bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytokine Production by Splenocytes and Thymocytes in Mice after Intranasal Exposure to Toluene Diisocyanate
Authors: Zheng Kui‐Cheng , Ariizumi Makoto , Todoriki Hidemi , Shinjo Masaki
Published: February 2008

Cytokine Production by Splenocytes and Thymocytes in Mice after Intranasal Exposure to Toluene Diisocyanate: Kui‐Cheng Zheng, et al. Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus—To determine the status and the role of cytokines in occupational asthma induced by toluene diisocyanate (TDI), we performed a quantitative analysis of cytokine profiles by means of splenocytes and thymocytes from an asthmatic murine model induced by TDI. Female BALB/c mice were treated with two courses of intranasal application of 5% TDI in ethyl acetate for 5 consecutive days each time separated by a one week rest. The control group of mice were similarly treated with vehicle. A week after the second sensitization, both groups of mice were provoked by applying 2.5% of TDI in vehicle, and nasal responses were scored for ten minutes. The results show that the TDI‐sensitized group of mice exhibited the nasal allergic‐like responses of sneezing and hyperrhinorrhea. Interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐5 production by splenocytes, thymocytes and the total serum IgE level in TDI‐sensitized mice were significantly higher than that in control mice. IL‐2 production by splenocytes and IL‐2, IFN‐γ by thymocytes in both control and TDI‐sensitized groups were not significantly different. IFN‐γ produced by splenocytes was significantly higher in TDI‐sensitized mice than that in control mice. In TDI‐sensitized mice, the total serum IgE level was significantly positively correlated with IL‐4 and IL‐5 production by splenocytes and thymocytes, respectively. These findings suggest that splenocytes and thymocytes preferentially secrete Th2 type cytokines during murine asthma and these cytokines may play an important role in the pathogenesis of TDI‐induced occupational allergic asthma.
Work versus Non‐Work Predictors of Job Satisfaction among Japanese White‐Collar Workers
Authors: Hagihara Akihito , Tarumi Kimio , Babazono Akira , Nobutomo Koichi , Morimoto Kanehisa
Published: February 2008

Work versus Non‐work Predictors of Job Satisfaction among Japanese White‐collar Workers: Akihito Hagihara, et al. Department of Health Services Management and Policy, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medicine—In the present study, we conducted a cross‐sectional study of male white‐collar workers in Japan, and evaluated the relative importance of work and non‐work factors in deciding the level of subject's job satisfaction. Survey data collected from white‐collar workers at a large steel company in Osaka, Japan were analyzed. The results show that work factors play a more important role in predicting the subject's work satisfaction than do non‐work factors. The majority of significant predictors of job satisfaction were related to company controlled working conditions rather than variables under the direct control of the individual. The results imply that the level of job satisfaction among the workers can be more effectively improved through the implementation of some basic policies by the company than through efforts of the workers.
Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling of Metabolic Interactions between n‐Hexane and Toluene in Humans
Authors: Yu Xiaozhong , Johanson Gunnar , Ichihara Gaku , Shibata Eiji , Kamijima Michihiro , Ono Yuichiro , Takeuchi Yasuhiro
Published: February 2008

Physiologically based Pharmacokinetic Modeling of Metabolic Interactions Between n‐Hexane and Toluene in Humans: Xiaozhong Yu, et al. Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine—Some animal experiments have shown that mutual metabolic inhibition takes place between n‐hexane and toluene, but we have found only one report dealing with their metabolic interaction at occupationally relevant exposure levels (Baelum et al. 1998). In order to evaluate the effect of dose‐dependent metabolic interaction between toluene and n‐hexane, especially in occupationally relevant exposure conditions such as relevant exposure levels, physical activities and exposure patterns, a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for co‐exposure to n‐hexane and toluene was developed. The PBPK model for the binary co‐exposure was established by initially validating or refining the existing PBPK models for n‐hexane and toluene and then linking the individual solvent models via the hepatic metabolism terms. In reporting previous findings, noncompetitive inhibition was assumed and the inhibition constant of toluene on n‐hexane biotransformation and that of n‐hexane on toluene biotransformation used in simulation were 7.5, 30 μm, respectively, in previous data. According to the model, 8 h of constant exposure to 50 ppm n‐hexane and 25,50,100 and 500 ppm toluene will cause about 7%, 18%, 62% and 96% decreases in the urinary excretion of 2,5‐hexanedione (2,5‐HD) and 4%, 10%, 25% and 30% increases in the n‐hexane concentration in blood at the end of the fifth day of exposure simulated in a standard man at a 25 W work load. Simulations of co‐exposure to 50 ppm n‐hexane and 50 ppm toluene in a standard man who inhaled 50 ppm n‐hexane with 0 or 50 ppm toluene for 8 h at different work loads suggest that toluene causes a slight decrease in urinary 2,5‐HD in the resting condition, a 17% decrease at 25 W, and a 41% decrease at 50 W work load. The simulations of co‐exposure in different exposure patterns with the same time‐weighted concentration (TWA) of 50 ppm, i.e. 50 ppm for 8 h, 100 ppm of 4 times for 1 h and 200 ppm of twice for 1 h, showed reductions in urinary 2,5‐HD of 17%, 40% and 67%, respectively. These simulations suggest that co‐exposure to n‐hexane and toluene around 50 ppm (TWA) could affect urinary n‐hexane metabolites to various degrees depending on the fluctuations in exposure concentrations and variety of work activities in the workplace.
A Multi‐Centre Cross‐Sectional Survey on Safety at Construction Sites in Thailand, 1994‐1995
Authors:   Construction Worker Research Group of Thailand, Chongsuvivatwong Virasakdi , Pas‐Ong Suparb , Ritsmithchai Skulrat , Lebel Louis , Kamolrattanakul Pirom , Dhanamun Bodi , Udomprasertkul Venus , Inthusoma Tuanchai , Aramrattana Apinun , Singhanetra‐Renard Anchalee , Bunteongjit Kannikar , Saksoong Nuthaya , Chirawatkul Arun , Thinkhamrop Bandit , Chirawatkul Siriporn , Prab‐Na‐Sakdi Boonsri , Aekplakorn Wichai , Kerdkauy Sangchome , Thanomsauy Sonthaya
Published: February 2008

A Multi‐Centre Cross‐Sectional Survey on Safety at Construction Sites in Thailand, 1994‐1995: Construction Worker Research Group of Thailand—A multi‐centre cross‐sectional study was conducted under a uniform protocol in rapidly developing municipal areas in eight provinces of Thailand: Bangkok, Chonburi, Chiang Mai, Pisanulok, Khon Kaen, Nong Kai, Hat Yai and Phuket. Altogether information was collected by structured questionnaire interviews and inspection from 184 construction sites, 242 subcontractors, 171 workers' camps and 3614 workers. Males comprised 66% of the workers. 47% of the workers had worked 4 or more years in the industry. The majority (78%) had come from an agricultural background. Standards of education were uniformly low. Companies on small construction sites provided less protection facilities than at large scale construction sites and the injury rate in the former was 1.83 times higher. A nail in the foot was the most common injury (61%) resulting in stopping work. The overall incidence of injuries resulting in stopping work averaged 1.5 per 100 worker‐months. Twelve work‐related deaths were recorded at the construction sites studied. Causes were fall (4), electrocution (4), machinery (2) falling object (1) vehicle (1). The work‐related death rate was 68 per 100,000 worker‐years (95%CI 35‐118). This rate is 2‐5 times higher than those reported in western countries. Construction sites in Thailand have poor safety measures. The injury incidence rate and mortality rate are high.
Screening of Helicobacter Pylori Infection in the Health Examination Detected by Urea Breath Test and Barium Meal Study
Authors: Yamasawa Fumihiro , Ichinose Yuichi , Kanai Emiko , Yonemaru Makoto , Ishii Hitoshi , Toyama Keisuke
Published: February 2008

Screening of Helicobacter Pylori Infection in the Health Examination Detected by Urea Breath Test and Barium Meal Study: Fumihiro Yamasawa, et al. Marubeni Clinic

Background

Helicobacter pylori, H. pylori, is now assumed to be a definite cause of gastric cancer. Health examinations for the early detection of atherosclerotic diseases and malignant diseases have been widely undertaken in Japan, where the incidence of gastric cancer is still one of the highest in the world. To investigate H. pylori infection non‐invasively in the regular health examinations, we introduced the urea breath test (UBT) with a barium meal study in the ordinary system.

Methods

Sixty male subjects were studied (mean age: 47.8 y/o) in this study. After blood examination for anti H. pylori IgG antibody, the reference expired gas was collected from each subject. Then the subject took 100 mg of 13C‐urea dissolved in water with tartaric acid and sodium bicarbonate, which was used to distend the stomach, and an ordinary barium meal study was undertaken. Several rotations of the body were added to subjects for fluoroscopy. Thirty minutes after 13C‐urea intake, the expired gas was collected again as the second gas sample. The ratio of 13C to 12C in the reference and second expired gas sample was measured with a mass spectrometer and the changed fraction of the isotope concentration, d, was calculated in each subject. The X‐ray films of the barium meal study were read independently by one roentgenologist who was not informed at all about this study. Cases were divided into 2 groups: one group without mucosal inflammatory diseases and another group with mucosal inflammatory diseases.

Results

The d value for subjects with positive H. pylori antibody and with mucosal inflammatory diseases, who were strongly suggestive of positive H. pylori infection, had a significantly higher value (d: 2.492± 1.372, p< 0.001) than that for subjects with negative H. pylori antibody and without mucosal inflammatory diseases, who were thought not to have H. pylori infection (d: 0.141 ±0.1 07). Subjects who were strongly suggestive of H. pylori infection showed distinctly higher value.

Conclusions

Barium did not interfere with the reaction of H. pylori13 C‐urea in the gastric mucosa. UBT can be performed non‐invasively together with a barium meal study and it provides useful information on H. pylori infection in the health examination.
Differences in Lifestyle and Perceived Health in Different Occupations in a Community
Authors: Ohta Akiko , Takeuchi Kazuo , Yosiaki Sasazawa , Suzuki Shosuke
Published: February 2008

Differences in Lifestyle and Perceived Health in Different Occupations in a Community: Akiko Ohta, et al. Department of Public Health, Gunma University School of Medicine—It has been reported that morbidity and mortality vary according to occupation. To clarify factors which account for these differences, lifestyle, social network, job satisfaction and perceived health were measured in 1,165 men 40‐59 years old residing in a rural village in Gunma, Japan. Comparisons were made of four occupational groups: agricultural and forestry workers, the self‐employed, blue‐collar workers, and white‐collar workers. Agricultural and forestry workers had less obesity, good social networks with relatives and local community, lower job satisfaction, and less subjective physical symptoms and psychological complaints. The self‐employed had higher job satisfaction but felt their jobs were hard. Blue‐collar workers had lower job satisfaction, felt that their job was hard, and had the most subjective physical symptoms and psychological complaints. White‐collar workers were the most obese, ate more Western‐style foods, had more physical exercise, higher job satisfaction, did not feel the job was hard, had stronger marriage ties, and had fewer subjective physical symptoms and psychological complaints. These differences may account for differences in morbidity and mortality by occupation, and will provide useful information for health care planning in the respective occupational group. For example, improved health care will be needed for blue‐collar workers who had the poorest perceived health in the community.
Risk Factors for Liver Dysfunction in Middle Aged Men based on Four Year Health Examination Data
Authors: Tajima Kumiko , Takeuchi Kazuo , Suzuki Shosuke
Published: February 2008

Risk Factors for Liver Dysfunction in Middle Aged Men based on Four Year Health Examination Data: Kumiko Tajima, et al. Department of Public Health, Gunma University School of Medicine—In order to develop a better lifestyle improvement program, the relationship between lifestyle and changes in liver function were compared through data‐linkage of a self‐administered questionnaire to the results of annual health examinations over 4 years. In this study, 2,511 male subjects aged 40‐69 yr were asked to fill in the questionnaire. Of these, 824 subjects had a health examination in 1993. Two hundred and twenty‐eight of these remained within the normal range in liver function tests (LFT) in each of annual health examinations between 1994 and 1996, whereas 63 had worsened LFT results after the initial examination and were therefore called the decreased liver function (DLF) group. Controls age‐matched to the DLF group were chosen from the normal liver function group. Discriminant function analysis was carried out to identify the differences between the DLF group and the control group. The independent variables were selected from the variables which showed significant differences in the univariate analysis, considering multicollinearity. The independent variables used for the discriminant analysis were therefore alcohol consumption, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), BMI and “aggression” by THI. The Wilks' Lambda value was 0.787 (p value=0.0001). The overall correct identification rate in the discriminant analysis was 75.0%. The results of the present study suggest that men who are heavy drinkers, hypertensive, obese and aggressive had a high risk of developing liver dysfunction within a few years, even if their LFT values were within normal limits in any single year.
Afternoon Exercise Improves the Quality of Night Sleep: A Case Study Observed by EEG and Self‐Rating Scale
Authors: Yosiaki Sasazawa , Ogawa Masayuki , Kawada Tomoyuki , Suzuki Shosuke , Duki MI Zulkarnain
Published: February 2008

Afternoon Exercise Improves the Quality of Night Sleep: A Case Study Observed by EEG and Self‐Rating Scale: Sasazawa Yosiaki, et al. Department of Public Health, Gunma University School of Medicine—This study was designed to assess the effects of morning (10:00‐12:00) and afternoon (15:00‐17:00) exercise on the objective and subjective quality of sleep. The subject was a 24‐year‐old man in the habit of performing soccer exercises. Exercise duration was 2 hr a day with an average exercise load of 70% V02max, and the energy expenditure was approximately 1,300 kcal. The polygraphic parameters of sleep were sleep stages expressed as percentages of total sleep time (%S1, %S2, %S (3 + 4), %SREM, %MT)r time in bed, sleep time, total sleep time, sleep onset latency (SOL), waking from sleep (WAKE), sleep efficiency (SEFI), number of awakenings (NOAW), number of stage shifts, number of spindles and percentages of alpha and delta waves, all of which were assessed by an automatic computer analyzing system. The OSA questionnaire was used to assess the quality of subjective sleep. The five scales of the OSA are sleepiness, sleep maintenance, worry about sleep, integrated sleep feeling and sleep initiation. Comparisons were made between sleep parameters when the subject performed morning exercise and afternoon exercise, and in the non‐exercise days by Dunnett's multiple comparison test. Sleep EEGs after afternoon exercise days showed higher %MT (p<0.05), shorter SOL (p<0.05), less WAKE (p<0.05), higher SEFI (p<0.05) and decreased NOAW (p<0.05) than those of non‐exercise days. There were no significant differences between any of the sleep EEG parameters on non‐exercise and morning exercise days. Only the falling asleep score of the self‐rated sleep should be significantly improved by the afternoon exercise. The results suggest that afternoon exercise has a better effect on sleep than morning exercise.
The Effects of Allyl Chloride on Ca2+, Ca2+‐Free CaM, cAMP and Ca2+/CaM‐PK II Activity in Nerve Cells
Authors: Xie Keqin , Gao Shujun , Zhang Lei , Zhang Min , Sun Keren
Published: February 2008

The Effects of Allyl Chloride on Ca2+, Caz+‐Free CaM, cAMP and Ca24/CaM‐PK II Activity in Nerve Cells: Keqin Xie, et at. Institute of Toxicology, Shandong Medical University—Nerve cells in a culture from chicken embryo brain were used to study the allyl chloride‐induced effects on the contents of intracellular Ca2+, Ca2+‐free CaM, cAMP and the activity of Ca2+/CaM‐PK II. The results showed that with the increase in the concentration of allyl chloride there was a significant increase in the content of Ca2+and cAMP, and the activity of Ca2~/CaM‐PK II in the cells (P<0.01), but a marked decrease in Ca2 + ‐free CaM (P< 0.01). The results suggest that the neurotoxicity of allyl chloride might be related to the increase in intracellular Ca2+ and the activation of CaM and Ca2+/CaM‐PK II, eventually leading to the accumulation of degenerative MT in the nerve axon.
Formaldehyde Exposure and Low Birth Weight Incidence
Authors: Gražulevičienė Regina , Dulskienė Virginija , Venclovienė Jonė
Published: February 2008

Formaldehyde Exposure and Low Birth Weight Incidence: Regina Grazuleviciene, et al. Laboratory of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute of Cardiology—A population‐based epidemiological study was undertaken to assess the prenatal formaldehyde exposure effect on the incidence of low birth weight newborns in Kaunas area in 1994. All women in childbirth were interviewed in person about their sociodemographic characteristics, habits and reproductive and medical history. We compared 244 cases of low birth weight newborns with 4,089 controls. The comparison involved questionnaire information on 26 potential risk factors in low birth weight. We employed multivariate logistic regression to adjust for potential variable effects of 12 selected low birth weight risk factors. The incidence of low birth weight newborns in Kaunas was 56.2 per 1,000 live newborns. The crude risk ratio of low birth weight babies among women subjected to formaldehyde exposure was 1.68 (95% Cl 1.24‐2.27) and to TSP exposure was 1.59 (95% Cl 1.13‐2.20). The population attributable risk percentages were 14.1% and 4.9%, respectively. Adjustment for age, occupation, education, marital status, hypertonic disease, last pregnancy outcome, parents smoking, hazardous work, formaldehyde, ozone and TSP exposure decreased the formaldehyde effect, OR 1.37 (95% Cl 0.90‐2.09), and ozone effect, OR 1.44 (95% Cl 0.47‐4.41), and increased the TSP effect, OR 2.58 (95% Cl 1.34‐4.99). The study results indicate that among the ambient air pollutants examined TSP exposure had a statistically significant effect on low birth weight risk. Insufficient control of other environmental risk factors could have influenced the observed association
Biological Monitoring of Inorganic Mercury in Workers in a Fluorescent Lamp Plant
Authors: Iden Masako , Kira Shohei , Miyaue Hiroshi , Fukuda Masahiro , Yamaguchi Kyohei , Fujiki Yukio
Published: February 2008

Biological Monitoring of Inorganic Mercury in Workers in a Fluorescent Lamp Plant. Masako Iden, et al. Matsushita Electronics Corp., Okayama Factory—The level of mercury in urine is measured as an exposure monitoring of mercury, and the activity of urinary N‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucosaminidase (NAG) is used as an index of adverse effects of mercury on human kidneys. Here we examined the validity of these procedures by comparing the urinary total mercury (U‐Hg) level and NAG activity in both 75 male workers exposed to inorganic mercury and age‐matched unexposed male workers in a fluorescent lamp plant. To investigate factors affecting the levels of U‐Hg, 12 items were selected in relation to oral intake and excretion of mercury: consumption of 1) soft drink, 2) coffee or tea, 3) milk and 4) alcohol; 5) habit of drinking tap water at the work place; frequency of 6) eating fish and 7) alcohol intake; 8) smoking; 9) use of dental amalgam; 10) eating of home grown rice; 11) exercise habit and 12) age. The U‐Hg level and NAG activity were adjusted by creatinine levels. Personal exposure levels of inorganic mercury in air (A‐Hg) and the U‐Hg level correlated well (p< 0.001) in the exposed group but neither the exposed nor unexposed group showed a correlation between the U‐Hg level and NAG activity. Although the mean level of U‐Hg in the exposed group was higher than that in the unexposed (p< 0.001), no difference was observed in the mean level of NAG activity. A multiple regression analysis followed by a one‐way ANOVA revealed that only the frequency of eating fish per week contributed to increase the level of U‐Hg. The results suggest that oral intake of mercury from fish is a possible confounding factor in the exposure monitoring of inorganic mercury in the work place.
Occupational Exposure to Vibration and Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: Tamaian Luciana‐Daniela , Cocarla Aristotel
Published: February 2008

Occupational Exposure to Vibration and Ischemic Heart Disease: Luciana‐Daniela Tamaian, et al. Pneumoconiosis Lab., Mining Institute, Cluj‐Napoca—150 miners working in an ore mining area were investigated to evaluate the prevalence of ischemic heart disease. They were assigned to three groups: 50 subjects exposed to vibration with signs of Raynaud phenomenon, 50 with similar exposure without Raynaud phenomenon, and the other 50, who were not exposed, representing the control group. The three groups were matched in terms of age, food habits, and hereditary risk factors for ischemic heart disease, smoking habits, lipemia, and blood cholesterol levels. In the group exposed to vibration, the prevalence of ischemic heart disease was 11% and in controls 6% (p = 0.35). The presence or absence of Raynaud phenomenon did not significantly influence the prevalence of ischemic heart disease in the group of subjects exposed to vibration.
Occupational Medicine in France: A Perspective at the Fiftieth Anniversary of Médecine du Travail
Authors: Libert Bertrand , Yamada Yuichi
Published: February 2008

Occupational Medicine in France: A Perspective at the Fiftieth Anniversary of Médecine du Travail: Bertrand Libert, et al. Association Interentreprises de Medecine du Travail de L'ile‐de‐France—The occupational health system in France was established in 1946, and is quite unique even in comparison with those in the other European countries. The system provides health care service to all the workers in France with the cost paid by employers. The service is provided as medical examinations and work site inspections by certified physicians for occupational medicine; there are 6,300 certified physicians working in company medical departments or interfirm medical departments which are health care delivery organizations scattered all over the country. The occupational physicians act strictly for prevention, and the health examinations by the occupational physicians are mandatory not only for workers at risk of occupational hazards but for all unspecified workers. This 50‐year‐old system, however, should be adapted to the changes in the occupational landscape of modern French society, such as downsizing of companies, surging of temporary workers, lessening the role of manual work and increasing office staff and service employees. Occupational physicians can be and should be involved more in health and safety training for workers, improving work conditions by ergonomic studies, global prevention including cancer and cardiovascular disease, and environment protection. On the other hand, the shortage of 500 occupational physicians today and the decrease in medical graduates who enter the four‐year internship for occupational medicine are very touchy problems in the French occupational health system. And harmonization in the occupational health field among participating countries in the European Union may lead, sooner or later, to dramatic changes in the participants and activities of the French system.
An Experimental Study on Depigmenting Activity of 4‐(p‐Hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐Butanone in C57 Black Mice
Authors: Fukuda Yoshiharu , Nagano Megumi , Arimatsu Yoshiki , Futatsuka Makoto
Published: February 2008

An Experimental Study on Depigmenting Activity of 4‐(p‐Hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐Butanone in C57 Black Mice: Depigmenting Activity of HPB in Black Mice: Yoshiharu Fukuda, et al. Department of Public Health, Kumamoto University School of Medicine—The authors previously reported three cases of occupational leukoderma in workers engaged in a 4‐(p‐hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐butanone (HPB, Raspberry Ketone) manufacturing process. These cases suggested that HPB might be a chemical causing the leukoderma and it had depigmenting activity. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the depigmenting activity of HPB by using laboratory animals. HPB, its two crude products and monomethyl ether of hydroquinone as the positive control were topically applied to the dorsal surface of C57 black mice. Depigmentation was shown in black mice to which HPB and its crude products were topically applied but the effect produced by these chemicals was weaker than that seen with monomethyl ether of hydroquinone. Though evidence of a reduction in melanocytes and pigmentation was not documented in the microscopic analysis, spectrophotometric assay showed a decrease in melanin content in the hair of mice to which HPB and the crude product had been applied. The results indicated a depigmenting activity of HPB and supported the conclusion that the leukoderma which we reported in a companion paper was induced by exposure to HPB and/or its crude products. Nevertheless, the potential of this depigmenting activity is so weak that the development of leukoderma due to these chemicals may be limited to those who are occupationally exposed.
Possible Effects of Drinking and Smoking Habits on Hippuric Acid Levels in Urine of Adults with No Occupational Toluene Exposure
Authors: Alvarez‐Leite Edna Maria , Duarte Alessandra , Barroca Marcia Martins , Silveira Josianne Nicacio
Published: February 2008

Drinking and Smoking Habits and Urinary Level of Hippuric Acid in Adults not Exposed to Toluene: Edna Maria Alvarez‐leite, et al. Department of Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Federal University of Minas Gerais‐UFMG, Brazil—Hippuric acid (HA) is still the biomarker most used for monitoring exposure to toluene, but it is produced by the body even in the absence of this solvent, and has the disadvantage of showing significant variation in and between individuals, depending on environmental factors and individual characteristics. A number of studies have reported the influence of individual drinking and smoking habits on toluene metabolism, but the effect on urinary excretion of HA is still controversial. This study was conducted in an attempt to examine whether these individual habits also affect HA excretion in individuals not exposed to toluene. Urine sample from 195 people (99 women and 96 men), ranging in age from 17 to 46 years old, were collected. The individuals were classified in groups according their drinking and smoking habits. The data from the current study indicate that these two social habits, either separately or combined, do not influence basal urinary HA levels in this study group.
Acute and Repeated Inhalation Toxicity of 1‐Bromopropane in SD Rats
Authors: Kim Hyeon‐Yeong , Chung Yong‐Hyun , Jeong Jae‐Hwang , Lee Yong‐Muk , Sur Gil‐Soo , Kang Jong‐Koo
Published: February 2008

Acute and Repeated Inhalation Toxicity of 1‐Bromopropane in SD Rats: Hyeon‐Yeong Kim et al. Industrial Chemicals Research Center, Industrial Health Research Institute, Korea—The acute and repeated inhalation toxicity of 1‐bromopropane (1‐BP) in SD rats were investigated. LC50 for four‐hour exposure was 14,374 ppm (95% confidence limit: 13,624‐15,596 ppm). It was revealed to be irritating to the eyes with lacrimation in all four‐hour exposure rats. No other abnormal clinical signs and gross findings related to the 1‐BP exposure were observed. An experiment on repeated exposure to 0, 50, 300, and 1,800 ppm for six hrs/day, five days/week, for eight weeks was conducted. A decrease in body weights and increase in relative liver weight in both male and female rats were observed in the 1,800 ppm exposure group (p<0.001 vs. control group). No other significant changes in feed consumption, urinanalysis, hematology and serum biochemistry were observed. Histopathological examinations did not reveal any 1‐BP‐related changes.
Improvement of Sickle Quality through Ergonomic Participatory Approach at Batunya Village Tabanan Regency
Authors: Sutjana Dewa Putu , Adiputra Nyoman , Manuaba Adnyana , O'Neill David
Published: February 2008

Improvement of Sickle Quality Through Ergonomic Participatory Approach at Batunya Village Tabanan Regency: SUTJANA D.P., et al. Dept, of Physiology, Udayana University, School of Medicine—Sickles are the most common hand tools used by farmers, but nowadays farmers are complaining that the sickles being used are of low quality in term of sharpness, comfort and durability. In view of this problem, a participatory ergonomics study has been carried out at Batunya village for one year (from April 1995 to March 1996). A sample of 119 farmers participated in this study. Through interviews and seminars at the local meeting hall and at the University of Udayana, opinions were gathered from the farmers regarding the sickles used concerning their sharpness, shape, weight and handle design. During the seminar the ergonomic application was also discussed with the farmers. All information was given to the blacksmiths to improve the quality of the sickle. The new sickles with a JBS mark are being sold to the farmers through the local KUD as a trial, and the farmers have been asked to comment on the new design. There is no significant difference (p>0.05) between the old and the new sickles from the point of view of productivity, but according to the farmers the new design JBS sickles perform better than the old ones. KUD officials reported that the sale of JBS sickles was better than that of the old design. By continuing this procedure a sickle can be designed ergonomically.
Effects of Cytokines Induced by Mineral Dust on Lung Fibroblasts In Vitro
Authors: Zhou Li Ren , Zhou Jian Hua , Yang Ji Cheng
Published: February 2008

Effects of cytokines induced by asbestos on lung fibroblasts in vitro: Li Ren Zhou, et al. Department of Occupational Health, Suzhou Medical College, Suzhou China—Rabbit's alveolar macrophages (AM) obtained by lavage were cultured with three mineral dusts (quartz, asbestos fibre and uranium dust) in vitro. The activity of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and lung fibroblast (LF) proliferation were measured by 3H‐thymidine (3H‐TdR) incorporation, the collagen synthesis in LF by 14C‐proline (14C‐Pro), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) activity in the supernatant of AM by 3‐(4,5‐dimethyiazo‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide; thiazoylblue (MTT) colorimetry, and the total hydroxy‐proline (HOP) in LF by the chloromine‐T method. The assay of the inhibiting effect of anti‐TNF antibody and IFNγ on LF proliferation and collagen synthesis were carried out. The results show that the three mineral dusts can induce AM to release TNF and IL‐6. When the three mineral dusts were added at a dose of 200 μg/m/, the levels of TNF werel 369 U/m/, 1198 U/m/and 852 U/m/, and the levels of IL‐6 were 1336U/m/, 1511 U/m/ and 1335 U/m/, which were significantly higher than those in the TiO2 control. The LF proliferation and collagen synthesis can be increased by the supernatant of the AM treated with the three minerl dusts. 3H‐TdR incorporations were 22320 dpm, 12547 dpm and 15048 dpm (at a 1:2 dilution of AM supernatant), which was significantly higher than in the TiO2 and Hank's control (P<0.01). 14C‐Pro incorporations were 34001 dpm, 16319 dpm and 22550 dpm (at a dust concentration of 200 μg/m/), which were much higher than in the TiO2 and Hank's control (P<0.01). Total amounts of HOP in WI‐38 cell activated by supernatants of AM induced by the three mineral dusts were 22.41 μg/m/, 24.00 μg/m/and21.29 μg/m/ (at a dust concentration of 200 μg/m/), which were significantly higher than in the TiO2 and Hank's control (P<0.01). Both anti‐tumor necrosis antiboby and interferon‐gamma can inhibit the proliferation of the LF and decrease collagen synthesis.
Effect of Simultaneous Exposure to Methanol and Toluene Vapor on Their Metabolites in Rats
Authors: Hori Hajime , Ishidao Torn , Oyabu Takako , Yamato Hiroshi , Morimoto Yasuo , Tanaka Isamu
Published: February 2008

Effect of Simultaneous Exposure to Methanol and Toluene Vapor on Their Metabolites in Rats: Hajime Horn, et al. Department of Environmental Management I, School of Health Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan—Wistar male rats were exposed to methanol and toluene vapors by inhalation individually and simultaneously. Blood was sampled from the tail of the rats at 0, 1.5 and 3 h after a 6‐h exposure and the methanol and/or toluene concentrations were measured by the headspace‐gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Major metabolites of methanol and toluene, that is, formic acid and hippuric acid in urine were measured at 0,18 and 42 h after the end of the exposure. The toluene concentration in blood in the simultaneous exposure group was lower than that in the toluene exposure one. The biological half time of toluene in blood in the simultaneous exposure group was shorter than that in the single exposure one. The excretion rate of hippuric acid in urine in the simultaneous exposure group was significantly lower than that in the toluene exposure one when both the methanol and toluene concentrations were 300 ppm. These results suggest that the metabolic rate of toluene was enhanced by methanol. On the other hand, the biological half time of methanol in blood and the formic acid concentration in urine were not significantly different in the single and simultaneous exposure groups, although the methanol concentration in blood in the simultaneous exposure group was lower than that in the methanol exposure one.
Content and Cross Validity of the Todai Health Index Depression Scale in Relation to the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale and the Zung Self‐rating Depression Scale
Authors: Kawada Tomoyuki , Suzuki Shosuke , Kubota Fumio , Ohnishi Naoki , Satoh Kouji
Published: February 2008

Content and Cross Validity of the Todai Health Index Depression Scale in Relation to the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale and the Zung Self‐rating Depression Scale: Tomoyuki Kawada, et al. Department of Public Health, Gunma University School of Medicine—The validity of the Todai Health Index (THI) depression scale was tested with outpatient data by comparing with a clinical diagnosis based on the DSM III‐R criteria of major depression. The cross validity of the Japanese versions of the CES‐D score and SDS index were also tested in comparison with the THI scale scores of survey data from Japanese female students. The main results obtained were as follows: 1) The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of the THI depression scale were 0.91, 0.84, 0.86 and 0.89, respectively, and were satisfactory for identifying clinical cases of depression. 2) The CES‐D score and the SDS index showed a high correlation with the THI scale scores, especially with the depression scale of THI. The coefficients of correlation for the THI depression scale and the CES‐D score or SDS index were 0.727 and 0.715, respectively. The partial coefficients of correlation for the THI depression scale and the CES‐D score or SDS index, when the variances of all other scale scores of the THI were kept constant, were 0.528 and 0.536, respectively. 3) Factor analysis was used to compare SDS and CES‐D with 12 THI scales. SDS was related mainly to the psychological complaints and partly related to the physical symptoms. The results indicate that the THI depression scale is valid for use not only in epidemiological surveys but also in monitoring the severity of the depressive state.
Effect of Electromagnetic Field on Serum Biochemical Parameters in Steelworkers
Authors: Kula Bogusław , Sobczak Andrzej , Grabowska‐Bochenek Rozalia , Piskorska Danuta
Published: February 2008

Effect of Electromagnetic Field on Serum Biochemical Parameters in Steelworkers: Bogusław Kula, et al. Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, Medical University of Silesia—The aim of the study was to evaluate some biochemical parameters in the serum of steelworkers exposed to electromagnetic field (electric field strength of 20 V/m and magnetic field strength of 2 A/m) generated by induction heaters. We found significant decreases in the levels of total protein, β‐ and γ‐globulins, and in the activities of γ‐glutamyltranspeptidase (E.C.2.3.2.2) and malate dehydrogenase (E.C.1.1.1.37). The activity of aspartate aminotransferase (E.C.2.6.1.1) decreased, but the activity of alanine aminotransferase (E.C.2.6.1.2) was unchanged. Total lipid, cholesterol, triglycerides and pre‐βlipoproteins decreased, butα‐lipoproteins increased. The most pronounced changes in the biochemical parameters studied were found in workers with the longest exposure to an electromagnetic field.
Postural Analysis of Four Jobs on Two Building Construction Sites: an Experience of Using the OWAS Method in Taiwan
Authors: Li Kai Way , Lee Cheng‐Lung
Published: February 2008

Postural Analysis of Four Jobs on Two Building Construction Sites: an Experience of Using the OWAS Method in Taiwan: Kai Way Li, et al. Department of Industrial Management, Chung‐Hua University—Ovako Working Postures Analysing System (OWAS) is a widely used method for studying awkward working postures in workplaces. This study with OWAS, analyzed 2,880 working postures for form, scaffold, iron, and cement works at two building construction sites in northern Taiwan. A computer program, CCOWAS, was designed for the study. It was found that more than 30% of the working postures observed were classified as either AC2 (slightly harmful), AC3 (distinctly harmful), or AC4 (extremely harmful). The percentage of harmful postures for scaffold workers was even as high as 43.3%. Postures that needed to be corrected either soon (AC3) or immediately (AC4), and corresponding tasks, were identified. The most stressful tasks observed were sawing, positioning and hammering of the forms for form workers; positioning and wire‐tying of iron rods for iron workers; brick‐laying for cement workers; and manual handling of steel frames in confined spaces for scaffold workers. Improvement of these tasks was discussed. Some hand‐intensive activities, such as wire‐tying of iron work, were observed. The unnatural hand postures of these activities could not be recorded by means of OWAS. It was therefore recommended that incorporation of hand postures into basic OWAS or the use of supplementary methods is required to identify ergonomic risk factors for iron work or other hand‐intensive activities on local construction sites.
The Effects of a Health Promotion Program on Body Mass Index
Authors: Furuki Katsuya , Honda Sumihisa , Jahng Doosub , Ikeda Masayuki , Okubo Toshiteru
Published: February 2008

The Effects of a Health Promotion Program on Body Mass Index: Katsuya Furuki, et al. Department of Occupational Health, Kyoto Industrial Health Association—The objectives of the study were to clarify the effects of a health promotion program approved by the “Total Health Promotion Plan (THP)” sponsored by the Japanese Ministry of Labour on body mass index (BMI) and to identify the potential value of BMI. A group of 392 men and 115 women aged 26‐55 years who had taken part in THP for four years were the subjects of this follow‐up study. Longitudinal change in BMI and other medical parameters (including systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol and HDL‐cholesterol) were analyzed in the THP group in comparison with those of a control group (matched by sex, age and term of follow‐up). No significant difference in medical parameters was detected between the THP group and the control group, but major findings indicate that change in BMI is closely related to change in other medical parameters and that lifestyle deterioration of overweight workers increases BMI and lifestyle improvement (especially dietary habits) reduces BMI. The present study suggests that lifestyle improvement results in a decrease in BMI followed by improvement in medical parameters. Both BMI and change in BMI appear to be comprehensive indicators of the health status of overweight workers.
Burnout and Related Factors among Hospital Nurses
Authors: Higashiguchi Kazuyo , Morikawa Yuko , Miura Katsuyuki , Nishijo Muneko , Tabata Masaji , Ishizaki Masao , Nakagawa Hideaki
Published: February 2008

Burnout and Related Factors among Hospital Nurses: Kazuyo Higashiguchi, et al. Department of Nursing, Kanazawa Medical University—The overall goal of this study is to examine the relationship between burnout in hospital nurses and three parameters: occupational factors, individual attributes, and workplace stressors. Two hundred and sixty‐eight female nurses from two public general hospitals were surveyed. Three forms were used: first, a demographic data form to ascertain personal attributes; second, the Japanese version of the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) to assess burnout; and third, the Japanese version of the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) to assess workplace stressors. The Japanese version of MBI consists of three subscales: Physical Exhaustion (PE), Emotional Exhaustion/ Depersonalization (EE + DP), and Personal Accomplishment (PA). The results were as follows: 1. There was a significant correlation between both PE and EE+DP and years of nursing experience, as well as the age of children. 2. There was a significant correlation between PE and the work schedule or workplace. 3. There was no significant correlation between the Japanese MBI subscales and job rank, marital status, or the number of children. 4. There was a significant correlation between the three subscales of Japanese MBI and the Japanese JCQ scales. These findings are discussed.
Correlation between Vibration Induced White Finger and Hearing Loss in Miners
Authors: Szanto Csaba , Ligia Stoica
Published: February 2008

Correlation between Vibration Induced White Finger and Hearing Loss in Miners: Szanto Cs., et al. Institute of Public Health Cluj‐Napoca, Romania—In the present investigation age and duration of exposure to vibration and noise were matched with the intention to confirm the earlier reported difference in hearing threshold loss in miners with vibration‐induced white finger (VWF) and those without VWF. The case‐referent study comprised 264 miners without VWF and 84 miners with VWF. Out of the two groups were selected 65 pairs, having the same duration of exposure to vibration and noise (in years) and a maximal difference in age of 2 yr. The diagnosis of VWF was made after cold provocation at 10°C for 10 min, when the clinical sign appeared: whitening of the fingers. The values for acceleration of vibration and noise intensity exceeded the permissible level, when taking measurements for P‐90 type pneumatic hammers used in miners. The mean hearing threshold level (HTL) was typical for hearing loss induced by noise, reaching the highest value at 6 kHz both in the case‐ and in the reference group. The HTL were lower in those suffering from VWF than without VWF, for all the frequencies, but significant differences exist only for 4, 6 and 8 kHz. The mean recovery rate (RR) for the skin temperature tested at the fingertips after 5, 10 and 15 min indicated significantly high values in the reference versus cases. The subjects were divided into three groups by RR of skin temperature 5 min after cold provocation. The miners having a smaller RR (<0.25) had the lowest HTL; but the subjects with a prompt RR (>0.90) had hearing thresholds significantly better at 4, 6 and 8 kHz. For the group with VWF a medium range correlation between HTL loss and duration of exposure to vibration at all frequencies was found. The same calculations for the reference group did not indicate a significant correlation. The effects of vibration in miners can appear in the hearing organ, far from the part of the body through which this risk factor enters (the hand/arm). The correlation between VWF and hearing loss is directly related to the duration of exposure.
Unexpected Natural Death among Korean Workers
Authors: Park Jungsun , Cho Young‐Sook , Yi Kwan‐Hyung , Rhee Kyung‐Yong , Kim Yangho , Moon Young‐Hahn
Published: February 2008

Unexpected Natural Death among Korean Workers: Jungsun Park, et al. Industrial Safety and Health Research Institute, Korea Industrial Safety Corporation—Even though workers' deaths can be compensated for in Korea if work stress is substantiated as a cause, neither a definition nor a measure has been officially provided to verify occupational stress or overwork. This study was carried out to identify epidemiological characteristics and components of work stress associated with workers' death. All the records of claims for compensation during 1994‐1995 were reviewed to select only the cases of natural death. A descriptive study on the characteristics of workers' natural death and a matched case‐control study on stress components were carried out. Cerebrovascular accidents was the commonest cause of death (47.3%) in claims for compensation due to work stress, and coronary artery diseases took second place (29.9%). Sudden death occurring within 24 h after the attack comprised about 1/2 of the total cases. The attack took place most frequently at the workplace and most often during work. When work stress was classified and observed in four categories: sudden physical exertion, sudden psychologic excitement, prolongation of work time, and change in responsibility, only physical exertion within 24 h before the onset of symptoms proved to be significantly associated with workers' unexpected natural death.
Silicon Carbide Induced Pneumoconiosis: A Microscopic and Biochemical Experimental Study
Authors: Petran Marilena , Cocârlǎ Aristotel , Olinici Dorin C.
Published: February 2008

Silicon Carbide Induced Pneumoconiosis: A Microscopic and Biochemical Experimental Study: Marilena Petran, et al. Hospital of Occupational Medicine Cluj‐Napoca—The pneumoconiogenic effects of silicon carbide were studied in an experimental model by intratracheal instillation of a dose of 50 mg silicon carbide, standardized and commercialized by Duke Scientific Corporation, in a group of 30 guinea pigs killed at 40, 70 and 100 days, respectively. Lung samples were obtained and they were fixed, included, sectioned, stained with hematoxylineosin, van Gieson and Masson's trichromic and studied under the optical microscope. The microscopic aspects were compared with those of the controls (10 guinea pigs), intratracheally instilled with 1 m/physiological solution (NaCI 0.9%) at the beginning of the experiment and killed with the last group of guinea pigs at 100 days. The optical microscopic study showed important changes in the pulmonary structure: alveolar wall ruptures, infiltration of alveolar septa with round cells and histiocytes, as well as diffuse interstitial fibrosis which was more obvious 100 days after the instillation. Lung tissue hydroxyproline, as a marker of collagen synthesis, showed a significant increase correlated with the occurrence of fibrosis. The results of the experimental research support the pneumoconiogenic effect of silicon carbide.