bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
P-326 ASSESSMENT OF BREAST CANCER AWARENESS AND SCREENING PRACTICES AMONG HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS
Authors: Sellami Imen , Meska Ahmed Ahmed 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Breast cancer (BC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide and remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare professionals (HP) regarding BC screening.

Methods
This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Hedi Chaker University Hospital in Sfax from October to December 2023. Data on BC awareness among HP were collected using the Breast Cancer Awareness Measure (CAM).

Results
Out of the 142 participants, 59 (41.5%) reported having undergone a clinical breast examination at least once, and 74 (52.1%) practiced breast self-examination (BSE). All respondents demonstrated a good level of knowledge regarding BC warning signs. Furthermore, 44.4% of respondents believed that a 50-year-old woman was most likely to develop BC in the next year, and 54.2% strongly agreed that a prior history of BC increased the risk. Surprisingly, 19.71% of HP aged over 45 had not undergone screening mammograms. The primary reasons for this were being asymptomatic and the fear of a cancer diagnosis.

Discussion
Our study revealed a satisfactory level of BC knowledge among HP, but there is room for improvement in attitudes and practices related to BC screening, particularly with regards to mammography and monthly BSE.

Conclusion
These findings underscore the necessity of providing better information and motivation to HP in order to enhance awareness, knowledge, and early detection and screening practices for BC within the Tunisian healthcare community.
P-330 THE IMPACT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON THE EDUCATION OF MEDICAL RESIDENTS IN TUNISIA
Authors: Ghrab Mohamed Anis , Sellami Imen , Haddar Aicha , Hajjaji Mounira , Hammami Kaouthar Jmal , Masmoudi Mohamed Larbi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic caused a worldwide healthcare crisis, altering the roles of medical residents, who shifted their focus to treating critical patients instead of their usual education. This study aims to assess how the pandemic has affected the education of medical residents by examining the overall impact on their learning experiences.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in April 2022 among Tunisian medical residents. A questionnaire was sent online collecting data about their perception of the impact of the pandemic on their education.

Results
One hundred residents participated, with 18% being surgeons. Twenty-Eight percent reported a decrease in work-duty hours, whereas the workload was unchanged to significantly increased for 67% of the residents. Only 20% noticed an increase in patient volume. Clinical and surgical activities decreased for 48%, remained unchanged for 41%. Moreover, residents reported a decrease in time dedicated for research activities (47%) and educational activities (82%). Bivariate analysis showed that increase of workload was significantly higher for medicine residents (p=0.005) whereas the decrease in clinical/surgical activities was significantly higher for surgery residents (p=0.005).

Discussion
This study evaluated the impact of the pandemic on medical residents two years after its onset. The deployment of their effort toward the care for COVID-19 patients in addition to the decrease in grand rounds, staff meetings and event due to safety protocols affected deeply their education.

Conclusion
Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, the education of residents underwent substantial impact. A heightened emphasis on both theoretical and practical knowledge consolidation becomes imperative for this generation.
P-335 ABSTRACT LIFESTYLE ASSESSMENT AMONG TAXI DRIVERS IN TUNISIA
Authors: Fendri Myriam Nabiha , Hrairi Anwar , Kammoun Nesrine , Bani Mejda 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Taxi drivers are subject to constraints related to irregular working hours, which influence their lifestyle and have implications for their health.

Objective
To describe and evaluate the lifestyle habits among taxi drivers in Tunisia.

Method
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on taxi drivers who had consulted the Institute of Occupational Health and Safety between November 2022 and March 2023. Data collection was done using a pre-established questionnaire on Google Forms.

Results
The study included 140 taxi drivers, with one female driver. The average age was 48 years. The average professional experience was 17.4 years, and the average number of working hours was 8.7 hours. Tobacco and alcohol consumption was found in 47.9% and 21.4% of cases, respectively. The average number of packs/year for smokers was 12.4, ranging from 5 to 70. In 51% of cases, taxi drivers consumed non-home-cooked meals. Physical activity was observed in 32 drivers (22.9%), with regular activity in 15.7% of cases. Morbid obesity (BMI ≥ 35 Kg/m2) was noted in 11 drivers (7.9%), while 29.3% were obese (BMI ≥ 30 Kg/m2), and 37.1% were overweight (BMI ≥ 25 Kg/m2).

Discussion and conclusion
Our survey revealed tobacco and alcohol consumption, an unbalanced diet, significant sedentary behavior, and pathological BMI levels among taxi drivers. Sensitization and medical intervention are needed for this population.
O-185 EFFECTS OF PER- AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES (PFAS) ON THE METABOLOME OF U.S. AIRPORT AND STRUCTURAL FIREFIGHTERS: EVIDENCE FROM THE NATIONAL FIREFIGHTER CANCER INITIATIVE
Authors: Caban-Martinez Alberto , Feliciano Paola Louzado , Green Aimee , Garibaldi Johanna , Lee David , Solle Natasha Schaefer , Kobetz Erin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Firefighters are occupationally exposed to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), a fire suppressant and in the moisture barrier of their safety gear. Certain PFAS are increasingly linked to metabolic toxicity and carcinogenicity. We examine changes in metabolic pathways associated with exposure to serum PFAS in firefighters.

Methods
Firefighters from two U.S. fire departments consented to the study, completed a health survey and provided a blood sample. Seven distinct PFASs were quantified using a liquid chromatography-isotope dilution-tandem mass spectrometry approach. Global metabolomic profiles were determined across three experimental groups (i.e., male, female and airport firefighters). ANCOVA contrasts were used to identify biochemicals that differed significantly between groups.

Results
Among 50 firefighters, 30.0% were female, 66.0% White/non-Hispanic, and 53.1% overweight, with group average age, 41.8 years ±9.9 (standard deviation). Thirty percent worked as airport firefighters, while 70.0% as structural/career firefighters. Perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorohexanesulfonate (PFHxS) were higher in airport (ratio fold change [FC]:2.17 and 3.16;p≤0.05) and male firefighters (FC:2.22 and 2.81;p≤0.05) compared to females. Lactate levels were higher in airport firefighters (FC:1.44;p≤0.05) compared to male/female firefighters, while ceramides (FC:0.58 and 0.72;p≤0.05) and sphingomyelins (FC:0.76 and 0.78;p≤0.05) were lower in airport and male firefighters versus females. Eicosanoids (FC:2.37;p≤0.05), fibrinopeptide products FC:2.21;p≤0.05), glutathione related antioxidant metabolites (FC:2.66;p≤0.05) were higher in airport versus female/male firefighters.

Discussion and conclusion
Several observed differences were more robust in airport firefighters suggesting greater metabolic differences in these firefighters compared to non-airport firefighters.
O-186 INTERACTION OF BIOMARKERS OF EXPOSURE, EFFECT, AND SUSCEPTIBILITY ON THYROID DISRUPTION IN PESTICIDE APPLICATORS WITH PRIMARY EXPOSURE TO CHLORPYRIFOS
Authors: Liem Jen Fuk , Mansyur Muchtaruddin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Chlorpyrifos, one of the most frequently used agricultural insecticides, has the potential to alter thyroid function. This study aims to analyze the interaction of several biomarkers on thyroid disruption in pesticide applicators with primary exposure to chlorpyrifos.

Methods
We analyzed data from a total of 151 pesticide applicators aged 18-65 years who were actively using chlorpyrifos for at least 1 year. We performed pathway analysis to examine possible causal models of the determinants of thyroid disruption. Exogenous variables were CYP2B6 and cumulative exposure levels (CEL), while 3,5,6-Trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCPy), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), CEL, Thyroglobulin/FT4 ratio, and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were endogenous variables. CEL and Thyroglobulin/FT4 ratio was tested as the IV for TSH.

Results
Our path model was fit. CYP2B6*6 has a negative effect on TCPy and CEL has a negative effect on AChE. Thyroglobulin/FT4 ratio (β=0,490; p&lt;0,001) and CEL (β= 0,175; p=0,018) have a positive direct effect on TSH, while the indirect effect of CEL on TSH was 0.279. All of the coefficients were significant at p&lt;0.05 and the path analysis explained the 30.7% variance in participants’ TSH.

Discussion
CPF exposure affects TSH levels through direct and indirect effects. This situation described in our model raises the opinion that CPF exposure has the potential to disrupt the thyroid through thyroid follicular damage which causes alteration of the process of thyroglobulin and thyroid hormone synthesis.

Conclusion
TSH concentrations were affected by the interaction of CYP2B6*6 gene polymorphism, TCPy levels, AChE activity, CEL, and thyroglobulin/FT4 ratio, indicating a dose-response relationship in the development of thyroid disruption.
O-187 BIOAVAILABILITY AND TOXICOKINETICS OF THE COMMON PRESERVATIVE 2-PHENOXYETHANOL FOLLOWING DERMAL EXPOSURE IN HUMANS
Authors: Göen Thomas , Eckert Elisabeth , Hiller Julia , Jäger Thomas , Bader Michael 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
2-Phenoxyethanol (PhE) is a biocide which is used as a preservative in cosmetics but also in metal-working fluids. Occupational prevention measures mainly target the inhalative exposure route, but dermal exposure is equally important. However, little is known on human toxicokinetics of PhE following dermal exposure.

Methods
A human-experimental study was conducted with five volunteers that were dermally exposed to 412 ± 14 µg PhE/kg bw in a single dose. Blood and urine samples were collected at regular intervals up to 48 hours post-exposure. All samples were analyzed for PhE and for three PhE metabolites. The study was approved by the local ethics committee of the Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany (No. 296_19B).

Results
PhE was quickly absorbed with t(max) in blood of about 1.0 h. The main metabolite in both blood and urine was found to be 2-phenoxyacetic acid (PhAA) with 4OH-PhAA and 4OH-PhE identified as minor metabolites. Recovery in urine after 48 h was 44.2 ± 9.9 % PhE. Excretion half-lives of PhE (metabolites) were in the range of 1.7 – 3.9 h.

Discussion
PhE showed high bioavailability following dermal exposure and is rapidly resorbed and excreted within 48 h with PhAA as the main metabolite in blood and urine. Although, some inter-individual variances of PhE biotransformation were observed, PhAA could be confirmed as a reliable biomarker of exposure to PhE.

Conclusion
Dermal exposure to 2-phenoxyethanol results in an immediate systemic uptake of PhE, thus pointing to a potential occupational safety issue. The determination of PhAA in urine allows for a reliable biomonitoring of 2-phenoxyethanol.
O-190 HUMAN SENTINEL SURVEILLANCE APPROACH TO ASSESS ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURE
Authors: Aktas Emine , De Raeve Hilde , Gilissen Liesbeth , Godderis Lode 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The Environmental Exposure Assessment Research Infrastructure (EIRENE RI) aims to establish a sustainable RI enabling the advancement of exposome research in Europe. This study aims to test the feasibility of collecting reliable and representative data on biomonitoring of environmental exposure of employees or targeted population to a selection of hazardous agents by using the human sentinel surveillance(HSS) system.
Methodology: The HSS operates through a voluntary network of occupational physicians and nurses as gateway for performing human biomonitoring in a cost-effective manner. They actively contribute to sampling and collecting data at large scale to assess the exposure levels of the population. The HSS involves the selection of sentinel sites that includes high-risk industries or exposures.

Results
The HSS consists of a physician’s software platform and a linked participants platform. Firstly, the physicians complete an online training module that includes Standard Operating Procedures of human biomonitoring and sample collection to analyze exposure for selected chemicals and components. The trained physicians will recruit employees and collect data through web-based surveys and remote sampling techniques. After analyzing the data, aggregated data are shared with physicians and the employees. At the first year, n=400 employees in high-risk industries will be included.

Discussion
By closely biomonitoring the data from sentinel workplaces, public health authorities can detect potential health risks, environmental exposures, and work-related diseases and take timely action, and implement appropriate preventive measures.

Conclusion
The HSS is a feasible method for obtaining acquire high-quality data on the exposure of employees and selective cohorts from general population.
O-192 LEAD AS A SERIOUS LONG-TERM HEALTH HAZARD OF CHILDREN IN A MINING AREA IN ZAMBIA
Authors: Bose-O’Reilly Stephan , Mufune Tiza , Moonga Given , Yabe John 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
For decades large-scale zinc and lead mining was performed in Kabwe, Zambia. The area is heavily polluted with toxic lead dust from the past, but still today uncovered tailing hills contaminate the near-by housing areas. This exposure is a specific hazard for children. The objective is to share information of lead related health hazards in Kabwe.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was performed in 2020 to 2021 with 11,196 children. Blood lead levels and clinical data were assessed.

Results
WHO considers blood lead level 5 µg/dL as levels of concern and at levels above 45 µg/dL a medical treatment is indicated. Latest figures for Kabwe show that in townships close to the mining area 95% of the children exceed the level of concern and 15% of the children perceived treatment. Clinical parameters are just evaluated and will be presented.

Discussion
The results of former lead studies in Kabwe and this study proved that lead exposure is a serious health hazard for children.

Conclusions
The main problem remains - the lead emissions continue. The reasons for this failure are multiple and need to be discussed on the background of poverty, industry liabilities, good governance, and externalization of global pollution. Kabwe is not unique, there are many lead contaminated sites globally. Lead as a toxic substance demands more political attention and willingness to act to protect the health of each child.
P-354 THE PRODUCTION AND CHARACTERISATION OF NOVEL MONOCLONAL ANTIBODIES (MABS) FOR 1-HYDROXYPYRENE GLUCURONIDE (1-OHPYRG) DETERMINATION AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF NEW POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBON (PAH) BIOMONITORING ASSAYS
Authors: Ball Lathan , Carter Harry , Baker Claire , Kate Jones 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
PAHs are produced during the incomplete burning of organic material. Occupational exposure may occur in oil refining, mining, iron and steel production and firefighting. Breathing exhaust fumes may increase exposures for mechanics, street vendors and motor vehicle drivers. For most people PAH exposure occurs on a regular basis. Cancer is a significant endpoint of PAH exposure. Measurement of urinary 1-OHPyrG has been used to assess occupational and environmental exposure to PAHs. The production of Mabs to 1-OHPyrG will allow the development of novel PAH biomonitoring tests, facilitate the introduction of routine screening and help safeguard human health.

Methods
1-Pyrenebutyric acid was coupled to a carrier protein and a sheep Mab raised to 1-OHPyrG. A second Mab which binds the Mab-1-OHPyrG immune complex was also produced and a novel non-competitive ELISA developed. Careful formulation of assay buffers has overcome the heterogeneous nature of urine. Assay performance was confirmed through binding studies, reproducibility testing and comparative method analysis.

Results
A sensitive and specific ELISA (measuring range 20-500pg/ml) allows the measurement of background levels of 1-OHPyrG in urine. Occupational samples determined by ELISA and HPLC-fluorescence were in good agreement (R2=0.91). A test kit is being transferred to manufacture.

Discussion and Conclusions
The development of a novel ELISA for 1-OHPyrG has allowed the production of a sensitive and specific PAH biomonitoring test kit. Kits increase the accessibility of biomonitoring and facilitate the introduction of routine screening. Alternative assay formats are being investigated. A lateral flow “point of care” test will facilitate on-site testing and significantly increase the utility of biomonitoring.
P-361 HBM4EU CHROMATES STUDY – ALTERATIONS OF GLOBAL DNA METHYLATION, 8-HYDROXY-2’-DEOXYGUANOSINE IN WORKERS OCCUPATIONALLY EXPOSED TO HEXAVALENT CHROMIUM
Authors: Verdonck Jelle , Ghosh Manosij , Poels Katrien , Godderis Lode , Janasik Beata , Reszka Edyta , Wieczorek Edyta , Scheepers Paul T J , Ndaw Sophie , Bousoumah Radia , Van Nieuwenhuyse An , Duca Radu Corneliu , Viegas Susana , Louro Henriqueta , Silva Maria João , Porras Simo P , Santonen Tiina , Wasowicz Wojciech 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The European human biomonitoring initiative (HBM4EU) aimed to harmonise human biomonitoring and to improve chemical risk assessment. The HBM4EU chromates study involved seven European countries to characterize occupational exposure to Cr(VI). We applied a cross-sectional study design and used chromium in urine as the primary biomonitoring method for Cr(VI) exposure. Furthermore, the effect of occupational Cr(VI) exposure on 8-Hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), global DNA methylation and global DNA hydroxymethylation in blood was investigated.

Methods
Workers with potential exposure to Cr(VI) were included (n=254). As controls (n=114), healthy adult (18–70 years) office workers from the same companies as the exposed workers (referred to “industrial controls”) or from other companies with no activities that were associated with Cr(VI) exposure (referred to “other controls”) were recruited.

Results
In general, each exposed subgroup displayed significantly higher mean urinary Cr levels than the total control group, the industrial control (within company) or the other control (outwith company) subgroups (p = 0.007, MW test). The industrial controls (within company) had significantly higher internal exposure levels than the other controls (outwith company). The other controls (outwith company) had significantly higher global DNA methylation levels and lower levels of 8-OHdG than all other exposure subgroups.

Conclusion
In workers exposed to Cr(VI), global DNA hypomethylation and increased levels of an oxidative stress biomarker 8-OHdG were observed. Overall, these findings reinforce the results of exposure biomarkers, highlighting that in Cr-related industries, (office) workers exposure to Cr is associated with detectable alterations in biological effect markers.
P-362 PRACTICES OF THE SAFE HANDLING AND HEALTH EFFECTS OF CYTOTOXIC DRUGS AMONG HEALTH CARE WORKERS OF AN ONCOLOGY DEPARTMENT IN A REGIONAL HOSPITAL IN TUNISIA
Authors: Omrane Amira , Harrathi Chayma , Mighri Mouna , Khalfallah Taoufik , Machghoul Samia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The healthcare sector is a risk sector that exposes to a multitude of occupational hazards dominated by the chemical risk. This risk originates from toxic, irritant or corrosive substances. A particular exposure is that to cytostatic drugs. The aim of this study is to assess the practices and health effects on healthcare workers (HCW) handling cytotoxic drugs.

Methods
A cross-sectional study conducted in January 2023 among HCW of the oncology ward of Gafsa regional hospital in Tunisia. Health effects of cytotoxic drugs, handling practices and cytotoxic waste management were assessed using a face-to-face questionnaire.

Results
The chemotherapy preparation rooms were equipped with laminar flow hoods. However, 78% of the participants prepared chemotherapy in the corridor. Personal protective equipment’s (PPE) worn when handling drugs or cytotoxic waste were a pair of latex gloves and a surgical mask. Cutaneous contamination by cytotoxic drugs were reported by 61.9% of participants. Fertility problems and spontaneous abortion concerned 14.3% and 35.7% of female participants respectively.

Discussion
Anticancer drugs are the main hazardous medications to which HCW are exposed. Our study revealed a gap between the practices adopted by the participants and international recommendations. This could explain the relatively high risk of contamination.

Conclusion
The use of cytotoxic drugs is rapidly expanding. This study has demonstrated the lack of awareness and training of HCW handling these hazardous drugs. This study is the first step in a preventive approach aimed at protecting the healthcare professionals concerned.
P-363 ASSESSING GLYPHOSATE AND AMPA EXPOSURE AMONG FARMERS USING A HUMAN BIOMONITORING STRATEGY
Authors: Berni Imane , Menouni Aziza , Creta Matteo , Abousai Said , Chetouani Hala , Chbihi Kaoutar , Godderis Lode , Duca Radu , Jaafari Samir 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
There are extensive data on the toxicity of glyphosate (GLY) based herbicides (GBH), however the interpretation of some data (e.g. carcinogenic effect) are subject to controversy. For the appropriate health risk assessment more data on exposure levels in farmers and their family are needed. The aims of the present study were to estimate the exposure to GLY and its major metabolite aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) in farmers that lived in intensively farmed area in Morocco.

Methods
The levels were used as proxies for exposure of these target population to herbicides. Urine was collected from 104 farmers and information from sociodemographic characteristics and occupational expo-sure was collected from questionnaires administrated to farmers and spouses. Urinary glyphosate and AMPA were extracted using solid phase extraction (SPE) and analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).

Results and discussion
The detection frequency (DFs) was 67% for glyphosate and 62% for AMPA among farmers, with the mean concentration of 1.22 μg L−1 and 0.85 μg L−1 respectively. Multiple regression analysis showed that smoking status, applying glyphosate in the last 7 days, and glove use are the most important contribution to urinary levels of glyphosate and AMPA among farmers.

Conclusion
This study provides further evidence on factors associated with glyphosate and AMPA exposure, especially in developing countries.