bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of repeated occupational exposure to lead, cessation of exposure, and chelation on levels of lead in bone
Authors: Hu Howard , Pepper Lewis , Goldman Rose
Published: April 2007

A sensitive K‐X‐ray fluorescence (K‐XRF) instrument was used to measure lead levels in the tibia and patella on a series of twelve subjects who had relatively well‐documented histories of lead exposure and blood lead levels. For some subjects, K‐XRF measurements were taken at multiple points in time, and before and after chelation with EDTA (ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid). Results confirm that K‐XRF measured bone lead levels correspond to cumulative blood lead indices and not to current blood lead levels. Moreover, the data suggest that bone lead levels; (1) correspond to urinary lead following the EDTA mobilization test unless previous chelation has occurred; (2) rise initially after lead exposure ceases and blood lead levels decrease, probably from redistribution from soft tissue, and then fall; and (3) do not decrease with a 3‐ to 5‐day course of therapeutic EDTA chelation. K‐XRF levels in the patella were noted to decrease more rapidly than levels in the tibia after cessation of lead exposure, a finding that probably reflects the greater turnover of lead in trabecular bone than in cortical bone.
Difficulties of attribution of effect in workers exposed to fiberglass and asbestos
Authors: Kilburn Kaye H. , Warshaw Raphael H.
Published: April 2007

Man‐made mineral fibers have many properties of asbestos that raise concern about their safety. We studied 175 fiberglass production workers, using chest radiographs, measurement of total lung capacity, chest examinations, and occupational and medical histories. Pulmonary volumes and flows were calculated as percent of predicted, adjusted for height, age, ethnicity, and cigarette smoking. Thirty‐one men with radiographically evident small irregular opacities of profusion of 1/0 or greater and/or pleural abnormalities were observed. Eight of 38 men with such changes said they had been exposed only to fiberglass; the other 23 with radiologically detectable pleural and/or pulmonary changes were among the 137 whose histories indicated that they had been exposed to asbestos and to fiberglass. Pulmonary function measurements as group means were reduced in the 175: FVC was 94.8% predicted, FEV, was 91.3% predicted, FEF25–75 was 80.7% predicted, FEF25–85 was 73.1% predicted and FEV1/FVC was 0.73. Total lung capacity (TLC) was elevated to 114.2% predicted (mean) and RV/TLC (mean 0.46) was also elevated. Although only 78% of fiberglass production workers gave histories of asbestos exposure, all had shared the air in a manufacturing plant where ovens insulated with asbestos were continuously cleaned, repaired, dismantled, and rebuilt. It appears that attribution of the effects of their exposure to fiberglass could not be estimated independently of the effects of asbestos exposure.
A case of mistaken identity: Herbal medicine as a cause of lead toxicity
Authors: Smitherman Justine , Harber Philip
Published: April 2007

Folk remedies can be a significant unrecognized source of lead toxicity. This case report of lead toxicity due to Indian traditional herbal medicine illustrates that suspecting only occupational sources for lead poisoning in adults may mask a true source of lead exposure.
Historical perspectives in occupational medicine. Evaluation of delayed effects of ionizing radiation: An historical perspective
Authors: Stewart Alice M.
Published: April 2007

It is widely assumed that after the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki there were no lasting effects of the acute injuries (which included extensive damage to blood forming tissues by the radiation) or the massively high death rate (which was caused by environmental effects of the blast as well as personal injuries). However, close inspection of the dose response curves for non‐cancer deaths has shown that this could be a false impression caused by one effect of marrow aplasia being confused with leukemia (defective erythropoiesis) and a second effect being confused with early selection in favor of general fitness (defective immune responses). Possible consequences of such confusion (for cancer risk coefficients) are discussed in relation to what is known about late effects of prenatal x‐rays and occupational exposures of to radiation.
Measuring exposure for the epidemiologic study of acute effects
Authors: Wegman David H. , Eisen Ellen A. , Woskie Susan R. , Hu Xiaohan
Published: April 2007

This report explores the importance of characterizing short‐term (peak) exposures for successful epidemiologic study of acute reversible effects. By selecting upper respiratory tract irritation, which is time‐limited, reversible, and not critically affected by host factor sensitivities, the illustrated approach (directed at an acute respiratory irritant) provides insights on issues important in the general study of acute effects. The fundamental concern in a study of acute irritant effects is that such events occur in response to abrupt increases in exposure. This calls for a closer examination of how to distinguish bursts, or peaks, of exposure from continuous exposures measured simply as time weighted averages. Three parameters of peak exposures are discussed: duration, magnitude, and frequency. The importance of duration is illustrated by contrasting exposure patterns relevant for the study of acute vs. chronic health effects. The minimum magnitude of a peak relevant to the study of a specific physiologic response requires knowledge of the threshold below which no detectable response occurs. For any identified threshold level, only exposures exceeding that level are defined as relevant peaks for an exposure‐response analysis. Finally, the issue of frequency, the minimum length of time between successive exposures necessary for the subject to return to baseline risk, is explored. A study of respiratory irritation associated with sodium borates is used to illustrate these issues.
Exposure variables in ergonomic epidemiology
Authors: Hagberg Mats
Published: April 2007

The ergonomic field is rather new to epidemiology and ergonomists are usually without knowledge in epidemiology. This review presents exposure variables used in ergonomic epidemiology, especially those that concern mechanical trauma to the musculoskeletal system at the workplace and suggests how to approach exposure definition, exposure assessment, and exposure evaluation. The exposure variables that define the exposure can be divided into five main categories: posture, motion/repetition, material handling, work organization, and external factors. There is no consensus on how different exposure variables should be pooled and interpreted as single estimates of cumulative exposure. For future ergonomic epidemiology, it is suggested that exposure be described by different exposure variables giving an exposure profile and not by a single estimate of the exposure. The possibly short time‐response relationship for many work‐related musculoskeletal disorders provides a challenge in evaluating different cumulative exposure measures. These measures could easily turn into effective hazard surveillance tools. Large etiological fractions found for some musculoskeletal diseases indicate a great potential for ergonomic interventions.
Dose‐response in epidemiology—age and time aspects
Authors: Järvholm Bengt
Published: April 2007

The influence of age and time factors on the dose‐response relationship will depend on the parameter of risk estimation; e.g., excess risk may increase with age at exposure while relative risk may decrease with age at exposure. “Time since onset of exposure” and “time since last exposure” are probably more important factors to consider than “age at exposure” in most types of occupational epidemiology.
Historical perspective on approaches to estimation of inhalation risk by air sampling
Authors: Corn Morton
Published: April 2007

Epidemiological investigation involving historical cohorts requires reconstruction of individual cohort member exposures during the period of study. However, past approaches to exposure assessment by industrial hygienists were characterized by different professional expectations for air sampling, and different orientations for evaluation of air sampling results. The activity designated as “exposure assessment” today was not seriously undertaken prior to the late 1970s. It is important to understand the methodologies utilized in earlier years to assess the quality of workplace air because assumptions of exposure during those years are critically dependent on the utilization of short‐term air sampling results obtained by methods which differ from those employed today.

This paper reviews the approaches and methodologies utilized in the United States during the 1930–1980 period to measure airborne concentrations of suspended particulate matter and gaseous contaminants. Specific examples are used to illustrate the obstacles encountered when translating these usually limited data into cumulative exposure indices utilized in testing the hypothesis of a dose‐response relationship in epidemiological investigations. The misuse of these data results in exposure misclassification and obscuration of any dose‐response relationship(s). Selected options for validation of earlier exposures and for increasing or decreasing confidence in recognized incomplete earlier exposure information are discussed.

The problems identified and explored in this presentation are inevitable in dealing with available historical occupational exposure data. They will persist for years and demand attention if the information associated with these incomplete data sets is to be defensibly utilized.
Immunological and respiratory changes in animal food processing workers
Authors: Zuskin Eugenija , Kanceljak Bozica , Schachter E. Neil , Witek Theodore J. , Maayani Saul , Goswami Satindra , Marom Zvi , Rienzi Nicholas
Published: April 2007

A group of 35 men employed in the processing of animal food was studied to assess the relation between respiratory findings and immunological status. The most frequent positive skin prick reactions to occupational allergens were to fish flour (82.9%), followed by carotene (77.1%), corn (65.7%), four‐leaf clover (62.9%), sunflower (54.3%), chicken meat (31.4%), soy (28.6%), and yeast (22.7%). Increased total IgE serum levels were found in 14/35 (40.0%) animal food workers compared to 1/39 (2.6%) in a healthy population (p < 0.01). A significantly higher prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms was found among the exposed workers compared to control workers. There was however, no significant difference in the prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms between animal food workers with positive and negative skin tests to house dust or to fish flour or among those with increased or normal IgE (except for dyspnea). The frequency of acute symptoms associated with the work shift was high among the animal food workers but similar by immunological status. There were significant mean across‐shift reductions for all ventilatory capacity tests, being particularly pronounced for FEF25. Workers with positive skin tests to fish flour antigen had significantly larger across‐shift reductions in FEF25 than workers with negative skin reactions. An aqueous extract of animal food dust caused a dose‐related contractile response of isolated guinea pig tracheal muscle in vitro. Our data suggest that, in addition to any immunological response animal food dust may produce in vivo, it probably also causes direct irritant or pharmacological reactions on the airways as suggested by our in vitro data.
Fiberglass dermatitis from printed circuit boards
Authors: Koh D. , Aw T. C. , Foulds I. S.
Published: April 2007

Seven cases of fiberglass dermatitis among production operators in the electronics industry are reported. This was due to the repeated daily handling of printed circuit boards (PRCBs). The predominant complaint of the workers was itch of the lateral aspects of the fingers and finger webs. In six workers, unroofed vesicles, pinhead areas of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, and excoriation marks were noted at these sites.

Skin stripping of the affected sites confirmed the presence of fiberglass spicules in all cases. The glass fibers had diameters of 11–16 μm. Patch testing of six of the workers with the European Standard series of allergens revealed no relevant work‐related contact sensitizers. Microscopic examination of the free edges and scrapings from the PRCBs showed glass fibers of similar fiber length and diameter to those found in the workers' skin.

Fiberglass can be used as a reinforcement filling material in some types of PRCBs. Free edges of such PRCBs have easily detached fiberglass spicules. Workers in frequent contact with these PRCBs can have a fiberglass‐induced irritant dermatitis. Preventive measures could include the use of PRCBs with less free fiberglass at its edges, vacuuming of the newly cut boards, use of dusting powder, protective devices and emollients, and improved personal hygiene of the workers.
Acrylamide monomer and peripheral neuropathy in chemical workers
Authors: Bachmann Max , Myers Jonathan E. , Bezuidenhout Basil N.
Published: April 2007

The relationship between exposure to acrylamide monomer and neurological outcomes was investigated in 82 chemical industry workers. Vibrotactile thresholds were determined quantitatively with a Vibratron II device, using forced choice and method of limits procedures. Symptoms of numbness, limb pain, peeling skin, and sweating hands had significantly higher prevalences in the exposed than in the unexposed group. Signs of peeling skin and sweating hands were significantly more common in the exposed group. Vibration thresholds were not associated with exposure.
Possible cellular and molecular mechanisms for asbestos carcinogenicity
Authors: Walker Cheryl , Everitt Jeff , Barrett J. Carl
Published: April 2007

Asbestos fibers may exert their carcinogenic effects on mesothelial cells and bronchial epithelial cells by direct and indirect mechanisms. Direct effects can occur following the physical interaction of fibers with target cells or by the generation of free radicals from the fiber surface; indirect effects, following the interaction of fibers with inflammatory cells can result in the production of cellular mediators such as cytokines and various reactive oxygen species. As a result, target cells may be induced to proliferate and/or sustain genetic alterations, which lead to tumor development.
Hard metal interstitial pulmonary disease associated with a form of welding in a metal parts coating plant
Authors: Figueroa Samuel , Gerstenhaber Brett , Welch Laura , Klimstra David , Smith G. J. Walker , Beckett William
Published: April 2007

We describe two cases of hard metal pulmonary disease (one fatal) in workers employed in the same area of a metal coating plant using the detonation gun process for applying a durable metal surface to metal parts. In this form of welding, a mixture of powdered metals, including tungsten carbide and cobalt, is heated by ignition of a flammable gas and propelled from the end of the “gun” at high temperature and velocity to form a welded metal coating. This process is done in an enclosed chamber and with each application, large volumes of fine aerosols are created. Inhalation exposure to hard metal may occur during the mounting and removal of the metal parts between applications, in spite of engineering controls and industrial hygiene surveillance. One of the cases presented with minimal chest x‐ray abnormalities and an obstructive pattern on pulmonary function testing, although subsequent open lung biopsy showed diffuse interstitial pulmonary fibrosis. The fact that two cases of hard metal pulmonary interstitial disease occurred where thorough exposure control procedures and a surveillance program for cobalt were in place may indicate the need for revisions of the current technology used when hard metal is applied in the detonation gun process.
Occupational exposure to carcinogens in Finland
Authors: Heikkilä Pirjo , Kauppinen Timo
Published: April 2007

Finland has kept a registry on the manufacture and use of carcinogenic agents involving occupational exposure since 1979. Employers must report annually to the labor safety authorities the employees who have been exposed to carcinogens and provide information on carcinogenic agents produced, used, or formed. Out of 131 substances or groups of agents listed as carcinogenic, occupational exposure to 78 of them was reported in 1987. About half of the agents reported were used or produced in industry and half were handled on a laboratory scale. About 15,000 employees from 1,700 work departments were reported to the registry; 17% of them were women. The number of workers reported in 1987 accounted for 0.6% of the total work force. It has been estimated that at least 60,000 workers are exposed annually to carcinogens in Finland. The three most prevalent exposures—hexavalent chromium compounds, nickel and its inorganic compounds, and asbestos—accounted for over 60% of all exposed workers; only five carcinogenic chemicals were produced in Finland in 1987.
Mortality and incidence of bladder cancer in benzidine‐exposed workers in China
Authors: Bi Wenfang , Hayes Richard B. , Feng Peiwen , Qi Yuiyong , You Xiejun , Zhen Jigang , Zhang Minqi , Qu Baoqing , Fu Zhenying , Chen Melody , Chien Harvey T. Co , Blot William J.
Published: April 2007

We examined bladder cancer mortality and incidence to 1981 in 1,972 workers employed in benzidine‐exposed jobs in Tianjin, Shanghai, and Jilin, China, between 1972 and 1977, and in 1,974 unexposed workers employed during the same time period. In comparison to general population rates, in the benzidine‐exposed group the ratio of observed to expected deaths (SMR) was 17.5 (95% C.I.: 7.5–34.5) and the ratio of observed to expected incident cases (SIR) was 25.0 (95% C.I.: 16.9–35.7). No excess was noted in the unexposed group. The 25‐fold increase in bladder cancer incidence in the exposed group was related to level of exposure, with the SIR rising from 4.8 for low exposure to 36.2 for medium exposure, and 158.4 for high exposure. Risks were elevated both for producers of benzidine (SIR = 45.7; 95% C.I.: 20.9–86.8) and for users (SIR = 20.9; 95% C.I.: 12.9–32.0) of benzidine dyes. Benzidine‐exposed workers who smoked tobacco had a 31‐fold risk (95% C.I.: 20.4–46.4), while non‐smoking workers had an 11‐fold risk (95% C.I.: 3.6–25.8), suggestive of a multiplicative relationship between these two carcinogens.
Lung function and precipitating antibodies in low exposed wood trimmers in Sweden
Authors: Dahlqvist Monica , Johard Urban , Alexandersson Rolf , Bergström Björn , Ekholm Ulla , Eklund Anders , Milosevich Boris , Tornling Göran , Ulfvarson Ulf
Published: April 2007

Wood trimmers are exposed to molds that periodically grow on timber that may induce alveolitis and obstructive lung disease. We have evaluated respiratory symptoms, bronchial reactivity, and lung function in 28 wood trimmers at a Swedish sawmill and in 19 unexposed office workers. Eleven (sero‐positive) of the wood trimmers had precipitating antibodies in peripheral blood against one or several molds. The exposure to dust (median 0.26 mg/m3), viable mold spores (median 2950 cfu/m3), viable bacteria (median 370 cfu/m3), airborne endotoxins (range 0.0015–0.0025 μg/m3), and terpenes (range 0.4–23 mg/m3) was lower than levels that earlier have been reported to affect lung function. The wood trimmers reported an increased prevalence of cough and breathlessness. They also showed signs of a mild obstructive impairment with a tendency to increased bronchial sensitivity to metacholine and decreased FEV1 after 2 days free from exposure. FEV1 decreased more during the working week in the sero‐positive workers than among the sero‐negative workers, and for the whole group the decrease in FEV1 and MEF25 was correlated to the degree of mold exposure.
Clinical relevance of urinary delta‐aminolevulinic acid/logarithm of creatinine ratio in screening for occupational lead exposure
Authors: Hudák Aranka , Náray Miklós , Süveges Éva
Published: April 2007

Using receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis, the clinical relevance of urinary delta‐aminolevulinic acid concentration adjusted to the logarithm of creatinine concentration (ALA/log.Cn) proved to be better than that of uncorrected ALA or ALA/Cn ratio for the detection of blood lead levels (Pb‐B) exceeding 2.5, 3.0, or 3.5 μmol/l in 483 men occupationally exposed to lead. Ala/log.Cn yielded validities of 1.63, 1.75, and 1.79 at Pb‐B levels 2.5, 3.0, and 3.5 μmol/l, respectively. The same values for ALA/Cn were 1.59, 1.70, 1.78 and for ALA 1.52, 1.65, 1.72, respectively. The simple adjustment to log.Cn makes urinary ALA determination more efficient in biological monitoring of the effect of occupational lead exposure. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Assessment of occupational exposure to cadmium in the Netherlands, 1980–1989
Authors: Zwennis Willem C. M. , Franssen Agnes C.
Published: April 2007

One thousand five hundred fifty urine samples and 1,295 blood samples, collected from 919 workers, were analyzed for cadmium (Cd). The workers were employed at 16 different types of workplaces. In about 7.5% of the samples, the concentration of Cd exceeded the biological limit values proposed by the Dutch Expert Committee for Occupational Standards. Levels higher than these values were measured in both urine samples and blood samples of workers involved in electrochemical plating, in production of Cd‐stabilizers and enamels, and in soldering with silver‐cadmium solder. Significantly higher concentrations of β2‐microglobulin (MG) were found in urine samples with CdU > 10 μg/g creatinine. Cd levels in urine increased with age. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vitro activity of silicon carbide whiskers in comparison to other industrial fibers using four cell culture systems
Authors: Johnson N. F. , Hoover M. D. , Thomassen D. G. , Cheng Y. S. , Dalley A. , Brooks A. L.
Published: April 2007

Silicon carbide whiskers (SiCW) and continuous glass filaments are important components of composite materials having potentially widespread use in the automotive, aerospace, and power generation industries. We determined the in vitro activity of three well‐characterized samples of silicon carbide whiskers and a continuous glass filament sample in four different cellular assays and compared this to the activities of UICC crocidolite, JM Code 100 glass microfiber, and erionite in the same assay systems. The SiCW had a diameter range of 0.32–0.75 μm and a length range of 4.5–20.1 μm. The SiCW was significantly toxic; on a mass basis, one SiCW sample was more toxic than crocidolite; however, JM Code 100 glass microfiber, which is not toxic in vivo (i.e., it does not cause fibrogenesis or carcinogenesis when inhaled), was also more toxic than crocidolite. The glass filament sample was the least cytotoxic of all the samples tested. On a fiber number basis, all three SiCW samples were more toxic than crocidolite. The results of our study showed that SiCW exhibits significant in vitro biological reactivity. Thus, despite the caution that must be exercised in extrapolating the results of in vitro studies to conclusions about in vivo health effects, SiCW should be considered toxic until further toxicological data are available. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lung cancer risk among workers exposed to man‐made mineral fibers (MMMF) in the swedish prefabricated house industry
Authors: Gustavsson Per , Plato Nils , Axelson Olav , Brage Helle Noorlind , Hogstedt Christer , Ringbäck Gunilla , Tornling Göran , Wingren Gun
Published: April 2007

Mortality and cancer incidence was investigated among 2,807 workers, employed for at least one year before 1972, at 11 Swedish companies manufacturing prefabricated wooden houses. A total of 1,068 workers had been exposed to man‐made mineral fibers (MMMF) used for insulation. Mortality was followed from 1969 to 1988 and cancer incidence from 1969 to 1985. Exposure conditions were investigated at all plants.

There were 14 deaths from lung cancer in the total cohort, whereas 20.7 would be expected (SMR = 68; 95% CI:37‐113), based on regional mortality. After a latency of 20 years or more, two lung cancer cases had occurred among all workers exposed to MMMF, whereas 4.3 would be expected (SMR = 46; 95% CI: 5‐168). The exposure levels that have prevailed do not seem to be associated with an increased lung cancer rate, but extended follow‐up is necessary for a definitive evaluation. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Irregular opacities in the lung, occupational asthma, and airways dysfunction in aluminum workers
Authors: Kilburn Kaye H. , Warshaw Raphael H.
Published: April 2007

We examined chest X‐rays, measured expiratory flows and FVC by spirometry and TLC by projected lung area, ascertained respiratory data by questionnaires, and performed chest examinations in 670 Southeastern aluminum workers and 659 unexposed regional controls. Both groups were asbestos exposed. More aluminum workers had irregular opacities and fewer had pleural abnormalities than did regional pipefitter referents. The pulmonary function tests were expressed as percentage of predicted to adjust for height, age and duration of smoking based on a randomly selected U.S. reference population. Data from aluminum workers were compared to regional controls with students “t” tests run for unequal size groups. Aluminum workers had significant reductions in FEV1 of 3.2% predicted (p < .003), FEF25‐75 of 11.3% predicted (p < .0001), FEF75‐85 of 22.5% predicted (p < .0001), and an increased TLC of 2.0% predicted (p < .005). The 145 who had never smoked (NS) were compared with 124 NS controls and showed this same pattern of differences; but in smokers, the differences were significant for mid and terminal flows, but not for FEV1. In aluminum workers who never smoked, asthma prevalence by history was 7.6% vs. 4.0% in controls, and wheezes were heard in 21.4% vs. 2.4% in controls. In aluminum workers who were current smokers, asthma prevalence was 16.4% vs. 9.4% in controls, and wheezes were heard in 43.7% vs. 21.1% in controls. Aluminum workers had significantly more asthma, wheezing, airways obstruction, and pulmonary parenchymal abnormalities similar to asbestosis than did regional blue collar controls not melting and casting aluminum. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lung function and exposure to asbestos among vehicle mechanics
Authors: Dahlqvist Monica , Alexandersson Rolf , Hedenstierna Göran
Published: April 2007

Vehicle mechanics (n = 99) exposed to asbestos (annual median value 0.08 f/ml), and local controls (n = 83) not occupationally exposed to asbestos were studied with regard to symptoms and pulmonary function. The inclusion criteria to participate in this study was an age of at least 40 years with no known exposure to lung irritating agents, and for the exposed subjects, more than 15 years occupational exposure to asbestos with at least 20 years from the first exposure. The subjects were studied during identical conditions by means of dynamic and static spirometry, single breath wash‐out with nitrogen (N2) and carbon monoxide (CO). The median for cumulative exposure of asbestos during the entire work life among the studied mechanics was 2.3 f*y/ml. The mechanics had reduced transfer factor (TLCO), after adjustment for age, height, and smoking category. A significant dose‐response relationship was noted between the cumulative exposure of asbestos and CV%. The findings suggest a slight influence of small airways and alveoli. The evaluation of the prognostic significance of this requires a longitudinal study. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
General mortality and respiratory cancer among a cohort of male chemical workers in california
Authors: Burchfiel Cecil M. , Cartmill Janice B. , Axe Fredric D. , Bond Gregory G.
Published: April 2007

Cohort mortality and nested case‐control studies were conducted involving 2,901 men employed 1 year or more between 1940 and 1986 at any of four California facilities of a major chemical company. Employees experienced fewer deaths from each of the major causes than were expected based on U.S., California, and local county mortality rates. Respiratory cancer was significantly elevated in one socioeconomic category comprised of operators (SMR = 157, 95% CI = 109–220). The 34 cases who died from respiratory cancer and 136 matched controls, all of whom were operators, were included in a nested case‐control study. Departments in which subjects had worked were grouped into 13 work assignment or product categories by an industrial hygienist without knowledge of case‐control status. Smoking habits and other occupational exposures were ascertained by telephone interview from subjects or surrogate‐responders. As expected, current cigarette smoking was strongly related to respiratory cancer. After adjustment for smoking, cases were significantly more likely than controls to have ever worked in one of the 13 work areas (supervision, services, and business support). However, no dose‐response relationship was evident with duration of employment in this work area and the departments involved were associated with plant security and not chemical production. Results were similar when a 15‐year latency period was assumed. These findings suggest that the excess of respiratory cancer mortality among operators was most likely due to differences in cigarette smoking or other factors not ascertained, rather than to a specific occupational exposure. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Assessment of exposure to carbon disulfide in viscose production workers from urinary 2‐thiothiazolidine‐4‐carboxylic acid determinations
Authors: Riihimäki V. , Kivistö H. , Peltonen K. , Helpiö E. , Aitio A.
Published: April 2007

The follow‐up of environmental carbon disulfide (CS2) exposure and urinary excretion of 2‐thiothiazolidine‐4‐carboxylic acid (TTCA) among 20 operatives over a 4‐day working week in two viscose producing factories confirmed earlier observations that TTCA is a sensitive and reliable indicator of exposure to CS2. Exposure to as low as 0.5–1.0 ppm (1.6–3.2 mg/m3) of CS2 (8‐hour time‐weighted average [TWA]) was associated with detectable amounts of TTCA in end‐of‐shift urine. Moreover, the excretion of TTCA, relative to estimated CS2 uptake, appeared surprisingly constant in the studied work force. Approximately 3% (range 2–6.5%) of absorbed CS2 was detected in urine as TTCA. The proportional TTCA excretion did not show dose dependency in the estimated CS2 dose range which varied by about 20‐fold. TTCA elimination exhibited both a fast (T 1/2 6 hour) and a slow (T 1/2 68 hour) phase. The slow elimination is compatible with a high lipid solubility and reversible protein binding of CS2. Consequently, urinary excretion of TTCA, relative to CS2 exposure, increased by about a third during the workweek. Urinary TTCA concentration of 4.5 mmol/mol creatinine in a postshift sample corresponded to a TWA exposure to 10 ppm CS2 towards the end of the working week. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hormone status in occupational toluene exposure
Authors: Svensson B.‐G. , Nise G. , Erfurth E.‐M. , Nilsson A. , Skerfving S.
Published: April 2007

Twenty toluene‐exposed rotogravure printers, without signs of solvent‐induced toxic encephalopathy, had lower median plasma levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) (3.2 vs. 4.9 IU/L; p = .02) and luteinizing hormone (LH) (6.4 vs. 7.2 IU/L; p = .05) and also lower serum levels of free testosterone (76.8 vs. 86.8 pmol/L; p = .05), respectively, than 44 unexposed referents. The individual time‐weighted toluene levels in air were 36 (median; range 8–111) ppm. The printers' median toluene levels in blood were 1.7 (1.0–6.6) μmol/1, and in subcutaneous adipose tissue 5.7 (2.5–21) mg/kg fat. There was a negative association between blood toluene and plasma levels of prolactin. In eight printers, the levels of FSH and LH increased during a 4 week vacation, while the levels of thyroid stimulating hormone, free triiodothyronine, and free thyroxine decreased during the same period. The results indicate a slight, reversible efect of toluene on the cortical level or on the hypothalamic‐pituitary axis at exposures well below the permissible levels, possibly mediated through an effect on catecholamine neurotransmission. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Further scientific issues in determining an occupational standard for cadmium
Authors: Chettle David R. , Ellis Kenneth J.
Published: April 2007

This contribution responds to the recent paper of Thun et al. (American Journal of Industrial Medicine 20:629–642, 1991) on an occupational standard for cadmium. The contribution of non‐invasive in situ measurements of cadmium in liver and in kidney to the study of cadmium industrial toxicology is particularly reviewed. It is contended that clear scientific grounds do not exist for recommending cadmium in air occupational standard below 10 μg m−3, and that other arguments would need to be adduced to support a recommendation for a lower level. Last, a number of unanswered questions are identified and the need for further work is highlighted. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Health physics: Its development, successes, failures, and eccentricities
Authors: Morgan Karl Z.
Published: April 2007

Health Physics began at the University of Chicago as a science and profession during the early World War II years. It was initiated by Drs. A.H. Compton and R.S. Stone, director and associate director, respectively, of the early Plutonium Project cryptically called the Metallurgical Laboratory. It was to be a science and profesion to protect radiation workers and members of the public from exposure to ionizing radiation. It succeeded to some extent in this objective but during the past decade in the United States, it has reverted into an organization primarily to protect the nuclear industry from liability resulting from radiation exposure. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Small airways function of silica‐exposed workers
Authors: Chia K. S. , Ng T. P. , Jeyaratnam J.
Published: April 2007

Small airways obstruction may be present for many years before chronic airway obstruction becomes evident. Several spirometric indices, especially flow rates at low lung volumes, may reflect the status of small airways. Time domain indices, by using moments analysis of the volume time spirogram, have also been shown to be sensitive indicators of small airways obstruction. In this study, we have applied the various spirometric indices as well as time domain indices to a group of granite quarry workers without radiographic evidence of silicosis or physiological evidence of obstruction to the larger airways. The aim was to evaluate small airways function in relation to dust exposure in subjects with normal ratio of the forced expiratory volume in one second to the forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) and normal FVC

The volume‐time spirograms of 140 quarry workers were digitized using an electronic digitizer connected to a microcomputer where flow and time domain indices were computed. The workers were divided into three exposure groups based on their occupational history. With adjustment for age, height, and smoking status, all the time domain indices showed significant small airways obstruction with increasing dust exposure. Smokers had greater degree of airways obstruction than the non‐smokers, with a similar trend of increase in small airways obstruction in relation to higher exposure

Our present study suggests that small airways obstruction is present among silica exposed workers in the absence of radiological evidence of silicosis and large airways obstruction. There was also evidence of increasing small airways obstruction in higher dust exposure group. Our study also suggests that time domain indices are more sensitive to small airways obstruction. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Respiratory disorders and atopy in cotton, wool, and other textile mill workers in denmark
Authors: Sigsgaard Torben , Pedersen Ole F. , Juul Svend , Gravesen Suzanne
Published: April 2007

A cross‐sectional study of respiratory disorders and atopy in Danish textile industry workers was conducted to survey respiratory symptoms throughout the textile industry, to estimate the association of these disorders with atopy, and to study dose‐response relationships within the cotton industry. Workers at cotton mills, a wool mill, and a man‐made fiber (MMF) mill were examined. Four hundred nine (90%) of the 445 workers participated in this survey, i.e., 253, 62, and 94 workers at the cotton mills, the wool mill, and the MMF mill, respectively. An interview designed to assess the prevalence of common respiratory and allergic symptoms was given to all workers willing to participate, and blood samples were drawn. Lung function measurements determined a baseline FEV1, FVC and the change in FEV1 and FVC during work hours on a Monday. The working environment was examined for dust, bacteria, endotoxins, and molds, and the exposure was estimated for each participant. The mean personal samples of airborne respirable dust and respirable endotoxin were highest in the cotton industry, i.e., 0.17–0.50 mg/m3 and 9.0–126 ng/m3 respectively, whereas mold spores were found in the highest concentrations in the wool mill: 280–791 colony‐forming units (cfu)/m3. Only small concentrations of microorganisms were found in the MMF mill. The mean change in FEV1% and FVC% was greatest among atopic individuals in both cotton and wool industry and other textile industries although the differences were not significant. FEV1% and FVC% in the cotton workers were significantly associated with the cumulative exposure to respirable endotoxin. Byssinosis was diagnosed only in the cotton industry. We found a dose‐response relationship between endotoxin exposure and byssinosis, and a significant association between A‐1‐A serum concentrations ≦ 35 μmol/liter and byssinosis, a finding we are further evaluating in subsequent studies. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Occupational exposures and cancer of the colon and rectum
Authors: De Verdier Maria Gerhardsson , Plato Nils , Steineck Gunnar , Peters John M.
Published: April 2007

The associations between occupational risks and colorectal cancer were examined in a Swedish population‐based, case‐referent study. The study was performed in Stockholm in 1986–1988 and included 569 cases and 512 referents. Relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals were calculated for different occupations/chemicals. Elevated risks of colon cancer were found among male petrol station/automobile repair workers (RR = 2.3, 0.8–6.6) and among males exposed to asbestos (RR = 1.8, 0.9–3.6), while elevated risks of rectal cancer were found among males exposed to soot (RR = 2.2, 1.1–4.3), asbestos (RR = 2.2, 1.0–4.7), cutting fluids/oils (RR = 2.1, 1.1–4.0), and combustion gases from coal/coke/wood (RR = 1.9, 1.0–3.7). However, due to a high correlation between the above‐mentioned variables and the few exposed subjects, it is difficult to separate their effects properly. These analyses were adjusted for age. Further adjustments for diet, body mass, and physical activity had little or no influence on the results.
Toluene vapor exposure and urinary excretion of hippuric acid among workers in China
Authors: Liu Shi‐Jie , Qu Qing‐Shan , Xu Xiao‐Ping , Liu Yu‐Tang , Yin Song‐Nian , Takeuchi Yasuhiro , Watanabe Takao , Inoue Osamu , Yoshida Munehiro , Ikeda Masayuki
Published: April 2007

A factory survey was conducted in three provinces in China from 1985 to 1989. The time‐weighted average toluene concentrations in breathing zone air were monitored by diffusive sampling, whereas hippuric acid (HA) concentrations in shift‐end urine samples were measured by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Exposed workers (456 men and women) were those for whom toluene (up to 548 ppm toluene) accounted for ≥ 90% of total exposure (by vapor concentration in ppm), whereas 517 nonexposed controls were recruited from the same factories or from factories of the same region. There was a linear correlation between the intensity of toluene exposure and HA concentration in the shift‐end urine. Comparison of the results with findings in the literature shows that the toluene‐induced increase in urinary HA concentration among workers in China is significantly smaller than the published values, whereas HA concentrations in urine samples from nonexposed controls are comparable to the levels previously reported.
Morbidity in retired coke oven plant workers
Authors: Mayer L. , Chau N. , Bertrand J. P. , Guenzi M. , Patris A. , Pham Q. T. , Mur J. M. , Moulin J. J.
Published: April 2007

The effect of past occupational exposure on morbidity was studied in 354 coke oven workers in Lorraine Collieries (France) who retired between 1963 and 1982, and were still alive in 1988; 96% of them participated in this study. Occupational exposure to respiratory hazards during the working life was retraced for each subject. No significant association between the occupational exposure and the frequency of ischemic cardiopathies, arterial hypertension, gastro‐duodenal ulcers, and respiratory symptoms was revealed. However, subjects who had worked on the Ovens, in the Workshops, and in the Byproducts showed a prevalence of arterial hypertension significantly higher than the non‐ or slightly exposed subjects. The healthy worker effect phenomenon, the exclusion of deceased subjects, and the small size of this retiree population may conceal possible differences between exposure groups.
Microgranulomatous aspergillosis after shoveling wood chips: Report of a fatal outcome in a patient with chronic granulomatous disease
Authors: Conrad Douglas J. , Warnock Martha , Blanc Paul , Cowan Morton , Golden Jeffrey A.
Published: April 2007

Chronic granulomatous disease is characterized by recurrent infections that result from an inability of phagocytes to kill organisms effectively. We describe a patient with this disease who developed aspergillus pneumonia after shoveling moldy cedar wood chips. Despite aggressive therapy, the patient's condition deteriorated and he died. At autopsy, the lungs revealed diffuse granulomas, all of the same age, with aspergillus organisms confined to the granulomas. We propose the term “microgranulomatous aspergillosis” for this response, which does not conform to the commonly described aspergillus syndromes. We conclude that susceptible immunosuppressed patients should be advised to avoid occupational situations where high spore concentrations are generated.
Historical perspectives in occupational medicine. Victoria M. Trasko: Champion of state‐based surveillance of occupational diseases in the United States, 1937 to 1971
Authors: Costa Carol A. , Castellan Robert M. , Richards Thomas B. , Yaffe Charles D.
Published: April 2007

Victoria M. Trasko (1907–1979), a relatively unknown figure to many currently practicing occupational health specialists, was a pioneer in state‐based surveillance of occupational diseases in the United States. To highlight her accomplishments during her career with the United States Public Health Service from 1937 to 1971, this report briefly reviews her publications on occupational disease surveillance. Her span of work includes guidelines for state industrial hygiene programs, numbers of workers in state occupational health programs, compilation of state and local laws related to industrial hygiene, proposals for standardized reporting of occupational disease, and analysis of trends in workers' compensation and mortality statistics for occupational diseases. She pilot tested the first state‐based model system for occupational disease reporting in the United States. She documented the great difficulty experienced by states in getting physicians to report cases of occupational diseases, and pointed out that surveillance of other existing data sources was worthwhile, at least for some occupational diseases. She was the first to report on the distribution of silicosis cases in the United States by state, industry, and job title. She was the first to comment on mortality trends for the pneumoconioses and to document problems in comparability between different International Classification of Disease (ICD) periods.
Use of death certificates in epidemiological studies, including occupational hazards: Discordance with clinical and autopsy findings
Authors: Selikoff Irving J.
Published: April 2007

There has long been evidence of frequent inaccuracy of death certificates, with significant discordance between such designations and clinical and autopsy data. This exists for occupational diseases as well. The use of statistical rates based on death certificates has been seriously questioned despite their utility for total mortality. Programs to supplement death certificate data, particularly in occupational disease studies, may be helpful, and are reviewed.
A case‐control study of cancer of the nose and paranasal sinuses and occupational exposures
Authors: Comba Pietro , Battista Giuseppe , Belli Stefano , De Capua Bruno , Merler Enzo , Orsi Daniela , Rodella Stefania , Vindigni Carla , Axelson Olav
Published: April 2007

The association between nasal cancer and various occupations was investigated in a case‐control study in the provinces of Verona and Vicenza (northeastern Italy) and Siena (central Italy). Cases of malignant epithelial neoplasm of the nasal cavities and paranasal sinuses diagnosed in the years 1982–1987 in the hospitals of Verona, Legnago, Bussolengo, Vicenza, and Siena comprised the study. Controls were patients admitted to the same hospitals as the cases, with any diagnosis except chronic rhino‐sinusal disease and nasal bleeding. Age, gender, residency, and date of admission were taken into account by matching. Cases and controls, or their next of kin, were interviewed or required to fill in a mailed questionnaire; the overall response rate was 70%. Altogether, 78 cases and 254 controls provided information on occupational history. Significantly increased risks were associated (in males) with work in the wood industry (odds ratio [O.R.]: 5.8; 90% confidence interval [C.I.]: (2.2–16) and in the leather industry (6.8; 1.9–25). Textile workers, furnacemen, construction workers, and workers with possible exposure to organic dusts showed increased risks even if statistical significance was not reached.
Malignant mesothelioma of the pleura in trieste, Italy
Authors: Giarelli Luigi , Bianchi Claudio , Grandi Giorgio
Published: April 2007

One hundred and seventy malignant pleural mesotheliomas seen at necropsy at the Institute of Pathological Anatomy of the Trieste University during the period 1968–1987 were reviewed. The series included 153 men and 17 women, aged between 33 and 92 years (median 70 years). Lifetime work histories were obtained from the patients' relatives by personal or telephone interviews in 162 cases. A majority of the male subjects had been employed in “naval” work, 99 people having worked in the shipbuilding industry, 19 in the navy and merchant marine, and 7 in docks. A variety of trades appeared in the remaining histories. Work histories were indicative of occupational exposure to asbestos in 150 cases. A further 5 patients with negative or insufficient data showed asbestos bodies in routine lung sections and 5 women had a history of domestic exposure. A majority of the patients had had their first exposure before 1950. The intervals between first exposure and death ranged from 14 to 71 years (median 48 years).
Study of sperm characteristics in persons occupationally exposed to lead
Authors: Lerda Daniel
Published: April 2007

The sperm characteristics of 38 male workers exposed to lead in a battery factory were studied. Sperm analysis was performed after 4 days of sexual abstinence. Parameters analyzed were: volume, sperm count, motility, and morphology. Exposure levels were estimated by measuring the concentration of lead and delta‐aminolevulinic acid in the serum. Based on blood lead levels, the tested individuals were divided in three groups: A (12), B (11), and C (15).

Significant levels of asthenospermia and teratospermia were found in exposed workers when compared with unexposed controls. Long‐term exposure to lead may lead to changes in sperm characteristics and function.