesthesia. CONCLUSIONS: Eye surface temperature and its changes can be considered as indirect indicator of blood supply and blood supply disturbances after local anesthesia.