bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
O-321 A CASE/CONTROL STUDY ON FEMALE FERTILITY AND EXPOSURE TO REPROTOXIC PLASTIFICANT CHEMICALS
Authors: Caporossi Lidia , Capanna Silvia , Viganò Paola , Alteri Alessandra , Paci Enrico , Pigini Daniela , Tranfo Giovanna , Papaleo Bruno 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Infertility is a pathological condition with multifactorial etiology, investigating the role of exposure to reprotoxic chemicals is an urgent need for research in the field of health and safety at work. Phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA) are xenoestrogenic compounds with annual production in the order of thousands of tons and are present in many working environments.

Method
186 women attending an assisted fertilisation centre were recruited, age &lt;43, body mass index, alcohol, smoking, age and specific pathologies were considered confounding factors. In addition, 196 women were recruited as controls, in the obstetrics department, with at least one child generated without any therapies and with a time to pregnancy &lt; 12 months. A urine sample for each woman was analysed in HPLC/MS/MS for the presence of 6 metabolites of phthalates and BPA. The Institutional Review Board of the IRCCS San Raffaele, Scientific Institute in Milan, Italy, approved the research protocol(identification code 73/INT/2017).

Results
The case-control comparison showed statistically higher values in cases compared to controls for all analytes (p&lt;0.05, Mann Whitney test) except for monooctylphthalate. Stratifying by infertility factors, in particular, it emerges how women with polyabortivity (820.5±1929.5) or “sine causa” infertility (230.5±794.2) had, on average, monoethyl phthalate (MEP) concentrations, in µg/g creatinine, significantly higher than all other infertility factors (76.2±145.6) and controls (101.1±292.2).

Discussion and conclusion
Having almost 10 times more MEP in women with polyabortivity and double in “sine causa” women suggests that exposure to this xenoestrogen can significantly affect reproductive health and require attention in the case of involved workplaces.
O-322 RISK OF ADVERSE PREGNANCY OUTCOMES AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN IN UNORGANIZED OR ORGANIZED WORKPLACES - WHO IS MORE SUSCEPTIBLE?
Authors: Venugopal Vidhya , Ramachandra Sri , Shanmugam Rekha , Ramachandra Sri , Elizabeth Jane 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Most affected by climate change-induced heat in developing countries are pregnant women who work in environments with limited access to heat mitigation strategies.

Methodology
In Tamilnadu, India, 230 expectant women from unorganized workplaces (UWs) and 384 from organized workplaces (OWs) participated in an observational prospective cohort study. In addition to the pre-and post-shift measurements of Core Body Temperature (CBT) and Urine Specific Gravity (USG), the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT°C) was measured, and a validated questionnaire was used to collect self-reported heat-related symptoms. Postpartum interviews uncovered Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes (APOs). SPSS 16.0 modeled univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Results
OWs’ WBGT°C values ranged from 24.1-28.5°C in OWs while in UWs’ it ranged from 24.1-30.2°C. Half of UW women exceeded the Threshold Limit Values (TLVs). Exposures to WBGT&gt;27.5°C increased APO risk for women in UWs by 1.9-fold, and 44.3% of expectant UWs had chronic dehydration. The risk of spontaneous abortion/miscarriage was 2.3 times greater and adverse birth outcomes were doubled (95%CI: 1.1-5.2) among pregnant women working in UWs.

Discussion
Our study indicates that exposures to WBGT in excess of TLVs during all three trimesters of pregnancy, in conjunction with poor welfare and working conditions for women in UWs, could lead to fetal heat stress and an increased risk of APOs.

Conclusion
To safeguard pregnant women from the negative effects of occupational heat stress, it is necessary to implement protective labor policies and improve workplace welfare facilities.
O-325 PHYSICAL WORK DEMANDS DURING PREGNANCY AND THE RISK OF PRETERM BIRTH – FINDINGS FROM A DANISH REGISTER-BASED COHORT STUDY
Authors: Sejbaek Camilla Sandal , Flachs Esben Meulengracht , Frankel Hannah Nørtoft , Mehlum Ingrid Sivesind , Tøttenborg Sandra Søgaard , Madsen Ida E H , Rugulies Reiner , Hougaard Karin Sørig , Bonde Jens Peter , Begtrup Luise Moelenberg 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The objective of this study was to corroborate or refute earlier indications that high workload in pregnancy is associated with preterm birth.

Methods
The register-based cohort, DOC*X-Generation, included all working pregnant women and their liveborn children in Denmark (1977-2018). Register-data contributed information of gestational age used to define preterm (22-36 gestational week) and extremely preterm (22-32 gestational week) births, and occupational codes during pregnancy – DISCO-88. A Job exposure matrix (JEM) provided information on occupational exposure for each occupation and not individually. Workload was provided by the JEM, physical work demands (Work Environment and Health, Denmark), which assigned each woman with an exposure value based on DISCO-88 occupational codes. Other nationwide registers provided potential confounders.

Results
The preliminary findings included 1,201,974 women working during pregnancy; of which 4.3% gave birth preterm. Employment in occupations with high physical work demands during pregnancy was associated with a small increased risk of preterm birth (highest exposed group, adjusted OR=1.10 (95% CI 1.06-1.13)) and extremely preterm birth (highest exposed group, adjusted OR=1.15 (95% CI 1.07-1.23)). There was a tendency towards an exposure-response relationship for both outcomes.

Discussion
Strengths include a non-selected cohort of working women over a 40-year period, including potential confounders, e.g., maternal country of origin and education. One limitation is that the JEM is only based on data from 2012 and 2014, and therefore does not reflect potential changes in physical workload over time.

Conclusion
This study supports the previous findings of an increased risk of preterm birth due to physical workload during pregnancy.
O-328 ASSESSING LUNG CANCER RISKS AMONG VICTIMS IN ASBESTOS DAMAGE RELIEF SYSTEM IN KOREA: EXCESS LIFETIME CANCER RISK WITH EXPOSURE ASSESSMENT
Authors: Kim MyongHwan , Lee Seungho , Kang Dongmug , KJ Ju Young Kim , Kim Yoon-Ji , Kim Youngki , Lee Eun-Soo 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The compensation criteria for lung cancer in Asbestos Damage Relief Act (ADRA) in Korea mainly rely on the presence of radiologic findings of asbestosis or pleural plaque. Although exposure criteria with asbestos fiber concentration in lung tissue is supplementary, it has not been applied. Because only 30% of asbestos related lung cancer has asbestosis or pleural plaque, substantial lung cancers might not be compensated by ADRA. Exposure criteria for lung cancer need to be applied in ADRA.

Methods
Data of 1,784 lung cancer compensation applicants during 2011-2021 were analyzed. Comprehensive asbestos exposure assessment including occupational, environmental, and household/family exposures were evaluated. To evaluate lung cancer risk the Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR) method was employed.

Results
The average age of applicants was 69.1 years, with a significant majority in their 60s (34.6%) and 70s (35.8%). There were 1,268 male (71.1%) and 516 female (28.9%) applicants. Reports of occupational, environmental and household/family exposure came from 512 (28.7%), 1,028 (57.6%) and 504 (28.3%) individuals, respectively. The overall approval rate was 58.1%, with 97.7% for applicants with radiologic evidence and 4.1% for applicants without such conditions. Notably, approval rates were higher for deceased (69.6%) versus living applicants (46.6%). ELCR computation is ongoing.

Discussion
Asbestos compensation should be extended to strong exposure cases even without radiologic evidence. Identifying high-risk cohorts with significant past exposures would improve early detection. Exposure assessment tools and ELCR calculation would promote epidemiological research.

Conclusion
Incorporating exposure assessment and ELCR into ADRA’s framework could augment the equity of compensation decisions.
O-331 PREVALENCE OF RESPIRATORY SYMPTOMS AND DISEASES AS WELL AS VENTILATORY DISORDERS AMONG ARTISANAL WELDERS
Authors: Rkiek Bilal , Manar Nadia , Bouri Hicham El , Deschamps Frédéric , Laraqui Chakib 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and diseases, as well as ventilation defects, among artisanal welders.

Methods
This cross-sectional study involved 211 welders in Kenitra (Morocco) with at least two years’ seniority. It included an analysis of working conditions, a questionnaire and spirometry. The questionnaire comprised four sections: socio-demographic and occupational characteristics, smoking habits, medical history and clinical respiratory symptoms. Chronic bronchitis was defined as chronic cough and chronic sputum production occurring for at least three months of the year and for at least two consecutive years, with no other cause identified. The diagnosis of COPD was made in the presence of an obstructive ventilatory defect based on a forced expiratory volume in the first second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) ratio &lt;70% after administration of a bronchodilator.

Results
The average age was 43.5 ± 9.8 years. The average seniority was 15.8 ± 9.2 years. 29.4% were current tobacco smokers, 22.7% former tobacco smokers and 48.3% non-smokers. 13.3% were cannabis smokers. The prevalence of tracheobronchial irritation symptoms was 19.2%: 14.2% for chronic cough, 9.5% for respiratory discomfort, 12.8% for chronic expectoration and 9% for chest wheezing. The prevalence of rhinitis was 19.4%, asthma 8.5%, chronic bronchitis 10% and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease 9% (10.1% in current smokers and former smokers versus 7.8% in no-smokers). 24.6% had defects in FEV1 and FVC. This prevalence reached 31.2% in current smokers and former smokers versus 17,6% in non-smokers.

Conclusion
These artisan welders should benefit from occupational medical cover to improve prevention.
P-489 PREVALENCE OF RESPIRATORY SYMPTOMS, DISEASES AND VENTILATORY DISORDERS AMONG DENTAL TECHNICIANS
Authors: Manar Nadia , Bouri Hicham El , Laraqui Omar , Deschamps Frédéric , Laraqui Hossini Chakib El Houssine 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective
To assess the prevalence of respiratory symptoms, diseases and ventilatory disorders among dental technicians.

Methods
This cross-sectional study involved 372 people working in 75 laboratories in Casablanca, Fez, Meknes, Rabat and Tangiers, and with at least two years’ seniority. It included a questionnaire, spirometry and thoracic radiophotography. The questionnaire consisted of four sections: socio-demographic and occupational characteristics, smoking habits, medical history and clinical respiratory symptoms. Chronic bronchitis is defined as chronic cough and chronic sputum production occurring for at least three months per year and for at least two consecutive years without any other identified cause. The diagnosis of COPD was made in the presence of an obstructive ventilatory defect based on a ratio forced expiratory volume at the first second/ forced vital capacity (FEV1/ FVC) &lt;70% after administration of a bronchodilator

Results
Average age was 31.8±8.4 years. The predominance was male (73%) and the average seniority was 9.7±6.3years. 32.9% were current smokers, 12.4% former smokers and 54.7% non-smokers. The prevalence of tracheobronchial irritation symptoms was 25.2% for chronic cough, 9.7% for respiratory discomfort, 7.2% for chronic sputum and 8.7% for chest wheezing. Rhinitis was 18%, asthma 8.2%, chronic bronchitis 7.1% and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease 6.7% (7.1% in current and former smokers versus 3.4% in non-smokers). 19% had deficits in the (FEV1) and the (FVC). This prevalence reached 32% in current and former smokers. The prevalence of radiological abnormalities was 13.2% (5.2% had small parenchymal opacities suggestive of pneumoconiosis).

Conclusion
Prevention and early detection must be a priority in this sector.
P-491 MONITORING THE CHANGES OF THE RESPIRATORY FUNCTION OF TUNISIAN PROFESSIONAL DIVERS
Authors: Kacem Imene , Kahloul Mohamed , Moussa Amen , Ghenim Amal , Chouchane Asma , Ajmi Mohamed , Aloui Asma , Brahem Aicha , Kalboussi Houda , Maalel Olfa El , Chatti Souhail , Naija Walid , Maoua Maher , Mrizak Nejib , Kacem Imene , Ghenim Amal , Ayed Souha 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Diving is a strenuous underwater activity in which environmental conditions affect the functions and structure of tissues especially the respiratory system. So pulmonary function tests of the divers can give us valuable information about the consequences of this activity.

Aim
To assess changes in respiratory function after 8 years of professional diving.

Methods
A retrospective cohort study was performed on divers who have consulted in the occupational medicine department of a Tunisian Hospital during periodical fitness to work visits from 2014 to 2021. Pulmonary function tests were performed with the same operating standards and using a MIR spirolab III spirometry. Each subject acted as his or her own control.

Results
Seventy five divers were included in this study. The mean age was 36.6 ± 8.7 years. Smoking was reported in 68% of cases. In our study, none of the participants had a respiratory history. Over the 8 years, a significant decrease in the forced expired volume in 1 second/functional vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) ratio (p =0.0005) was reported as well as a decrease in the forced expiratory flow (FEF) at 25% and 75% (p=0.0024). A decrease in functional vital capacity (FVC) was also reported (p=0.006). There was a significant decrease in FEV1, FVC, DEM.50, in the age group between 40 and 60 years old and in the smokers group. No significant difference was reported with professional seniority.

Conclusion
Several factors accompanying the diving activity are capable of initiating damage to the airways justifying the prosecution of studies.
P-492 MEDICAL EXPERTISE IN ASBESTOSIS-RELATED OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES: TWO CASES REPORT
Authors: Abouzahir Hind , Elhamamouchi Ikram , Belhouss Ahmed , Benyaich Hicham 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Asbestos is a flexible and fibrous silicate that is highly resistant to physical and chemical conditions. Because of these characteristics, it has long been used in a range of industries, including insulation, textiles, ships, car production, and construction. Despite the fact that its use is banned in Morocco, as it is in many other countries, considerable occupational exposures can occur during the repair of outdated industrial products and building demolition.

Cases Presentation
Here, we report two examples involving male patients in their 60s who had no prior medical history. They described how they had worked on equipment lined with or containing asbestos-based materials while performing mechanical maintenance, service, and fitting out tasks. Clinical symptoms and particular radiological symptoms led to the diagnosis of asbestosis. Mild to moderate respiratory insufficiency was discovered throughout the assessment. Asbestosis as an occupational disease and job had a direct causal relationship, and in both situations, the rate of permanent partial impairment after expert’s assessment was from 30% to 60%.

Conclusion
Asbestosis is one of the occupational diseases for which workers are entitled to compensation under the law. Reporting occupational illnesses is required. To be eligible for compensation, the patient must have a diagnosis of the disease, which is why experts can also give testimony about asbestos exposure and any asbestos-related diseases that might come from it. Keywords: Asbestosis, occupational disease; asbestos exposure; expertise; workplace.
O-333 PESTICIDE EXPOSURE IN FRUIT-GROWING RE-ENTRY WORKERS: COMPARING LEVELS AND DETERMINANTS ASSESSED UNDER USUAL CONDITIONS OF WORK (CANEPA STUDY) WITH THOSE PREDICTED BY REGISTRATION PROCESS (EFSA MODEL)
Authors: Bresson Morgane , Bureau Mathilde , De Graaf Lucie , Leblanc Maylis , Lecluse Yannick , Baldi Isabelle , Lebailly Pierre 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Pesticide exposure increases the risk of chronic disease among farmers. Understanding exposure is necessary for epidemiological and regulatory purposes. Since 2014, worker exposure has been assessed in the registration process by EFSA, using the OPEX model. Data specific to fruit-growing workers is limited to five European studies conducted in the 1980s by pesticide companies, among others. We compared exposure predicted in the regulations with that measured in field studies.

Methods
In 2016-2017, dermal exposure to captan and dithianon was measured in French farmers during 121 days of re-entry (net folding and deployment, thinning) and harvest, using patches and cotton gloves. Exposure was calculated using several parameters (task, personal protective equipment (PPE), treatment schedules). Exposure was recalculated from dislodgeable foliar residues (RDF) measured 2 to 312 days after application in 20 observations. Relationships between measured and calculated exposures were studied by linear regression.

Results
Exposure depended on PPE worn and tasks performed (thinning, net folding &gt; harvest, net deployment) due to differences in pesticide accumulation on plants over the season. Most exposures calculated using default settings were 100 times higher than measured exposure. The model underestimated exposure recalculated with measured DFR in all observations for dithianon and almost all for captan.

Discussion
In the regulatory process, re-entry exposure is only calculated when it occurs immediately after application. Exposure measured up to 300 days after application was never zero. When re-entry was not immediate after application, the model underestimated exposure.

Conclusion
This demonstrates the importance of using field studies in the registration process to ensure a truly conservative approach.
O-337 CULTIVATING SAFE PRACTICES: ASSESSING PESTICIDE USE AND COMPLIANCE IN PROTECTED VEGETABLE PRODUCTION
Authors: Sellami Imen , Heni Aymen , Rmadi Nehla , Ghrab Mohamed Anis , Daoud Hanen , Hammami Kaouthar Jmal , Masmoudi Mohamed Larbi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
In response to consumer market demands, vegetable producers must ensure the production of high-quality crops. To achieve this, these producers often resort to pesticide use. Such usage must adhere to specific norms. This study aims to assess knowledge, practices, and compliance related to pesticide use in protected vegetable cultivation.

Methods
This cross-sectional study was conducted in Sidi Bouzid governorate from July 2022 to February 2023. We assessed knowledge and practices related to pesticide use in protected vegetable cultivation using face to face questionnaire guided interviews. We also evaluated distribution practices among pesticide sellers using a second questionnaire.

Results
Among the surveyed farmers, 44% had only primary education. Only 40% of farmers exhibited satisfactory knowledge of pests, diseases, and their occurrence periods. A significant majority (83%) of farmers demonstrated awareness of the names of purchased pesticides. Of the surveyed farmers, 87% obtained pesticides from authorized vendors. However, only 37% of farmers properly stored empty pesticide containers and refrained from repurposing them. Moreover, a majority of farmers (63%) admitted to not using personal protective equipment. Among the surveyed sellers, 64% were under control and coordinated their buying and selling operations with the Regional Agricultural Development Commission.

Discussion
This study unveiled non-compliance with phytosanitary requirements concerning pesticide usage in sheltered vegetable cultivation, shedding light on the need for improvements to address the highlighted non-conformities.

Conclusion
The study underscores the need to address non-compliance with phytosanitary requirements in protected vegetable cultivation. Recommendations for improvements are necessary to ensure safe and environmentally sound pesticide practices in the industry.
P-502 PREVALENCE OF AGRICULTURAL AND CITY WORKERS WITH CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASES RECEIVING SICK LEAVE BENEFITS AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS IN BRAZIL – A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY
Authors: Ferreira Luciano , Priester Luiz , Ferreira Laura , Galhardi Cristiano 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
A worldwide epidemic of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with cases among agricultural workers, and others performing manual labor, especially in Central America known as CKD of unknown cause (CDKu). The objective of this study was to verify the prevalence of rural and city workers with CKD and associated factors in Brazil.

Methods
A retrospective study with 660 patients who underwent evaluation for sick leave benefits in Brazil from January 2007 to April 2017. The data were collected using the Brazilian National Social Security (INSS) System Information, and registered gender, age, occupation, etiology, manual and non-manual labor.

Results
The results showed a prevalence of male workers (64,24%), living in cities (84,39%), performing manual labor jobs (51,6%), with the mean age of 56,42 years old. Agricultural workers accounted for 32% of the cases. The main occupation for city workers was truck driver and for rural employers was coffee agricultural workers. The main etiologies were the same for rural and city workers:
1) Primary Hypertension,
2) Diabetes Mellitus,
3) Unknown,
4) Polycystic Kidney Disease.
Twenty e two percent of rural workers had CKDu.

Discussion
CKDu can have higher prevalence among agricultural workers and may cause long-term disability. Preventing manual labor workers, especially in the rural area, from developing CKDu may reduce the number of sick leave long-term benefits.

Conclusion
It was observed a higher number of manual labor workers with CKD, and many of them with CKDu especially in agricultural workers. It is possible that these agricultural workers may have CKDu associated with manual labor.
P-504 KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE OF PESTICIDE USE AMONG AGRICULTURAL WORKERS OF LAMATAR, LALITPUR, NEPAL
Authors: Vaidiya Subhadra , Joshi Sunil Kumar , Jyoti Sabita , Lama Prasanna 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Unsafe methods in handling pesticides, especially in middle and low-income countries like Nepal are practiced, although the harmful health effects either go unnoticed or are missed or are diagnosed late. This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding pesticide use among agricultural workers and farmers’ awareness of pesticide labels on pesticide bottles or packets.

Methods
A cross-sectional study among 74 conveniently selected agricultural workers, who used or ever-used pesticides within the last six months was conducted in Lamatar, Lalitpur District of Nepal from January 2022 to February 2022. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Review Committee of Kathmandu Medical College.

Results
Among the 74 respondents 49 (66.2%) were females and only 25 (33.8%) were males. Most of them had no formal education but could read and write. However, less than half 32 (43.2%) had adequate knowledge while the majority 49 (66.2%) had a negative attitude towards the use of pesticides. However, only 32 (43.2%) had good practice handling pesticides and its effect.

Discussion
This study showed low knowledge regarding pesticides among the respondents and the majority of them were females. Females also had inadequate knowledge about its health effects and poor practice along with a negative attitude towards the use of pesticides, however still widely used because of the demand for more earnings.

Conclusion
There is a need for time-to-time regular community-based training regarding how to safely handle pesticides and the availability of less harmful fertilizers products at retailers or consultancies.