bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O-175 DETECTING ANAEMIA IN WORKFORCE INSTANTLY THROUGH A NON-INVASIVE PORTABLE DEVICE, FOR SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF ANAEMIA CONTROL STRATEGIES AT INDIANOIL
Authors: Sharma Sandeep , Kumar Ashok , Kumar Simant
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Anaemia affects the overall productivity of an individual and may lead to an unsafe condition at workplace. A non-invasive, portable, screening device for detecting anaemia, contributed to planning necessary mitigation measures for eradicating anaemia from workplace.

Materials and methods

IndianOil with its 31,000 employees comprising of both male and female workforce, operates 24/7 to provide energy access to millions of people across India. To address the issue of anaemia amongst workforce, a point-of-care non-invasive device was positioned in each Refinery unit. The device determines the Hb% level of an individual, with the help of an app which analyzes the intensity of reflection of a cool white LED light, and information of individuals such as personal, socio-demographic, pregnancy history, family history, medical history, and lifestyle habits to give the results within a minute. The portable device assisted in quickly screening the large number of workforce and analyzing their Hb% levels. This helped the management to plan anaemia control strategies as per the observations.

Result

The Hb% level data measured using the device showed association between dietary habits and prevalence of anaemia. The prevalence of anaemia was also found significantly among female workforces.

Discussion

Improper diet, lack of proper hygiene leading to infections are some of the major factors that contribute to anaemia. Timely screening and steps for mitigating iron deficiency are major step towards anaemia eradication.

Conclusion

Anaemia results in symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, dizziness, etc. Implementation of necessary mitigation measures for combating anaemia, helps to increase productivity and eliminate un-safe conditions at workplace.
O-177 OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TO ASBESTOS AND CHOLANGIOCARCINOMA: PRELIMINARY RESULTS FROM THE CARA CASE-CONTROL STUDY
Authors: Curti Stefania , Brandi Giovanni , Tavolari Simona , Deserti Marzia , Mattioli Stefano
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Recent studies supported the association between occupational exposure to asbestos and risk of cholangiocarcinoma (CC). Aim of the present study is to investigate this association evaluating occupational and non-occupational exposure to asbestos.

Methods

The CARA (Cholangiocarcinoma Aetiology: Role of Asbestos) case-control study was based on data from 166 consecutive patients with CC referred to Sant’Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital between 2012 and 2016. The cases were frequency matched by gender and age to 201 controls, in-patients of the same hospital in the same years. Cases and controls provided detailed information on life-time occupational history, smoking habits and medical history. Asbestos exposure was assessed according to the Italian National Mesothelioma Register questionnaire. We used unconditional logistic regression to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for type of asbestos exposure, adjusting for gender, age, and known risk factors.

Results

We found an increased risk of CC for occupational asbestos exposure, categorized as ‘definite’ (OR 7.75, 95%CI 2.90-20.73), ‘probable’ (OR 5.20, 95%CI 2.01-13.47), and ‘possible’ (OR 4.18, 95%CI 1.91-9.12) as compared to not exposed.

Discussion

These findings suggest a putative role of asbestos in CC pathogenesis. The presence of asbestos fibers in the bile ducts can be explained by their translocation after inhalation or ingestion. Once the asbestos fibres reach the bile ducts, they could give rise to CC through a chronic inflammation pathway that can promote carcinogenesis.

Conclusion

Our results reinforce the hypothesis that CC could be associated with asbestos exposure. Further studies are needed to establish the causality of this association.
O-180 EFFECTIVENESS OF ECG IN PREVENTIVE HEALTH CHECK-UP. A CASE STUDY OF THE PIPE MANUFACTURING COMPANY IN INDIA
Authors: Barad Abhyudaysinh
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality. The Electrocardiogram (ECG), a non-invasive and widely accessible diagnostic tool, holds immense promise in early detection and management of cardiac abnormalities. This paper explores the effectiveness of ECG in preventive health check-ups.

Methods

The study analyzed data of 952 workers, collected during the health check-ups in a pipe manufacturing company located in India in January 2022. Hypothesis-1 There is no association between ECG Reporting and Job Category, Age Category, BMI, or Blood Pressure of the employee. (Chi-square Test applied). Hypothesis-2 There is no significant difference in Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP), Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP), and Body Mass Index (BMI) among employees based on their job category, Age, or ECG status. (ANOVA test applied). Hypothesis-3 There is no significant relationship between Employee Category, Employee Age, SBP, DBP and BMI (independent variables) and an individual’s ECG being at a critical level (dependent variable). (Binary Logistic Regression test applied.)

Results

The study’s findings reveal that the “Normal” category encompasses 586 individuals, representing 61.6% of the total population, indicating healthy heart function. The “Abnormal” category includes 351 individuals, constituting 36.9% of the total population. Furthermore, the “Critical” category involves 15 individuals, accounting for 1.6% of the total population.

Discussion

Distribution of ECG reporting and its analyses with different parameters manifested important relationship.

Conclusion

ECG is a valuable tool which can be used in preventive health check-ups that can play a crucial role in the early detection and prevention of many cardiac as well as non cardiac diseases.
P-303 PERCEPTION OF THE PROFESSION AND EXPERIENCE OF PHYSICIANS GRADUATING FROM THE RABAT FACULTY OF MEDICINE
Authors: Laraqui Hossini Chakib El Houssine , Manar Nadia , Bouri Hicham El , Laraqui Omar , Deschamps Frédéric
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The aim was to assess the perception of the profession, the experience of physicians and to offer suggestions to improve the attractiveness and practice of medicine.

Methods

This study, conducted in 2021, interested the 2,597 graduates from 1970 to 2010. An online self-questionnaire included: socio-demographic and professional data, perception of the profession, occupational experience and satisfaction, and suggestions for improving the attractiveness of medicine.

Results

1026 agreed to answer the questionnaire; i.e. a participation rate of 52.5%. The prevalence of perceived gratifying aspects and physician satisfaction was decreasing while those of constraining aspects was increasing.12.6% would change the profession, 24.6% and 47.9% of those < 45 would like to move abroad. 32% would not recommend a medical career. The main suggestions for improving the attractiveness and practice of medicine: for the public sector (salary suitable, better physical and organizational working conditions), for the private sector (efficient social coverage, tax incentives and abolition of adjusted full-time) and for the both (support network for doctors, continuous medical training allowing career development and a physician’s brand image).

Discussion and Conclusion

More than 1/3 Moroccan physicians are expatriates because of dissatisfaction and professional malaise and the attractiveness of rich countries suffering from medical deserts and offering a better quality of life with more favorable working conditions, salaries more meaningful and a better future. How to encourage doctors to stay at home, those who have migrated to come back? Can we admit that our faculties of medicine train physicians of moderate quality who will complete their training and settle in rich countries?
P-314 THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SELF-RATED HEALTH AND OCCUPATIONAL ACCIDENTS
Authors: Fukui Yuto , Nagata Tomohisa , Odagami Kiminori , Adi Nuri Purwito , Mori Koji
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Self-rated health is a subjective assessment of one’s own health status. The previous studies have shown that it is an antecedent factor of mortality, morbidity and falls in older people. However, the relationship between self-rated health and the occurrence of occupational accidents is not clear. This study aims to investigate the relationship between self-rated health and occupational accidents.

Methods

The study design was a prospective cohort study with a baseline survey in March 2022 and a follow-up survey one year later. The independent variable was self-rated health at baseline, classified into five categories. The dependent variable was the occurrence of occupational accidents from baseline to follow-up, classified into two categories: “none” and “more than once”. We examined the relationship between self-rated health and occupational accidents using logistic regression analysis. This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of UOEH.

Results

Among 16,629 workers, self-rated health was “bad/very bad” (n=662); “rather bad” (n=2,507); “rather good” (n=6,564); “good” (n=5,399); and “very good” (n=1,497). Compared to “bad/very bad” group, the odds ratios of each group were 0.69 (95%CI, 0.56-0.86), 0.40 (0.33-0.49), 0.29 (0.24-0.36), and 0.29 (0.22-0.38), respectively.

Discussion

The lower self-rated health, the more likely the worker was to have an occupational accident. This may be because physical and psychological problems cause a decline in workers’ ability to concentrate and make good decisions, leading to unsafe actions. The results of this study suggest the need for comprehensive measures to prevent occupational accidents, including the health status of workers.

Conclusion

Self-rated health influences the occurrence of occupational accidents.
P-322 WORK-RELATED FACTORS AFFECTING LIFE AND JOB SATISFACTION AMONG MEDICAL RESIDENTS
Authors: Tah Marieme , Sellami Imen , Mbeirick Mohamed , Meska Ahmed , Masmoudi Mohamed Larbi , Hammami Kaouthar Jmal , Hajjaji Mounira
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Medical residents (MR) are exposed to various psychosocial factors in their work environments, which can significantly influence their overall quality of life. This study aims to investigate the association between psychosocial stress at work, job satisfaction, and life satisfaction among MR.

Methods

The study was conducted from August 1 to September 5, 2023, involving 117 MR of diverse nationalities who voluntarily participated by responding to an online self-questionnaire. This questionnaire included the Karasek scale to assess psychosocial stress, the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) to measure life satisfaction, and a job satisfaction scale.

Results

The mean age of our study population was 30.61 years (± 3.961), and the male-to-female sex ratio was 1.38. Among the residents, 45.3% reported low decision latitude at work, 40.7% experienced high psychological workload, and 35% perceived inadequate collegial support. Additionally, 39.3% indicated low hierarchical support. Job satisfaction was low in 30.5% of residents, and 3.4% reported being very dissatisfied with their lives. SWLS was positively correlated with decision latitude (r=0.206; p=0.026), support from colleagues (r=0.215; p=0.020), and support from superiors (r=0.194; p=0.036). In contrast, job satisfaction exhibited a positive correlation only with decision latitude (r=0.188; p=0.042). Most notably, job satisfaction displayed a strong, positive correlation with life satisfaction (r=0.385; p<0.001).

Discussion

This study emphasizes the link between job and life satisfaction, underscoring the need to address workplace factors for better well-being of MR.

Conclusion

Based on our findings, it is imperative to consider modifying the psychosocial conditions experienced by MR to enhance their satisfaction with both work and life.
P-324 OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE TRAINING IN MOROCCO: BETWEEN THE DIVERSITY OF CURRICULA AND THE DIVERSITY OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH NEEDS!
Authors: Tahri Loubna , Wifaq Kamal , Soltani Sara , El Kholti Abdeljalil
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Morocco’s economic and industrial fabric has undergone remarkable change in recent years, with the arrival of several multinationals and the development of service professions. In view of the ratification of ILO C187, occupational medicine in Morocco faces the dilemma of competences and occupational safety and health (OSH) requirements.

Methods

this study provides an overview of the various training courses for occupational physicians in Morocco, as well as the ways in which the specialty is practiced in Morocco, followed by a study of the adaptability of skills to the regulatory and normative requirements of OSH.

Discussion and results

Morocco’s working population is around 12.2 million and the national profile shows that occupational health services cover 20% of the country’s population, while the number of occupational physicians exceeds 1,400. This indicates a disparity in the way occupational medicine is practiced: many qualified physicians do not work in companies, while others devote only part of their time to their work, and there are very few full-time occupational physicians. The aim of our work is to suggest ways of improving occupational health coverage, while at the same time improving the working conditions of occupational physicians.

Conclusion

There are multiple ways to practice Occupational medicine, but the recommendations are geared towards proposing models of multidisciplinary occupational health services, distributed according to economic zone and number of employees. This model can also be offered to the public sector, providing services that are almost non-existent as yet.
P-329 INTEREST OF MEDICAL DIGITALIZATION IN OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE
Authors: Errida Samir
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to collect precise data as reported in medical records, including the number of workplace accidents, their causes, types, and severity. It also sought information on the duration of work interruptions and compared them with other types of injuries.

Methods

The study gathered data on the rates of Permanent Partial Disability (IPP) granted and aimed to understand the assessment of clinical and para clinical care costs, as well as compensation amounts for different reported incidents.

Results

The digitalization of medical records offered several advantages, such as eliminating the need to physically transfer records between company branches, systematic archiving in the company’s drive with immediate retrieval when needed, and enabling the declaration of changes in job positions and scheduling of medical examinations. The digitalization of medical records led to improved access for authorized personnel, including occupational physicians and nursing staff, with enhanced data privacy protection.

Discussion

This streamlined data exchange and document sharing exclusively among the company’s occupational physicians, resulting in increased efficiency in accessing healthcare services and improving overall medical care management within the organization. Furthermore, the ability to compare and analyze data on workplace accidents, work interruptions, and compensation rates can aid in identifying trends and implementing preventive measures.

Conclusion

This digitalization process enhances data accessibility, privacy protection, and the efficiency of medical care management within the organization.
P-334 TITLE: NATIONAL POLICY INDEX (NPI) FOR WORKER MENTAL HEALTH AND ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH ENTERPRISE PSYCHOSOCIAL SAFETY CLIMATE
Authors: Potter R , Dollard M F , Lerouge L , Jain A , Leka S , Cefaliello A
Published: July 2024

Introduction

National occupational health and safety (OHS) policy (e.g., legislation) underpins worker health protection and is imperative for healthy and safe working populations. In the interest of bolstering mental health through decent work, this study undertakes a global analysis of OHS policy for worker mental health and develops and validates a short tool quantifying national policy approaches—the National Policy Index (NPI, for worker mental health).

Method

Data were collected across 45 countries from 164 global experts (and/or expert groups) to capture policy presence, priority action areas, and drivers and barriers surrounding policy implementation.

Results

Analysis revealed top global psychosocial concerns are harassment, mobbing or bullying, work overload, discrimination, and poor work-life balance. Policy priorities are harassment, mobbing or bullying, discrimination, and physical violence. The psychosocial hazards/risks that are most addressed in policies or regulated are physical violence, discrimination, harassment, mobbing or bullying. The main driver for managing hazards is workplace senior management support and having specific national regulations, and the main barrier is poor resource availability.

Discussion

The NPI was developed through exploratory factor analysis and validated through significant correlation with a national policy audit and to the 2019 European Survey of Enterprises on New and Emerging Risks data, which reports enterprise level psychosocial safety climate (PSC, organisational policies, and procedures for stress prevention). The correlation between the NPI and enterprise-level PSC highlights the critical role of national policy in protecting worker population mental health. Yet above and beyond national policy, national union density also related to enterprise PSC indicating that social action is also imperative.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that global mental health can be reinforced via decent work outlined in national policy approaches, particularly legislation, as well as via senior management support, and collective approaches such as union action.
P-337 EXPERIENCE IN OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE PRACTICE DURING COVID-19 AT PRIVATE HOSPITAL, THAILAND
Authors: Karnjanakantorn Worrapan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic, also known as the coronavirus pandemic. Thailand was the first country to report a case outside China. As of 2 April 2022, the country has reported a cumulative total of 3,684,755 confirmed cases, with 25,318 deaths from the disease.

Methods

To Study in high risk worker with underlying medical conditions during 2020-2022.There were many activities to prevent infection e.g. occupational health consultation, periodic examination, cleaning workplaces, also recommendations from Department of Disease Control including 1) Before working, they must prepare a cloth mask, hygienic mask, alcohol gel 2) Do not share their personal belongings with others such as glasses, food containers 3) If they have symptoms, they must take a leave of absence at home and inform their boss of health condition 4) If they find that a colleague in the workplace has an abnormal cough, they had to inform the first aid station in their office

Results

There were 35 people who had underlying condition. They might have more than one and sometimes two or three of underlying conditions, Diabetes(4 people), Hypertension, Heart condition(15 people), Respiratory disease(4 people),Liver disease(1 person), Immunocompromised(1 person), Other conditions, Gout, Anemia (14 people) all cases need to assess individual risk e.g. Past medical history, Underlying conditions, Current medications and Annual check-up. There was no COVID-19 case during the study.

Discussion

We should take particular care to reduce workers’ risk of exposure to COVID-19.

Conclusion

The high-risk group workers were encouraged to get booster vaccinated as soon as possible and early detection was necessary to prevent COVID-19.
P-338 ANALOGOUS SLAVE LABOR IN BRAZIL: A COMPLEX REALITY TO BE ANALYZED BY OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH
Authors: Ximenes Catiane , Setubal Aline , Oliveira Paulo
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The interest in work throughout the production chain brought about by Industry 5.0 can contribute to combating forms of labor exploitation. Occupational health is a tool that has technical and scientific foundations to help with this problem. Objectives: To draw up a profile of analogous slave labor in Brazil.

Methods

Using the websites of the Ministry of Labor, Social Security, the Public Ministry of Labor, RadarSIT and SmartLab, it was possible to trace the profile of analogous slave labor in Brazil. The paper Industry 5.0 Towards a sustainable, human-centered and resilient European industry 2021 identified the contributions of industry 5.0.

Results

From 1995 to June 14, 2023, 61,711 workers were found in these conditions in Brazil. Between 2002 and 2022, the five economic sectors most involved were cattle breeding (27%), sugar cane (15%), forestry production (8%), coffee growing (6%) and alcohol manufacture and building construction (4% each). 88% had completed elementary school, 93% were men and aged between 18 and 39.

Discussion and Conclusion

Labor slavery is still present in Brazil and occupational health is a tool that could be used more by public policies. The state in Brazil where these workers were most commonly found is part of the region of the country where there is no medical residency in occupational medicine. The occupational physician must recognize these conditions, treat and prevent further damage from being caused, allied to the innovations of industry 5.0, in the search for solutions to health problems.
P-339 OCCUPATION AND RISK OF CHOLANGIOCARCINOMA IN THE CARA CASE-CONTROL STUDY
Authors: Mattioli Stefano , Nocilla Mattia Roberto , Montagnani Andrea , Murgia Nicola , Tavolari Simona , Deserti Marzia , Curti Stefania
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The association between cholangiocarcinoma (CC) and occupational exposure to asbestos and chlorinated solvents has been studied. This study aims to evaluate whether there is an increased risk of CC in specific occupational categories.

Methods

Case and control subjects of the CARA (Cholangiocarcinoma Aetiology: Role of Asbestos) study were grouped in occupational categories according to ISCO-88 classification. We fitted multivariate logistic regression models to estimate Odds Ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) adjusting for gender, age, comorbidities, smoking habits, and familiarity. Subgroup analyses were performed among idiopathic subjects. The reference category comprised administrative clerks and other white-collar workers.

Result

We found an increased risk for CC in “agricultural workers” (OR 3.4, 95%CI 1.2-9.1) and “typographers/painters” (OR 5.1, 95%CI 0.9-27.7). The risk for “sales workers” and “service sector workers” was 0.5 (95%CI 0.3-0.9) and 0.3 (95%CI 0.1-0.9), respectively. Among subjects without comorbidities, the risk for CC was increased for “construction workers” (OR 4.9, 95%CI 1.2-20.0).

Discussion

Occupational exposure to asbestos is common among agricultural and construction workers, while typographers/painters are likely to be exposed to solvents. The absence of occupational exposure to risk factors along with the role of socioeconomic conditions could help explaining the reduction of risk for CC in some occupational categories.

Conclusion

Our results supported the association between asbestos and solvents and the risk of CC. Further studies are needed to reinforce the hypothesis of the association between occupational (and non-occupational) risk factors for CC.
O-191 OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TO PERFLUOROALKYL SURFACTANTS PFOA, ADV AND CC6O4 IN ITALIAN POLYMERS PLANTS AND THEIR KINETICS OF ELIMINATION
Authors: Fustinoni Silvia , Mercadante Rosa , Cafagna Simone , Campo Laura , Consonni Dario
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Perfluoroalkyl acid surfactants PFOA (from the sixties to 2013) and ADV (since 1996) were historically used in two Italian fluoropolymer plants; cC6O4 was introduced in 2012 as a PFOA substitute. This work reports biomonitoring results in the years 2004-2021.

Methods

Workers surveyed from 2004, measuring serum concentrations of perfluoroalkyl acid surfactants. For PFOA and cC6O4, the kinetics of elimination was investigated.

Results

809 workers were investigated for PFOA (3,692 samples), ADV (4,288 samples) and cC6O4 (2,272 samples). In the production plant, median PFOA decreased from 1900 to 14 µg/L (2004-2021); median ADV from 434 to 86 µg/L (2011-2021). For cC6O4 the detection ranged from 9 to 47% (2013-2021), while in detected samples median cC6O4 ranged from 3 to 16 µg/L. Several mitigation measurements were adopted, including the phasing out of PFOA and plant improvements. Decreasing trends were observed for all chemicals along years (p value for linear trend of means <0.001). After the ban of PFOA, a half-live of 3.16 (95% confidence interval: 2.98 – 3.37) years was calculated with data from 93 workers/568 samples. In 18 workers cC6O4 half-life was 7.7 (95% CI: 6.7 – 8.9) days.

Discussion

PFOA and ADV markedly decreased over time. The apparent increase of Cc6O4 was due to changes in laboratory limits of quantification over time.

Conclusion

Technical and organizational interventions undertaken to reduce exposure were effective, with a 5 to 136-fold reduction in the concentration of perfluoroalkyl compounds in the serum of workers. While PFOA is a persistent compound, cC6O4 has a much shorter half-live.
O-193 THE SAFECHROM PROJECT - CIRCULATING LUNG-CANCER-RELATED NON-CODING RNAS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TO HEXAVALENT CHROMIUM
Authors: Jiang Zheshun , Person Romane , Abushanab Heam , Pineda Daniela , Lundh Thomas , Engfeldt Malin , Broberg Karin
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Hexavalent chromium, Cr(VI), is classified as a Group 1 human carcinogen and causes lung cancer. This study was to investigate associations between occupational exposure to Cr(VI) and lung cancer-related non-coding RNAs.

Methods

The study included 111 Cr(VI) exposed workers and 72 controls in Sweden, 91.4% non-smokers. Cr concentration in red blood cells (RBC-Cr) was measured. MicroRNA (miRNA) and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) were extracted from plasma followed by DNAse treatment, cDNA synthesis, and qPCR using target-specific assays for four miRNAs (miR-142-3p, miR-15b-5p, miR-3940-5p, miR-451a), and three lncRNAs (H19, MALAT1, NORAD).

Results

Median RBC-Cr concentrations were significantly higher in the exposed group (0.73 µg/L, 5-95% 0.51-2.33) compared with controls (0.53 µg/L, 0.42-0.72). Plasma relative expression levels of all miRNAs, MALAT1 and NORAD were significantly lower in the exposed workers compared with controls. In the exposed group, significant negative correlations (rS=-0.19 - -0.27) were found between RBC-Cr and miR-142-3p, miR-15b-5p, miR-451a and NORAD. NORAD correlated with miR-142-3p (rS=0.34) and miR-15b-5p (rS=0.28). In multivariate regression models adjusting for confounders, expression of the miRNAs, MALAT1 and NORAD was still significantly lower in the exposed group compared with controls, and the expression decreased with increasing RBC-Cr.

Discussion

Cr(VI) exposure was associated in a dose-response manner with differential expression of circulating non-coding RNAs in exposed workers, which suggests non-coding RNAs as potential toxicological biomarkers for Cr(VI). Relations between miRNAs and lncRNAs suggest that they participate in the same lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory axes, which may play important roles in Cr(VI) carcinogenesis.

Conclusion

Occupational Cr(VI) exposure may impact circulating lung-cancer-related non-coding RNAs expression.
P-344 MECHANISM OF 1,2-DICHLOROPROPANE-INDUCED CHOLANGIOCARCINOMA
Authors: Ichihara Gaku , Zong Cai , Kimura Yusuke , Ekuban Abigail , Takizawa Ryoya , Kinoshita Kazuo , Sugie Shigeyuki , Zhang Xiao , Zhang Lingyi , Itoh Ken , Yamamoto Masayuki , Shichino Shigeyuki , Matsushima Kouji , Ichihara Sahoko
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In 2013, a case series of cholangiocarcinoma was reported among offset color proof-printing workers, and 1,2-dichloropropane was identified as the causative agent.

Material and Method

Subsequent histopathological studies on surgically resected specimens of cholangiocarcinoma from workers exposed to 1,2-dichloropropane revealed hyperplasia or sclerosis of the bile duct and variable inflammatory cell proliferation in noncancerous hepatic tissues.

Result and discussion

Additionally, an increase in expression of gamma-H2AX, a marker of DNA double-strand breaks, was observed in non-neoplastic biliary epithelial cells. Experimental investigations using Nrf2-knockout mice demonstrated that exposure to 1,2-dichloropropane induced cholangiocyte proliferation and exerted an anti-apoptotic effect. Moreover, an upregulation of gamma-H2AX expression was observed in the livers of wild-type mice, but not of Nrf2-knockout mice, indicating a Nrf2-dependent induction of DNA damage. In vitro studies using human MMNK-1 cholangiocytes exposed to 1,2-dichloropropane did not result in an increase of gamma-H2AX-positive foci, gene expression of activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID), or ROS production. However, when co-cultured with THP-1 derived macrophages, MMNK-1 cells exhibited all of these changes related to genomic instability. Subsequent transcriptome analysis revealed that exposure to 1,2-dichloropropane upregulated base excision repair genes in cholangiocytes co-cultured with macrophages, but not in monocultured cholangiocytes. These findings collectively suggest a role of Nrf2 in cell proliferation and anti-apoptotic effects in cholangiocytes, as well as the induction of DNA damage in mice. Furthermore, the study highlights the pivotal role of macrophages in the induction of DNA damage, upregulation of AID, or ROS production in human cholangiocytes.

Conclusion

our study demonstrates the Nrf2 and inflammatory cell-mediated mechanism of 1,2-dichloropropane-induced carcinogenesis in cholangiocarcinoma.
P-347 PROVISION OF EFFICIENT AND VERIFIED BIOMONITORING METHODS BY THE MAK COMMISSION
Authors: Göen Thomas , Schäferhenrich Anja , Nübler Stefanie , Hartwig Andrea
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Biomonitoring is the most powerful approach to assess individual exposure and health risk of workers from chemical substances. However, availability and implementation of published biomonitoring methods often pose notable challenges. In 1955 the Permanent Senate Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area (MAK Commission) was founded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft. Within the Commission, the working group “Analyses of Hazardous Substances in Biological Materials” (AiBM) develops, verifies, and publishes procedures for the determination of biomonitoring parameters.

Methods

AiBM applies a multi-stage process to develop and evaluate biomonitoring methods. Within this process it is essential that every method is verified by a second laboratory to ensure the reproducibility of the analytical procedure and the reliability data. Submitted methods and examination reports are discussed within the working group. Positively evaluated methods are adopted for publication. Others are returned to the developer for revision. Methods with fundamental drawbacks are rejected. Adopted methods were published first in a book series and, since 2016, in the quarterly online journal “The MAK Collection for Occupational Health and Safety”.

Results and Discussion

Since 1985, AibM has published nearly 200 analytical methods in English. Such methods include inorganic parameters (e.g. Pb, Hg, As) as well as organic parameters (e.g. solvents, plasticizers, pesticides) and are available online free of charge (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/book/10.1002/3527600418 and https://series.publisso.de/de/pgseries/overview/mak/dam).

Conclusion

These detailed, ready-to-use protocols for human biomonitoring enable the monitoring of occupational exposure and often the determination of the background exposure in the general population as well.
P-350 FIREFIGHTERS´ OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE ASSESSMENT AND ESTIMATION OF ASSOCIATED HEALTH RISKS: AN OVERVIEW OF EUROPEAN DATA
Authors: Teixeira Joana , Almeida Pedro , Santos-Silva Alice , Costa Paulo , Morais Simone , Delerue-Matos Cristina , Rodrigues Francisca , Oliveira Marta
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The occurrence and severity of wildfires, with hotter and longer fire seasons, have increased due to global warming and climatic changes, particularly in Southern European countries. Occupational exposure as a firefighter is carcinogenic to humans due to the development of bladder cancer and mesothelioma. This activity is genotoxic, induces epigenetic alterations, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation. Participation in prolonged fire season can promote firefighters’ health burden. However, the exposure assessment of European firefighting forces remains limited.

Methods

This work presents an overview of available data related to firefighters’ exposure assessment in Europe and explores the estimated health risks.

Results and Discussion

Overall, available data demonstrate the exposure to health-relevant pollutants, e.g., fine/ultrafine particulate matter, metals, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons at fire stations’ microenvironments and during firefighting activities. Moreover, salivary, and urinary biomarkers of exposure as well as biomarkers of early health effects were increased in firefighters involved in firefighting. Some studies reported firefighters´ occupational exposure levels higher than the available recommended benchmark values, even when adequate personal protective equipment was used during fire combat.

Conclusion

Further studies with a more extensive exposure assessment among European firefighters are needed to contribute to the proposal and implementation of preventive measures and highlight future mitigation strategies. Funding: This work was funded by project PCIF/SSO/0090/2019 by the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia, Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior (FCT-MCTES), through national funds. Acknowledgments: This work received support from UIDB/50006/2020, UIDP/50006/2020, LA/P/0008/2020, 2022.05381.PTDC, and PCIF/SSO/0017/2018 by FCT-MCTES. M. Oliveira and F. Rodrigues are thankful for the scientific contracts CEECIND/03666/2017 and CEECIND/01886/2020, respectively.
P-352 HEXAVALENT CHROMIUM CAUSED DNA DAMAGE RESPONSE AND APOPTOSIS VIA THE PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 PATHWAY TRIGGERED BY OXIDATIVE STRESS IN LUNG OF RAT
Authors: Yu Shanfa
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Hexavalent chromium [Cr (VI)] is an occupational carcinogen, but the molecular mechanism of Cr (VI) causing lung injury and even lung cancer is still unclear.

Methods

36 SD male rats received inhalable intratracheal instillation of Cr (VI) (0.05, 0.25 mg Cr/kg) or same volume(3 ml/kg) of normal saline weekly for 28 days (total 5 times).Half of the rats in each group were sacrificed after 28d exposure, and the rest stopped exposure and self-repair for two weeks.the research was approved by the Experimental Animal Ethics Committee of Zhengzhou University (Grant Number: ZZUIRB 2021-117).

Results

Cr (VI) exposure caused the increase of blood Cr, urinary Cr, MDA, 8-OHDG, and the decrease of GSH and MDA,while two-week repair only reduced urinary Cr.Exposure to Cr (VI) upregulated FOXO1 and downregulated P-AKT and P-FOXO1 for two weeks.PI3K in the 0.25 mg Cr/kg group was inhibited after two-week repair. Cr (VI) exposure mainly promoted GADD45a and CHK2 in exposure group, mainly promoted BIM, BAX/BCL-2 and suppressed BCL-2 and BCL-XL in repair group.

Discussion

Cr (VI) exposure caused blood Cr accumulation, lung oxidative stress and DNA damage, also obvious after two-week repair, suggested that two-week repair couldn’t eliminate these effects. Cr (VI) exposure stimulated DNA damage response and apoptosis, and the PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 pathway was also activated, suggested there was a connection between them, PPI analysis also confirmed this hypothesis.

Conclusion

Cr (VI) may induce DNA damage response and apoptosis in lung by activating the PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 pathway, two-week repair may alleviate oxidative stress and DNA damage induced by Cr (VI) exposure but couldn’t eliminate its effects.
P-353 A NEW STUDY DESIGN FOR THE EVALUATION OF ALTERNATIVE PARAMETERS FOR THE BIOMONITORING OF LEAD EXPOSURE
Authors: Wolfschmidt-Fietkau Anna , Göen Thomas , Greiner Annette , Ott Stephan , Hebisch Ralph , Müller Lars , Prott Ulrich , Drexler Hans
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Lead in blood (BLL) shows a delayed response to changes in external exposure to lead. Thus, the Institute and Outpatient Clinic of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine (FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg) and the German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA) together devised an innovative study designed to address the issue of alternative biomarkers for lead exposure.

Methods

We consulted medical databases, guidelines, and expert knowledge to define parameters likely to react to lead exposure and which can be measured in blood or urine samples. We assessed possible methods of collecting and matching information on personal external lead exposure. For our study collective, we opted to recruit workers in the lead-manufacturing industry.

Results

We enlisted workers from five German plants dealing with lead and lead products, and initiated two measurement campaigns at each plant. Among other biomarkers, we chose to measure BLL and lead in plasma and urine at defined points in time. External exposure was measured by personal air monitoring and hand-wipe sampling.

Discussion

As measurements were conducted under typical working conditions, results are probably influenced by workers’ personal protective equipment and individual frequency of hand-to-mouth contact.

Conclusion

The linkage of external exposure measurements and the concentration of different internal exposure markers at different points in time facilitates evaluation of a possible correlation between external and internal exposure markers as well as whether an internal parameter exists which responds quickly enough to external changes to serve as a surrogate for short-term changes in lead exposure.
P-358 NOVEL SHEEP MONOCLONAL ANTIBODIES (SMABS) FOR 1-HYDROXYPYRENE GLUCURONIDE (1-OHPYRG), THE PRODUCTION OF A LATERAL FLOW (LF) TEST KIT AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF ON-SITE POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBON (PAH) BIOMONITORING
Authors: Ball Lathan , Carter Harry , Baker Claire , Porter Robert
Published: July 2024

Objective

There is a need to develop cost-effective PAH biomonitoring test kits. 1-OHPyrG Mabs enabled the production of a PAH biomonitoring ELISA for laboratory analysis. The development of LF test will facilitate the production of a point-of-use test. On-site screening will allow employers to immediately confirm safe working practice and significantly increase the value of biomonitoring.

Methods

A novel LF was developed. The LF employs a sMab to capture the PAH biomarker (1-OHPyrG). The captured biomarker is visualised through a second Mab raised against the sMab-biomarker complex. This sandwich assay provides a positive correlation between the biomarker concentration and assay signal. A Smartphone camera allows signal quantification and an ‘app’ provides result interpretation. The ‘app’ reports results as exposed/non-exposed.

Results

A specific LF, with a measuring range of 1-10ug/l of 1-OHPyrG, can detect elevated levels of urinary biomarker. The LF correlates with established methods. The performance of the test kit was confirmed in an occupational biomonitoring study. In the occupational study all the elevated samples were correctly identified. When compared to the HPLC analysis the LF reported 1 false negative from 55 samples. The false positives (11/55) were associated with concentrated urines. Urine concentration is now being considered.

Discussion and Conclusions

The development of a LF test provides “real-time” analysis to occupational health professionals. On-site screening allows the immediate confirmation of safe working practice, provides on-the-job reassurance to those involved in potentially hazardous activities and increases the efficacy of biomonitoring. An ‘app’ to support LF testing provides new opportunities for data collection, analysis and storage.
P-360 SEVERITY OF PARKINSONISM ASSOCIATED WITH ENVIRONMENTAL MANGANESE EXPOSURE
Authors: Nelson Gill , Racette Brad Alan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Workers exposed to manganese can develop impaired cognitive and motor function, manifesting primarily as parkinsonism. The effects of exposure to lower, environmental levels are unclear.

Methods

We investigated the motor effects of exposure to ambient manganese from a ferromanganese smelter in South Africa. Two groups of adults (> 40 years) participated from 2016 to 2020: 621 living near the smelter and 95 from an unexposed area. All were examined by a movement disorders specialist, using the Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale motor subsection part 3 (UPDRS3). All participants completed accelerometry-based kinematic (ABK) and grooved pegboard (GP) tests. Airborne PM2.5-Mn was measured in both areas. We compared performances between the two groups, using linear regression.

Results

The mean PM2.5-Mn concentration near the smelter was 203 ng/m3 in 2016-2017; 20 times higher than the 10 ng/m3 measured in 2020 in the unexposed area. UPDRS3 scores were 6.6 (95% CI 5.2-7.9) points higher in the exposed than the unexposed participants. Mean angular velocity for finger-tapping on the ABK test (degrees/second) was slower in the exposed than the unexposed participants: 74.9, 95% CI 48.7-101.2, and 82.6, 95% CI 55.2-110.1 for the dominant and non-dominant hand, respectively.

Discussion

We showed that exposure to low manganese levels is associated with parkinsonian motor dysfunction. Occupational health practitioners should be aware of the potential for workers to develop neurological health effects at low exposure levels of manganese.

Conclusion

The current OEL for manganese should be investigated, taking into account the findings from this and other similar studies.
P-364 METHOD DEVELOPEMENT FOR QUANTIFICIATION OF CYCLOPHOSPHAMIDE, DOXORUBICIN, DAUNORUBICIN, EPIRUBICIN, PACLITAXEL AND THEIR METABOLITES IN HUMAN PLASMA
Authors: Verscheure Eline , Creta Matteo , Poels Katrien , Struys Ilana , Vanoirbeek Jeroen , Lenaerts Liesbeth , Amant Frédéric , Ghosh Manosij , Godderis Lode
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Cyclophosphamide, daunorubicin, epirubicin, doxorubicin and paclitaxel are commonly used drugs in cancer treatment. Unintended exposure to antineoplastic agents, including occupational exposure of healthcare workers, can have an impact on health. Therefore, it is important to monitor exposure to these agents. We aimed to develop and validate a sensitive method for quantification of five antineoplastic drugs and their metabolites in plasma.

Methods

Plasma samples were prepared with solid phase extraction by use of Oasis PRiME HLB cartridges. The compounds were separated and analysed using Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography linked to tandem mass spectrometry with electrospray ionisation.

Results

We succeeded in developing a method for quantification of all compounds and their metabolites with following LLOQs: 0.05 ng/mL (cyclophosphamide), 0.3 ng/mL (doxorubicin, daunorubicinol), 0.7 ng/mL (epirubicin, epirubicinol, doxorubicinol), 1 ng/mL (daunorubicin and paclitaxel), 5 ng/mL (6-alpha-hydroxypaclitaxel) and 30 ng/mL (4-oxo-cyclophosphamide). The method was applied on seven samples of a pilot study and resulted in quantification of antineoplastic drugs ranging from <LLOQ up to 2467.49 ng/mL.

Discussion

Even though the samples of the pilot study were not obtained in an occupational setting, the method is sensitive enough to be applied in an occupational context. A limitation of the study is that two of the compounds are also used as internal standards, which means they cannot be used in case the individuals are also exposed to these compounds.

Conclusion

The method has been successfully developed, validated and applied in a pilot study and shows potential to be implemented for biomonitoring in an occupational setting.
P-365 ANALYSIS OF HEAVY METALS INTERFERENCE IN BLOOD DELTA-AMINOLEVULINIC ACID DEHYDRATASE (Δ-ALAD) ACTIVITY
Authors: Prodia Cesio Vidiar , Fuk Liem Jen , Mulyana Mulyana , Pangaribuan Bertha , Mansyur Muchtaruddin
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Lead may alter δ-ALAD activity, the enzymes involved in the heme synthesis pathway. In the occupational setting, lead exposure rarely appears alone but occurs together with other heavy metal. This study aims to analyze the relationship of multiple heavy metals exposure with the δ-ALAD activity.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study in Java Island, Indonesia. A total of 71 participants were consecutively recruited from 3 locations. The questionnaire, physical examinations, and blood samples were taken from all subjects. Blood δ-ALAD activity was measured using NMAM 8000 method, while heavy metals levels were measured using ICPMS. 25-OH vitamin D was measured using ECLIA method.

Results

We identify that several occupational activities were the sources of heavy metals exposure. The median (min-max) of the blood δ-ALAD activity was 22.16 (2.88-36.98) unit/g hematocrit. The median (min-max) concentrations of lead, chromium, cadmium and 25-OH vitamin D levels were 6.97 (1.17-43.94) μg/dL, 9.26 (0.05-66.95) μg/L, 1.0 (0.01-6.43) μg/L and 21 (11-36) ng/mL, respectively. The δ-ALAD activity was found to be significantly correlated with blood lead, chromium, and cadmium level, as well as with the ratio of Pb/Mn, Cd/Mn, Cd/vitamin D, and Pb/vitamin D.

Discussion

Our findings indicated that some heavy metals may contribute to the catalysis activity of the δ-ALAD enzyme.

Conclusion

Blood δ-ALAD activity can be interfered with by lead, chromium, and cadmium. The health impacts mitigation efforts due to lead exposure need to pay attention to the potential involvement of co-exposure to other heavy metals. Keywords: Heavy metals, δ-ALAD activity, Ratio of metal to 25-OH vitamin D
O-198 IMPACT OF A WORK REHABILITATION PROGRAM ON FITNESS TO WORK AMONG WORKERS WITH CHRONIC LOWER BACK PAIN -A CASE OF KANSANSHI MINE, ZAMBIA
Authors: Bwalya Justine
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Chronic low back pain is a significant occupational health problem impacting a worker’s activities of daily living and work participation. At Kansanshi Mine a work rehabilitation pain management program was developed aimed at disability management, functional optimization and return to work for employees with chronic lower back pain.

Methods

A phased, 1-year structured, goal oriented and biopsychosocial approach modelled program was established in March 2022 and delivered within the mine lease by a multi-disciplinary team. Clients’ functional activities and fitness to work were assessed at enrolment and periodically using Functional Capacity Evaluations and comparing FCE results with job demands as indicated on the occupational risk exposure profile. Client attended x3 weekly group exercises sessions, individual & fortnight group psychotherapy sessions and monthly group information education counselling sessions. Permission to review program data was obtained from company management.

Results and discussion

Sixty-seven (67) employees with LBP were seen as of December 2022, mean age 41 years, males 94% and heavy mobile equipment operators 59%. A 30 % reduction in number of employees with low back pain issued with work restrictions was observed between 2021 and 2022. On fitness to work outcome, 50% of employees enrolled while on restricted and alternative duties and 25% on sick leave improved their fitness to work status to normal duty.

Conclusion

Chronic low back pain was commonest among heavy mobile equipment operators. A work rehabilitation pain management program can improve functional capacity and fitness to work outcomes. Employers should consider establishing work rehabilitation facilities as previously recommended in literature.