bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Silicosis in slate pencil workers: I. An environmental and medical study
Authors: Saiyed H. N. , Parikh D. J. , Ghodasara N. B. , Sharma Y. K. , Patel G. C. , Chatterjee S. K. , Chatterjee B. B.
Published: April 2007

An environmental and medical survey was undertaken in the slate‐pencil industry in the central part of India. The industrial hygiene survey revealed that concentrations of free silica dust were very high. The medical survey, involving 593 workers, revealed that the prevalence of silicosis in this industry was 54.6%. Of these, 17.7% of workers had conglomerate silicosis (progressive massive fibrosis, PMF). The radiologic appearance of simple and conglomerate silicosis resembled closely the simple pneumoconiosis and progressive massive fibrosis (PMF) among other occupational groups exposed to free silica and also found in coal workers. The pulmonary lesions were detectable after a relatively short duration of exposure. The short latent period of development and the high prevalence of silicosis observed among these workers are related to exposure to high concentrations of siliceous dust in the work environment.
Effects of mechanical trauma on nails
Authors: Adams Robert M.
Published: April 2007

The nails are useful “tools” in many occupations, but because of their exposed position are vulnerable to mechanical and chemical traumas. This review deals with the common injuries and disorders of the nails in the workplace. Information is given regarding the occupations in which damage to nails is most likely to occur.
Dermatitis from repeated trauma to the skin
Authors: Wilkinson Darrell S.
Published: April 2007

A moderate degree of friction is unavoidable in everday contact between man's skin and his environment. However, excessive friction and other forms of microtrauma can cause various dermatoses as well as lesions of hair and nails. This paper illustrates that microtraumata significantly influence many skin disorders, including those of occupational origin.
Glass fiber dermatitis
Authors: Björnberg Alf
Published: April 2007

Many workers exposed to glass fibers experience an intense pruritus (itching), sometimes accompanied by erythema, erosions, and dermatitis.

Patch tests to glass fibers provoked a papulovesicular dermatitis in about 25% of normal persons. Workers in the glass wool industry, whether or not clinically symptomatic, had the same levels of patch‐test reactivity.

A battery of skin tests failed to identify persons with an increased susceptibility to glass fiber pruritus.

Some workers' skin becomes hardened by continuous exposure. This hardening is lost after a one‐month holiday but is quickly regained.

Barrier creams had no protective value in preventing glass fiber dermatitis.
Frictional contact dermatitis
Authors: Menne Torkil , Hjorth Niels
Published: April 2007

Frictional trauma to the palms and fingertips can provoke a dermatitis. Cases of frictional dermatitis have been recognized in workers handling large quantities of pressure‐sensitive carbonless paper. Elimination of the trauma led to healing within 2–3 weeks.
Trauma, sports, and the skin
Authors: Bergfeld Wilma F. , Taylor James S.
Published: April 2007

Dermatological disorders in atheletes may occur as a result of repeated mechanical trauma, physical and chemical agents, climatic conditions, infections, infestations, and exacerbations of pre‐existing skin disorders. These include black heel, tennis toe and other causes of subungual hemorrhage, friction blisters, abrasions, jogger's nipples, alopecia, calluses, and subcutaneous nodules. Contact dermatitis may occur from sports equipment, medications used to treat abrasions, and plants such as poison ivy and weeds. Herpes simplex and bacterial pyoderma may occur in wrestlers and rugby players, especially at sites of abrasion.
Where occupational health reporting systems go wrong
Authors: Hilaski Harvey J.
Published: April 2007

Reporting of occupational illness occurs in two statistical systems maintained by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The first system, the core program established under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, provides national data by industry from direct reporting of employers in annual (mail) surveys. The second system, based on worker's compensation records, provides data on the characteristics of injuries and illnesses and the workers involved.

Although skin diseases are reported separately in both systems, there is usually insufficient detail to establish etiology precisely. Conceptual and practical problems hamper the building of a substantive occupational illness data base.
Mechanical considerations of skin in work
Authors: Armstrong Thomas J.
Published: April 2007

Skin forms a link through which the forces required to hold and manipulate objects are transmitted from the musculoskeletal system to the objects; while these forces are necessary for most work, excessive forces can be injurious. This paper discusses some of the mechanical properties of skin and discusses how they are important in manual work. Recommendations for the design of hand‐held objects and for future research are given.
Measurements of friction injuries in man
Authors: Akers Colonel William A.
Published: April 2007

Repetitive frictional insults over years to human skin result in lichenification, callosites, and clavi (corns). No measurements of the forces involved have been made for callosites or corns. Two reports deal with lichenification produced by repeated rubbing over weeks. By contrast, friction blisters have been seriously studied because they can be produced in minutes and because foot blisters can disable soldiers. Three devices to measure the coefficient of friction of materials on man's skin and eight machines to rub man's skin are reviewed.
Histologic patterns associated with mechanical trauma to the skin
Authors: Ackerman Bernard
Published: April 2007

Chronic mechanical insults to the skin may affect all levels of the skin from the cornified layer through the subcutaneous fat. This presentation reviewed the clinical and histologic patterns of skin to mechanical traumas.
Occupational health reporting systems in England
Authors: Calnan Charles D.
Published: April 2007

Dr. Calnan discussed worker's compensation laws in England and how they influence the reporting of occupational health information. Important barriers to obtaining accurate information on occupational skin disease were discussed. Measures were recommended that could improve the process of information gathering.

See Calnan CD (1983): Occupational health reporting systems in England. Dermatosen in Beruf Umwelt 31 (5): 154–158.
Histologic patterns of foot callus associated with variations in foot mechanics
Authors: Lemont Harvey
Published: April 2007

Abnormal foot structure or function can result in hyperkeratotic lesions of the foot. Specific histologic patterns of mechanically induced keratoses of the foot were described and correlated with abnormal foot mechanics. Emphasis was placed upon the prevention of foot callus based upon an alteration between various host factors such as foot structure and function, and environmental considerations, such as flooring, foot gear, and occupation.

See Lemont, H (1983): Histologic differentiation of mechanical and non‐mechanical keratoses of the sole. Clinics in Dermatology (July—September, 1983) 1(1):44–53.
In vivo bone lead measurements: A rapid monitoring method for cumulative lead exposure
Authors: Wielopolski U. , Ellis K. J. , Vaswani A. N. , Cohn S. H. , Greenberg A. , Puschett J. B. , Parkinson D. K. , Fetterolf D. E. , Landrigan P. J.
Published: April 2007

Lead concentrations (μg/g wet weight) in human bone (tibia) were measured noninvasively in vivo employing an X‐ray fluorescence technique. Forty‐five workers who had been subjected to chronic industrial exposure were found to have a mean bone lead content of 52.9 μg/g wet weight (0 to 198 μg/g). In addition to bone lead content, blood lead, body burden of lead as assessed by urinary lead excretion after EDTA chelation, zinc protoporphyrin, and unstimulated urinary lead excretion were evaluated. The results suggest that the in vivo measurement of tibia lead content may serve as an acceptable indicator of body lead burden and provide a practical technique for lead screening purposes. The correlation coefficient between X‐ray fluorescence findings and lead excretion following Ca‐EDTA administration is 0.69: p < 0.001.
The role of atopy in potroom workers' asthma
Authors: Šarić Marko , Godnić‐Cvar Jasminka , Gomzi Milica , Štilinović Luka
Published: April 2007

A study was performed to clarify a possible role of atopy in the occurrence of acute bronchoconstrictive impairment observed in some workers in a plant using the Alu‐Swiss process for the electrolytic extraction of aluminum. Of 227 workers examined the percentage of those with a history of atopy and positive skin tests for common allergens was within the expected range. Six had positive patch test with 2% NaF. Among seven workers with paroxysmal wheezing and dyspnea, of whom three were only light smokers, three had positive skin test with common allergens but only one of them had an increased IgE value. The same worker also had positive patch test for 2% NaF. The average age of workers with paroxysmal wheezing and dyspnea was 32.6 years, and only two had symptoms defined as chronic bronchitis. Although their forced expiratory volumes, with two exceptions, measured at the beginning of work shift were within normal limits, in most of those workers bronchial hyperreactivity was also objectively assessed using nonspecific bronchoprovocative tests with histamine (or metacholine). The results support our previous findings that acute respiratory impairment in some workers is most probably based on bronchial hyperreactivity and not on an allergic mechanism.
Cotton dust contains proteolytic and elastolytic enzymes not inhibited by alpha‐1‐proteinase inhibitor
Authors: Milton Donald K. , Chawla Rajender K.
Published: April 2007

Others have found proteolytic activity in cotton dust and correlated this with the prevalence of acute byssinosis. The present study characterized the proteases in aqueous extracts of cotton dust after controlling for potential artifact from microbial contamination. We tested cotton dust, generated in a model card room operated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), for total proteolytic activity (hydrolysis of azocasein) and elastolytic activity (degradation of insoluble 3H‐elastin). Both coarse dust and a respirable fraction (aerodynamic diameter ≤ 1.7μm) yielded proteolytic activity. Proteolysis was inhibited by EDTA (39%), diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) (33%) and alpha‐1‐proteinase inhibitor (α1PI) (30%), but not by iodoacetic acid or pepstatin. Elastolytic activity was also present, and was inhibited by DFP (80%) and α1PI (70%), but not by EDTA. We conclude that cotton dust contains preformed metallo‐ and serine proteases, and serine elastolytic protease(s) which are incompletely inhibited by α1PI. These findings may be relevant to the development of chronic lung disease in people exposed to cotton dust.
Occupational exposure and regional variation of malignant mesothelioma in Norway, 1970–79
Authors: Mowé Gunnar , Gylseth Bjørn
Published: April 2007

This investigation is based on a study of 117 men and 24 women with malignant mesothelioma registered by the Cancer Registry of Norway, 1970–79. The age‐adjusted incidence rate in men for each county varied from 1.7 to 13.3 per million per year. Eighty‐two percent of the men revealed possible occupational asbestos exposure. They were evenly distributed between counties with high and low mesothelioma incidence. Only 17% of the women had possible occupational asbestos exposure. Total lung fiber concentration was analyzed with scanning electron microscopy in 65 men and 13 women. The median lung fiber concentration in men was 2.4 million per gram of dried tissue (range < 0.4–490), in women 1.0 million per gram (range < 0.4–41), and in male controls < 0.4 million per gram (range < 0.4–4.8). The median year of first exposure was 1937 (range 1909–60) for men from counties with a high incidence rate and 1945 (range 1938–59) for men from counties with a low incidence rate. The counties with a high compared to a low incidence rate of malignant mesothelioma, 1970–79, showed an apparent difference in the percentage of population employed in industry in 1946. The regional variation in the incidence of malignant mesothelioma in men is mainly attributable to the proportion of population exposed to asbestos in industry per county prior to the 1950s and the time since exposure started. Nonoccupational asbestos exposure and nonasbestos agents may be involved in some cases.
Respiratory disease in a photographer
Authors: Hodgson Michael J. , Parkinson David K.
Published: April 2007

Reversible airways obstruction occurred in a photographer after long‐term exposure (over many years) to sulfuric and acetic acid fixers. Air‐exchange recommendations for darkrooms by the Building Officials Code Administration [1981] differ markedly from those recommended by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air‐conditioning Engineers [1977] and the fixer manufacturer (Eastman Kodak). Use of fume hoods or rates of air‐exchange higher than are required by law may be necessary to prevent symptoms and disease in certain workers.
Epidemiologic studies of scottish oil shale workers: II. Lung function in shale workers' pneumoconiosis
Authors: Louw S. J. , Cowie Hilary A. , Seaton Anthony
Published: April 2007

In a case control study of 122 ex‐shale workers, half of whom had simple pneumoconiosis and half of whom did not, those with pneumoconiosis were found to have the poorer lung function. Significant reductions in forced expiratory capacity (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), Vmax50, lung volumes, and carbon monoxide transfer were found in men with pneumoconiosis. It is suggested that these abnormalities may represent a mixture of pulmonary fibrosis and airways obstruction related to exposure to dust and fumes in shale mines and at shale retorts.
Gallium scanning in differentiating malignant from benign asbestos–related pleural disease
Authors: Teirstein Alvin S. , Chahinian Philippe , Goldsmith Stanley J. , Sorek M.
Published: April 2007

In order to assess the utility of 67gallium citrate in delineating malignant pleural mesothelioma from benign asbestos–related pleural disease, 49 patients with malignant mesothelioma and 16 with benign asbestos–related pleural disease were studied. Seven patients with malignant mesothelioma had no history of asbestos exposure, while the remaining 58 patients were exposed. Forty–three of the 49 patients (88%) with malignant mesothelioma had a positive67 gallium scan including 36 of the 42 (86%) patients with asbestos exposure and all 7 patients without a history of asbestos exposure. Three of 16 patients (19%) with benign asbestos–related pleural disease had a positive scan. 67Gallium radionuclide imaging is nonspecific but may be valuable in noninvasive monitoring of asbestos–exposed populations, which have a high risk for the late development of benign and/or malignant pleural disease.
Rare‐earth pneumoconiosis: A new case
Authors: Sulotto F. , Romano C. , Berra A. , Botta G. C. , Rubino G. F. , Sabbioni E. , Pietra R.
Published: April 2007

A new case of rare‐earth (RE) pneumoconiosis is described. The subject had worked as a photoengraver for 13 years and had not been exposed for 17 years. Chest X‐ray showed a diffuse nodular pattern (q 2/3–ILO/1980). The patient was asymptomatic despite a restrictive spirometric impairment. The diagnosis derived from the finding, in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, of abnormal levels of La, Ce, Nd, Sm, Tb, Yb, and Lu. The presence of these elements was demonstrated by two methods: the neutron activation analysis and (as regards Ce alone) the X‐ray energy spectrometry of mineral particles observed with electron microscope. Abnormal levels of rare earths were demonstrated also in the nails, suggesting an absorption of the RE from the lung.
A health examination of railway high‐voltage substation workers exposed to ELF electromagnetic fields
Authors: Baroncelli P. , Battisti S. , Checcucci A. , Comba P. , Grandolfo M. , Serio A. , Vecchia P.
Published: April 2007

This is a cross‐sectional survey on the health conditions of railways workers active in 258 interconnection and conversion substations all over Italy. Measurements performed in both kinds of substations operating at 220 kV have shown that maximum levels of the electric field strength and of the magnetic flux density at 50 Hz are of the order of 5 kV/m and 15μT, respectively. Three subject groups, differently exposed (1, 10, 20 h/week), and an unexposed control group, for a total number of 627 workers, constitute the population at study. All subjects underwent a general medical examination, laboratory investigations, and a series of selected examinations relative to three systems (nervous, cardiovascular, and haematopoietic) considered at higher risk. No differences have been found between the exposed and the control groups. It is concluded that workers exposed to ELF electromagnetic fields of moderate strength do not show the presence of clear effects on their state of health.
Case‐control study of silicosis, silica exposure, and lung cancer in white South African gold miners
Authors: Hessel P. A. , Sluis‐Cremer G. K. , Hnizdo E.
Published: April 2007

A case‐control study was undertaken to assess the association between lung cancer and silicosis or silica dust exposure in white South African gold miners. Cases and controls were identified from deaths reported to the Gold Miners Provident Fund for the period January, 1979–October, 1983. Two controls were matched to each case by year of birth (± 2 years) and by smoking (± 5 cigarettes or equivalents per day) assessed 10 years (± 2 years) prior to death. One hundred thirty‐three matched triplets were identified.

The results showed no overall association between lung cancer and radiological silicosis (OR = 1.08, p = 0.92). Autopsy data indicated no overall associations between lung cancer and silicosis of the lung parenchyma (OR = 1.49, p = 0.11), the pleura (OR = 0.72, p = 0.30), or the hilar glands (OR = 0.85, p = 0.72). A trend toward increased severity of silicosis of the parenchyma was evident; however, this was not statistically significant (p = 0.08). Odds ratios for lung cancer and silicosis were higher at lower levels of cumulative silica dust exposure (ORs = 2.43, 1.72, 1.35 and 0.62 for lung cancer and autopsy silicosis of the parenchyma for the lowest, second, third, and highest quartiles of dust exposure, respectively; all p > 0.05). Cases did not differ from controls for total silica dust exposure, length of exposure, weighted average intensity of exposure, or number of shifts at high dust (all p > 0.20).

The data do not support the hypothesis of a carcinogenic role for silica dust and no statistically significant associations were found between lung cancer and silicosis. Trends in the data on the severity of parenchymal silicosis at autopsy and lung cancer and differences in the association between silicosis and lung cancer at various levels of dust exposure are suggestive and warrant further study.
Asbestos dust exposure during brake repair
Authors: Rödelsperger K. , Jahn H. , Brückel B. , Manke J. , Paur R. , Woitowitz Med H.‐J. Prof Dr
Published: April 2007

About 10,000 tons of chrysotile per year are used in the Federal Republic of Germany for the production of friction materials. During brake repair an unknown number of approximately 300,000 mechanics in automobile service stations are exposed to asbestos dust. In a field study, asbestos fiber concentrations during brake repair were measured. Occupational histories and chest X‐rays of brake service mechanics are being examined. Ninety dust measurements in 76 service stations were made by phase contrast microscopy and by scanning transmission electron microscopy. By electron microscopy, extremely fine chrysotile fibers with lengths < 5 μm were identified in brake drum dust. Fibers with lengths ⩾ 5 μm constituted less than 1% of all chrysotile fibers counted in brake drum dust. Short‐term asbestos dust exposures were measured by light microscopy in 101 personal samples during blowing out of brakes, and grinding and turning of brake linings. During blowing out of car brakes, as well as during grinding of brake linings, the product of fiber concentration with length > 5 μm and sampling time amounted to about 4–5 fibers/ml · min corresponding to a concentration of 106 fibers/m3 over 4–5 min. For trucks and buses higher amounts of 5–10 · 106 fibers/m3 · min were observed during these operations. From occupational histories of 210 vehicle mechanics, an average duration of employment of x̄ ± s = 21 ± 10 years and a mean cumulative fiber dose of x̄ ± s = (0.54 ± 1.1) · 106 fibers/m3 · years were calculated.
Hazardous agents in agricultural dusts and methods of evaluation
Authors: Donham Kelley J.
Published: April 2007

Organic dusts in agriculture vary with type of agriculture, weather conditions, geographical location, and agricultural practices. It is difficult to ascribe a specific biological effect to a specific agent in agricultural dusts, and we are only able to develop a list of candidates for disease‐causing agents. Future studies should be designed to define more specifically the hazardous agents in agricultural dusts by using more precise analytical techniques and documenting the clinical effects to man, developing dose‐response relationships.
Prevention of dust exposure
Authors: Watson R. Drennan
Published: April 2007

Dust exposure on farms can be prevented by changes in work practices and by informing and educating farmers. Ventilation control during handling and prevention of growth of microbes are feasible measures and could be included in regulation schemes. Apart from information on existing work practices, an increased awareness of new technology is necessary.
Report on diseases
Authors: doPico Guillermo A.
Published: April 2007

Specific diseases associated with the agricultural environment were identified as allergic rhinitis and asthma, pneumonitis/alveolitis, the organic dust toxic syndrome and bronchitis. Diagnostic criteria were formulated and current research techniques, in terms of epidemiological studies were outlined. The workgroup summarized a priority for epidemiological studies to evaluate the incidence of the different diseases as well as the identification of predisposing host and environmental factors.
Report on prevention and control
Authors: Clark Scott
Published: April 2007

Means for reduction of dust control were summarized and priorities assigned to education and engineering control of farm equipment in the work on prevention. Personal protection equipment was reviewed and positive pressure respiratory helmets suggested for more extended use. A fuller characterization of exposure agents, such as peak levels and measurement of different particle sizes was recommended. For medical prevention, priorities should be given to establishment of health care delivery organizations, particularly for farmers, and to specific prevention measures which were discussed in connection with each disease entity. Recommendations for further research include development of new measuring techniques, assessments of new equipment and work practices, and establishment of additional information on dose‐response relationships and etiologic agents causing lung disease.
Mortality of a municipal worker cohort: III. Police officers
Authors: Vena John E. , Violanti John M. , Marshall James , Fiedler Roger C.
Published: April 2007

Very little is known about the long‐term health risks associated with the high stress police officer occupation. We report here on a retrospective cohort of 2,376 ever‐employed white male police officers employed between January 1950 and October 1979. Vital status was obtained for 96%, the officers accumulating a total of 39,462 person‐years. Six‐hundred sixty‐one deaths were observed. Total mortality from all causes was comparable to that of the overall U.S. white male population (standardized mortality ratio [SMR] = 106). Significantly increased mortality was seen for all malignant neoplasms combined (SMR = 127), cancer of the esophagus (SMR = 286), and cancer of the colon (SMR = 180). Significantly lower than expected mortality was seen for infectious diseases (SMR = 26), respiratory diseases (SMR = 64), and accidents (SMR = 60). Internal cohort comparisons revealed that policemen exhibited significantly higher mortality from suicide compared to all other municipal employees (rate ratio = 2.9). Analysis of mortality by length of service as a police officer showed that those employed 10–19 years were at significantly increased risk of digestive cancers and cancers of the colon and lymphatic and hematopoietic tissues and decreased risk for all diseases of the circulatory system. Policemen employed more than 40 years had significantly elevated SMRs for all causes, all malignant neoplasms combined, digestive cancers, cancers of the bladder and lymphatic and hematopoietic tissues, and arteriosclerotic heart disease. Risk of mortality from arteriosclerotic heart disease tended to increase with increasing years employed. These findings are discussed in light of the police stress literature. The hypotheses generated in this study must be tested through study of the role of important confounders including reactions to stress on the job.
Clinical confirmation of organophosphate poisoning of agricultural workers
Authors: Coye Molly J. , Barnett Paul G. , Midtling John E. , Velasco Antonio R. , Romero Pablo , Clements Charlie L. , O'Malley Michael A. , Tobin Michael W. , Lowry Larry
Published: April 2007

A group of 31 lettuce harvesters exposed to the organophosphate pesticide mevinphos presented to a local emergency room with moderate cholinergic symptoms and eye and skin irritation, with 22 of the subjects (76%) reporting three or more symptoms. None had baseline cholinesterase values, and plasma cholinesterase activity for all but two workers was above the lower limit of the laboratory normal range. None of the workers received antidotes and all were released for return to work. Twenty‐nine workers sought additional care when symptoms persisted, and were followed by the investigators until 12 weeks after exposure. Plasma and red blood cell (RBC) cholinesterase increased until 14 days after exposure. Plasma cholinesterase was estimated to have been inhibited by an average of 15.6% (p < 0.01), and RBC cholinesterase by 5.6% (p < 0.01). These findings support the utility of sequential postexposure plasma cholinesterase analyses in confirmation of suspect organophosphate‐induced illness when baseline values are not available.
The morbidity and mortality of vermiculite miners and millers exposed to tremolite‐actinolite: Part II. Mortality
Authors: Amandus H. E. , Wheeler R.
Published: April 2007

The vermiculite ore and concentrate of a mine and mill located near Libby, Montana was found to be contaminated with a fiber of the tremolite/actinolite series. A study was conducted to estimate the exposure‐response relationship for mortality for 575 men who had been hired prior to 1970 and employed at least 1 year at the Montana site. Individual cumulative fiber exposure (fiber‐years) was calculated. Results indicated that mortality from nonmalignant respiratory disease (NMRD) and lung cancer was significantly increased compared to the U.S. white male population. For those workers more than 20 years since hire, the standard mortality rate (SMR) for lung cancer (ICDA 162–163) was 84.7, 225.1, 109.3, and 671.3 for less than 50, 50–99, 100–399, and more than 399 fiber‐years respectively. Corresponding results for NMRD (ICDA 460–519) were 327.8, 283.5, 0, and 278.4. Based on a linear model for greater than 20 years since hire, the estimated percentage increase in lung cancer mortality risk was 0.6% for each fiber‐year of exposure. At 5 fiber‐years, the estimated percentage was 2.9% from an unrestricted (nonthreshold) linear model and 0.6% from a survival model.
The morbidity and mortality of vermiculite miners and millers exposed to tremolite‐actinolite: Part III. Radiographic findings
Authors: Amandus H. E. , Althouse R. , Morgan W. K. C. , Sargent E. N. , Jones R.
Published: April 2007

A study was conducted to estimate the exposure‐response relationship for tremolite‐actinolite fiber exposure and radiographic findings among 184 men employed at a Montana vermiculite mine and mill. Workers were included if they had been employed during 1975–1982 and had achieved at least 5 years tenure at the Montana site. Past fiber exposure was associated with an increased prevalence of parenchymal and pleural radiographic abnormalities. Smoking was not significantly related to the prevalence of small opacities. However, the number of workers who had never smoked was small, and this prevented measurement of the smoking effect. Under control for smoking and age, the prevalence of small opacities was significantly greater for vermiculite workers with greater than 100 fiber/cc‐years exposure than for comparison groups (cement workers, blue collar workers, and coal miners) who had no known occupational fiber exposure. A logistic model predicted an increase of 1.3% in the odds ratio for small opacities at an additional exposure of 5 fiber‐years.
Texaco mortality study: III. A cohort study of producing and pipeline workers
Authors: Divine Barbara J. , Barron Virginia
Published: April 2007

While there have been numerous epidemiology studies of refinery workers, no studies have been done on producing and pipeline workers. This is a retrospective follow‐up study of all persons who were employed for at least 6 months at a Texaco producing or pipeline location and who worked at some time during the period 1946–1980. Of the 11,098 white men in the cohort, 8,964 were alive, 1,886 were known to be dead, and the vital status of the remaining 248 as of December 31, 1980 was unknown. The standardized mortality ratio (SMR) of 63 for all causes was significantly low, on the basis of 2,976 expected deaths. Statistically significant deficits also were seen for all major causes of death. Mortality patterns were also examined for the major job categories in these departments. Similar patterns of mortality were seen, although there was a significant excess of thyroid cancer in those employed as pumper‐gaugers. However, it was based on only four cases.
Behavioral changes during exposure to 1,1,1‐trichloroethane: Time‐course and relationship to blood solvent levels
Authors: MacKay C. J. , Campbell L. , Samuel A. M. , Alderman K. J. , Idzikowski C. , Wilson H. K. , Gompertz D.
Published: April 2007

We report the results of an exposure chamber study in which volunteers were exposed to 0, 950 mg.m−3 (175 ppm) and 1,900 mg.m−3 (350 ppm) of 1,1,1‐trichloroethane for 3.5 hours. The time‐course of the behavioral changes and the relationship to blood concentrations of 1,1,1‐trichloroethane were investigated.

A pattern of performance deficits consistent with earlier work was found for some of the tests of psychomotor performance. The time‐course of these appeared to be rapid, occurring in some cases within 20 minutes of exposure. For those tasks shown to be sensitive to 1,1,1‐trichloroethane exposure, the development of performance changes followed the time‐course of blood solvent levels. Two behavioral tests not previously used in this type of work were also employed. One was concerned with the distractability of attention and concentration (the Stroop test), and the other was concerned with analysing grammatical statements (the syntactic reasoning test). Different effects were found. In the Stroop test, enhanced performance was observed following exposure; however, the syntactic reasoning test was found to be resistant to solvent effects. Measures of short‐term subjective well‐being were not affected by exposure.

It is suggested that the observations of time‐course effects in performance and their relationship to change in blood solvent levels have implications for psychological test selection and for study designs for examining field exposure.
Epidemiological survey among workers exposed to manganese: Effects on lung, central nervous system, and some biological indices
Authors: Roels Harry , Lauwerys Robert , Buchet Jean‐Pierre , Genet Pierre , Sarhan Mohammad Jawad , Hanotiau Isabelle , de Fays Michèle , Bernard Alfred , Stanescu Dan
Published: April 2007

A cross‐sectional epidemiological study was carried out among 141 male subjects exposed to inorganic manganese (Mn) in a Mn oxide and salt producing plant (mean age 34.3 years; duration of exposure, mean 7.1 years, range 1–19 years). The results were compared with those of a matched control group of 104 subjects. The intensity of Mn exposure was moderate as reflected by the airborne Mn levels and the concentrations of Mn in blood (Mn‐B) and in urine (Mn‐U). A significantly higher prevalence of cough in cold season, dyspnea during exercise, and recent episodes of acute bronchitis was found in the Mn group. Lung ventilatory parameters (forced vital capacity, FVC; forced expiratory volume in one second, FEV1; peak expiratory flow rate, PEFR) were only mildly altered in the Mn group (smokers) and the intensity and the prevalence of these changes were not related to Mn‐B, Mn‐U, or duration of exposure. There was no synergistic effect between Mn exposure and smoking on the spirometric parameters. Except for a few nonspecific symptoms (fatigue, tinnitus, trembling of fingers, increased irritability), the prevalence of the other subjective complaints did not differ significantly between the control and Mn groups. Psychomotor tests were more sensitive than the standardized neurological examination for the early detection of adverse effects of Mn on the central nervous system (CNS). Significant alterations were found in simple reaction time (visual), audioverbal short‐term memory capacity, and hand tremor (eye‐hand coordination, hand steadiness). A slight increase in the number of circulating neutrophils and in the values of several serum parameters (ie, calcium, ceruloplasmin, copper, and ferritin) was also found in the Mn group. There were no clear‐cut dose–response relationships between Mn‐U or duration of Mn exposure and the prevalence of abnormal CNS or biological findings. The prevalences of disturbances in hand tremor and that of increased levels of serum calcium were related to Mn‐B. The response to the eye‐hand coordination test suggests the existence of a Mn‐B threshold at about 1 μg Mn/100 ml of whole blood. This study demonstrates that a time‐weighted average exposure to airborne Mn dust (total dust) of about 1 mg/m3 for less than 20 years may present preclinical signs of intoxication.
Chronic toxic encephalopathy in solvent‐exposed painters in denmark 1976–1980: Clinical cases and social consequences after a 5‐year follow‐up
Authors: Gregersen Per , Klausen Hans , Elsnab Charlotte Uldal
Published: April 2007

On the basis of previous investigations from occupational medicine, neurology, and neuropyschology, a retrospective evaluation was made of 21 painters in whom chronic toxic encephalopathy following exposure to organic solvents had been diagnosed during a stay in the Neurology Department of Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen, in the period 1976–1980. All the painters had given up their jobs for this reason. The assumption of a causal relationship between the exposure and the intellectual impairment was supported by a possible dose‐effect relationship. The chronic toxic symptoms had considerable social consequences. Five years later, ten had not gotten other jobs. The lack of working ability was correlated to advancing age, increasing exposure, and increasing intellectual impairment. According to the results of the study, conditions at work places ought to be changed in such a way that harmful exposure can be prevented in the future.
Mortality of a municipal‐worker cohort: IV. Fire fighters
Authors: Vena John E. , Fiedler Roger C.
Published: April 2007

Morbidity and mortality studies of fire fighters have produced varied and inconsistent findings regarding the potential chronic effects of fire fighting including respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. The mortality experience of 1,867 white male fire fighters who were employed for the City of Buffalo a minimum of five years with at least one year as a fire fighter was studied. Vital status was determined for 99% of the cohort, resulting in 470 observed deaths. The fire fighter cohort was characteristic of a healthy worker population. All‐cause mortality was close to the expected standardized mortality ratio (SMR) = 95, and significantly lower than expected mortality was seen for all external causes (SMR=67)–in particular, for suicide (SMR=21) and respiratory diseases (SMR=48). Significantly elevated SMRs were found for benign neoplasms (SMR=417), cancer of the colon (SMR=183), and cancer of the bladder (SMR=286). Cause‐specific mortality is presented by number of years employed, calendar year of death, year of hire, and latency. Cancer mortality was significantly higher in the long‐term fire fighters, and risk of mortality from all malignant neoplasms tended to increase with increasing latency. Patterns in risk of mortality among fire fighters for cancers of the bladder, colon, and brain are intriguing. Additional follow‐up of this cohort and initiation of cancer morbidity studies would be helpful in further clarifying the potential long‐term effects of fire fighting on cancer risk.
Alveolar macrophages from expectorates as indicators of pulmonary irritation in primary aluminum reduction plant workers
Authors: Nilsen Asbjørn M. , Mylius Erling A. , Gullvåg Barbro M.
Published: April 2007

According to a method (the AM‐test) previously developed by us, the counting of alveolar macrophages (AM) from expectorates provides an estimation of the potential pulmonary insult from occupational air pollution ± smoking. In this article we demonstrate a relationship between the number of AM and self‐registered pulmonary symptoms and complaints.

Employees from different workplaces in a primary aluminum reduction plant gave expectorate samples for the AM‐test. A gradient in the number of AM was observed, with increasing AM numbers from the controls to the administration employees to the potroom workers, who had the highest numbers. Pulmonary symptoms and complaints were recorded by means of a questionnaire. A clear covariation between AM numbers and respiratory symptoms and complaints was observed and was most pronounced at the highest pollution levels (in the potrooms). We therefore suggest that the AM‐test may serve as an effect indicator as well as a dose indicator.
Methods Old and New for Analyzing Occupational Cohort Data
Authors: Whittemore Alice S.
Published: April 2007

The person‐years approach to analyzing mortality data from occupational cohorts was introduced in the midtwentieth century. It cross‐classifies all observed deaths and observation times into cells, computes the number of expected deaths for each cell based on referenced mortality rates, and then examines the ratio of total number of observed deaths to total number of expected deaths (the standardized mortality ratio). The maximum likelihood method of statistical inference was developed in the early twentieth century. However, only recently has it been applied to the analysis of occupational cohort data. When so applied, it provides estimates of measures of association between exposures and disease by maximizing the probability of the observed data. This paper shows how recent developments in the use of this tool justify and extend the person‐years approach. In particular, problems with the standardized mortality ratio cited in the literature are shown to result from reliance on assumptions that are inappropriate for the data at hand. Methods for testing these assumptions are described. The discussion is illustrated with examples from occupational cohort studies of lung cancer.
Prevalence of byssinosis and respiratory symptoms among spinners in sudanese cotton mills
Authors: ElKarim Mohamed A. Awad , Onsa Sulieman H.
Published: April 2007

Byssinosis, other respiratory symptoms, and ventilatory capacity were investigated in 186 male spinners in two Sudanese textile mills located in Khartoum and Hassaheisa. The prevalence of byssinosis was 37% among Khartoum spinners where coarse cotton was processed, significantly higher (p<0.01) than the 1% found among Hassaheisa spinners, where fine cotton was used. The prevalence of chronic bronchitis was 29% in Khartoum and 2% in Hassaheisa spinners. A significant reduction in forced expiratory volumes (FEV1 after a shift) was observed in spinners of both factories. Our findings provide evidence that very low rates or absence of byssinosis, related respiratory symptoms, and significant functional abnormalities (FEV1) in the late stages of cotton yarn processing all depend on the quality of cotton used and low levels of cotton dust concentration.
Monitoring of zinc protoporphyrin levels in blood following occupational lead exposure
Authors: Wildt Karl , Berlin Maths , Isberg Per Erik
Published: April 2007

The value of measurements of zinc protoporphyrin in blood (ZPP) in the surveillance of workers occupationally exposed to lead has been studied. From a group of referents, consisting of 1,088 men and 511 women, it has been established that the normal mean ZPP is in the region of 25 μg/100 ml, and only rarely do values exceed 45 μg/100 ml. The higher ZPP values are frequently associated with low blood hemoglobin concentrations and appear to be manifestations of an iron‐deficiency anemia. Women have higher ZPP values than men; smoking has no influence. Measurements of ZPP and blood lead concentration (PbB) have been made every other month for 2.5 years on a group of around 200 men and 40 women exposed to lead in a storage battery factory. The mean ZPP of the group throughout the period was 70.9 μg/100 ml blood, and a linear relation between log ZPP and PbB in the PbB range of 10‐80 μg/100 ml has been established. ZPP thresholds in the control of excessive occupational lead exposure, and the economic advantage of ZPP measurements over PbB, are discussed.
The study of byssinosis in China: A comprehensive report
Authors: Pei‐lian Lu , Christiani David C. , Ting‐ting Ye , Nai‐yi Shi , Zhi‐chu Gong , He‐lian Dai , Wei‐de Zhang , Jun‐Wei Huang , Mu‐zhen Liu
Published: April 2007

Cross‐sectional studies were conducted during 1981‐1983 among 861 textile workers in 3 cotton mills and 822 controls in 2 silk factories. Questionnaire and lung function tests were taken and inhalable dust concentrations were measured. Prevalence of byssionosis was 5.6%. Average dust concentrations were highest in carding rooms, 1.47–1.99 mg/m3. The correlations (r) between prevalence of byssionosis and dust concentrations was 0.64 (p < 0.05). The prevalence of chronic bronchitis was 14.4% in cotton workers and 5.1% in controls (p < 0.05). Acute FEV1 percent decrement (> 5%) was higher among cotton workers (32.1%) compared to controls (14.5%) (p < 0.001). In one cotton blanket factory, the prevalence of byssinosis and chronic bronchitis was higher among workers in the high‐dust work areas.

Long‐term effect studies included pulmonary function test among 173 cotton workers and 373 controls, retired 1‐10 years, using the flow volume curve (FVC); chest X‐rays of 140 pairs of cotton workers and controls with working tenures over 20 years; and examination of lobectomy specimens of 8 textile workers matched with 16 controls. In male cotton workers, only smokers had a prominent decrement of lung function indices, except FVC. For non‐smoking females, there was no difference between the two groups. Additive effects were seen between smoking and dust exposure. According to the Internatonal Labor Organization (ILO) Pneumoconiosis Classification, the prevalence of abnormality (profusion > 1/0) was 4.3% and 8.7% in non‐smoking controls and cotton workers. The interstitial changes on X‐ray due to smoking would be much heavier. Additive effects also existed between smoking and dust exposures. No significant changes attributable to dust exposure were seen on pathological section of lobectomy specimens.
Discrepancies in the study of byssinosis in China
Authors: Xue‐qi Gu
Published: April 2007

The existence of byssinosis in China was first reported in 1964. Detailed studies only started in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The work of the WHO study group as edited by the Technical Report Series no. 684, “Recommended health‐based occupational exposure limits for selected vegetable dusts,” promotes the further study of occupational disease in China; a few points need further discussion.

The word byssinosis translated in Chinese is misleading as to the real pathogenesis of the disease. Some still believe cotton dust causes interstitial fibrosis, while the majority of researchers agree with the WHO study group.

A poorly designed animal model may have led to the (incorrect) conclusion that dust from carding room is toxic if it is injected intratracheally.

The reasons for the controversy in the prevalence of byssinosis in different reports in earlier years are the different diagnosis criteria and the fact that dust sampling methods were not standardized; pulmonary function tests were not used as a routine index; chronic bronchitis and smoking are now recognized as confounders and should have been considered.

This Institute initiated the hygiene standards study on cotton dust and recommended 1 mg/m3 for respirable dust and 3 mg/m3 for total dust. If a reduction in dust levels could prevent byssinosis, it would likely also control the risk factor for developing bronchitis.
The health investigation of cotton textile workers in Beijing
Authors: Mu‐zhen Liu
Published: April 2007

This study reports findings from a survey of byssinosis among 289 cotton workers in certain cotton textile mills in Beijing. Incidence of byssinosis was 4.2% (12 cases). It decreased with a lower concentration of cotton dust and increased with yearly increment of cotton dust exposure. An elevation in body temperature over 37°C was present among 14.2% of the workers on the first working day after rest. Acute lung function decrement was related to high dust concentration in the rooms. The higher the dust concentration in the rooms, the more evident was the chronic lung function decrement. Chronic bronchitis in cotton workers was higher than in controls. Incidence of byssinosis in smoking cotton workers was higher than in nonsmoking cotton workers.
Methods for testing interactions, with applications to occupational exposures, smoking, and lung cancer
Authors: Thomas Duncan C. , Whittemore Alice S.
Published: April 2007

Various approaches to assessing the interaction between smoking and occupational exposures are described. The definition of interaction depends on the measure of association under consideration and can be expressed in terms of disease risk, time, or dose. Simple descriptive methods and maximum likelihood model fitting methods are presented for analyzing interactions in terms of joint effects on disease risk. Methods for assessing the influence of exposures on times to disease, using appropriate denominators, are also described. The various approaches are illustrated with published data on lung cancer in relation to asbestos, radon daughters, chloromethyl ethers, and arsenic. Some of the mechanisms that can be invoked to explain the observed patterns include initiation and promotion, lung clearance, transport across cell membranes, and mucous secretion.