Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

Mi Young Lee

18 Articles

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity: Hong Jae Chae, Byoung Gwon Kim, Hwan Cheol Kim, Mi Young Lee, Jong Han Leem; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2012;24(4):328-338. Published online December 31, 2012; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2012.24.4.328

This article reviews newly available knowledge on multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS), a chronic medical condition characterized by symptoms in multiple organ and caused by exposure to low levels of common chemicals. Although various pathophysiological models have been proposed (including toxicological, immunological or behavioral models), the causes and underlying mechanisms of MCS are still not fully understood. Most patients with MCS were women between the ages of 30 and 50 years. The most frequently reported trigger was a newly constructed home or job site. The common symptoms are vague, non-specific complaints: fatigue, difficulty concentrating, poor memory, sneezing/runny nose, headache, and muscle pain. There are no laboratory markers or specific investigative findings for MCS. The Quick Environmental Exposure and Sensitivity Inventory (QEESI)(c) has been used as a screening questionnaire. Treatment focuses on assisting patients at the earliest possible opportunity to reduce their exposure to unique symptom triggers and known hazardous chemicals. Early comprehensive assessment, medical management, and social and financial support might avoid the deterioration of functions associated with prolonged illness.

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MCS/IEI Prevalence Rate of Workers Around an Accidental Release of Hydrogen Fluoride in Gumi Industrial Complex
Hye-Ji Han, Kuck-Hyeun Woo, Sung-Yong Choi, Byoung-Hak Jeon, Sangjun Choi
Journal of Korean Society of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene.2015; 25(4): 534. CrossRef

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Occupational Risk Factors Associated with Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Public Workers: Sei Kyun Noh, Ju Hwan Choi, Dong Hoon Shin, Mi Young Lee, In Sung Chung; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2012;24(4):410-419. Published online December 31, 2012; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2012.24.4.410

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVES
The purpose of this study was to examine the occupational risk factors associated with musculoskeletal symptoms in public workers.
METHODS
In November 2010, 544 participants anwered a survey that included questions on the participants' general characteristics, job-related factors, health-related behaviors, and psychosocial stress. We measured the relationship of risk factors to musculoskeletal symptoms using a logistic regression analysis.
RESULTS
After adjusting for general characteristics, factors associated with occupational musculoskeletal symptoms were gender (OR=2.858, 95% CI=1.701~4.801), unnatural posture (OR=2.386, 95% CI=1.308~4.354), psychosocial stress (OR=4.051, 95% CI=1.336~12.282) and sleep quality (OR=1.672, 95% CI=1.052~2.660).
CONCLUSIONS
These findings suggest that psychosocial stress levels and physical environment (especially in professions requiring an unnatural posture) are related to musculoskeletal symptoms in public workers.

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The Relationship between the Korean Occupational Stress Scale and Carotid Intima-Media Thickness among Male Firefighters: Sang Jun Park, Dong Kyun Lim, Mi Young Lee, In Sung Chung; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2012;24(4):420-430. Published online December 31, 2012; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2012.24.4.420

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVES
This study examined the relationship between job stress and the common carotid intima-media thickness as an indicator of atherosclerosis (cardiovascular disease) among male firefighters in a metropolitan city.
METHODS
Between November and December 2011, a total of 838 participants were analyzed using a questionnaire, which included the participants' general characteristics, job-related factors, health-related behaviors, and job stress. Job stress was measured using the Korean Occupational Stress Scale-Short Form (KOSS-SF). The job stress data was merged with the clinical laboratory data and common carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) by a medical examination. The relationship between job stress and the CIMT was examined by multiple logistic regression analysis.
RESULTS
Multiple logistic regression analyses adjusted for the general and cardiovascular risk factors revealed, the organizational system (adjusted OR 1.381 95% CI=1.005~1.898) to be associated with the right CIMT. Multiple logistic regression analyses adjusted for general and cardiovascular risk factors and job types, the occupational climate (adjusted OR 1.392, 95% CI=1.009~1.922) was also associated with the right CIMT.
CONCLUSIONS
The level of job stress, particularly in regard to the organizaional system, shows a correlation with the right CIMT. Therefore, further preventive efforts and studies of firefighters will be needed to reduce job stress and help prevent cardiovascular disease.

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The Relationship between the Korean Occupational Stress Scale and Pulse Wave Velocity among Male Firefighters: Hyun Jun Jeon, Sang Jun Park, Dong Hoon Shin, In Sung Chung, Mi Young Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2011;23(4):450-462. Published online December 31, 2011; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2011.23.4.450

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between job stress and the pulse wave velocity as an indicator of vessel stiffness among male firefighters in a metropolitan city.
METHODS
In November and December 2008, a total of 404 participants were analyzed. The questionnaire survey included the participants' general characteristics, job-related factors, health-related behaviors, and job stress. Job stress was measured using the Korean Occupational Stress Scale (KOSS). We merged the job stress data with clinical laboratory data and brachial-ankle Pulse Wave Velocity (baPWV) by conducting medical surveillance. We measured the relationship of job stress to baPWV by using a logistic regression analysis.
RESULTS
After adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors, the baPWV was significantly higher in the groups possessing high levels of job insecurity (OR=2.17, 95% CI=1.06~4.42).
CONCLUSIONS
Our findings suggest that the level of job stress, especially in regards to job insecurity, was directly related to the baPWV. Therefore, further preventive efforts and studies in regards to firefighters are needed in order to reduce job stress and thereby help to prevent cardiovascular disease.

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Firefighters’ occupational stress and its correlations with cardiorespiratory fitness, arterial stiffness, heart rate variability, and sleep quality
Young-Sook Yook, Kiyoshi Sanada
PLOS ONE.2019; 14(12): e0226739. CrossRef

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Association between Work Departments and Carotid Intima-media Thickness in a Metal Manufacturing Plant: Sook Jung Choi, Sei Kyun Noh, Dong Hoon Shin, In Sung Chung, Hyun Sook Bae, Mi Young Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2010;22(4):345-355. Published online December 31, 2010; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2010.22.4.345

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the relationship of work departments, carotid IMT, and plaque formation as predictors of cardiovascular disease in white-collar and blue-collar workers.
METHOD
A total of 201 workers from a metal agricultural equipment manufacturing plant near Daegu were administered questionnaires to obtain information on their general characteristics, their work-related factors. In addition, the workers were given a clinical examination, which included a carotid artery ultrasonography. In total, 193 (96.0%) of questionnaires were completed and analyzed for this study. Multiple regression analysis and multiple logistic regression analysis were performed on the data for analysis.
RESULT
Blue-collar workers had thicker carotid artery IMT when compared to white-collar workers. After adjustment, the carotid IMT was affected by age, working department, hypertension, and diabetes; plaque formation was affected by age, hypertension, total cholesterol, and excessive drinking.
CONCLUSION
This study suggests that carotid IMT is associated with working department. Therefore, we need to examine the effect that occupational health services has on cardiovascular disease, focusing on the characteristics of each department.

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Cardiovascular Disease According to Job Type and Life Style
Wan-Young Yoon
Journal of Digital Convergence.2016; 14(2): 501. CrossRef

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Association between Job Stress and the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory in Firefighters: Dong Hyul Lee, Hyun Jun Jeon, Dong Hoon Shin, In Sung Chung, Mi Young Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2009;21(4):324-336. Published online December 31, 2009; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2009.21.4.324

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship of job stress and scores on the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) clinical scales in firefighters.
METHOD
A total of 648 firefighters from Daegu Metropolitan City were given 2 sets of questionnaires, the Korean Occupational Stress Scales (KOSS) and the MMPI. The results of 428 qualifying questionnaires were analyzed using ANOVA, correlation, and multiple regression.
RESULTS
The study demonstrated that job stress differed by age, department, amount of exercise, and duty period. MMPI clinical scales differed by age, smoking, and amount of exercise. Job stress correlated with MMPI clinical scales and in particular with 2 MMPI clinical scales, -Depression and Social introversion-. In addition, job stress subscales were related. On multiple regression analysis, some MMPI clinical scales were affected by job stress subscales.
CONCLUSION
This study suggests that job stress is associated with psychogenic factors in firefighters. The effective management for job stress might be helpful for the overall mental health of firefighters. Further study is required to determine which psychogenic factors are related to job stress.

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Do police officers and firefighters have a higher risk of disease than other public officers? A 13-year nationwide cohort study in South Korea
Minkyung Han, Sohee Park, Jong Heon Park, Seung-sik Hwang, Inah Kim
BMJ Open.2018; 8(1): e019987. CrossRef
Particularities of occupational health and safety management in the police environment
Adrian-Constantin Achim
Proceedings of the International Conference on Business Excellence.2018; 12(1): 1. CrossRef
Minnesota multiphasic personality inventory as related factor for post traumatic stress disorder symptoms according to job stress level in experienced firefighters: 5–year study
In-Sung Chung, Mi-Young Lee, Sung-Won Jung, Chang-Wook Nam
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2015;[Epub] CrossRef
Relationship between Occupational Stress and Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Korean Male Firefighters
Min Gi Kim, Kyoo-Sang Kim, Jae-Hong Ryoo, Seung-Won Yoo
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2013;[Epub] CrossRef
Influence of Job Stress and State of Sleep on the Depression of Emergency Medical Technicians
Chun Yee Lee, Eun Kyung Byun, Nam Hee Kim
Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2013; 22(3): 191. CrossRef
Duty-Dependent Changes in Stress Hormones of Firefighters
Kyoo-Sang Kim, Seung-Won Yoo, Yong-Lim Won, Mi-Young Lee
Korean Journal of Environmental Health Sciences.2012; 38(3): 195. CrossRef
Health Hazards in Firefighters
Kyoo Sang Kim
Hanyang Medical Reviews.2010; 30(4): 296. CrossRef

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The Relationship between Job Stress and Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Migrant Workers: Min Heui Jo, Kyoo Sang Kim, Sun Wung Lee, Tae Gyun Kim, Hyang Woo Ryu, Mi Young Lee, Yong Lim Won; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2009;21(4):378-387. Published online December 31, 2009; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2009.21.4.378

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the musculoskeletal symptoms of migrant workers. We focused on the relationship between job stress and musculoskeletal symptoms.
METHOD
A questionnaire was administered to 502 migrant workers who visited NGO migrant worker centers located in Gyung-gi province. A structured, self-reported questionnaire was administered to participants in order to capture the following information: sociodemographics, health factors including past medical history, work related characteristics, job stress, and musculoskeletal symptoms. The job stress questionnaires were used according to KOSS-26 and musculoskeletal symptoms were measured using KOSHA Code H-30-2003. We used multiple logistic regression analysis to assess the relationship between risk factors which included job stress, and musculoskeletal symptoms.
RESULTS
The prevalence rate of musculoskeletal symptoms in survey subjects was 35.1%. Other than job stress factors, past medical history was the only factor that had a statistical relationship to musculoskeletal symptoms (P<0.01). In the domains of job stress, physical environment (OR 1.62, 95% CI: 1.03~2.54), job demand (OR 2.43, 95% CI: 1.46~4.03), job insecurity (OR 1.59, 95% CI: 1.03~2.47), occupational climate (OR 2.30, 95% CI: 1.27~4.19) were most likely experience musculoskeletal symptoms.
CONCLUSION
The job stress factor appeared to correlate more with musculoskeletal symptoms than with sociodemographics or other factors. Hence, in order to prevent migrant worker's musculoskeletal symptoms, we believe that intervention in job stress (physical environment, job demand, job insecurity, occupational climate) is necessary.

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Occupational Characteristics and Health Status of Vietnamese Male Migrant Workers in the Republic of Korea
Ohwi Kwon, Ji-Hun Song, Jeong-Ok Kong, Seong-Won Ma, Young Shin Lee, Joonho Ahn
Safety and Health at Work.2023; 14(3): 267. CrossRef
Barriers to Performing Stretching Exercises Among Korean‐Chinese Female Migrant Workers in Korea
Hyeonkyeong Lee, JoEllen Wilbur, Duckhee Chae, Kyongeun Lee, Meenhye Lee
Public Health Nursing.2015; 32(2): 112. CrossRef
Job Stress and Musculoskeletal Disorder in Seoul City's School Foodservice Employees
Saerom Lee, KyooSang Kim, Eun-A Kim, Jihye Kim, Dohyung Kim
Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2014; 23(4): 245. CrossRef
Experiences of Middle-aged Korean-Chinese Female Migrant Workers in Korea: With Focus on Risk Factors in Work-related Musculoskeletal Diseases
Hyeonkyeong Lee, Duckhee Chae, Kyongeun Lee, Meenhye Lee
Journal of Korean Academy of Community Health Nursing.2013; 24(2): 185. CrossRef
Associations between Job Stress and Work-related Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Street Sanitation Workers
Hye-Jin Kim, Kyung-Ja June, Gyeyoung Shin, Jina Choo
Journal of Korean Academy of Community Health Nursing.2013; 24(3): 314. CrossRef
Application of Community-Based Participatory Research Principles
Hyeonkyeong Lee, Duckhee Chae, Kyongeun Lee, Meenhye Lee
Workplace Health & Safety.2012; 60(7): 313. CrossRef
Application of Community-Based Participatory Research Principles: Preventing Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Female Korean–Chinese Migrant Workers in Korea
Hyeonkyeong Lee, Duckhee Chae, Kyongeun Lee, Meenhye Lee
Workplace Health & Safety.2012; 60(7): 313. CrossRef
Relationship between occupational stress and musculoskeletal symptoms of upper extremities among dental hygienists
So-Young Lee, Hyo-Jin Ko, Byeng-Chul Yu
Journal of Korean society of Dental Hygiene.2012; 12(5): 897. CrossRef
Related Factors to Musculoskeletal Discomfort Symptoms on Some Middle·High school Teachers
Jae-Yoon Lee, Byeong-Yeon Moon, Youn-Hong Jeong, Hyun-Kyung Woo
Journal of the Korea Academia-Industrial cooperation Society.2012; 13(1): 264. CrossRef
Musculoskeletal Disorder Symptoms and Related Factors among Male Workers in Small-scale Manufacturing Industries
Seung-Hyun Lee, Ju-Yeon Lee, Young-Chae Cho
Journal of the Korea Academia-Industrial cooperation Society.2012; 13(9): 4025. CrossRef
Job stress and musculoskeletal diseases
Dong Mug Kang, Young Ki Kim, Jong Eun Kim
Journal of the Korean Medical Association.2011; 54(8): 851. CrossRef

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Induction of Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase Expression by Manganese in C6 Glioma Cells: Gyeong Im Yu, Dong Hyul Lee, In Sung Chung, Mi Young Lee, Dong Hoon Shin; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2009;21(3):259-266. Published online September 30, 2009; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2009.21.3.259

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVE: It is well established that manganese neurotoxicity is associated with clinical symptoms similar to those of idiopathic Parkinson's disease. Recent research has shown that the exposure to manganese (MnCl2) leads to induction of iNOS in BV2 microglial cells via iNOS transcriptional up-regulation and activation of both MAPKs and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways. Here, we further investigated the effect and the action mechanism of MnCl2 on iNOS expression in C6 glioma cells.
METHODS
Western blot analyses demonstrated that treatment with MnCl2 at 250 micronmeter was sufficient to induce iNOS at both the protein and mRNA levels in C6 cells.
RESULTS
These studies demonstrated that the induction of iNOS protein and mRNA was visible after 4h- and 2 h-treatment with MnCl2, respectively. MnCl2 treatment led to strong phosphorylation of JNKs and ERKs, members of MAP kinases (MAPKs), and Akt, a PI3-kinase (PI3K) downstream effector, in C6 cells. MnCl2 treatment had no effect on I kappa B-alpha in C6 cells. Notably, pretreatment with LY294002 (a PI3K inhibitor), which inhibited phosphorylation of Akt by MnCl2, caused strong suppression of MnCl2- induced iNOS protein and mRNA expression in C6 cells. Moreover, pretreatment with SP600125 (an inhibitor of JNKs) and PD98050 (an inhibitor of ERKs), which respectively interfered with MnCl2-mediated phosphorylation of JNKs and ERKs, led to the partial suppression of MnCl2-induced iNOS protein. Interestingly, pretreatment with LY294002 inhibited phosphorylation of not only Akt, but also ERKs and JNKs, in response to MnCl2. Moreover, there was an effective suppression of MnCl2-mediated phosphorylation of AKT by SP600125.
CONCLUSION
These results collectively suggest that MnCl2 induces iNOS expression in C6 glioma cells via activation of PI3K/Akt and JNK-ERK MAPK signaling proteins, whose activations seem to be mutually interconnected in response to MnCl2.

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The Relationship between Job Stress and Depressive Symptoms in Migrant Workers in Kyung-gi Province in Korea: Sun Wung Lee, Kyoo Sang Kim, Tae Gyun Kim, Hyang Woo Ryu, Mi Young Lee, Yong Lim Won, Yoon Hee Song; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2009;21(1):76-86. Published online March 31, 2009; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2009.21.1.76

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
To investigate the mental health status of migrant workers. We focused on the relationship between depressive symptoms and job stress. METHEOD: A questionnaire was administered to 488 migrant workers who visited NGO migrant worker centers located in Kyung-gi province. A structured, self-reported questionnaire was used to assess each responder's sociodemographics, work related characteristics, health behaviors, past medical history, job stress and depression symptoms. The job stress questionnaire was used according to KOSS-26 and depression symptoms were measured using CES-D, which was translated into Korean. We used multiple logistic regression analysis to assess the relationship between risk factors included job stress and depression symptoms.
RESULTS
The prevalence of depression symptoms in survey subjects was 25.2%, but the prevalence of non-Chinese nationalities and illegal workers were 32.1% and 32.8%, respectively. Adjusting for confounding factors, job stress (OR 2.55, 95% CI=1.30-4.99) had a statistical meaningful relationship with depression symptoms. Among job stress domains, physical environment (OR 2.97, 95% CI=1.59-5.53), job demand (OR 2.33, 95% CI=1.26-4.32) and occupational climate(OR 3.10, CI=1.49-6.48) were most likely to experience depression symptoms.
CONCLUSIONS
The prevalence of depressive symptoms among the study subjects was similar to the prevalence among the general population in Korea, but higher than that among the Korean workers. In particular, the prevalence among non-Chinese and illegal workers was higher. However, the job stress factor appeared to have a more direct correlation with depressive symptoms than the sociodemographic factors of nationality or residential status. Hence, in order to prevent depressive symptoms of the migrant workers, we believe that intervention on job stress is necessary.

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Prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors among Asian migrant workers in South Korea
Pratibha Bhandari, Mohammad-Reza Malekpour
PLOS ONE.2023; 18(7): e0288375. CrossRef
Occupational stress changes and new-onset depression among male Korean manufacturing workers
Jiho Kim, Hwan-Cheol Kim, Minsun Kim, Seong-Cheol Yang, Shin-Goo Park, Jong-Han Leem, Dong-Wook Lee
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
Affecting Factors on Sleep Quality in Foreign Workers
Soojeong Kim, Min Kyung Kim, Inkyoung Lee, Kyoung Won Cho
Journal of Health Informatics and Statistics.2022; 47(2): 139. CrossRef
Effects of changes in occupational stress on the depressive symptoms of Korean workers in a large company: a longitudinal survey
Jaehyuk Jung, Inchul Jeong, Kyung-Jong Lee, Guyeon Won, Jae Bum Park
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2018;[Epub] CrossRef
Acculturation Stress and Health Promotion Behaviors of the Korean Chinese Elderly Immigrants Living in Korea
Xianglan Jin, Misoon Song
Perspectives in Nursing Science.2016; 13(2): 70. CrossRef
Moderating Effect of Stress Coping Strategies on the Relationship between a National Statistics Office Workers' Occupational Stress and Mental Health
Yuran Jeong, Bo-Hyun Yoon, Eun-Joo Oh, Je-Heon Song, Soo-Hee Park, Haran Jung, Moon-Doo Kim, Man-Ki Baek, Eun-Rak Son, Ja-Young Jung
Journal of Korean Neuropsychiatric Association.2015; 54(4): 587. CrossRef
Acculturative Stress, Work‐related Psychosocial Factors and Depression in Korean‐Chinese Migrant Workers in Korea
Hyeonkyeong Lee, Hyunmi Ahn, Arlene Miller, Chang Gi Park, Sun Jung Kim
Journal of Occupational Health.2012; 54(3): 206. CrossRef

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A Case of Argyria from Silver in Cellular Phone Case Manufacture: Ki Hong Tak, Seok Hwan Yoon, Mi Young Lee, Dong Hoon Shin, In Sung Chung; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2006;18(4):339-344. Published online December 31, 2006; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2006.18.4.339

Abstract PDF: BACKGROUND
Skin contact with, and the breathing in of air containing silver compounds can occur in the workplace. Occupational exposure to silver and its compounds is mainly via airborne dust, metal fumes, and mists of solutions containing silver compounds. Argyria results from increased serum silver levels and the deposition of silver-containing particles in the dermis and mucous membranes. The author reports a patient with generalized argyria, who worked on the manufacture of cellular phone cases.
CASE
REPORT: The patient was a 30 year-old male, with extensive blue-gray discoloration of the whole body, especially sun-exposed area, of 3 years duration. He had been exposed to silver in the processing of EMI for the past 4 years and gaskets for 1 year. EMI is the process by which the internal electromagnetic wave in cellular phone cases are shielded, and gaskets play an important role in shielding the electric clashes between electronic circuits, as well as increasing the durability of cellular phone cases to impact. EMI had been processed manually but this was changed to automatic spraying by robots in 2003. On physical examination, the patient had diffuse blue-gray discoloration of the skin, which was most prominent in the sun-exposed areas of his face, neck and V of the chest. Histopathological examination of a punch biopsy specimen from the posterior neck revealed fine, minute, round, and brown-black granules deposited in the basement membrane zone surrounding the eccrine glands. The laboratory findings were positive for hepatitis B antigen, with a serum silver concentration of 150.3 ppb. From this evidence, he was diagnosed with argyria due to silver exposure.
DISCUSSION
The author reports a case of occupational systemic argyria due to inhalation exposure of silver compounds.

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Effect of Developmental Lead Exposure on the Expression of Hippocampal NMDA Receptor Subunit mRNA: Tae Wan Kim, In Sung Chung, Jae Hoon Bae, Dong Hoon Shin, Mi Young Lee, Joon Sik Kim; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2005;17(4):278-287. Published online December 31, 2005; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2005.17.4.278

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVES
The purpose of the present study was to examine the differential effects of lead (Pb) exposure on the expression of specific NMDA receptor subunit mRNAs on the hippocampal cells depending on the neuronal developmental stage.
METHODS
Expression of the NR2A and NR2B subunits of the NMDA receptors mRNA on the hippocampal neurons was measured by in situ hybridization in the control and Pb treated groups. Pb-treated and NMDA cytotoxicity was assessed by morphological examination and LDH measurements.
RESULTS
Hippocampal NR2A subunit mRNA expression was gradually increased with increasing age, and was significantly decreased after Pb exposure. The expression of NR2B subunit mRNA was not changed during development in the rat hippocampus and the developmental effect of Pb exposure on NR2B expression was minimal. These results indicate that chronic Pb exposure may decrease the levels of NR2A-containing NMDA receptors and may thereby alter normal synaptic signal transmission. Pb or NMDA-induced cytotoxicity in vitro differed significantly between the immature and the mature hippocampal cells.
CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrates that chronic Pb exposure during brain development alters the levels of specific NMDA receptor subunit mRNA in the rat hippocampus. These results suggest that chronic Pb exposure may attenuate the precise neuronal synaptic transmission through the differential alteration of the composition of the NMDA receptor subunit on the hippocampus depending on neuronal developmental stage.

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Body Mass Index according to Working Processes in Some Workers: Daegu City: Sung Hee Kim, Choong Won Lee, Mi Young Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2002;14(2):107-116. Published online June 30, 2002; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2002.14.2.107

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVES
This study was carried to survey obesity and to screen high risk working processes related to obesity in the workplace.
METHODS
In 1999, a total of 12,518 workers (men 8,379, women 4,139) residing in Daegu underwent an annual health examination at the Dongsan Medical Center. Grade of obesity was classified using body mass index (BMI) according to the following criteria; underweight ( <18.5), normal (19-22.9), overweight (23.0-24.9), mild obesity (25-29.9), severe Obesity ( >30.0). One industrial hygienist classified the working processes.
RESULTS
The BMI mean and standard error was 22.63+/-0.03 in men and 22.18+/-0 . 0 4 in women. Age was a strong indicator of obesity, which peaked at 50-54 years old in men and over 60 years old in women. After adjustment for age by ANCOVA, the working process showing the highest BMI for men was 'Sales', at 23.93+/-0.18 while the lowest was 'Mill rolling', at 21.49+/-0.27. For Women 'Foundry Molding', at 22.84+/-0.49 was the highest while 'Office work', 21.78+/-0.12 was the lowest.
CONCLUSIONS
Physical activities at work were inversely related to BMI in men but, were directly related in women. Women, over 50 years old and working in the process demanding high physical activity were the group most susceptible to obesity.

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Relationship between the Use of Mobile Phones and Hearing Thresholds in Some White-collar Workers: Mi Young Lee, Choong Won Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2002;14(1):47-56. Published online March 31, 2002; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2002.14.1.47

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the use of mobile phones and the levels of hearing thresholds in some clerical workers.
METHODS
Questionnaires were administered to 450 clerical workers between May and August 2000. The questionnaire included items concerning socio-demographic profile and noise-exposure history as well as use of mobile phone. The number of workers used in the final analysis was 394(Response rate 87.6%). Males numbered 308 and females 86. Hearing thresholds were measured in both ears using a pure-tone audiometer.
RESULTS
In a univariate analysis, the duration and time of mobile phone use per day were significant in regards to hearing threshold at 1000Hz in males(p<0.05). In a linear regression analysis with adjustment for age, education, military service, use of earphone, the group that used mobile phones for more than 49 months was more likely to have low hearing threshold at 1000Hz and 4000Hz in males(p<0.05) as compared to the reference group (CONCLUSIONS
These results suggested that only certain elements of use of a mobile phone may be associated with hearing thresholds and there is a complex relationship between the use of mobile phone and hearing thresholds that may differ in terms of frequency (1000Hz and 4000Hz) and gender.

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Effects of VR Viewing on Binocular Vision and Eye Movement : Focusing on Undergraduates Having a Major Related to Physical Education
Hyun-Uk Park, Chang-Won Park
The Korean Journal of Vision Science.2023; 25(3): 209. CrossRef
Occupational Hearing Loss in Korea
Kyoo Sang Kim
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2010; 25(Suppl): S62. CrossRef

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Effect of air pollution on daily mortality in Daegu (1993~1997): Mi Young Lee, Choong Won Lee, Suk Kwon Suh; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2000;12(2):235-248. Published online June 30, 2000; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2000.12.2.235

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
In order to evaluate the relationship between daily mortality and air pollution in Deagu for the period by the data from January 1993 to December 1997.
METHODS
Deaths from accident(International Classification of Disease, Revision 9; 800-999 and Revision 10; V01- Y89) were excluded, Daily counts of deaths were analysed by general additive poisson model on the current day to 5 days before death, with controlling for effects of year, season, weather, weekday and holiday. The air pollutants examined included total suspended particulate (TSP), sulfur dioxide (SO,), nitrogen dioxide (NO,), carbon monoxide (CO) and ozone (03).
RESULTS
Mortality was associated with NO, SO and CO in the air. Total mortality was estimated to increase by 1. 6 % (95 % CI 0. 3-3 %) with each 10 ppb rise in NOy on the current day and the preceding 1 day, 9. 4 % (95 % CI 7 13 %) with each 100 ppb rise in SOy and 2. 7 % (95 % CI 0. 1 5 %) with each 1 ppm rise in CO on the current day. The NO was more evident for the elderly who were 65 years and more. Cardiovascular-specific mortality was associated with the levels of CO on the current day. Respiratory-specific mortality was associated with the levels of TSP and NO 5 days before death. Excess mortality risk is clearly evident in the upper range of NO levels and increased monotonically with NO.
CONCLUSIONS
This study suggested that the air pollution status below the current Korean ambient air quality standard might have an adverse effect on daily mortality. Then, it is impertive that the strategy for control of the air pollution-related daily mortality should be developed.

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Review of Epidemiological Research and Perspectives for Future Environmental Health Progress in Korea
Kyoung-Mu Lee, Moon-Young Park
Journal of Environmental Health Sciences.2022; 48(3): 138. CrossRef

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Analysis of Korean Analytical Quality Assurance Program for the Special Health Examination from 1995 to 1999: Seong Kyu Kang, Jeong Sun Yang, Mi Young Lee, In Jeong Park, Ho Keun Chung; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2000;12(1):139-147. Published online March 31, 2000; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2000.12.1.139

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVE: The accuracy of analytical results of blood and urine heavy metals came out to the main issue on occupational health from late eighties. The discrepancy of the results for same samples from different laboratories made the diagnosis for occupational diseases be unreliable. Therefore, a quality control program for analysis of samples taken from workplace had been introduced in Korea since 1992. This study aims to show the quality control program f'or analysis of blood and urine samples and its proficient rates from 1992 to 1999 and to know how they have been being used in occupational health.
METHODS
The quality control program runs twice a year with mandatory items of blood lead and urine hippuvic acid and voluntary items of blood cadmium and manganese and urine mandellic acid and methyl hippuric acid. Participant laboratories are receiving three levels for each items and two out of three samples have to be qualified for being a proficient laboratory for the item. The acceptable range of blood lead and urine hippuric acid is +/-15% and that of the others is within 3 SD(standard deviation) from the reference values.
RESULTS
The proficient rates of blood lead and urine hippuric acid was 89%, 90%, repectively, however those of the other voluntary items have been from 51% to 62%. The proficient rates of urine mercury and urine N-methylformamide(NMF), which are introduced since 1999, were very poor. Urine hippuric acid and blood lead were analyzed frequently for the purpose of biological monitoring conducting by special health examination organizations. Urine and blood manganese and urine metabolites of trichloroethylene, urine phenol, methylhippuric acid and cadmium were followed.
CONCLUSIONS
In conclusion, the quality control program for biological monitoring has dramatically improve the ability of analysing blood and urine samples and eventually contributes to diagnose occupational diseases and to prevent occupational poisoning. However, some biological monitoring data, such as urine manganese, mercury and NMF, have been still reported from laboratories that were not accepted as a proficient laboratory.

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External Quality Assessment Scheme for Biological Monitoring of Occupational Exposure to Toxic Chemicals
Mi-Young Lee, Jeong Sun Yang, Seong-Kyu Kang
Safety and Health at Work.2011; 2(3): 229. CrossRef

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Polyneuropathy by Occupational Exposure to Acrylamide: Hae Kwan Cheong, Yong Wook Kwon, Kyung Yun Uh, Byung Joon Kim, Jeong Sun Yang, Cheol Jung, Youngwoo Jin, Mi Young Lee, Seong Kyu Kang; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1998;10(3):388-403. Published online August 31, 1998; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1998.10.3.388

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Authors report a first Korean case of polyneuropathy in an acrylamide producing factory together with an environmental and epidemiologic survey for the ten workers of the same workplace and 46 workers in the production and manufacturing acrylamide in Ulsan, Korea. The case is 30 years old man who worked in the prcduction of the acrylamide for two years. In August, 1997, he had a weakness of the lower extremity with loss of body weight of 15 Kg which progressed to paresthesia of the limbs, the loss of vibration sense, difficulty in walking, speech disturbance, dysuria, constipation, difficulty in erection and swallowing difficulty. Neurologic examination showed a complete loss of vibration and position sense, and loss of deep tendon reflex in all the limbs. There was a contact dermatitis-like skin lesion on the feet. Electrodiagnostic test showed a generalized polyneuropathy of moderate degree involving motor and sensory component of peripheral and cranial nerves. After 8 months' cessation from exposure and supportive care, his symptoms were completely resolved, but abnormality in electrodiagnostic test and vibrotactile perception threshold still persisted, although much improved than before. There were 11 workers in the same workplace of the case, producing acrylamide by microorganism as a catalyst. Environmental monitoring of the workplace revealed air-borne concentration of the acrylamide to be from 0.05 to 0.23 mg/m(3) by personal sampling and from 7.65 to 11.65 mg/m(3) by area sampling during filter exchanging process, which far exceeds TLV-TWA of 0.03 mg/m(3). However acrylamide was not detected from the plasma of the workers. Symptom questionnaire showed a markedly higher complain of neurologic symptoms, compared to the workers of the other acrylamide producing companies. Electrodiagnostic test showed a several workers are in the lower normal range without definite abnormality. Vibrotactile perception threshold by Vibratron II showed a significantly increased threshold in the workers of the same workplace compared to the other acrylamide workers and significantly decreased test score of color vision compared to normal controls. After improvement of the production process and strict wearing of the protective device, most workers reported the improvement of clinical symptoms, but vibrotactile perception threshold was not improved. These result suggests the need for the effective environmental monitoring together with a periodic biological monitoring. Development of effective screening test is urgently needed to control and assess the skin absorption of acrylamide.

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Yangho Kim, Kyoung Sook Jeong, Yong-Hun Yun, Myoung-Soon Oh
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Lifestyle Variables Associated with Anemia in Female Workers: Choong Won Lee, Won Cheol Cho, Mi Young Lee, Suk Kwon Suh, Gui Yeon Kirn, Hae Won Shin; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1996;8(1):73-84. Published online February 29, 1996; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1996.8.1.73

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The study was conducted from May to July in 1995 to investigate lifestyle variables associated with anemia in some female workers of the six large plants in Taegu. Cases were selected by a doctor based on symptoms and physical exmination and controls were matched according to age limits (?) and plant employed. The final subjects analyzed were 385 excluding. 36 who had underlying diseases associated with anemia or many missing values. Anemia was defined by the blood hemoglobin level less than 12 g/dL. Anemic subjects were 190(49.4%) with nonsignificant age distribution between cases and controls. Univariate logistic regression showed that there was no statistically significant difference in sociodemographic and occupational variables. Number of pad used during menstruation (odds ratio, OR=1.03, 95% Confidence interval ei,1.00-l-1.05) was the only significant among the menstruation-related variables. None of the lifestyle variables were significant but those who consume more than 4 cups of coffee a day vs. none and animal iron intake showed borderline statistical significance with the ORs 2.60 and 0.99, respectively. After controlling for marital status, native place and number of pad with the multiple logistic regression, those who consume more than 4 cups of coffee a day vs. none showed statistically significant OR 2.93(95% CI 1.01-8.49). Animal iron intake and diet to lose weight indicated borderline significance with ORs 0.99(p=0.06) and 1.47(p=0.09), respectively. These results suggest that there are some anemia-associated lifestyle variables and these variables may be important for the behavior modification to prevent anemia in female workers.

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Association of Coffee or Green Tea with Ferritin or Hemoglobin in Premenopausal Women
Dagyeong Lee, Wonyoung Jung, Dong Wook Shin
Korean Journal of Family Medicine.2023; 44(2): 87. CrossRef

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A study on the knowledge and attitude of workers at health hazardous workplace in occupational health: Sung Kwan Lee, Mi Young Lee, Nung Ki Yoon, Seoung Hoon Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1992;4(2):162-180. Published online October 31, 1992; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1992.4.2.162

Abstract PDF: No abstract available.

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