bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The comparative effects between demonstration video and instruction manual on the performance for respiratory protective device
Authors: Sakol Teeravarunyou , Pongsak Kitirojpan
Published: October 2012

Background

Respiratory Protective Device has been used in non-residential areas such as hotels and offices. It is impossible to demonstrate how to use the safety device for all users. Many hotels insert the demonstration video of RPD into the television programme while the instruction manual is placed on the device.

Objectives

To compare whether demonstration video or instruction manual affects the usability of product in terms of donning time and human error.

Methods

Two groups of 30 non-experienced subjects were chosen to watch demonstration video and to read instruction manual. Then all subjects were assigned to use the product and to walk through the smoke tunnel.

Results/Outcome

The results showed that there was not much difference between demonstration video and instruction manual in terms of donning time. The demonstration video was useful to users to navigate the product like pulling the hood. Subjects still spent much time on the difficult operation like pressing the valve. For the human error, three of 10 tasks had less error. Subjects still made high error in difficult tasks.

Conclusions

The training on the use of device is required; otherwise, the product needs to be used easily.
Occupational skin disease—findings of a two  years study in Auckland
Authors: Vasisht CM
Published: October 2012

Background

Occupational skin disease (dermatitis) is one of the most widespread causes of discomfort and ill-health at work. Chronic dermatitis can make working impossible and causes workers to lose their jobs.

Aim

The aim of this paper is to present the findings of a 2 years study conducted in Auckland and Whangarei.

Methods

Workplaces were assessed using a checklist and, an employee questionnaire. Approximately 400 workplaces were visited and more than 1200 employees completed and returned the questionnaires. The industries/occupations included in the study were; bakers, butchers, boat builders, cleaners, dental technicians, dye manufacturers, florists, gardeners, health care workers, hairdressers, machine operators, metal manufacturers, nurses, panel-beaters, printers, plumbers, process workers, spray-painters, veterinarians, etc.

Results

Wet work and chemical exposure were found to be significantly associated with dermatitis prevalence. Thirty seven percent of the employed workforce reported symptoms of dermatitis. Twenty two percent of the workforce reported their symptoms as work related. Butchers, hairdressers and printers were found to be the most affected. Gender and skin tone does not appear to make much difference to dermatitis occurrence. About half (49%) of the workers in the age group of 15–30 years emerged as more prone to skin disorders. The hand is the most affected body part to suffer from dermatitis symptoms.

Significance

Educating workers, targeting high risk occupations, controlling causal agents, provision of good hygiene practices, and availability of engineering controls and personal protective clothing and equipment are some important steps that could be implemented to reduce prevalence of dermatitis in workplaces.
Telephonic interactive voice response and internet-based questionnaire for longitudinal injury and near-miss reporting
Authors: Santosh K Verma , Theodore K Courtney , Wen R Chang , Yueng-hsiang Huang , Melanye J Brennan , David A Lombardi , Melissa J Perry
Published: October 2012

Background

Telephonic interactive voice response (IVR) systems and Internet-based surveys have provided new methods of collecting longitudinal data for injury researchers. A choice of multiple survey modes has been shown to increase response rate. Different survey methods can lead to different responses to same questions.

Objectives

This study examined data equivalency and loss to follow-up rate from these two survey modes.

Methods

475 workers from 36 limited-service restaurants participated in a 12-week prospective-cohort study of slipping. Participants were given a choice of reporting their weekly experience by telephone using an IVR system, Internet-based survey, or by completing and mailing postal questionnaire forms. All survey materials were made available in three languages: English, Spanish and Portuguese. Demographic differences, loss to follow-up and reported rate of slipping were compared among those who chose internet-based survey and IVR.

Results

Out of 475 participants, 315 chose IVR (66.3%), 154 chose internet-based survey (32.4%), and 6 chose paper based survey (1.3%) to complete their weekly surveys. Younger participants, English speakers, high school students and college graduates were more likely to choose the Internet-based survey mode over the IVR mode. Loss to follow-up rate was not significantly different by survey mode. Rate of slipping was also not significantly different by survey mode (RR 0.78 95% CI 0.57 to 1.06).

Significance

Results provided no evidence of differential loss to follow-up or difference in the reported rate of slipping by survey mode. It should be possible to combine Internet-based survey and IVR to collect longitudinal information about injury causing events and near misses.
Documented evidence of agricultural injury in China
Authors: Liu JJ , Yao HY , Zheng WJ , Xiang HY
Published: October 2012

Background

Up until 2010, there were more than 1600 peer reviewed articles on agriculture related injuries around the world. However, relatively few literature reviews existed concerning China's agricultural injuries.

Objectives

To describe the documented evidence concerning agricultural injury in China and to identify topics for future research.

Methods

Literature search and review were conducted to collect publications that were relevant to agricultural injury in China. The process included defining agricultural injury for the purpose of this study, selecting articles according to inclusion criteria and extracting data from each paper. Descriptive methods were used to analyse the contents, research approaches, distribution of authors, and cooperation percentage of agricultural injury studies.

Results

After applying the inclusion criteria, 89 articles were included in this study. The author collaboration percentage (number of articles with more than one author divided by number of total articles) and the institutional collaboration percentage (number of articles with more than one organisation divided by number of total articles) among the 89 articles were 85.4% and 42.7%, respectively. Most of the authors are affiliated with a Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or an academic institution located in 10 of the 31 provinces in mainland China. Among the 89 articles, only six were on injuries related to agricultural work, the rest (83) dealt with injuries among rural residents with or without clarifying occupations or ongoing activities.

Significances

Our study is the first to describe the documented evidence on agricultural injuries in China and identify topics for future research.
Are food delivery riders motorcycle safety helmets safe?
Authors: Kulanthayan S , Lai GS , Kaviyarasu Y , Afiah M Z Nor
Published: October 2012

Background

In Malaysia traffic crashes are a huge problem with 414 421 road crashes and 6872 deaths in year 2010 (PDRM, 2011). Motorcycle deaths contribute about 60% of total fatalities in Malaysia.

Aim

The main aim of this study is to determine the factors that influence standard of the safety helmets used amongst food delivery workers by presence of Standard and Industrial Research Institute of Malaysia (SIRIM) certification label.

Methods

A cross sectional study was conducted amongst 150 food delivery workers from fast food outlets in Malaysia. During observation, safety helmets were classified as standard safety helmet in the presence of SIRIM label. They were approached for questionnaire participation once consent was obtained and were requested to exchange their safety helmet voluntarily with a new one after the interview. χ2and logistic regression analysis was applied to determine the significance and OR of the variables studied, respectively (penetration test, age, education level, knowledge, crash history, types of safety helmet, marital status and years of riding experience) against the presence of SIRIM label.

Results

More than half (55.3%) of the fast food delivery workers are using non-standard helmets. Safety helmets that failed the penetration test, half-shell safety helmets and riders with more years of riding experience were in high odds of being/using a non-standard safety helmet.

Significance

Non-standard (non-SIRIM approved) helmets were more likely to be half-shell helmets, were more likely to fail the standards penetration test, and were more likely to be worn by older, more experienced riders.
Tattooists, body Piercers and Blood Borne Viruses
Authors: Brotherton M
Published: October 2012

Background

Body piercing and tattooing are increasingly popular invasive procedures with potential health risks. Operators and clients risk transmitting blood-borne viruses and a range of bacterial infections if the correct precautions are not taken. In South Australia there is no accredited system of apprenticeship for Body Piercers or Tattooists.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

This project aimed to prevent the incidence of workplace infection within body piercing and tattooing businesses located in South Australia.

Methods

Specialist infection control and blood awareness educational workshops were designed for tattooists and piercers to focus on how to minimise risk to themselves, their employees and clients. The third workshop was developed for Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) to provide them with infection control strategies to adequately inspect these premises with confidence.

Results/Outcome

The workshops were successful as over 50 body piercers, 80 tattooists and 25 EHOs were trained. 73% of the respondents to the workshop evaluation stated that they had changed their workplace practices due to the workshop. The industry group also contributed to the development of industry specific resources.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

This is a unique industry that has lived on the ‘fringe of acceptance’ for a long time. This project has given the industry the opportunity to work collaboratively with government agencies and contribute to improved safety of their industry.
Analytical laboratory safety in Kmutt, Thailand
Authors: Suchada Chaisawadi , Solot Suwanyeun
Published: October 2012

Background

Analytical laboratory is the high risk workplace that may harm to health and safety of the operator. The main hazards in analytical laboratory came from chemical and biological substance and need to have proper safety management.

Objectives

To develop the appropriated safety management system and safety workplace for analytical laboratory operators.

Methods

The developed system consists of three main parts including (1) Chemical and hazardous waste management (2) Safety management by safety training with proper safety equipments /personal protective equipment (PPE) providing (3) Risk assessment. The system has been implemented in eight pilot analytical laboratories in KMUTT, Thailand for 1 year (January 2011–December 2011).

Results/Outcome

The studied results showed 1630 chemicals usage and13, 299 kilograms generated in the pilot laboratories. Safety training with proper safety equipments/PPE has been provided for all laboratory operators. Risk assessment have been performed and indicated that 72.22% meet a standard safety workplace, 98% passed safety training course, 80% used PPE for their work and 100% have their yearly medical check according to the hazard risk.

Conclusions

Low risk for all laboratories operators in this study has been concluded.

As a result of this study, the developed safety system can help to maintain a sustainable management to all staffs and help to make safety workplace for all who work in analytical laboratory.
Workplace violence against nurses in hospitals in Guangdong, China
Authors: Chen ZH , Xia HY
Published: October 2012

Background

Violent incidents can appear everywhere including hospitals. Nurses are the main working population in health facilities with female gender mostly. How is workplace violence against this special group in Guangdong Province?

Objective

To examine the epidemiological features of nurse workplace violence.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was carried out on hospital nurses from four different cities in Guangdong Province.

Results

Among 3319 nurses investigated, 2085 have been subjected to workplace violence in the past 12 months preceding this survey with a rate of 62.82%, accounting for 62.07% of psychological violence and 15.06% of physical violence respectively. Most workplace violence incidents happened in Accident and Emergency departments (78.71%). Nurse stations (53.61%) and wards (28.62%) were two leading places of workplace violence. One third of workplace violence incidents came forth during night shift. Male nurses were more vulnerable to workplace violence against female (χ23.263; p 0.017). Those victims below 40 years were at greatest risk of violence (OR 3.274; 95% CI 2.417 to 3.871).

Significance

Magnitude of nurse workplace violence in hospitals in Guangdong Province and necessity of taking comprehensive measures with nurse individuals, hospitals, government and the Media working together for workplace violence prevention and control.
Risk and protective factors of self-immolation: a population based case control study from Iran
Authors: Ahmadi Alireza , Mohammadi Reza , Almasi Afshin , Sadeghi-Bazargani Homayoun , Bazargan-Hejazi Shahrzad
Published: October 2012

Objective

After disaster and breast cancer, self-immolation is the third leading cause of years of life lost among women in Iran. The aim of this study is to investigate risk and protective factors for self-immolation patients.

Methods

In a population based case-control study, 151 consecutive cases of deliberate self-inflicted burns admitted to the regional Burn Centre (Imam Khomeini hospital in Kermanshah province, Iran) were compared with 302 controls selected from the community and matched by sex, age, and living area. All cases and controls were reviewed for demographic variables, familial variables, adverse life events, mental disorders and potential protective factors.

Results

Using Multivariate logistic regression model of risk and protective factors, eight variables were significantly associated with self-immolation. Family size, Addiction of spouse, Individual history of suicide attempts, Adjustment disorders, Opium dependence, and major depression, were increased the risk of self-immolation and Consulting Services Applying and anxiety about School/University Performance were played role as protective factors. Other variables were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Findings from this study suggest Family size, Addiction of spouse, Individual history of suicide attempts, Adjustment disorders, Opium dependence, major depression, are risk factors for self-immolation and Consulting Services Applying and anxiety School/University Performance were protective factors.

Screening, identification, and education of at-risk individuals on problem-solving and other aspects of coping skills, as well as interpersonal relationships could be appropriate preventive actions and strategies to reduce self-immolation introduce in Iran.
Policy analysis and evaluation of effectiveness of a suicide prevention initiative in Montreal
Authors: Burrows S , Perron S
Published: October 2012

Background

Jacques-Cartier Bridge in Montreal, Canada, was one of the sites with the highest number of suicides in North America. Following extensive research and lobbying by an expert group, a suicide prevention barrier was constructed on the bridge.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

(1) To analyse factors contributing to the successful implementation of this suicide prevention initiative; (2) To investigate if the barrier led to displacement of suicides to other jumping sites.

Methods

We used Shiffman and Smith's Political Priority Framework to analyse the characteristics, ideas, actor strength, and political context associated with the initiative. Poisson regression was used to assess changes in annual rates of suicide by jumping from Jacques-Cartier Bridge, other bridges and other sites after installation of the suicide barrier.

Results/Outcomes

The presence of powerful, credible and committed actors and coherence of ideas used to convey messages about suicide and its prevention, based on scientific evidence, were important for the success of the prevention initiative. Support of the media was also critical. Results show no evidence of displacement to other jumping sites after installation of the barrier.

Significance/Contribution to Field

The study provides useful information on the successful implementation of a public health initiative at a local level that can inform future policy initiatives, not only for suicide prevention but other health outcomes. The barrier on Jacques-Cartier Bridge was effective in reducing suicides. The design of a barrier is important for its effectiveness and is preferably considered in the construction of new bridges with the potential to become symbolic suicide sites.
A study on undergraduate suicidal ideation and coping setback manner in China
Authors: Chi GB , Wang SY , Xia MH
Published: October 2012

Background

Undergraduate are the high risk population in suicide, their incidence rate is higher than other younger people. Suicidal ideation is the risk factor of suicide. Some domestic scholars on suicidal ideation have studied, but the influence factors are still not very clear. Our aim is to explore when undergraduate suffer setbacks adopt different coping manner and suicidal ideation relationship.

Purpose

To understand the undergraduate when they encounter setback the manner and should to the way, analyse it with to have the suicidal ideation reciprocity, for strengthens the college student anti-setback ability education.

Methods

Using cluster sampling survey to investigate 780 college students.

Results

When college student encountered the setback attack, the positive attitude to score points is 1.82, negative is 1.17. Suicidal ideation picking out rate is 7.4%, male student more than female, has 1.7 times. The coping setback manner and the suicidal ideation have statistically significant difference. Positive manner students have the suicidal ideation fewer (t=4.87, p=0.001), negative manner students have the suicidal ideation many (t=3.32, p=0.001). Female student, student's family for his university burden is not difficult, they can adopt a positive attitude to deal with the setback. But father's occupation, the living expenses originate to loan, these students have negative attitude when they face setback.

Significance

When the undergraduate encountered setback, held the negative manner to have suicidal ideation proportion to be higher. So, when undergraduate suffer setback attack, transforms their negative manner, it will effectively cut off the suicidal ideation, to prevent the suicide behaviour.
Analysis of the cases of trauma and suicide attempts serviced by University General Hospital ‘Tsaritsa Yoanna—ISUL’, Sofia over 1 year period
Authors: Koycheva F , Korukov B , Hristova R , Yankov E , Karadimov D , Tzenev I , Popov R
Published: October 2012

Aim

To estimate the rate of hospital admissions for trauma and burns due to external causes (ICD-10) for a 1 year period in comparison with the overall number of admissions in a university hospital providing emergency services for a city with a population of 1.5 million. A secondary analysis involved identifying the types of external causes and assessing their preventability and cost.

Methods

Analysis of case notes from five wards (Ophtalmology; Orthopedics and Trauma; Ear, Nose and Throat; Intensive Care; Neurosurgery) for the period of 1 January 2011–1 January 2012. The trauma cases and burns due to external causes as well as suicide attempts were summarised. The ratio between trauma due to extraneous causes and overall number admissions was calculated, the percentage of cases leading to long-term disability, their financial cost and the estimated cost of their prevention.

Results

We found that preventable traumas due to external causes comprise a significant part of all admissions, with ophtalmology, hand trauma and suicide attempts in untreated psychiatric disorders contributing considerably. Our secondary analysis revealed a high percentage of long-term disability as a direct result of these preventable traumas. These data highlight the need to increase prevention efforts, as well as the need to register hospitalised patients under section ‘External causes’ of ICD-10 when appropriate.
PREVALENCE OF DRUNK DRIVING IN GHANA
Authors: Damsere-Derry J , Afukaar F , Agyemeng W , Ackaah W
Published: October 2012

Background

Alcohol impairment is and established risk factor for the incidence and severity of road traffic crashes. Whereas the developed countries have dedicated resources to combating this menace, drunk-driving research and preventive programs are at rudimentary stages in developing countries. The objective of this study was to establish baseline prevalence of drunk-driving in Ghana.

Methods

Systematic roadside random sampling was used to determine the prevalence of drunk-driving in the country. Alco-sensor v breathalyzers were used for screening drivers to determine whether they have ingested any alcohol before driving their vehicles. If alcohol was detected, a second test involving administration of disposable mouthpieces to establish the actual volume of alcohol in their breaths was conducted.

Results

2,736 drivers were randomly stopped and their BrAC measured with the breathalyzers. In all, 8.7% had detectable alcohol in their breaths with 5.5% exceeding the legal limit of 0.08%. BrAC measurements were converted to BAC using the BrAC:BAC ratio of 2,300:1 for easy understanding in Ghana. A stratified analysis shows that 64% of the drivers who tested positive for alcohol recorded BAC exceeding the legal limit. 19% had BAC between 0.05 and 0.08% whilst the remainder 17% had ingested alcohol ranging between 0.001 to 0.05.

Conclusion

Drunk-driving prevalence in Ghana is very high compared with many industrialized countries. It is therefore recommended that enhanced enforcement, driver education and stricter laws such as reduced alcohol limits for young and novice drivers are encouraged to combat the incidence of drunk-driving and their associated traffic injuries in Ghana.
Alcohol and psychoactive substance related to road traffic injuries in Pakistan
Authors: Khoso A
Published: October 2012

Objectives

To carry out comprehensive analysis of available Road Traffic Crash data from various sources to estimate alcohol and psychoactive substance related Road Traffic Injuries in Pakistan and to analyse Police road traffic accident recording system to know constrains which lead to underreporting of alcohol and psychoactive substance related Road Traffic Injuries in Pakistan

Methods

Road Traffic Accident Data of National Highways and Motorways Police and Road Traffic Injury Research and Prevention Centre was used for estimating alcohol and psychoactive substance related Road Traffic Injuries in Pakistan and injury surveillance system of National Highways and Motorways Police was analysed to know the constrains which result in underreporting of alcohol and psychoactive related road traffic crashes in Pakistan.

Result

Surprising, alcohol or any psychoactive substance has not been attributed as a cause of road traffic crash in both the dataset, which shows high level of underreporting mainly due to absence of relevant field in the road accident reporting system, restrictions in prosecuting drunk and psychoactive drivers and deficient Police training and capability to check drunk or driving under influence of psychoactive substance.

Conclusion

There is either little or no understanding of issue of alcohol or psychoactive active related road traffic injuries in Pakistan due to which drunk or drugged driving has not been reported by National Highways and Motorways Police or Road Traffic Injury Research and Prevention Centre.
Self-reported drunk driving among Finnish adolescents
Authors: Markkula J , Raitasalo K , Lillsunde P , Ahlström S
Published: October 2012

Background

Drunk-driving compromises traffic safety as it impairs driving skills even at very low blood alcohol concentrations among young drivers. According to previous research, the drunk-driving arrest incidence rate of 18–19-year-olds was twice that of the general population (15–84-year-olds) and also their proportion of alcohol-related crashes was high.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

The aims of this study were to investigate the frequency and patterns of adolescents' self-reported drunk-driving.

Methods

The data were collected with a nationally representative cluster sample of 15–16-year-old pupils (n=3744) as part of the European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs (ESPAD) in 2011.

Results/Outcome

According to the results, 15% of boys and 11% of girls reported that they had driven a motor vehicle after drinking alcohol or using drugs during the past 12 months. 4% of them reported also at that time getting into a traffic accident. The vehicle used by drunken drivers was in most cases a moped or a scooter. Girls reported a bit more often than boys being a passenger in a motor vehicle driven by a drunk-driver (16% vs 10%). Typically the driver was a friend (77%), but in 19% of cases it was a relative, a family member or other acquaintance. 4% reported the driver was a total stranger.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

Different professionals working with adolescents should emphasise the risks related to drunken driving, for example, as part of school health care counselling. Also a lower blood alcohol level to adolescents and young people should be considered in addition to targeted road checks.
Investigating the existence of blood alcohol content policy for commercial drivers in Nigeria
Authors: Ojugbana C , Magbor A , Oba D , Ojugbana D , Okonkwo B
Published: October 2012

Background

Credible studies have established that alcohol consumption by commercial drivers is a major contributory factor to road crashes and that alcohol abuse by drivers accounts for about 13% of preventable road traffic injuries in Nigeria. This is real threat to about half of Nigeria's 150 million population especially in regions where alcohol consumption is not prohibited by religious affiliation.

Aim

To investigate the existence and effectiveness of Alcohol control policy for commercial drivers in Nigeria.

Methods

This study was carried out in Nigeria's 36 states, 800 questionnaires were randomly distributed to commercial drivers in all the states. Existing traffic safety laws were reviewed both at state and national levels.

Outcome

In all the states investigated, there was no state legislation on Blood Alcohol Content. (BAC) limit. The national road traffic laws reviewed showed that drunk driving was an offence but no established BAC limit. 95% of respondents interviewed stated that they have never been stopped by any enforcement agency for BAC test. All the 40 road safety officers interviewed affirmed the existence of a law on drunk driving but agreed that no enforcement was being carried out.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

The study showed that the non existence of BAC limit policy hinders enforcement and prosecution of drivers who drive under the influence of alcohol. BAC limit policy is very necessary because it will help provide evidence for prosecution of offenders, in turn discourage commercial drivers from drink driving, thus saving about 13% of preventable road deaths on Nigerian roads.
Role of alcohol in hospitalised road trauma in Viet Nam
Authors: Passmore Jonathon , Phuong Nam Nguyen
Published: October 2012

Background

Road traffic injury is a leading cause of death and disability in Vietnam, but information on the contributions of specific behavioural risk factors is limited.

Purpose

To assess the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of road traffic injured patients presenting at three provincial and central hospitals in the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam by age, sex and road user type.

Methods

A descriptive cross sectional study measuring BAC in all consenting road traffic injured patients presenting at three hospitals between July 2009 and September 2010. All results were anonymous and summary information on key variables were sent to MOH and the WHO on a monthly basis.

Results

Of 36 418 road traffic injured patients presenting to these hospitals during the study, BAC analysis was completed on 14 990 patients (41.2%), representing all patients 15 years of age and above, who consented to anonymous testing. BAC results ranged from zero to 0.589 g/dl blood, with a mean of 0.0441 g/dl. Of all patients tested, 56.8% had no detectable alcohol. Motorcycle riders were the most common patients represented in the tested sample (70.7%), with 27.8% having a BAC above the legal limit (0.05 g/dl). Car or other vehicle drivers represented 2.7% of the sample, with 63.4% tested having a BAC above zero (0 g/dl), the legal limit for these road users

Significance

This preliminary study indicates that 29.1% of injured car drivers and motorcycle riders exceeded the legal BAC limit for operating a vehicle, suggestive that strengthening enforcement of drink–driving to be urgent national road safety priority.
Computerised assessment of alcohol use and readiness to change in Spanish-speaking emergency department patients
Authors: Lotfipour S , Cisneros V , Hoonpongsimanont W , Roumani S , Chakravarthy B , Anderson C
Published: October 2012

Background

The rapid growth of the Latino population in the US requires increased attention for prevention, screening, and treatment for alcohol-related problems. We offer English and Spanish-speaking emergency department (ED) patients a computerised alcohol screening and brief intervention (CASI) programme. CASI utilises the Alcohol Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) for screening, compares daily and weekly drinking to National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) thresholds for safe drinking and provides a brief intervention as necessary.

Objectives

To assess drinking patterns of Spanish-speaking patients using a bilingual CASI tablet.

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary university hospital ED between 2006 and 2010. Data from 1816 Spanish-speaking ED patients was analysed using descriptive statistics, the χ2test for independence, and the Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test for comparisons using quantitative variables.

Results

Overall, 15% of Spanish-speaking patients were at-risk drinkers, and 5% had an AUDIT score consistent with alcohol dependency (≥20). A higher percentage of Spanish-speaking males than females were at-risk drinkers or dependent. Spanish speaking males exhibited higher frequency of drinking days per week and higher number of drinks per day compared to females. Non-drinking behaviour increased in older patients and at-risk drinkers decreased. Males and females were ready to change their behaviour after intervention, 61% and 67% respectively.

Significance

CASI found significant at-risk and dependent drinking behaviour in Spanish-speaking ED patients. The majority of patients were ready to change their drinking behaviour. More alcohol screening and brief intervention should be tested and become readily accessible for Spanish-speaking patients.
Drinking behaviour and readiness to change in a trauma population and feasibility of Computerised Alcohol Screening and Brief Intervention (CASI)
Authors: Lotfipour S , Cisneros V , Hoonpongsimanont W , Anderson C , Roumani S , Chakravarthy B
Published: October 2012

Background

Half of severely injured trauma patients screen positive for alcohol use. Barriers for screening include language and administration time. We developed Computerised Alcohol Screening and brief Intervention (CASI) to address these barriers.

Objectives

To assess drinking patterns in trauma patients using the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT), examine self-reported readiness-to-change scores after brief intervention, and to evaluate the CASI feasibility in a trauma population.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary care university hospital, level I trauma centre. CASI was administered to adult trauma patients (age ≥18), using a bilingual (English/Spanish) tablet. We analysed data using the χ2test for independence and descriptive statistics.

Results

Out of 1145 trauma patients, 286 (25%) patients drank more than recommended (AUDIT score ≥8) and 92 (4%) patients were dependent. More Spanish-speaking males compared to English-speaking males drank above recommendation and were dependent. Half of patients reporting an AUDIT ≥8 rated themselves eight or higher on a 10-point readiness-to-change scale. No statistically significant difference (p>0.05) in readiness-to-change score was found among age, gender, and language. Trauma patients found CASI easy (92%) and a comfort in use (87%). Median length of implementation time ranged from 3–9 min.

Significance

CASI identified and provided personalised feedback to trauma patients who drank above recommendation. Half of trauma patients with an AUDIT score ≥8 were ready to change their drinking behaviour after CASI administration. Bilingual CASI improved alcohol screening and feasibility by reducing the language barrier and administrative time.
‘Just another Saturday night’
Authors: Cheyne I , Anderson L
Published: October 2012

Background

Hawkes Bay (East Coast NZ) is made up of 4 districts within the region including, two medium sized cities and two rural communities. Hawkes Bay features significantly in statistics involving youth and alcohol serious and fatal crashes. ‘Just Another Saturday Night’ is a resource featuring a local crash. Two youth where killed and two critically injured. The purpose of the digital video disc is to demonstrate the full impact of a crash on the victims and associated individuals.

Aims/Objective/Purpose

Overall aim is to reduce incidence, severity of youth and alcohol crashes and demonstrate the broader impacts on passengers, families, rescue services and the community as a whole.

Raise awareness drivers are responsible for all road users' safety. Change the attitude of young drivers around driving impaired and increasing passenger safety.

Provide unique educational opportunities in varying venues and present these involving Jared, survivor of the crash to further reduce risk, harm.

Methods

Conducted over 2000 surveys prior to the presentation to identify the audience understanding of consequences of driving impaired, we then undertook 2000 post surveys. These highlighted a change in attitude in 92% of the participants.

Results/Outcome

There has been a reduction in accepted claims involving motor vehicle crashes on public roads. An example is provided for: Hastings District 2009/10: 674-2010/11: 586 Napier City 2009/10: 530-2010/11: 472.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

With the success of the resource we have launched this nationally and continue to have outstanding feedback from educators across New Zealand
The burden of alcohol-related injuries and violence–2020 a safer Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Singh GR , Williams R
Published: October 2012

Background

Alcohol is a major risk factor for the global burden of disease and injury. By 2020 injuries are predicted to be the third leading cause of death and disability worldwide.

Aim

To ensure alcohol-related policies, plans and practices are informed by the best available evidence.

Method

Alcohol Healthwatch undertook a comprehensive review of published literature on alcohol's role in injuries (unintentional and intentional), and the effectiveness of interventions to reduce the burden of alcohol-related injuries.

Results

Alcohol-attributed injuries (intentional and unintentional) account for almost half of all alcohol-attributable deaths worldwide. In New Zealand more than 50% of deaths and 70% years of life lost each year are due to alcohol-related injuries. There is a clear dose-response relationship between alcohol consumption and injuries. Risk of an injury is almost 3 times greater when alcohol is consumed. We found that alcohol is a significant risk factor in a range of unintentional injuries including falls, fire, burns, drowning and near drowning, workplace injuries and poisoning, and intentional injuries including intimate partner violence, sexual violence/assault, child and elder abuse/neglect, suicide and self harm. We also found that there are interventions that can effectively reduce alcohol-related injuries and violence.

Significance

We will summarise our findings and present a framework for a more effective response to reduce the burden of alcohol-related injuries in New Zealand.
First standardised field sobriety test in Brazil
Authors: Sousa TRV , Chandran A , Schmitz AR , Pasa GG , Gonçalves VM , Bastos TM , Seiffert BE , Hyder A , Pechansky F
Published: October 2012

Background

In Brazil, drivers are subject to arrest if they are found driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) over 0.06%. At BACs between 0.02% and 0.06%, they have their driver's license withheld. The use of a field sobriety test would be an appropriate alternative in the absence of a breathalyzer or to test for other psychoactive substances. This study reflects the first experience with the Standardised Field Sobriety Test (SFST) in Brazil.

Aim

To determine the accuracy of the application of the first Standardised Field Sobriety Test conducted in Brazil.

Method

During police roadblocks, self-trained researchers applied the SFST on volunteer drivers (N=718), using the standardised 3-test battery (Horizontal-Gaze-Nystagmus, Walk-and-Turn, One-Leg Stand). A questionnaire on alcohol consumption and driver behaviour was conducted by researchers and the breathalyzer test was conducted by police officers (16.4% refused to perform it).

Results

The breathalyzer test confirmed that of the drivers with BAC above 0.08%, 86% failed in the SFST, which resulted in 58% accuracy. However, considering the BAC limit in Brazil (0.06%), we have similar accuracy (57.9%): 70% of the drivers failed at least one of the standardised 3-test. These tests were conducted in two rounds, allowing researchers to hone their skills, which resulted in higher accuracy in the second round (65.1%).

Significance

The SFSTs are valid tests that are feasible to use in field situations in Brazil, serving as indicators of the presence of alcohol or other substances. The use of the SFST as legal evidence could improve enforcement in Brazil.
Drink or drunk: developing partnerships to assist licensed premises in minimising alcohol-related violence
Authors: Deborah Costello , Mary Ashe , Sarai Stevely
Published: October 2012

Background

The Drink or Drunk project was funded through the National Drug Law Enforcement Research Fund. The project examines why staff at licensed premises continue to serve to intoxication despite current laws and interventions.

Objectives

To improve understanding into why staff continue to serve to intoxication, examine factors that increase the probability of staff serving to intoxication and to identify new strategies to reduce the likelihood of this occurring.

Method

The methodology involved a combination of one to one interviews and an online survey across both the regional and metropolitan areas of Western Australia. This qualitative research was disseminated to the communities in which the research took place as well as to other organisations within the alcohol and other drugs field.

Outcome

Some of the recommendations include;

1. Responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training requirements to be standardised across the nation

2. RSA training to include patron management techniques

3. Programme to work with licensed premises to help them take more responsibility for the role they play in preventing negative patron behaviour

Significance

The research provides insights into understanding the fear and rationale behind why staff continue to serve patrons to intoxication. A network of partnerships both on a state and national level is necessary to apply the recommendations through a coordinated, consistent, holistic approach.
Community perceptions and experiences of alcohol-related crime and safety in entertainment precincts
Authors: Wiggers J , Tindall J , Groombridge D , Gillham K , Miller P , Palmer D
Published: October 2012

Background

Licensed premises in entertainment precincts are associated with alcohol-related harm, especially violence and anti-social behaviour.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

To determine experiences of alcohol-related crime and perceptions of safety in local entertainment precincts; and whether these varied based on city of residence, proximity of residence to the precinct, visiting the precincts at night, and risky drinking.

Methods

A randomised cross-sectional household survey was undertaken in two regional cities (NSW and Victoria, Australia) using telephone surveys in 2010. The data were analysed by frequencies, and differences were analysed with χ2and Fishers Exact tests.

Results/Outcome

694 residents participated in the survey (53%). In relation to their local entertainment precinct, 90% thought alcohol was a major issue, 77% thought that alcohol consumed at licensed premises contributed largely to local crime and 84% perceived violence as being the most significant issue relating to intoxicated people. Sixty-eight per cent of respondents wouldn't walk alone after dark, and 76% wouldn't wait for public transport alone after dark. Respondents that had not visited the precinct after dark in the last year were significantly more likely to not walk or wait for transport alone (80% and 86% respectively). Respondents who consumed alcohol at risky levels were less likely to perceive alcohol as being a problem and were more likely to walk or wait for transport alone at night.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

The results from this survey provide valuable information on the experiences and perception of crime and safety in regional entertainment precincts.
Drug poisoning deaths by urbanisation and geographic region, US 1999–2009
Authors: Margaret Warner , Li-Hui Chen
Published: October 2012

Background

Beginning in 2009, drug poisoning deaths outnumber traffic fatalities in the US.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

The goal of this study is to examine drug poisoning death rates by degree of urbanisation and geographic region.

Methods

The US National Vital Statistics Multiple Cause Mortality files from 1999–2009 were analysed. Drug poisoning deaths were defined by ICD-10 UCOD: X40-X44, X60-X64, X85, Y10-Y14. Metropolitan counties were assigned to 4 levels: large core and large fringe (population >1 million); medium (population 250 000–999 999); and small (population<250 000). Nonmetropolitan counties were assigned to micropolitan or noncore. Age-adjusted death rates (AADR) were calculated by urbanisation and many factors (not shown). Average annual percent change (APC) in rates and trends were tested using Joinpoint regression.

Results/Outcome

In the US from 1999–2009, the drug poisoning AADR nearly doubled, from 6.1 per 100 000 population to 12.0. Increases were seen at each urbanisation level. However, AADR in rural areas increased more rapidly than the metro areas with an APC in rates of 12% while the urban core increased slower at 4.4%. Rates varied by region of the county, for instance in the Appalachia the AADR (15.6) was 34% higher than the rate for the rest of the US.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

The variability in magnitude and trend by degree of urbanisation and region suggest that societal and structural factors are influencing drug poisoning death rates. Prevention efforts typically focus on more urban areas; however, rural areas should join forces to prevent these deaths using regionally appropriate strategies.
Drinking and driving in Vietnam: prevalence, and public knowledge, attitudes, and practices
Authors: Bachani AM , Cuong P , Zamamiri Y , Quang LN , Passmore J , Nguyen PN , Hyder AA
Published: October 2012

Background

Injuries a leading cause of death in Vietnam and road traffic crashes account for half of those deaths. Alcohol involvement in road traffic crashes remains high.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

This study aims to illustrate the prevalence of drinking and driving, and knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) related to it in three provinces in Vietnam.

Methods

Observational studies to establish the prevalence of drinking and driving were carried out in collaboration with the local police. Roadside KAP surveys were also conducted in all three provinces. Participants were asked questions about awareness of traffic laws, and their own alcohol use and driving practices.

Results/Outcomes

The prevalence of drinking and driving remains high, ranging from 5% to 52% for the period of November 2010 to July 2011. 4 rounds of KAP interviews conducted in 2011 show that almost all the respondents of the increased risk of a road traffic crash due to alcohol consumption. However, a significant proportion (45%) reported drinking and driving in the past. Most common reasons cited for this practice were: ‘feeling conscious’, no alternative, and being near home or work. Preferred alternatives to drinking and driving, if available, were: leaving with a non-drinker, resting until ‘feeling conscious’ and drinking less. Knowledge on drink driving legislation remains low (13–29%).

Significance/Contribution to the Field

The results of this study highlight the need to increase awareness of legislation against drinking and driving in Vietnam, as well as the need to develop programmes that serve as alternatives to address this problem in Vietnam.
Effectiveness of web-based expert system for substance abuse prevention in Korean adolescents
Authors: Bae JY , Bae AC
Published: October 2012

Background

Substance abuse in adolescents is one of the most serious health problems in Korea. Recently, adolescent's smoking, drinking and drug abuse increasing rapidly.

Purposes

There were two purposes of this study. First was to describe the development process of a user-centered, web-based expert system for substance abuse prevention with the following objectives: (i) to empower adolescent by informing them how to prevent and manage substance abuse, (ii) to provide evidence-based interventions. Another purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of this system on smoking and drinking behaviour in adolescents.

Methods

Development process included four distinct phases: a needs assessment, analysis, design/development/testing, and the application release. After development of the system, the effectiveness was examined with forty adolescents who were recruited from the community. The non-equivalent control group pretest-posttest design was used.

Results

The web site was released using the URL: http://www.baejy.com/yebang/. This system includes intervention programmes to relieve substance abuse such as preventive education, cognitive behavioural therapy, assertiveness training, anger management, self confidence training and family therapy. After the 8-week period of intervention, experimental group showed a significant decrease in their smoking and drinking behaviour.

Contribution to the Field

The result was a web-based expert system for substance abuse prevention with a high degree of usability with an evidence-based intervention. The author believes that this development design will be utilised to create safety education programmes suitable for other safety education programme as well as high-risk populations.