bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship of lipid secretion and particle size to diffuse interstitial change in pneumoconiosis: A pathogenetic perspective
Authors: Heppleston A. G.
Published: April 2007

Simple pneumoconiosis due to compact particles, notably in coal workers, sometimes departs from its customary focal formations and a more diffuse distribution of dust‐impregnated fibrosis is superimposed. To account for this change, which may be reflected in the acquisition of radiologically irregular opacities in addition to rounded ones, attention is directed first toward type II alveolar epithelium. These cells come early into contact with inhaled particles and the lipid secretion provoked prevents their characteristic aggregation, so they remain in a more dispersed state and the consequent fibrotic reaction then tends to become diffuse. Second, submicron particles appear to act not from within the alveolus like the more usual larger ones, but after direct passage through type I epithelium into the interstitium, where lacking focal accumulation they are able to produce diffuse changes. Complexities, however, remain, among which are coalescence of focal lesions as their severity increases and interplay of agents producing interstitial fibrosis in the general population.
Medical appraisal during health hazard evaluations involving workers exposed to lead
Authors: Sharp Gerald B. , Gosai Kam , Finklea John F.
Published: April 2007

To evaluate the medical aspects of the Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) program of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 170 lead‐related HHE reports published through 1984 were examined. The percentages of HHEs conducting basic medical examination procedures justified by elevated environmental exposure to lead at worksites were as follows: blood or urine lead level testing, 57%; medical history taking, 55%; physical examinations, 23%; CBCs, 18%; and urinalysis, 7%. The HHE program has primarily focused on whether or not environmental worksite hazards are present at the time of the evaluation and not on ascertaining whether there is evidence of adverse health effects attributable to past worksite exposures. The program has not focused on minimizing adverse health effects when they exist or on providing a series of building blocks for health effects research. More clearly defined HHE program goals and a logic for deciding when and how medical examinations should be performed during HHEs need to be developed.
Epidemiology of coca and alcohol use among high‐altitude miners in argentina
Authors: Schinder E. O. M. , Ruder A. M.
Published: April 2007

A medical survey of 107 high‐altitude miners was conducted in Argentina in 1976–1977. Daily chewing of coca leaves was reported by 70 (65%) respondents. Another 15 (14%) used coca occasionally. Weekly alcohol drinking was reported by 36 (34%) respondents, and 14 (14%) drank occasionally. Thirty‐five of the weekly drinkers were also daily users of coca. Habitual users did not differ from other workers in mean age or total number of years worked. Daily use of coca was significantly higher among miners with a heavy work load as compared with those having a moderate‐to‐light work load (unadjusted odds ratio [OR] 4.24); it was also higher among those who had worked only underground rather than always or ever aboveground (OR 7.25), among those working as drillers or cart pushers as opposed to other tasks (OR 6.56), and among Mestizos and Indians compared with whites (OR 3.33). Weekly alcohol use was significantly higher among miners with a heavy work load (OR 6.49), those always working underground (OR 5.57), and those working as drillers or cart pushers (OR 3.67). Adjusting for possible confounding effects of these parameters on each other, the significant associations with habituation were clearly work site, work load, and task.
Drug testing: Technical complications of a complex social issue
Authors: McCunney Robert J.
Published: April 2007

To control the adverse effects of substance abuse, urinary drug testing has become common practice in some occupational settings. Although it is virtually impossible to assess accurately the impact of drug abuse at work, increased accidents and absenteeism as well as impaired productivity have been attributed to drug abuse. The major analytical techniques used to screen for illegal drug use are thin‐layer chromatography and enzyme‐ and radioimmunoassays. Gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry is uniformly recommended to confirm any positive screening test. The major technical problem in interpreting screening tests is that the presence of a substance in the urine indicates merely exposure to the drug, not necessarily intoxication, habituation, or addiction. Since no certifying criteria are available to insure quality control among laboratories performing urinary drug testing, results may vary widely. In fact, a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control suggests that poor performance of some laboratories may adversely affect the treatment of drug abuse. The Federal Rehabilitation Act (1973, section 504) prohibits discrimination against the handicapped, which includes both drug abuse and alcoholism. Legal challenges to urinary drug testing have focused on issues related to the right to privacy and freedom from unreasonable searches. Because of the wide‐ranging legal, ethical, and medical ramifications of drug‐screening programs, careful review of these issues is recommended before an organization establishes such a program.
Assessment and management of occupational risks in the nordic (scandinavian) countries
Authors: Holmberg Bo , Lundberg Per
Published: April 2007

Occupational health standards in the Scandinavian countries are of national concern and may thus vary from country to country. There is an internordic collaboration in the scientific criteria work, but there are also national formal procedures for standard setting. There is a greater tendency to accept eye, nose, or throat irritations as indices of harm than the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) does. For organic solvents, neurotoxicity has been focused on for many years, although the differences between values in the ACGIH list and in the Nordic countries have diminished. Occupational standard setting in the Nordic countries is much influenced by technological feasibility and socioeconomic criteria. Sweden has a formalized procedure for the underlying scientific and transscientific assessments.
Screening Vs. Individual detection of industrial fluorosis: A decision analysis model
Authors: Morabia Alfredo , Rey Paule , Bousquet Arnaud
Published: April 2007

In preventive medicine and occupational health, decision‐makers face uncertainty, divergent opinions, and varying needs. In the Swiss aluminum industry, screening for industrial fluorosis illustrates how decision analysis and cost‐effectiveness analysis can provide rational and explicit models of decision‐making in such contexts. Data on fluoride‐exposed potroom workers are used to compare the cost‐effectiveness of two strategies: mass screening of fluorosis versus individual detection of the disease on the basis of the worker's symptoms. A decision‐analysis and a sensitivity analysis are performed to assess the impact of the screening program for different levels of expected prevalence of the disease. The optimal decision, in economic terms, is the one that minimizes the pension and screening‐related costs and maximizes the number of years of full working capacity. Swiss data suggest that a diagnosis of clinical fluorosis is unlikely before 10 years of exposure to fluoride. Between 10 and 30 years of exposure to fluoride, mass screening may be more cost‐effective than individual detection of the disease, even when the expected prevalence of the disease in a given industrial setting is less than 10%.
Occupational cancer mortality in Illinois white and black males, 1979‐1984, for seven cancer sites
Authors: Mallin Katherine , Rubin Marsha , Joo Esther
Published: April 2007

A death certificate mortality odds ratio study of seven cancer sites was conducted by using 1979‐1984 data on Illinois deaths in white and black males. Cancer sites selected include stomach, pancreas, lung, prostate, bladder, brain, and non‐Hodgkin's lymphomas. This surveillance study was undertaken to detect occupational associations that might suggest further avenues of research. Some of the occupations and industries found to have elevated cancer risks and that are consistent with previous studies include: brickmasons and stonemasons (stomach); metal workers (pancreas, lung); photoengravers and lithographers (pancreas); butchers (lung); locomotive operators and truck drivers (lung): farmers (prostate, brain, non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma); mechanics and repairers, especially auto mechanics (prostate); physicians (brain); glass products manufacturing workers (brain); and communications industry (brain) and chemical plant workers (non‐Hodgkin's lymphomas). It was also noted that for black males, the death certificate occupational data are of limited usefulness due to the high percentage of missing or inexact information. The Division of Vital Records in the State of Illinois should make an effort to improve the reporting of this data through additional training of the funeral directors and hospital clerks who collect this information and by follow‐up of incomplete or missing data.
Silica exposure and silicosis among ontario hardrock miners: III. Analysis and risk estimates
Authors: Muir D. C. F. , Julian J. A. , Shannon H. S. , Verma D. K. , Sebestyen A. , Bernholz C. D.
Published: April 2007

An epidemiological investigation was undertaken to determine the relationship between silicosis in hardrock miners in Ontario and cumulative exposure to silica (free crystalline silica–‐α quartz) dust. This report describes the analytic method and presents the risk estimates.
Chest X‐rays in hypersensitivity pneumonitis: A metaanalysis of secular trend
Authors: Hodgson Michael J. , Parkinson David K. , Karpf Michael
Published: April 2007

A metaanalysis of published reports of outbreaks of hypersensitivity pneumonitis was undertaken. A statistically significant substantial decline was seen in the sensitivity of chest X‐rays (percent of positive in cases of disease) for the diagnosis of hypersensitivity pneumonitis over the years 1950–1980. Chest X‐rays were also less likely to be abnormal where a population‐based approach to the diagnosis of disease had been undertaken. Such declines in the diagnostic “sensitivity” of a test may be related to secular trends in knowledge and recognition of disease or to changes in the disease itself. Standardization of chest X‐ray interpretation alone, even if successful, may not resolve the issue of accurate diagnosis of interstitial lung disease.
Neurasthenic complaints and psychometric function of toluene‐exposed rotogravure printers
Authors: Örbák Palle , Nise Gun
Published: April 2007

In 1985, 30 rotogravure printers exposed to toluene for 4–43 years (median 29) were examined by means of interviews and psychometric testing. They were 33–61 years of age (mean 50). Comparisons were made with a reference group of 72 men aged 27–69 (mean 47). The referents had never been exposed to solvents and were all in good health. The printers were employed by two Swedish companies. The mean exposure levels were 43 and 157 mg/m3 of toluene, respectively, at the two printing shops. Before 1980 the exposure levels had exceeded 300 mg/m3. On Monday mornings, before psychometric testing at the department of occupational medicine, toluene was measured in venous blood samples from most of the exposed subjects. A high proportion of the printers reported fatigue (60%), recent short‐term memory problems (60%), concentration difficulties (40%), mood lability (27%), and other neurasthenic symptoms. In the psychometric tests their performance was poorer than the reference group's in most of the tests applied. Even performance on the synonyms test, usually considered resistant to mild brain affliction, was worse in the group of printers. Adjusting for this difference in the group comparisons reduced the group differences substantially. Alcohol consumption above 200 g/week was found to reduce the subjects' psychometric function more than toluene exposure. The printers' sum of neurasthenic complaints correlated negatively with their score in several tests. Exposure variables showed only weak associations with test results. Blood toluene levels were positively correlated with scores in spatial tests. The direction of the correlations suggests that the influence of acute pharmacologic effects is undetectable on Monday mornings before work. In conclusion, we found that exposure to toluene at levels below 157 mg/m3 following long‐term exposure did induce neurasthenic problems and might reduce psychometric test performance.
Cancer mortality among a cohort of chromium pigment workers
Authors: Hayes Richard B. , Sheffet Amiram , Spirtas Robert
Published: April 2007

A study of mortality among 1,879 male workers employed in a New Jersey chromium pigment factory was carried out, with follow‐up from 1940 to 1982. Vital status of 1,737 (92%) of the eligible cohort members was determined. For all malignant neoplasms, 101 deaths were observed while 108.8 were expected, SMR = 93 (standardized mortality ratio; n.s.). For the entire study group, no significant excess was observed for respiratory cancer or cancer at other sites. However, the total number of years of employment in the factory and the total number of years of exposure to chromate dusts were both statistically significantly (p <.05, for trend) associated with an increased risk for lung cancer. The excess risk for lung cancer associated with duration of exposure to chromate dusts was, however, only clearly apparent for subjects followed for 30 years or more after initial employment. For this group, the SMRs were 81, 139, 201, and 321 for the subjects with 0 years, <1 year, 1‐9 years, and 10+ years of exposure to chormate dusts (p <.01, for trend), respectively. The risk for digestive cancer was only weakly associated with exposure to chromate dusts.
Assessing dermatitis in epidemiologic studies: Occupational skin disease among california grape and tomato harvesters
Authors: McCurdy Stephen A. , Wiggins Patricia , Schenker Marc B. , Munn Susan , Shaieb Annette M. , Weinbaum Zippora , Goldsmith David , McGillis S. Teri , Berman Brian , Samuels Steven
Published: April 2007

We conducted a cross‐sectional investigation to determine whether table grape harvesters, who have significant cutaneous contact with crop‐associated materials that may cause skin disease, are more likely to develop dermatitis than are a control group of tomato workers performing mechanical harvesting with minimal cutaneous contact with crop‐associated substances. A secondary aim was to develop methods for studying skin disease in farm workers, including a standard questionnaire and physical examination. California table grape workers (n = 183) and tomato workers (n = 43) completed an interviewer‐administered questionnaire and waist‐up physical examination at their work site during harvest operations. On physical examination, pustular eruptions such as acne and folliculitis were present in 30% of subjects, and eczematous rashes were noted in 10% of subjects. Irritant or allergic contact dermatitis was diagnosed in 2% of subjects. No significant differences in prevalence for these skin conditions were observed between the two groups of workers. In contrast to the physical examination results, grape workers were more likely than tomato workers to report a rash occurring in the previous 3 months (52% vs. 19%, p<0.001). Explanations for this discrepancy are discussed. The sensitivity of the questionnaire for current skin conditions was 31%, and the specificity was 94%. Improved sensitivity was seen for eczematous skin conditions (55%). We conclude that questionnaires provide an efficient means of assessing subject characteristics, but may have limited sensitivity for some dermatologic outcomes.
Metabolism of triethylamine in polyurethane foam manufacturing workers
Authors: Åkesson B. , Skerfving S. , Ståhlbom B. , Lundh T.
Published: April 2007

In 20 workers studied before, during, and after exposure to triethylamine (TEA) in a polyurethane‐foam producing plant the amount of TEA and its metabolite triethylamine‐N‐oxide (TEAO) excreted in urine corresponded to an average of 80% of the inhaled amount. An average of 27% was TEAO, but with a pronounced interindividual variation. Older subjects excreted more than younger ones; less than 0.3% was excreted as diethylamine. The data indicate half‐lives for TEA and TEAO excretion in urine of about 3 hr. The postshift level of TEA in urine and plasma are good indicators of the time‐weighted average air level during the preceding work day, and might thus be used for biological monitoring. An air level of 10 mg/m3 (proposed occupational standard) corresponds to a urinary excretion of 65 mmol TEA/mol creatinine and a plasma level of 1.9 μmol/liter (biological exposure indices).
Lung functions in phosphate miners in jordan: A pilot study
Authors: Samara Nabil , Khraisha Salim
Published: April 2007

Phosphate mining and processing is a major industry in Jordan. In this study of 56 workers in this industry, there was significant occurrence of cough, chronic bronchitis, and abnormal spirometry among smokers (p < 0.1). There was no correlation between the spirometry, A‐aDO2, and chest x‐ray changes in this occupational group. Smoking was noted to be more detrimental to these workers than was their occupational exposure. Many parameters must be examined when evaluating this pneumoconiosis.
Dioxins and the ah receptor
Authors: Silbergeld Ellen K. , Gasiewicz Thomas A.
Published: April 2007

Despite continuing controversies related to public policy, information on the molecular biology of 2,3,7,8‐tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐dioxin (TCDD) has advanced significantly over the past decade. Current understanding of the biological mechanisms of TCDD action is based upon the interactions of TCDD with a genetically expressed cytosolic macromolecule that functions as a receptor in many cells across many species. The Ah receptor recognizes TCDD and structurally similar molecules and serves as the transducing step whereby TCDD alters gene expression through the association of the TCDD:receptor complex with specific TCDD‐responsive elements on the genome. Understanding these molecular events and their relevance to the organ‐level manifestations of TCDD toxicity may be critical to formulating scientifically based assessments of the risk of TCDD exposure.
Mortality from liver disease among italian vinyl chloride monomer/polyvinyl chloride manufacturers
Authors: Pirastu R. , Comba P. , Reggiani A. , Foa V. , Masina A. , Maltoni C.
Published: April 2007

The possible association in humans between nonangiosarcoma primary liver tumors (PLC‐non‐A), particularly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and exposure to vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) is supported by both experimental and human data. This article presents a review of the information regarding 253 deaths that occurred in seven plants manufacturing VCM/PVC and one plant extruding PVC. The retrieval of clinical and pathological data, in addition to the information from death certificate, is referred to as “best evidence” (BE). BE has been carried out for 63 deaths. A total of 14 primary liver cancer (PLC) were detected: seven were angiosarcoma (PLC‐A), and two of the remaining seven were hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In our series of 14 PLC cases, there was no significant difference between PLC‐A and PLC‐non‐A as to length of exposure and latency. There was no noticeable difference in terms of job title between ASL and non‐ASL cases. The list of longest held jobs shows the presence of various job titles, different from autoclave cleaner, for primary liver cancer, PLC‐A and PLC‐non‐A. In conclusion, our observations show that VCM may have a broader carcino‐genicity action on the liver and that exposure lower than that occurring in autoclave cleaning can cause primary liver cancer, both angiosarcoma and nonangiosarcoma.
Risk for cancer of the urinary bladder among hairdressers in the nordic countries
Authors: Skov Torsten , Andersen Aage , Malker Hans , Pukkala Eero , Weiner Jan , Lynge Elsebeth
Published: April 2007

Several studies have indicated an increased risk for cancer of the urinary bladder among hairdressers. In a Danish linkage between census data and cancer register data both male and female hairdressers have an elevated risk for bladder cancer. The risk for lung cancer is close to unity, indicating that occupational factors rather than smoking, may be responsible for the increased risk for bladder cancer among hairdressers. To evaluate this hypothesis we conducted a collaborative analysis of data from similar linkages in Finland, Norway, and Sweden. The combination of high risk for bladder cancer and low or no risk for lung cancer was not found in the other Nordic countries; however, statistically significant increased risks for both bladder and lung cancer were found among male hairdressers in both Norway and Sweden. The relative risks for bladder cancer were of the same magnitude as the relative risks for lung cancer.
Dehydration and serum electrolyte changes in south african gold miners with heat disorders
Authors: Shearer Afom Stuart Bs Msc
Published: April 2007

A study was made on the hydration and serum electrolyte changes in 55 black underground gold miners who presented with heat disorders, and control data were obtained on 52 surface and 50 underground workers without symptoms. Cases were admitted for assessment and treatment, and a questionnaire was administered on symptoms, work, fluid intake, alcohol intake, recent health, and past history of heat disorders. Twenty‐eight men had experienced heat disorders in the past. Blood specimens on days 0, 1, 2, and 7 for serum sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, inorganic phosphate, and serum total protein were obtained from 55 cases, of which 22 also had estimations of hemoglobin and hematocrit. Initial serum electrolyte levels, because of hemoconcentration, were found to be a poor indicator of underlying changes. Changes in serum total protein were used to correct electrolyte levels for dehydration, which showed deficits in serum total sodium and potassium. This method of correction, when compared with one using hemoglobin and hematocrit, showed similar but smaller changes in serum electrolytes. The cases were divided into subgroups of “cramps” and “collapse”; no significant differences were seen in ambient conditions, age, or electrolyte changes. The cramps group, however, had drunk significantly more water. The findings overall were those of dehydration and salt depletion.
Asbestos‐cement pneumoconiosis: First surgically confirmed case in kuwait
Authors: Mohamed Ibrahim Yehia
Published: April 2007

During the periodic medical examination of workers of the only asbestos‐cement pipe factory in Kuwait, an early case of asbestosis was diagnosed. It was the first case of asbestosis to be reported and compensated in Kuwait. According to available information, it is also the first reported case to be confirmed by surgery in the Arabian Gulf countries. Recommendations are given in regard to diagnosis, the institution of very strict preventive and protective measures, and the system of compensation in Kuwaiti law.
Multiplane gallium tomography in assessment of occupational chest diseases
Authors: Cordasco E. M. , O'Donnell J. , Maclntyre W. , Demeter S. , Gonzalez L. , Eren M. , McMahon W. , Burns D. , Feiglin D. H. I.
Published: April 2007

Gallium‐67 scintigraphy is helpful in the evaluation of inflammatory, respiratory diseases. Single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) provides three‐dimensional tomographic reconstruction of radioisotope distribution in the body. The addition of SPECT to gallium‐67 scanning in 27 patients demonstrated an improvement in the sensitivity for detecting the presence and extent of interstitial occupational lung disease. This technique may provide earlier detection of parenchymal lung changes than can the chest x‐ray and planar scanning in some patients with asbestosis. Findings in six patients with asbestosis are reported.
Reduction in adverse effect on pulmonary function after exposure to filtered diesel exhaust
Authors: Ulfvarson Ulf , Alexandersson Rolf
Published: April 2007

A statistically significant temporary reduction on pulmonary function was measured with spirometry in stevedores on a roll‐on‐roll‐off ro‐ro ship who were exposed to diesel exhausts from trucks during a work shift. When all trucks were equipped with specially designed microfilters mounted on the exhaust pipes, this impairment in pulmonary function was reduced. Removal of the particulate fraction of the exhausts by filtering is an important factor in reducing the adverse effect of diesel exhaust on pulmonary function. The particle fraction should be considered when designing an indicator of the biological effects of diesel exhausts.
Parkinson's disease: A case‐control study of occupational and environmental risk factors
Authors: Hertzman Clyde , Wiens Michele , Bowering David , Snow Barry , Calne Donald
Published: April 2007

We compared personal histories of 57 cases and 122 age‐matched controls to identify possible environmental determinants of Parkinson's disease (PD). Odds ratios (OR) adjusted for sex, age, and smoking were computed using stepwise logistic regression. We found a statistically significant increased risk for working in orchards (OR = 3.69, p = 0.012, 95% CI = 1.34, 10.27) and a marginally significant increased risk associated with working in planer mills (OR = 4.11, p = 0.065, 95% Cl = 0.91, 18.50). A Fisher's exact test of the association between PD development and (1) paraquat contact, and (2) postural tremor gave statistically significant probability estimates of 0.01 and 0.03, respectively. The relative risk of PD decreased with smoking, an inverse relationship supported by many studies.
Cohort mortality study of seattle fire fighters: 1945‐1983
Authors: Heyer Nicholas , Weiss Noel S. , Demers Paul , Rosenstock Linda
Published: April 2007

Fire fighters are known to be occupationally exposed to many toxic substances. However, the limited number of previous studies has not demonstrated any consistent excess mortality from diseases of a priori concern, such as lung cancer, non‐malignant respiratory disease, and cardiovascular disease. We studied 2,289 Seattle fire fighters from 1945 through 1983, and observed 383 deaths. Excess mortality from leukemia (SMR = 503, n = 3) and multiple myeloma (SMR = 989, n = 2) was observed among fire fighters with 30 years or more fire combat duty. Lung cancer mortality was elevated (SMR = 177, n = 18) among fire fighters 65 years old or older. We also analyzed the data by considering fire fighters at risk only after 30 years from first exposure. In this analysis, a trend of increasing risk with increasing exposure was observed for diseases of the circulatory system. For this cause of death, fire fighters with 30 years or more fire combat duty had a relative risk of 1.84 compared to those with less than 15 years of fire combat duty.
Pregnancy outcome among women working in laundries and dry‐cleaning shops using tetrachloroethylene
Authors: Ahlborg Gunnar
Published: April 2007

Case‐referent studies were performed within two cohorts of women engaged in laundry or dry‐cleaning work. The aim was to elucidate if tetrachloroethylene (perchloroethylene) exposure increased the risk of adverse pregnancy outcome (spontaneous abortion, perinatal death, congenital malformations or birth weight < 1,500 g). Pregnancies and outcomes were identified in national registers and exposure data were obtained from the women by postal questionnaires. Response rates were 75‐88%. Conditional logistic regression analysis of the total material yielded an adjusted odds ratio for tetrachloroethylene exposure during the first trimester of 1.1 (95% confidence interval 0.6–2.0) when several potential confounding factors were accounted for. The total material included few highly exposed pregnancies and a limited number of cases of specific adverse outcomes. Consequently, the results do not invalidate the recommendation that tetrachloroethylene should be handled with caution by women in childbearing ages.
Cross‐shift and chronic effects of stainless‐steel welding related to internal dosimetry of chromium and nickel
Authors: Kilburn Kaye H. , Warshaw Raphael , Boylen C. Thomas , Thornton John C. , Hopfer Sidney M. , Sunderman F. William , Finklea John
Published: April 2007

Ninety welders from a stainless‐steel fabricating plant were studied by pulmonary function tests and serum and urine chromium and nickel levels, cross‐sectionally, and 31 were compared across a Monday shift. They had welded for a mean of 11 years, mean age was 44 years, and mean smoking duration was 20 years in 62 current smokers. Baseline spirometric tests were significantly reduced: FVC to 95.4 mean percentage of predicted (pop), FEV1 to 94.5 pop, FEF25‐75 to 85.9 pop, and FEFR75‐85 to 74.8 pop. Current smokers had greater reductions in flow rates and FVC than nonsmokers even after adjustment of their predicted values for the effects of duration of smoking. Neither alveolar volume at 104.3 pop nor diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (single breath) at 98.5 pop was reduced. There were no significant changes in pulmonary function measurements across a Monday workshift in 31 welders, but in seven men who welded stainless steel, levels of serum chromium (Cr) rose 66% from 1.9 2.1 m̈g/liter and urinary Cr increased 22%. Serum nickel levels rose only 7%, although they were elevated before shift, 1.1 0.4 m̈g/liter (compared with 0.21 0.20 m̈g/liter in controls), and urinary nickel levels did not increase. Eleven years of welding had reduced vital capacities and expiratory flows. Monday stainless‐steel welding raised the serum and urine chromium levels (measures of internal dosimetry for exposure) but did not decrease pulmonary function values.
Health effects of long‐term solvent exposure among women in blue‐collar occupations
Authors: Parkinson David K. , Bromet Evelyn J. , Cohen Shelly , Dunn Leslie O. , Dew Mary Amanda , Ryan Christopher , Schwartz Joseph E.
Published: April 2007

The relationship of solvent exposure to self‐reported neurologic and somatic symptoms as well as neuropsychological performance was examined in a sample of 567 female blue collar workers who were members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). Structured interviews were conducted at IBEW offices. Five solvent exposure categories were derived—never exposed, exposed prior to but not during the past year, exposed during the past year but not currently, currently exposed <50% of the time, and currently exposed more than 50% of the time. No differences among the groups on neuropsychological performance were found. On the other hand, heightened exposure was significantly related to depression, severe headaches, light‐headedness, room spinning, appetite difficulties, funny taste in mouth, weakness/fatigue, rashes, and abdominal pain after controlling for the effects of seven risk factors (age, smoking, moderate‐heavy alcohol consumption, severe obesity, history of physician‐diagnosed chronic illness, working in a clean room, and exposure to other chemicals). These findings are consistent with Scandinavian studies of solvent‐exposed male workers and point to the need for careful prospective research.
Beyond survelliance: Methodologic considerations in analytic studies of agricultural injuries
Authors: Layde Peter M.
Published: April 2007

A major impediment to current efforts to lower the toll of injuries in agricultural workers is a fundamental lack of knowledge of the causes and risk factors associated with these injuries. Surveillance systems and other descriptive efforts can provide useful information on the scope and spectrum of agricultural injuries but can seldom identify specific factors, such as faulty machinery, risky behaviors, or particularly hazardous environments, which can be the focus of preventive efforts. Since few analytic epidemiologic studies of the causes of agricultural injuries have been conducted to date, a large number of focused, carefully designed studies, of both cohort and case‐control design, will be needed to develop the information on which effective interventions can be based. This paper highlights certain methodologic barriers to effective analytic studies of agricultural injuries and suggests approaches to addressing these methodologic concerns.
Cancer in iowa farmers: Recent results
Authors: Burmeister Leon F.
Published: April 2007

Previous analysis of Iowa death certificates from 1971 through 1978 identified several cancers with significantly elevated mortality in farmers. Subsequent ecological studies identified farm practices, including pesticide usage, that might be associated with these mortalities. These results led to several case‐control studies and a similar analysis of more recent death certificates. ‘Usual occupation’ has been added to the death certificate tapes for the years 1979–1986. Cancer mortality in Iowa farmers for this period is very similar to that for 1971–1978.

Case‐control studies for acute lymphocytic leukemia and multiple myeloma indicated that farming in general is not a risk factor for either cancer type. However, exposure to general classes of insecticides and herbicides is associated with an elevated odds ratio in farmers for incidence of multiple myeloma. The odds ratios are not statistically significant at the 5% level, probably due to relatively small numbers of cases and controls exposed to any one class of pesticides.
Hip joint arthrosis: An occupational disorder among farmers
Authors: Thelin Anders
Published: April 2007

Observations among Swedish farmers indicate that coxarthrosis is a common disorder in farming populations. In this case‐referent study, we describe relationships between farming and hip joint arthrosis. The case‐group consisted of 105 persons who have had surgery because of coxarthrosis and the referents consisted of 222 randomly selected persons. Non‐responders totaled 9%. Farming was significantly more common in the case group. The ratio varied between 2.1 and 3.2, varying with the length of time in farming. Longer exposure did not seem to result in greater risk. There was no risk elevation related to forestry or transportation work. Nor was there any over‐representation of accidents with injuries to the lower extremities in the case group. Heavy work load did not seem to be related to the genesis of coxarthrosis.

Farming is an amalgamation of different types of work. However, we develop the hypothesis from this study that tractor driving may be related to hip arthrosis. Unfavorable angles in the hip joints may occur during tractor driving. Other studies support this hypothesis, as it has been found that unsuitable conditions for the hip joints may be related to arthrosis.
Iowa agricultural health and safety service project
Authors: Gay Jane , Donham Kelley J. , Leonard Stephanie
Published: April 2007

A model community‐based comprehensive agricultural occupational health and safety service program has been implemented in Iowa. The functional center of coordination is based in the College of Medicine at the University of Iowa. The community‐based hub of the service is the community hospital, where the majority of the direct client services originate. The University provides training of hospital staff, programming, direction, consultation, and referral. The services offered include primary care, health surveillance, industrial hygiene and safety, and education.

Through a detailed evaluation of the project's objectives we will be able to evaluate, modify, and disseminate a model agricultural health and safety services delivery program. This model should be effective in changing the farming population's health and safety attitudes and behaviors through a community‐based program.
Food production, environmental protection, and health effects in mexican agriculture
Authors: de Alba Federico López
Published: April 2007

In countries like Mexico, where the need to increase agricultural productivity to satisfy an ever‐increasing population is great, attention to environmental problems is recent. However, current public concern has forced the administration to consider environmental protection as a key strategy in the development model. The purpose of this paper is to present the efforts being made by the country, the state of research, legislation, and regulations, and the level of participation by agrichemical producers in aiming to balance protection of the environment and development in the agricultural sector, including intensive use of mechanization and agrichemicals.
Technical workshop report: Working group II: Agricultural occupational health and safety services for farmers and ranchers
Authors: Osweiler Gary
Published: April 2007

This work group felt that there is compelling evidence that effective occupational health services are essential to improve the serious occupational safety and health problems in agriculture. Program initiatives may be stimulated by federal and state governments, but development and implementation must involve the grassroots farm community and local resources. Other countries (Sweden, Finland, Canada) are far ahead of the United States in this area and serve as examples.

Developing services should be comprehensive and should include clinical, technical, and educational efforts. Marketing programs to the public must include grassroots involvement. Surveillance and program evaluation are essential in any new program efforts. Funding such programs must be shared by federal, state, local, and private resources. Regulatory options should be a minimal part of such a program, but mandatory rollover protective devices and mandatory reporting seems to be one feasible regulatory option.
Study of asbestos bodies in japanese urban patients
Authors: Hiraoka Katsumi , Horie Akio , Kido Masamitsu
Published: April 2007

To study whether low‐level exposure to asbestos contributes to lung cancer risk, the asbestos body (AB) content in lung tissue was measured in 476 patients with lung cancer and 369 patients with other diseases, all from a Japanese industrialized city. Eleven patients with histologically confirmed asbestosis were included. The findings were stratified into four groups. A significant number of patients with lung cancer were seen in the groups with high counts, as compared to controls. There was no significant difference in histologic type and site of lung cancer among four groups. The patients with lung cancer in high count groups were significantly younger than those with lower counts. A significant number of smokers were seen in the groups with high AB counts among patients with lung cancer as compared to controls, even if the patients with asbestosis were excluded. These findings suggest that there may be a positive interaction of smoking and exposure to asbestos relative to the incidence of lung cancer even at a low exposure level.
Biological monitoring of a worker acutely exposed to MBOCA
Authors: Osorio Ana Maria , Clapp David , Ward Elizabeth , Wilson H. Kerr , Cocker John
Published: April 2007

A 30 year‐old male polyurethane worker was exposed to an accidental spill of 4,4′‐methylene‐bis‐2‐chloroaniline (MBOCA) at a plant producing MBOCA‐cured plastic products. Exposure to MBOCA is significant in that this compound is a known animal carcinogen and a suspected human carcinogen. The employee was sprayed over his upper body and extremities with molten MBOCA while cleaning out a clogged hose from a MBOCA and polymer mixing machine. The subsequent environmental and medical evaluation of this episode included serial urinary MBOCA samples from the worker over a 2 week period to allow the calculation of a biological half‐life for this compound. This worker experienced a very high dose of MBOCA as judged by his urinary MBOCA levels (peak value of 1,700 ppb 4 hours after exposure). There were no acute symptoms or other laboratory abnormalities noted. The kinetic evaluation resulted in a biological half‐life for MBOCA in urine of approximately 23 hours. Assuming a one‐compartment model, approximately 94% of an initial MBOCA dose will be eliminated within four days. This is the first report of kinetic analysis on urinary MBOCA excretion in humans. This information suggests that biological monitoring of the urine MBOCA concentrations in exposed workers may miss peak levels following an acute exposure unless the analyses of the urinary MBOCA are performed in a timely fashion. Recommendations to the company included: 1) installation of a warning system or lock‐out device on the mixing machine to prevent the opening of the MBOCA hose prior to the release of pressure; and 2) annual medical surveillance of this individual for bladder cancer with urinalysis and urine cytology.
Improved method for the adjustment of urinary delta‐aminolevulinic acid concentration
Authors: Hudák Aranka , Kiss Gabriella
Published: April 2007

The work was aimed at finding whether the ratio of delta‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA) and creatinine (Cn) concentration (ALA/Cn), presently used in occupational health practice for evaluation of lead exposure gives a better assessment of ALA excretion than uncorrected ALA concentration itself, as well as at finding a better, but not complicated method for adjustment. ALA and Cn concentrations were measured in untimed urine samples of altogether 390 men and women (age: 18‐60 years) not occupationally exposed to lead.

In agreement with others, ALA/Cn was found to be an unsuitable method of adjustment for the differences in ALA concentration due to the different concentrations of samples. This can be explained by the different renal handling of ALA and Cn, proved by the literature data.

The exponential relationship between ALA/Cn and Cn concentration raised the possibility of adjustment to the logarithm of Cn concentration (ALA/log.Cn). This simple method provided a more reliable index, the value of which was independent of the actual Cn concentration of urines within a wide range (2‐32 mmol/liter). The recommended biological limit value (70 (μmol/log.Cn mmol) separates equally well from normal values, both in dilute and concentrated urines.

The evaluation of occupational lead exposure might be more reliable using this index, instead of uncorrected ALA concentration or the ALA/Cn ratio.
Chrysotile asbestos and health in zimbabwe: I. Analysis of miners and millers compensated for asbestos‐related diseases since independence (1980)
Authors: Cullen Mark R. , Baloyi Rabelan S.
Published: April 2007

Data on the health effects caused by locally mined chrysotile asbestos in Zimbabwe have been very limited. The prevailing local view has been that risk is minimal. In this report we critically reassess the cases of 51 individuals with asbestos exposure who have been compensated by the Central Pneumoconiosis Bureau since independence in 1980. Results demonstrate that the major health risks of exposure reported elsewhere—morbid asbestosis, nonmalignant pleural disease, malignant mesothelioma, and lung cancer—all occur in Zimbabwe, at least among workers in the asbestos mines and mills. It is concluded that further investigation and control measures in the industry are warranted.
Radiological features of asbestos‐related visceral pleural changes
Authors: Solomon Albert
Published: April 2007

The radiological manifestations of asbestos‐related visceral pleural changes are described. Generally, visceral pleural reactions follow the mesothelial cells response to various injurious substances, including asbestos, and even saline. The changes are nonspecific. They may occur subsequent to pleural reactions associated with many conditions, which include tuberculosis, viral pleurisy, malignancy and lymphoma, lupus, or rheumatoid‐induced effusions, cardiac failure, and pulmonary embolism, among other etiologies. The failure to absorb the fibrinous exudate on the visceral pleural surface can lead to the development of diffuse fibrosis of the serosal surface, interlobar pleural thickening, localized pleural filaments (strands), subpleural wedge, and lenticular‐shaped masses, and could be the forerunner of lobular atelectasis (pseudotumor) formation. Some of the features are recognized on posteroanterior chest radiographs and the counterparts corroborated with the use of routine and high‐resolution computed tomography studies.
Discovery in medicine—chance or science? the case of woodworkers' nasal cancer
Authors: Macbeth R. G.
Published: April 2007

The relative roles of chance and scientific observation in medical discovery are discussed. The emergence of ethmoidal adenocarcinoma as an industrial disease among makers of wooden furniture in an English area is related. Regular monitoring clinics held in the factories are then justified.
Prevalence of spirometric abnormalities in a representative sample of the population of Michigan
Authors: Miller Albert , Warshaw Raphael , Thornton John C.
Published: April 2007

A random sample of a large industrial state in the United States (Michigan) was studied via respiratory questionnaire, medical history, physical examination, and spirometry: 976 white adults performed a battery of spirometric tests (FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC and FEF25‐75%). Using predictive equations derived from normal subjects in the survey and defining spirometric abnormality by the lower 95% confidence interval, prevalences of abnormality were greater in those who had a smoking history. When equations derived from normal non‐smokers were used, as has been the general practice, 21.3% of men and 18.5% of women with a positive smoking history had an abnormal FEV1 and 26.7% and 17.8% an abnormal FEF25‐75%, respectively. Although FVC is thought to be affected little by smoking, mean values were lower and prevalences of abnormal values higher in smokers. Prevalences are also shown using an adjustment for the effect of smoking and using conventional (percent of predicted value) definitions of spirometric abnormality. The prevalences of spirometric impairments in this cross section of a large state should be useful for comparison with other populations under study in North America.
Occupation and leukemia mortality among men in 16 states: 1985‐1987
Authors: Loomis Dana P. , Savitz David A.
Published: April 2007

The relationship between leukemia and occupation was investigated in a case‐control study using death certificates of 5,147 men who died of leukemia (ICD‐9 codes 204‐208) and 51,470 who died of other causes in 16 U.S. states from 1985 to 1987. Of six occupational activities identified previously as potentially increasing the risk of leukemia, only petroleum refining and rubber manufacturing had excess deaths for all leukemias combined (odds ratios (ORs) = 1.3, 95% confidence intervals (CI) = 0.6‐2.8 and 0.9‐1.8, respectively). Meat workers and wood workers had elevated mortality from acute lymphocytic leukemia (OR = 2.2, 95% CI = 0.7‐7.0 and OR = 1.3, 95% CI = 0.8‐2.2, respectively). There was no leukemia excess among farmers or auto mechanics. A survey of 43 other occupational groups indicated a widespread excess of leukemia among white collar occupations, primarily managers and professionals, but none among blue collar workers. This pattern was most pronounced for men under 65 years of age, and existed for all leukemia subtypes and among both blacks and whites. Despite the lack of specific exposure information and other limitations of death certificate data, these results encourage further examination of occupational causes of leukemia.
Lessons from hand‐arm vibration syndrome research
Authors: Wasserman Donald E. , Taylor William
Published: April 2007

This paper addresses many of the salient issues and difficulties encountered in performing Hand‐Arm Vibration Syndrome research since its discovery in the early 1900's by Alice Hamilton. The areas discussed and the resulting lessons learned include the medical, epidemiological, and control aspects of HAVS. The authors conclude with a plea to health professionals to be ever vigilant and responsive to the HAVS problem, or else it will continue unabated into the next century, an overall time span of nearly 100 years.