Cardiovascular Dysfunction Related to Threat, Avoidance, and Vigilant Work: Application of Event-related Potential and Critique

An integrative approach is suggested to track symbolically simulated work environment stressors, as an act to burden higher cortical function in the exposed groups. ERP would be made together with measurement of end organ stress responses as well as measurements of perceived conditions. Field studies would be the necessary complement. The following conclusions are culled from the reviewed literature: among the pilots, cardiovascular problems are the most important cause of loss of licence in Europe and North America. Interactions with coworkers for air traffic controllers have been associated with cardiovascular disability. Comparing various degrees of heart disease severity among professional drivers, the IHD drivers showed the smallest N2 amplitudes and the greatest diastolic blood pressure reactivity. P300 target amplitude showed an inverse correlation with number of work hours behind the wheel. The IHD drivers were envisioned in a phase of disturbance of the selective attentional process. An interrelation has been found between Event-Related Slow Potential ERSP and midinterval heart rate acceleration associated with displeasure and arousal. A positive correlation has been found between the amplitude of the ERSP and ventricular arrhythmia rate in cardiac patients. Lowering of arrhythmia rate in response to antiarrhythmic agents was associated with a significant attenuation of the ERSP. Either acceleration or deceleration is associated with the appearance of the late CNV to the aversive noise burst. There might be a "common generator behind both anticipatory heart rate responses and cortical events." CNV might be related to frontally mediated stress mechanisms.