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Inhalation is the main route of exposure to airborne pollutants. To evaluate the safety and assess the risks of occupational hazards different testing approaches are used. 3D airway epithelial tissues allow to mimic exposure conditions in vitro, generates human-relevant toxicology data, allows to elucidate mode of action of pollutants. Gilian 3500 pumps equipped with Standard Midget Impingers were used to collect the airborne particulate from woodworking and metalworking environments. EpiAirway™ tissues were used to model half working day (4 h), full working day (8 h), and 3 working day exposures to occupational pollutants. Tissue viability was assessed using MTT assay. RT-qPCR analyses performed to analyze the expression of gelsolin, caspase-3, and IL-6. Tissue morphology was assessed by hematoxylin/eosin staining. Acute exposure to workspace pollutants slightly affected tissue viability and did not change the morphology. Both types of particles suppressed expression of gelsolin, with metalworking samples showing the most pronounced effect. A slight reduction in caspase-3 expression was observed. Particles from metalworking suppressed IL-6 expression. 3D Epithelial tissues can be used to model exposures to airborne pollutants. Exposure to particles from woodworking and metalworking had a minor effect on tissue viability but affected the expression of inflammation and apoptosis-related genes.
Ilona Pavlovska; Anna Ramata-Stunda; Zanna Martinsone; Martins Boroduskis; Liene Patetko; Inese Martinsone; Anita Seile; Ivars Vanadzins. In Vitro Impact Preliminary Assessment of Airborne Particulate From Metalworking and Woodworking Industries. 2021, 1 .
AMA StyleIlona Pavlovska, Anna Ramata-Stunda, Zanna Martinsone, Martins Boroduskis, Liene Patetko, Inese Martinsone, Anita Seile, Ivars Vanadzins. In Vitro Impact Preliminary Assessment of Airborne Particulate From Metalworking and Woodworking Industries. . 2021; ():1.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIlona Pavlovska; Anna Ramata-Stunda; Zanna Martinsone; Martins Boroduskis; Liene Patetko; Inese Martinsone; Anita Seile; Ivars Vanadzins. 2021. "In Vitro Impact Preliminary Assessment of Airborne Particulate From Metalworking and Woodworking Industries." , no. : 1.
BackgroundInhalation is the main route of exposure to airborne pollutants. To evaluate the safety and assess the risks of occupational hazards different testing approaches are used. 3D airway epithelial tissues allow to mimic exposure conditions in vitro, generates human-relevant toxicology data, allows to elucidate mode of action of pollutants. ResultsGilian 3500 pumps equipped with Standard Midget Impingers were used to collect the airborne particulate from woodworking and metalworking environments. EpiAirway™ tissues were used to model half working day (4 h), full working day (8 h), and 3 working day exposures to occupational pollutants. Tissue viability was assessed using MTT assay. RT-qPCR analyses performed to analyze the expression of gelsolin, caspase-3, and IL-6. Tissue morphology was assessed by hematoxylin/eosin staining. Acute exposure to workspace pollutants slightly affected tissue viability and did not change the morphology. Both types of particles suppressed expression of gelsolin, with metalworking samples showing the most pronounced effect. A slight reduction in caspase-3 expression was observed. Particles from metalworking suppressed IL-6 expression. Conclusion3D Epithelial tissues can be used to model exposures to airborne pollutants. Exposure to particles from woodworking and metalworking had a minor effect on tissue viability but affected the expression of inflammation and apoptosis-related genes.
Ilona Pavlovska; Anna Ramata-Stunda; Zanna Martinsone; Martins Boroduskis; Liene Patetko; Inese Martinsone; Anita Seile; Ivars Vanadzins. In Vitro Impact Preliminary Assessment of Airborne Particulate from Metalworking and Woodworking Industries. 2021, 1 .
AMA StyleIlona Pavlovska, Anna Ramata-Stunda, Zanna Martinsone, Martins Boroduskis, Liene Patetko, Inese Martinsone, Anita Seile, Ivars Vanadzins. In Vitro Impact Preliminary Assessment of Airborne Particulate from Metalworking and Woodworking Industries. . 2021; ():1.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIlona Pavlovska; Anna Ramata-Stunda; Zanna Martinsone; Martins Boroduskis; Liene Patetko; Inese Martinsone; Anita Seile; Ivars Vanadzins. 2021. "In Vitro Impact Preliminary Assessment of Airborne Particulate from Metalworking and Woodworking Industries." , no. : 1.
Several individual factors like older age and chronic diseases have been linked with more severe symptoms often leading to hospitalization and higher mortality from COVID-19. Part of adults with such factors is still active in the workforce. The objective of the study was to identify measures taken by the employer to protect them and to investigate reasons for low protection of vulnerable workers during the 1st wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Answers from 1000 workers collected via web-survey and results from 10 focus group discussions were analyzed. Only 31.5% of respondents mentioned that their employer had identified existing vulnerable groups and offered specific measures to protect them. Moving vulnerable workers away from the workplace was the most frequent measure (e.g., transfer to the back-office without contact with clients, telework, paid vacations, paid downtime). Most employers do not see elderly workers and workers with chronic diseases as risk groups, thus are not specifically protecting them. Instead, several employers have included workers critical for business continuity in their risk group. Others had not taken measures because of the lack of information due to general data protection regulation. Poor communication and lack of interest of employers to ask their workers if they need special protection is the topic to be addressed at the national level.
Linda Matisāne; Linda Paegle; Maija Eglīte; Lāsma Akūlova; Asnate Linde; Ivars Vanadziņš; Iveta Mietule; Jeļena Lonska; Lienīte Litavniece; Iluta Arbidāne; Sarmīte Rozentāle; Ieva Grīntāle. Reasons for Low Protection of Vulnerable Workers from COVID-19—Results from the Quantitative and Qualitative Study on Working Life in Latvia. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2021, 18, 5188 .
AMA StyleLinda Matisāne, Linda Paegle, Maija Eglīte, Lāsma Akūlova, Asnate Linde, Ivars Vanadziņš, Iveta Mietule, Jeļena Lonska, Lienīte Litavniece, Iluta Arbidāne, Sarmīte Rozentāle, Ieva Grīntāle. Reasons for Low Protection of Vulnerable Workers from COVID-19—Results from the Quantitative and Qualitative Study on Working Life in Latvia. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18 (10):5188.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLinda Matisāne; Linda Paegle; Maija Eglīte; Lāsma Akūlova; Asnate Linde; Ivars Vanadziņš; Iveta Mietule; Jeļena Lonska; Lienīte Litavniece; Iluta Arbidāne; Sarmīte Rozentāle; Ieva Grīntāle. 2021. "Reasons for Low Protection of Vulnerable Workers from COVID-19—Results from the Quantitative and Qualitative Study on Working Life in Latvia." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 10: 5188.
Sickness absence is one of the most important working population health indicators. It is a complex phenomenon that is investigated by health care and occupational health specialists, economists, and work psychologists. Sickness absence is used as a predictor for morbidity and mortality, but besides the health status of an individual, sickness absence is influenced by demographic, socio-economic factors, and work environment factors. Conflicts at work are a common psychosocial risk factor that can affect sickness absence. The aim of the study was to investigate the association between different types of workplace conflict and self-reported medically certified sickness absence using cross-sectional survey data pooled from four periodic national surveys—Work conditions and risks in Latvia (2006–2018). The sample is representative of the working population of Latvia, as respondents were randomly drawn from different regions and industries. In total, the study sample (n = 8557) consisted of employees between 16 and 80 years old (average 42.8 +/− 12.6) of which 46.2% were males and 53.8% were females. Researchers used the computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI) method for collecting data. The association between workplace conflicts and sickness absence was analysed by using binomial logistic regression and calculated as odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), with adjustment for gender, age, education and survey year. The risk of sickness absence was higher among women (OR = 1.24, CI 1.13–1.35), employees aged 25–44 years old and employees with higher income. Controlling for socio-demographic factors and survey year, the odds of sickness absence increased significantly for all types of workplace conflict analysed. The strongest association with sickness absence was related to conflicts between managers and employees (OR = 1.51, CI 1.37–1.66) and conflicts between groups of employees (OR = 1.45, CI 1.31–1.61). Conflicts between employees and with customers also increased the odds of sickness absence (OR = 1.39, CI 1.27–1.52 and OR = 1.11, CI 1.01–1.23, respectively). Our findings suggest that tailored interventions at a company level for reducing workplace conflicts as risk factors of sickness absence are required. Those should focus on the improvement of managers’ leadership and human resource management skills.
Svetlana Lakiša; Linda Matisāne; Inese Gobiņa; Ivars Vanadziņš; Lāsma Akūlova; Maija Eglīte; Linda Paegle. Impact of Workplace Conflicts on Self-Reported Medically Certified Sickness Absence in Latvia. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2021, 18, 1193 .
AMA StyleSvetlana Lakiša, Linda Matisāne, Inese Gobiņa, Ivars Vanadziņš, Lāsma Akūlova, Maija Eglīte, Linda Paegle. Impact of Workplace Conflicts on Self-Reported Medically Certified Sickness Absence in Latvia. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18 (3):1193.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSvetlana Lakiša; Linda Matisāne; Inese Gobiņa; Ivars Vanadziņš; Lāsma Akūlova; Maija Eglīte; Linda Paegle. 2021. "Impact of Workplace Conflicts on Self-Reported Medically Certified Sickness Absence in Latvia." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 3: 1193.
Inhalation is the main route of exposure to airborne pollutants. To evaluate the safety and assess the risks of occupational hazards different testing approaches are used. 3D airway epithelial tissues allow to mimic exposure conditions in vitro, generates human-relevant toxicology data, allows to elucidate mode of action of pollutants. Gilian 3500 pumps equipped with Standard Midget Impingers were used to collect the airborne particulate from woodworking and metalworking environments. EpiAirway™ tissues were used to model half working day (4 h), full working day (8 h), and 3 working day exposures to occupational pollutants. Tissue viability was assessed using MTT assay. RT-qPCR analyses performed to analyze the expression of gelsolin, caspase-3, and IL-6. Tissue morphology was assessed by hematoxylin/eosin staining. Acute exposure to workspace pollutants slightly affected tissue viability and did not change the morphology. Both types of particles suppressed expression of gelsolin, with metalworking samples showing the most pronounced effect. A slight reduction in caspase-3 expression was observed. Particles from metalworking suppressed IL-6 expression. 3D Epithelial tissues can be used to model exposures to airborne pollutants. Exposure to particles from woodworking and metalworking had a minor effect on tissue viability but affected the expression of inflammation and apoptosis-related genes.
Ilona Pavlovska; Anna Ramata-Stunda; Žanna Martinsone; Martins Boroduskis; Liene Patetko; Inese Martinsone; Anita Seile; Ivars Vanadziņš. In Vitro Impact Preliminary Assessment of Airborne Particulate From Metalworking and Woodworking Industries. 2020, 1 .
AMA StyleIlona Pavlovska, Anna Ramata-Stunda, Žanna Martinsone, Martins Boroduskis, Liene Patetko, Inese Martinsone, Anita Seile, Ivars Vanadziņš. In Vitro Impact Preliminary Assessment of Airborne Particulate From Metalworking and Woodworking Industries. . 2020; ():1.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIlona Pavlovska; Anna Ramata-Stunda; Žanna Martinsone; Martins Boroduskis; Liene Patetko; Inese Martinsone; Anita Seile; Ivars Vanadziņš. 2020. "In Vitro Impact Preliminary Assessment of Airborne Particulate From Metalworking and Woodworking Industries." , no. : 1.
Reducing the burden of occupational cancers (OCs) is currently one of the most challenging Occupational Health (OH) issues. The European Union (EU) has made efforts to improve the existing legal framework and developed specific legislation aimed at reducing the burden of OC. However, available data suggest that OC are underreported. In August 2019, the European Association of Schools of Occupational Medicine (EASOM) adopted a statement that highlighted the importance of improving the education and training of Medical Doctors (MDs) to facilitate improvements in recognizing and reporting OC. To achieve this, EASOM proposes to promote OH education and training of MDs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, foster harmonization of OH education and teaching standards and programs across EU countries, and enhance cooperation between universities and international scientific associations. Finally, we suggest that occupational data should be recorded in cancer and medical registers. By engaging MDs more fully in the debate about OCs, they will become more aware of the Occupational Physician’s role in reducing the burden of OCs and, furthermore, embed consideration of occupation as a potential cause of cancer into their own practice. These interventions will help promote the implementation of policies and interventions aimed to reduce OC in the workplace.
Begoña Martínez-Jarreta; Nicole Majery; Petar Bulat; Soile Jungewelter; Elena-Ana Păuncu; Dieter Weigel; Marija Bubas; Alenka Škerjanc; Ivars Vanadzins; Maija Eglite; Marcos Larrosa; Susan Jill Stocks; Lode Godderis. Improving Education and Training to Reduce the Burden of Occupational Cancer. The Riga-European Association of Schools of Occupational Medicine (EASOM) Statement on Work-Related Cancer. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 17, 2279 .
AMA StyleBegoña Martínez-Jarreta, Nicole Majery, Petar Bulat, Soile Jungewelter, Elena-Ana Păuncu, Dieter Weigel, Marija Bubas, Alenka Škerjanc, Ivars Vanadzins, Maija Eglite, Marcos Larrosa, Susan Jill Stocks, Lode Godderis. Improving Education and Training to Reduce the Burden of Occupational Cancer. The Riga-European Association of Schools of Occupational Medicine (EASOM) Statement on Work-Related Cancer. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 17 (7):2279.
Chicago/Turabian StyleBegoña Martínez-Jarreta; Nicole Majery; Petar Bulat; Soile Jungewelter; Elena-Ana Păuncu; Dieter Weigel; Marija Bubas; Alenka Škerjanc; Ivars Vanadzins; Maija Eglite; Marcos Larrosa; Susan Jill Stocks; Lode Godderis. 2020. "Improving Education and Training to Reduce the Burden of Occupational Cancer. The Riga-European Association of Schools of Occupational Medicine (EASOM) Statement on Work-Related Cancer." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 7: 2279.
Airborne particulates present a potential hazard to health in a variety of indoor workplaces, from offices to the manufacturing floor. Dust and aerosols are two of the most common occupational risk factors in the workplace worldwide. It is very important to understand when it is sufficient to describe dust exposure only by given mass concentration that dust particles could be in the nanosized range in the workplace air even for brief exposures, such as welding aerosols. The main objective was to assess total dust and nanoparticle concentrations in the selected workplaces and to evaluate their impact on workers’ health. This project describes nanoparticle concentrations and their potential impact on workers’ health considering the exposure levels in three workplaces. Industrial and non-industrial environments have been included in the project. The office environment was used as an indicator for the background level of comparison with the metalworking and woodworking industries for measurements of dust particles including the nanoscale particles (> 100 nm). Fraction size of the samples according to a dispersity of > 10 μm, 0.25–10 μm, < 0.25 μm, and 1–100 nm was analysed in order to describe the particles’ chemical composition at the different stages. The worst working conditions (the smallest particles, 12 nm), the highest total dust concentrations, and the lowest difference between total inhalable particle and nanoparticle concentrations were detected among woodworkers. These findings provide a basis on how to evaluate nanoparticle exposure and its impact on workers’ health because the highest immune cell counts and relatively high IL-6 expression were observed among woodworkers compared with the other groups. The data show a negative tendency of nanoparticle exposure concentrations on workers’ health based on the increase of inflammatory processes and damage to airway epithelial cell functionality.
Ilona Pavlovska; Žanna Martinsone; Anna Ramata-Stunda; Ivars Vanadziņš; Inese Martinsone; Anita Seile. Comparison of biological markers in aerosol-weighed workplaces. Journal of Nanoparticle Research 2019, 21, 138 .
AMA StyleIlona Pavlovska, Žanna Martinsone, Anna Ramata-Stunda, Ivars Vanadziņš, Inese Martinsone, Anita Seile. Comparison of biological markers in aerosol-weighed workplaces. Journal of Nanoparticle Research. 2019; 21 (7):138.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIlona Pavlovska; Žanna Martinsone; Anna Ramata-Stunda; Ivars Vanadziņš; Inese Martinsone; Anita Seile. 2019. "Comparison of biological markers in aerosol-weighed workplaces." Journal of Nanoparticle Research 21, no. 7: 138.
Sapropel has been used for different purposes - in agriculture as fertilizer, in construction as building material, in cosmetic products, in balneology also in medicine and pharmaceuticals as bioactive component. Previously sapropel has been commonly used in raw form and there is no general accepted method or standard method for obtaining sapropel extract. However, most extraction methods follow the same path. Currently, there are few extraction methods using several extractants for obtaining bioactive components from raw sapropel. The most commonly used extractant is alkaline solution. When sapropel is subjected to alkaline environment, the humic and fulvic acids, together with some lipids, vitamins and sugar, present in the raw sapropel become soluble, however other organic and mineral content present in the sapropel remain solid. Alkaline extraction is followed by filtration and water present in the aqueous mixture is evaporated off. Latvian freshwater sapropel can be used as raw material for obtaining sapropel extract and use it as remedy. But the main question for sapropel usage in medicine, balneology and pharmacy is to develop quality criteria for raw sapropel and its extracts. The quality criteria should include minimum requirements for biologically active substance concentration, pH values, antioxidants as well as physical characteristics. In future studies the differences in extract characteristics of the various deposit sites, as well as the stability of the extracts under different storage conditions should be defined; also, there is need for a common approach to develop method of extraction process for active substances from sapropel and analysis procedures of its extract.
Aneka Klavina; Agris Auce; Ivars Vanadziņš; Alise Silova; Linda Dobkevica. EXTRACTION OF BIOLOGICALLY ACTIVE COMPONENTS FROM FRESHWATER SAPROPEL. ENVIRONMENT. TECHNOLOGIES. RESOURCES. Proceedings of the International Scientific and Practical Conference 2019, 3, 114 .
AMA StyleAneka Klavina, Agris Auce, Ivars Vanadziņš, Alise Silova, Linda Dobkevica. EXTRACTION OF BIOLOGICALLY ACTIVE COMPONENTS FROM FRESHWATER SAPROPEL. ENVIRONMENT. TECHNOLOGIES. RESOURCES. Proceedings of the International Scientific and Practical Conference. 2019; 3 ():114.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAneka Klavina; Agris Auce; Ivars Vanadziņš; Alise Silova; Linda Dobkevica. 2019. "EXTRACTION OF BIOLOGICALLY ACTIVE COMPONENTS FROM FRESHWATER SAPROPEL." ENVIRONMENT. TECHNOLOGIES. RESOURCES. Proceedings of the International Scientific and Practical Conference 3, no. : 114.
The previous survey among adult inhabitants of rural areas indicated that they do not see the possibility for development of business facilities in some rural regions of Latvia – so called specially protected nature territories (SPNT). However, the opinion of the younger generation (pupils of local schools of SPNT) about sustainable management and preservation of the nature has not been analyzed so far. The aim of study was to study the level of social awareness of children living in rural areas on sustainable environment issues. Several discussion-lectures on sustainable environment issues were organized during March-April 2017 in one of SPNT (Raznas National Park; 87 children from 6 to 12 classes were participating). The pupils’ opinion on environmental and social awareness indicated that children are more motivated to take active role in protection of environment. Moreover, most of them were aware of the importance of ecosystem services in their lives as well as their impact on nature. It was also found that the interest of children in agriculture derives from their family's core activities in this area indicating that there might be successful future scenarios in this area concentrating on development of ecological and economically sustainable innovative farming. Social innovation labs are very good example on potential scenario that could be repeated also in Latvian rural areas to areas of social actions in order find a better solutions and cope with problems and after all help to successfully generate ideas and implement innovations.
Žanna Martinsone; Ivars Vanadziņš. THE OPINION OF RURAL SCHOOL CHILDREN ABOUT THE DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL AREAS AND SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN LATVIA. Proccedings of International Scientific Conference "RURAL DEVELOPMENT 2017" 2018, 1184 -1188.
AMA StyleŽanna Martinsone, Ivars Vanadziņš. THE OPINION OF RURAL SCHOOL CHILDREN ABOUT THE DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL AREAS AND SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN LATVIA. Proccedings of International Scientific Conference "RURAL DEVELOPMENT 2017". 2018; ():1184-1188.
Chicago/Turabian StyleŽanna Martinsone; Ivars Vanadziņš. 2018. "THE OPINION OF RURAL SCHOOL CHILDREN ABOUT THE DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL AREAS AND SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN LATVIA." Proccedings of International Scientific Conference "RURAL DEVELOPMENT 2017" , no. : 1184-1188.
Health care workers (HCWs) have a great background to promote their health – not only their professional knowledge on health but often also special equipment in their work environment. However, it is unclear if HCWs can use such infrastructure to promote their own health as well as what is their motivation to change their own lifestyles. Thus, the aim of the article was to describe workplace health promotion (WHP) situation in health care settings in Finland, Latvia, and Lithuania. A questionnaire survey of 357 workers from health care sector in three European countries was conducted. Participants were asked to indicate various WHP activities/facilities/programs organized at their workplaces, WHP needs, opportunities to initiate changes related to the healthiness of their workplaces, and readiness to change their lifestyles. Participants from three European countries differed in their WHP needs and in their responses on various activities/facilities/programs implemented at the institutions. Workers from Finnish institutions had the greatest opportunities to make initiatives relevant to their workplaces’ healthiness, while Lithuanian workers were least provided with such opportunities. Furthermore, the results showed that there were differences of readiness to change among the workers from the three countries. HCWs recognized various WHP activities, facilities and programs organized at their workplaces; however, their needs were notably higher than the situation reported. WHP situation differed among the three European countries.
Laima Bulotaitė; Dovilė Šorytė; Sigita Vičaitė; Rasa Šidagytė; Svetlana Lakiša; Ivars Vanadziņš; Lāsma Kozlova; Maija Eglīte; Leila Hopsu; Anne Salmi; Jaana Lerssi-Uskelin. Workplace health promotion in health care settings in Finland, Latvia, and Lithuania. Medicina 2017, 53, 348 -356.
AMA StyleLaima Bulotaitė, Dovilė Šorytė, Sigita Vičaitė, Rasa Šidagytė, Svetlana Lakiša, Ivars Vanadziņš, Lāsma Kozlova, Maija Eglīte, Leila Hopsu, Anne Salmi, Jaana Lerssi-Uskelin. Workplace health promotion in health care settings in Finland, Latvia, and Lithuania. Medicina. 2017; 53 (5):348-356.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLaima Bulotaitė; Dovilė Šorytė; Sigita Vičaitė; Rasa Šidagytė; Svetlana Lakiša; Ivars Vanadziņš; Lāsma Kozlova; Maija Eglīte; Leila Hopsu; Anne Salmi; Jaana Lerssi-Uskelin. 2017. "Workplace health promotion in health care settings in Finland, Latvia, and Lithuania." Medicina 53, no. 5: 348-356.
Currently, nanoparticles are widely present in the environment and are being used in various industrial technologies. Nanoparticles affect immune functions, causing different immune responses. The aim of the current study was to evaluate several cytokines, interleukin (IL)-1b, IL-6, IL-8, tumour necrosis factor-a (TNF-α), interferon-γ, adhesive molecule sICAM-1, macrophage inhibitory protein 1a (MIP1a) and secretory immunoglobulin A, in nasal lavage fluid and in the peripheral blood of healthy subjects exposed to workplace nanoparticles. Thirty-six employees from three different environments were examined: 12 from a metalworking company, 12 from a woodworking company and 12 office workers. The nanoparticles in the different workplaces were detected in the air in the immediate vicinity of the employees. The particle number concentration and surface area values were significantly higher in the workplaces of the metal- and woodworking industries, but concentrations of mass were lower (the measurements were performed by an electrical low-pressure impactor ELPI+). Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS, an attachment to a high-resolution SEM) was used to provide elemental analysis or chemical characterization of the dust particles in a low-vacuum field-free mode operating at a potential of 15 kV spot 3.0. The technique used provided quantitative and spatial analyses of the distribution of elements through mapping (two to three parallel measurements) and point analysis (four to five parallel measurements). Samples from the metal industry contained more ultramicroscopic and nanometric particles, e.g. toxic metals such as Zn, Mn and Cr, and fewer microscopic dust particles. The nasal lavage and peripheral blood were taken at the beginning and the end of the working week, when immune indices were measured. Our data showed a statistically significant increased level of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α in serum in both exposed groups compared with office workers as well as a higher level of TNF-α in workers from the woodworking company compared with the metalworking employees. We found an elevated level of IL-6 in the exposed groups as well as an elevated level of IL-8 in the nasal lavage in woodworking employees after work.
Natalja Kurjane; Tija Zvagule; Jeļena Reste; Žanna Martinsone; Ilona Pavlovska; Inese Martinsone; Ivars Vanadziņš. The effect of different workplace nanoparticles on the immune systems of employees. Journal of Nanoparticle Research 2017, 19, 1 -12.
AMA StyleNatalja Kurjane, Tija Zvagule, Jeļena Reste, Žanna Martinsone, Ilona Pavlovska, Inese Martinsone, Ivars Vanadziņš. The effect of different workplace nanoparticles on the immune systems of employees. Journal of Nanoparticle Research. 2017; 19 (9):1-12.
Chicago/Turabian StyleNatalja Kurjane; Tija Zvagule; Jeļena Reste; Žanna Martinsone; Ilona Pavlovska; Inese Martinsone; Ivars Vanadziņš. 2017. "The effect of different workplace nanoparticles on the immune systems of employees." Journal of Nanoparticle Research 19, no. 9: 1-12.
There are many factors that affect the well-being and health of employees and the productivity of organisations. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of the Metal Age training programme (MA®) on the well-being of office workers, including investigation of work ability, the stress-causing factors and role of leadership. The study was carried out using questions from four international questionnaires about stress, leadership, and work ability. The intervention group had a training course between the surveys using the ME® method. Several employee stress-causing factors were identified: bad relationship with their workmates was mentioned by 94% of workers; competitive and strenuous atmosphere — by more than 80%; psychological violence or bullying at the workplace by more than 80%, and more than 75% of employee’s could not relax after work. Wellness and microclimate in the workplaces were on a relatively high level: the average rating of seven Kiva questions was 7.5. The respondent attitude after ME® did not change significantly. Latvian office workers displayed moderate and good work ability (Work Ability Index, WAI 34.5–38.6). The best work ability was shown in the age group from 20 to 49 (WAI 34.8–39.4); work ability decreased with age. The best correlation was observed between Work Ability Index and “get into situations, that invoke negative feelings” (r = 0.26) and “carrying out ongoing tasks because of other intervening or more urgent matters” (r = −0.24). After ME® the reaction to some stress-causing factors was improved.
Dagmāra Sprūdža; Lāsma Kozlova; Svetlana Lakiša; Inese Mārtiņsone; Ivars Vanadziņš; Mārīte Ārija Baķe; Renārs Erts. The Impact of Metal Age® Training Programme on the Well-Being of Latvian Office Workers. Proceedings of the Latvian Academy of Sciences. Section B. Natural, Exact, and Applied Sciences. 2016, 70, 315 -324.
AMA StyleDagmāra Sprūdža, Lāsma Kozlova, Svetlana Lakiša, Inese Mārtiņsone, Ivars Vanadziņš, Mārīte Ārija Baķe, Renārs Erts. The Impact of Metal Age® Training Programme on the Well-Being of Latvian Office Workers. Proceedings of the Latvian Academy of Sciences. Section B. Natural, Exact, and Applied Sciences.. 2016; 70 (5):315-324.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDagmāra Sprūdža; Lāsma Kozlova; Svetlana Lakiša; Inese Mārtiņsone; Ivars Vanadziņš; Mārīte Ārija Baķe; Renārs Erts. 2016. "The Impact of Metal Age® Training Programme on the Well-Being of Latvian Office Workers." Proceedings of the Latvian Academy of Sciences. Section B. Natural, Exact, and Applied Sciences. 70, no. 5: 315-324.
•Practical evaluation of nanoparticle distribution in three different working environments.•SEM and ELPI+ as characterization of nanoparticles for assessment of occupational exposures.•Occupational exposure and a wide range of potential negative health effects.•Improving, developing and reviewing of occupational exposure limits. AbstractsThree environments were chosen for this study (office, metal, and woodworking industries). The results obtained by an electrical low-pressure impactor (ELPI + ) in this study show that the particle number concentration and surface area are significantly higher in workplaces of the metal- and wood-working industries but concentrations of mass are lower. Therefore the characteristics of mass should not be used on their own as a representative parameter for the description of occupational exposure and cannot be used for occupational risk assessment as a single parameter. The nanoparticles ratio together with occupational exposure limits could possibly be used as the background for occupational risk assessment. At the same time it is essential to mention that the nanoparticle ratio alone is insufficient and parameters like concentration levels, chemical composition, and shape characterization must also be taken into account, especially in occupational toxicology studies done in the future. According to the SEM data, samples from the metal industry contained more ultramicroscopic and nanometric particles (e.g. toxic metals such as Zn, Mn, and Cr) and fewer microscopic dust particles.
Ilona Pavlovska; Zanna Martinsone; Ivars Vanadziņš; Inese Martinsone; Anita Seile; Pavels Sudmalis. Occupational exposure parameters for characterization of nanoparticulate matter toxicity: Metal versus wood processing. Process Safety and Environmental Protection 2016, 102, 230 -237.
AMA StyleIlona Pavlovska, Zanna Martinsone, Ivars Vanadziņš, Inese Martinsone, Anita Seile, Pavels Sudmalis. Occupational exposure parameters for characterization of nanoparticulate matter toxicity: Metal versus wood processing. Process Safety and Environmental Protection. 2016; 102 ():230-237.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIlona Pavlovska; Zanna Martinsone; Ivars Vanadziņš; Inese Martinsone; Anita Seile; Pavels Sudmalis. 2016. "Occupational exposure parameters for characterization of nanoparticulate matter toxicity: Metal versus wood processing." Process Safety and Environmental Protection 102, no. : 230-237.
Computer work is characterized by sedentary static workload with low-intensity energy metabolism. The aim of our study was to evaluate the dynamics of skin surface temperature in the hand during prolonged computer mouse work under different ergonomic setups. Digital infrared imaging of the right forearm and wrist was performed during three hours of continuous computer work (measured at the start and every 15 minutes thereafter) in a laboratory with controlled ambient conditions. Four people participated in the study. Three different ergonomic computer mouse setups were tested on three different days (horizontal computer mouse without mouse pad; horizontal computer mouse with mouse pad and padded wrist support; vertical computer mouse without mouse pad). The study revealed a significantly strong negative correlation between the temperature of the dorsal surface of the wrist and time spent working with a computer mouse. Hand skin temperature decreased markedly after one hour of continuous computer mouse work. Vertical computer mouse work preserved more stable and higher temperatures of the wrist (>30 °C), while continuous use of a horizontal mouse for more than two hours caused an extremely low temperature (<28 °C) in distal parts of the hand. The preliminary observational findings indicate the significant effect of the duration and ergonomics of computer mouse work on the development of hand hypothermia.
Jelena Reste; Tija Zvagule; Natalja Kurjane; Žanna Martinsone; Inese Mārtiņsone; Anita Seile; Ivars Vanadzins. Wrist Hypothermia Related to Continuous Work with a Computer Mouse: A Digital Infrared Imaging Pilot Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2015, 12, 9265 -9281.
AMA StyleJelena Reste, Tija Zvagule, Natalja Kurjane, Žanna Martinsone, Inese Mārtiņsone, Anita Seile, Ivars Vanadzins. Wrist Hypothermia Related to Continuous Work with a Computer Mouse: A Digital Infrared Imaging Pilot Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2015; 12 (8):9265-9281.
Chicago/Turabian StyleJelena Reste; Tija Zvagule; Natalja Kurjane; Žanna Martinsone; Inese Mārtiņsone; Anita Seile; Ivars Vanadzins. 2015. "Wrist Hypothermia Related to Continuous Work with a Computer Mouse: A Digital Infrared Imaging Pilot Study." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 12, no. 8: 9265-9281.
This article investigates the legal database and theoretical basis of workplace health promotion (WHP) in three European countries: Finland, Latvia and Lithuania, and aims to find insights into effective WHP implementation. In November 2013, a stakeholders’ survey was carried out. The questionnaire included questions about legal documents and non-legislative measures relevant to WHP, institutions and other bodies/organizations working in the field, WHP conception/definition, and implementation of WHP activities according to the enterprises’ size. Only Finland has adopted a specific law on occupational health care (separate from occupational safety). ILO conventions No. 161 (Occupational Health Services Convention) and No. 187 (Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health Convention) are ratified only in Finland. In Finland, the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health acts as one ministry, while two Baltic countries have two separate ministries (one for health and another for social affairs). None of the countries has legally approved a definition of WHP. Latvia and Lithuania tend to separate WHP from other activities, whereas Finland integrates WHP into other occupational health and safety elements. Finland has a more extensive legislative and organizational background to WHP than Latvia and Lithuania. In defining WHP, all the countries refer to the Luxembourg Declaration on Workplace Health Promotion in the European Union. Finland’s practice of integrating WHP into other occupational health and safety elements is important.
Rasa Šidagytė; Maija Eglīte; Anne Salmi; Dovilė Šorytė; Ivars Vanadzins; Leila Hopsu; Jaana Lerssi-Uskelin; Laima Bulotaite; Lāsma Kozlova; Svetlana Lakiša; Sigita Vičaitė. The legislative backgrounds of workplace health promotion in three European countries: a comparative analysis. Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology 2015, 10, 1 -7.
AMA StyleRasa Šidagytė, Maija Eglīte, Anne Salmi, Dovilė Šorytė, Ivars Vanadzins, Leila Hopsu, Jaana Lerssi-Uskelin, Laima Bulotaite, Lāsma Kozlova, Svetlana Lakiša, Sigita Vičaitė. The legislative backgrounds of workplace health promotion in three European countries: a comparative analysis. Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology. 2015; 10 (1):1-7.
Chicago/Turabian StyleRasa Šidagytė; Maija Eglīte; Anne Salmi; Dovilė Šorytė; Ivars Vanadzins; Leila Hopsu; Jaana Lerssi-Uskelin; Laima Bulotaite; Lāsma Kozlova; Svetlana Lakiša; Sigita Vičaitė. 2015. "The legislative backgrounds of workplace health promotion in three European countries: a comparative analysis." Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology 10, no. 1: 1-7.
This paper addresses the historical and contemporary challenges created for occupational safety and health in the EU member state of Latvia, which joined the European Union in 2004. It examines the historical background for the determinants of workplace health and safety in Latvia as a former Soviet republic, and thereafter, following independence from the USSR in 1991, as an open-market neoliberal economy. These divergent contexts have set a problematic trajectory of reactive path dependency with respect to the regulation of occupational safety and health.
Charles Woolfson; Ivars Vanadziņš. Historical and Contemporary Challenges to Occupational Safety and Health in Latvia. Policy and Practice in Health and Safety 2014, 12, 47 -65.
AMA StyleCharles Woolfson, Ivars Vanadziņš. Historical and Contemporary Challenges to Occupational Safety and Health in Latvia. Policy and Practice in Health and Safety. 2014; 12 (2):47-65.
Chicago/Turabian StyleCharles Woolfson; Ivars Vanadziņš. 2014. "Historical and Contemporary Challenges to Occupational Safety and Health in Latvia." Policy and Practice in Health and Safety 12, no. 2: 47-65.
Jeļena Reste; M. Eglite; A. Rubine; J. Cirule; G. Zubkova; T. Zvagule; Ivars Vanadziņš. Musculoskeletal disorders caused by physical overload: the situation in Latvia. Environmental Health Risk VII 2013, 1, 73 -81.
AMA StyleJeļena Reste, M. Eglite, A. Rubine, J. Cirule, G. Zubkova, T. Zvagule, Ivars Vanadziņš. Musculoskeletal disorders caused by physical overload: the situation in Latvia. Environmental Health Risk VII. 2013; 1 ():73-81.
Chicago/Turabian StyleJeļena Reste; M. Eglite; A. Rubine; J. Cirule; G. Zubkova; T. Zvagule; Ivars Vanadziņš. 2013. "Musculoskeletal disorders caused by physical overload: the situation in Latvia." Environmental Health Risk VII 1, no. : 73-81.
M. Eglite; Ivars Vanadziņš; Linda Matisane; M.A. Bake; D. Sprudza; Žanna Martinsone; I. Kalve; Jeļena Reste; J. Cirule; A. Seile; M. Fujikawa; M. Nishigaki; M. Yoshizawa; K. Furusawa; S. Tsujii. Assessment of occupational health and safety system in latvia. International Journal of Safety and Security Engineering 2012, 2, 1 .
AMA StyleM. Eglite, Ivars Vanadziņš, Linda Matisane, M.A. Bake, D. Sprudza, Žanna Martinsone, I. Kalve, Jeļena Reste, J. Cirule, A. Seile, M. Fujikawa, M. Nishigaki, M. Yoshizawa, K. Furusawa, S. Tsujii. Assessment of occupational health and safety system in latvia. International Journal of Safety and Security Engineering. 2012; 2 (4):1.
Chicago/Turabian StyleM. Eglite; Ivars Vanadziņš; Linda Matisane; M.A. Bake; D. Sprudza; Žanna Martinsone; I. Kalve; Jeļena Reste; J. Cirule; A. Seile; M. Fujikawa; M. Nishigaki; M. Yoshizawa; K. Furusawa; S. Tsujii. 2012. "Assessment of occupational health and safety system in latvia." International Journal of Safety and Security Engineering 2, no. 4: 1.
The aim of study was to analyse work conditions and occupational morbidity in Latvia during a 15-year period for recommendations to employment...
M. Eglite; Ivars Vanadziņš; Linda Matisane; M. A. Bake; D. Sprudza; Žanna Martinsone; Jeļena Reste; J. Cirule; A. Seile. Work conditions and occupational morbidity in Latvia. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND BIOMEDICINE 2011 2011, 1 .
AMA StyleM. Eglite, Ivars Vanadziņš, Linda Matisane, M. A. Bake, D. Sprudza, Žanna Martinsone, Jeļena Reste, J. Cirule, A. Seile. Work conditions and occupational morbidity in Latvia. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND BIOMEDICINE 2011. 2011; ():1.
Chicago/Turabian StyleM. Eglite; Ivars Vanadziņš; Linda Matisane; M. A. Bake; D. Sprudza; Žanna Martinsone; Jeļena Reste; J. Cirule; A. Seile. 2011. "Work conditions and occupational morbidity in Latvia." ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND BIOMEDICINE 2011 , no. : 1.
Work conditions and health risks of persons employed in construction in Latvia The health effects of the work condition in construction were the focus for this study. The construction sector involves numerous risk factors, which can essentially endanger employee health and safety by causing accidents, occupational diseases and work-related diseases. The aim of this study was to examine the work condition, identity risk factors in the workplace, analyse the morbidity and accidents in the construction sector. According to the data of the State Revenue Service, the number of persons employed in construction in Latvia is growing each year. In the construction sector the number of accidents per 100 000 employees has tended to fall between 2003 and 2005, but the number of serious accidents has risen 1.3 times. Employees in construction companies are not sufficiently informed about the work environment risk factors and their influence on health and safety.
Tatjana Farbtuha; Žanna Martinsone; Ivars Vanadzins; Jānis Dundurs; Inese Mārtiņsone; Anita Piķe. Work conditions and health risks of persons employed in construction in Latvia. Proceedings of the Latvian Academy of Sciences. Section B. Natural, Exact, and Applied Sciences. 2010, 64, 53 -60.
AMA StyleTatjana Farbtuha, Žanna Martinsone, Ivars Vanadzins, Jānis Dundurs, Inese Mārtiņsone, Anita Piķe. Work conditions and health risks of persons employed in construction in Latvia. Proceedings of the Latvian Academy of Sciences. Section B. Natural, Exact, and Applied Sciences.. 2010; 64 (1-2):53-60.
Chicago/Turabian StyleTatjana Farbtuha; Žanna Martinsone; Ivars Vanadzins; Jānis Dundurs; Inese Mārtiņsone; Anita Piķe. 2010. "Work conditions and health risks of persons employed in construction in Latvia." Proceedings of the Latvian Academy of Sciences. Section B. Natural, Exact, and Applied Sciences. 64, no. 1-2: 53-60.