bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
272 Development of job exposure matrix for construction workers based on experts’ judgment using the 60 consolidated occupations
Authors: Choi Sangjun , Lee Kwang Min , Park Hyunhee , Shim Gyu-Beom , Lee Sun Woo , Kim Yoon-Ji , Kim Youngki , Kang Dongmug , Kim Se-Yeong , Park Ju-Hyun 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
The aim of this study was to develop a new Korean Construction Job Exposure Matrix (KoConJEM) for the construction industry based on 60 occupations consolidated by the Construction Workers Mutual Aid Association.

Methods
Evaluation of the probability, intensity, and prevalence of exposure as binary (Yes/No) or four categories (1–4) to 26 hazardous agents for 60 consolidated occupations was performed by 30 industrial hygiene experts. The risk score (1 to 16) was calculated by multiplying the exposure intensity by the prevalence of exposure. The JEM was expressed on a heatmap and a web-based dashboard to facilitate comparison of exposure characteristics according to each occupation and hazardous agent. Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) was applied for identification of similar patterns in exposure characteristics of different agents across occupations.

Results
Hazardous agents evaluated as exposure is probable by at least one or more experts in all occupations included awkward posture, heat/cold, heavy lifting, and noise. The hazardous agent with exposure in the smallest number of occupations (n = 5) was asphalt fumes. The highest risk value of 16 for awkward posture was observed for almost all occupations except safety officer. The results of HCA using risk values showed that the pattern for the welding-related occupational group differed the most from that of other occupational groups.

Conclusion
The KoConJEM provides information on the probability, intensity, and prevalence of exposure to harmful factors. It might be useful in the conduct of epidemiological studies on health risk assessment of construction workers.
280 Comparative ergonomic analysis of dental hygienists and tattoo artists
Authors: Christian Grieshaber D 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Tattooing is an increasingly popular art form around the world. Research on occupational risks for tattoo artists is sparse. Because tattooing uses needles to puncture the skin, there are some obvious safety concerns not only for the artist, but also the client. Many of the general hazards associated with tattooing, such as bloodborne pathogens and air quality have been addressed, one area that has thus far not received a lot of attention in the literature is the ergonomic risks that tattoo artists face on a daily basis. Tattoo artists are exposed to many of the same risks as occupations such as dentistry and cosmetology.

Methodology
Survey data from 103 tattoo artists in the US (Grieshaber, Marshall, Fuller, 2012; Keester, Sommerich, 2014) and electromyography analysis of ten artists (Keester, Sommerish, 2017) are compared to similar analyses of specialists in dentistry and cosmetology occupations (e.g., Åkesson, Balogh, and Hansson, 2012; Chen, Chang, Liu, and Chen, 2010; Thornton, L.J., Stuart-Buttle, C., Eyszynski, T.C., and Wilson, 2004). Postural analysis of the two occupations will be presented, highlighting the similarities in the neck, back, and upper extremities. A presentation of acceptable interventions for dental hygienists is presented for tattoo artists.

Discussion
This analysis highlights the complexities of tattooing and some of the difficulties that artists have using interventions designed for other occupations.
285 A case study on asbestos cement sheet abatement in India
Authors: Bandekar Adhiraj , Mehta Maharshi 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
More than 15000 sq feet of asbestos cement sheets were removed by workers, contractors, and building owners with no knowledge of asbestos health hazards and safe removal.
Limited asbestos abatement regulatory requirements exist in India.
Under the guidance and continuous supervision of a qualified OH, the removal work was carried out as per US EPA and HSE UK standards.
Workers and contractors were educated on the health hazards of asbestos and work practices to be followed to reduce to reduce potential asbestos health risk.
A respirator fit testing and training was conducted. Most critical was also fall protection training and controls.
Asbestos containment methods such wetting of surfaces, covering all areas of asbestos removal, HEPA filter vacuum cleaning was followed. Disposable coveralls and PPE were used, and operator and area decontamination was done.
Removed asbestos sheets were impregnated with encapsulants, double bagged, and disposed off at a regulated facility.
Personal, area, and clearance asbestos monitoring was conducted, and the samples were analyzed at AIHA accredited laboratory. All the results were below the asbestos occupational exposure limits and below the area clearance criteria.
Also, due to fall protection training, controls and work practices the removal work was carried out without any injury.
This case study demonstrated that without a regulatory requirement and with a passion to protect worker and environment, a safe asbestos removal work can be done without an injury.
331 Heat stress in outdoor workers: influence of climate variables on the individual cardiorespiratory response evaluated by innovative wearable devices
Authors: Sacino Gabriele , Schino Valentina , Stufano Angela , Bartolomeo Nicola , Ravallese Riccardo , De Maria Luigi , De Palma Giuseppe , Merli Stefano , Vimercati Luigi , Lovreglio Piero 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Heat stress could influence the health and wellbeing of outdoor workers. Despite the growing attention to the impacts of climate changes on work, the possibility of monitoring the individual response to heat stress has not previously investigated.

Objective
To evaluate the relationship between heat stress parameters and individual cardio-respiratory response during outdoor working activities by innovative wearable devices.

Methods
Forty healthy workers employed in different outdoor contexts wore, during their entire work shift, a multiparametric wearable device integrating sensors measuring skin temperature, partial oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, heart rate, position and movement of the worker. During the same shifts, measurements were taken of the climatic conditions in the working area.

Results
Climatic and cardiorespiratory parameters analysis showed a positive correlation between radiant temperature and both minimum skin temperature and heart rate (r 0.64 and 0.63 respectively, p&lt;0.01), while a negative correlation was observed with maximum respiratory rate (r -0.7, p&lt;0.01). In contrast, air temperature showed a significant positive correlation with mean skin temperature and with minimum heart rate (r 0.78 and 0.65 respectively, p&lt;0.01).

Conclusions
The multiparametric devices made it possible to identify individual cardiorespiratory response to different climatic conditions and to assess the adaptation of workers to thermal stress, enabling a precision medicine approach.
284 Addressing occupational hygiene priorities globally
Authors: Mehta Maharshi , Johnson Dr Sharann , Mydin Norhazline , Salazar Dr Ana Maria , McClellan Nancy 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This workshop will focus on the following priorities with an objective of options to address the priorities with speakers from Australia, Malaysia, the USA, and Chile. Each speaker will speak for a few minutes, followed by a discussion with workshop participants on their workable solutions. A white paper will be an outcome of the workshop.

Qualified OH Professional Gap
OHTA estimated that 45000 qualified OHs are needed against about 12000 available. &lt;10% of the qualified available OHs are in emerging economies with enormous IH needs and limited resources. Applied approaches include IOHA-NAR accredited certifications, company-specific training, and university degree programs in Chile and Guatemala. Some of the IOHA Associations (e.g., MIHA) were effective in their efforts to bridge this gap.

Quality Assurance in OH Assessment
An experience at 200+ workplaces in 30+ countries has identified that more than 50% of the exposure monitoring results are not reproducible, representative, or reliable. The life of the working people depends on the exposure monitoring results OHs provide. Malaysia and Singapore regulatory agencies require OH practitioner certifications. Universally acceptable IOHA Code of Practice, EN 689, AIHA’s Principles of Good Practices are the most effective in defining minimum recommended QA guidelines that may be adopted by regulatory agencies.

Accredited laboratories emerging economies and related costs
Most of the accredited labs are located in the US and EU. Shipping of the OH monitoring samples and the analysis cost are significant concerns. A universally recognized Proficiency in Analytical Testing is one option.

Cost and Integrity of OH Consultants
BOHS Good Practice Guidance on Consultants is one of the options.
307 Using exposure assessment and health assessment tools for interactive education
Authors: Taylor Helen 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Ensuring that the workforce is educated, aware and informed of the things that will help ensure that workplace exposure does not result in a health effect can be a difficult task, particularly if we would like to make it interesting and engaging. By making education and training more than just a presentation it can make it more memorable and lasting and hopefully more effective in developing good habits to reduce exposure.

Aims & Objectives
This workshop will demonstrate some of the techniques available to make our training and awareness interesting and interactive. There will be a particular focus on techniques relating to skin exposure, but some of the techniques can be applied to other forms of exposure. There will be a range of techniques that can be used for glove training, awareness of the importance of selection and use of gloves, hand hygiene and skin care, sun awareness, surface contamination and understanding effectiveness of LEV. There will also be an opportunity to get hands on experience with some of the techniques being demonstrated.
Participants will gain a greater understanding of some of the ways in which we can make education and training more interactive, memorable and effective. Participants should also gain some practical experience of using some of the techniques.
46 Principles of industrial ventilation system design and operation
Authors: Grubb Gregg 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
This PDC provides the occupational hygienist with the fundamental principles pertinent to the effective and efficient use of industrial ventilation to control employee exposures to toxic substances or agents. Presented at an introductory-to-moderate level, the PDC will address the following topics:
•The occupational hygiene hierarchy of control measures applicable to protecting the health of employees in the workplace.
•The importance of understanding the properties of the air that will be captured, conveyed, and controlled by the industrial ventilation system.
•Types of industrial ventilation system records and documentation and their importance.
•Successful hood design to effectively capture and control the contaminant of interest.
•Energy-efficient duct components and industrial ventilation system design considerations.
•A basic understanding of air contaminant control devices and industrial fans.
•The relevance of industrial ventilation system exhaust stack design to the successful control of air contaminant exposures.
•“Goes-outas equals goes-intas,” or, the relevance of ensuring the appropriate amount of replacement air in workplaces where industrial ventilation systems are utilized.
•The value of validating industrial ventilation system performance and implementing a successful industrial ventilation system monitoring and preventative maintenance program.
The important connection between industrial ventilation systems and change management programs.
161 Creating a healthier world: occupational hygiene’s vital role in advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Authors: Hiddinga Andrea , Laszcz-Davis Chris 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
This PDC explores the crucial role of occupational hygiene within the broader context of sustainable development and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Occupational hygiene, as a multidisciplinary field, contributes significantly to several SDGs, including those related to health and well-being, decent work, and responsible consumption and production. In this PDC we examine the intersections between occupational hygiene and various SDGs, and underscores the importance of viewing the SDGs as a dynamic and interconnected framework, where progress in one area can have ripple effects on others. Occupational hygiene is positioned at the nexus of these interrelated goals, offering insights and solutions that contribute to the achievement of sustainable development. By adopting a systems-thinking approach and recognizing the complexity of the global challenges we face, stakeholders can work together to develop more effective and lasting solutions that benefit both society and the environment.
Join this PDC for:
Engaging discussions: Centered around real-world topics.
Global Relevance: Explore how SDGs align with real-world occupational hygiene scenarios, ensuring you’re equipped to make an impact on a global scale.
Practical Assignments: Apply your knowledge through hands-on assignments tackling actual workplace situations. From risk assessments to sustainable workplace strategies, you’ll gain practical and problem-solving skills that directly benefit your career.
Regional Focus: Tailored assignments will address regional concerns, so you can make a tangible difference while contributing to the broader SDGs.
Networking Opportunities: Build valuable connections with professionals who share your passion for sustainable, safe workplaces. Harness the power of a diverse network for ongoing support and inspiration.
176 Role of occupational hygienist in emergency response
Authors: Leblanc Rene 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Occupational Hygienist plays an important role in planning and responding to Emergency Response. In this PDC, we will review basic concepts based on USA HAZWOPER course (HAZardous Waste OPeration and Emergency Response). Course will cover topics such as: hazard identification, risk analysis, monitoring, PPE, decon, respiratory protection and many other aspects of ER. The speaker has experience in Emergency Response focussing on chemical incidents. The3 hr course will give you enough resources and tools so that you know where to look for should an emergency situation occurs.
Effect of Image Reconstruction Algorithms in Pericoronary Adipose Tissue Attenuation obtained with Coronary CT Angiography
Authors: Krebs K K , Rossi A R , Jurisic S J , Gajic M G , Albertini T A , Heiniger P S H , Galafton A G , Pazhenkottil A P P , Kaufmann P A K , Buechel R R B , Benz D C B , Giannopoulos A 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background/Introduction
Pericoronary adipose tissue (PCAT) attenuation measured at coronary CT angiography (CCTA) can detect vascular inflammation and is a useful diagnostic and prognostic marker. Modern iterative and artificial-intelligence-based CCTA reconstruction methods can affect image noise and overall image quality. We aimed to investigate the potential influence of different CCTA image reconstruction algorithms on PCAT attenuation measurements.

Methods
Patients referred for clinically indicated CCTA between March 2015 and June 2016 were retrospectively included. Datasets were reconstructed with filtered back projection (FBP), with adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction-Veo (ASiR-V) and with deep-learning image reconstruction (DLIR). In all three reconstructions, mean PCAT was evaluated in the three major epicardial coronary arteries using dedicated software (QAngio CT Research Edition version 3.2.0.13, Medis Medical Imaging Systems) and was defined as the area with an attenuation between − 30 and − 190 Hounsfield Units (HU) within a radial distance from the outer vessel wall equivalent to the diameter of the vessel. The proximal 40 mm segments of the left anterior descending artery (LAD) and left circumflex artery (LCx) and the proximal 10–50 mm segment of the right coronary artery (RCA) were analyzed. Using FBP (PCATFBP) as reference standard, correlation and agreement of PCAT estimates using ASIR-V (PCATASIR-V) and DLIR (PCATDLIHR) reconstructions were assessed.

Results
In 39 patients (mean age 57.9±11.2 years, 90% men), 117 arteries were analyzed. Mean PCATFBP attenuation of the overall population was -79.9 ±9.4 HU and did not differ significantly compared to PCATASIR-V and to PCATDLIR (-80.9±8.9 HU and -78.5±9.5 HU, respectively; pANOVA=0.123). Correlation was excellent for all comparisons [PCATFBP vs. PCATASIR-V; r=0.99, (y=4.68+1.046x, p&lt;0.001), PCATFBP vs. PCATDLIR; r=0.99 (y=-3.57+0.973x, p&lt;0.001)]. Intraclass correlation coefficient was excellent for all reconstructions [PCATFBP vs. PCATASIR-V; 0.99 (95% confidence interval: 0.98-0.99), PCATFBP vs. PCATDLIR; 0.98 (95% confidence interval: 0.98-0.99), all p&lt;0.0001]. Agreement with Bland-Altman analysis was high with small mean absolute differences and relatively narrow limits of agreement [PCATFBP vs. PCATASIR-V; Bias: 1.0 HU (95% limits of agreement: -1.4 – 3.3), PCATFBP vs. PCATDLIR; Bias: -1.5HU (95% limits of agreement: -4.4 – 1.4)].

Conclusions
CCTA-derived PCAT measurements using advanced iterative image reconstruction– and deep-learning image reconstruction–algorithms have excellent correlation and high agreement compared to conventional image reconstruction algorithms and could be potentially interchangeably used.
Ultra-low dose contrast CT-angiography in TAVI candidates with severe renal failure
Authors: Babbaro M , Perillo N , Bedogni F , Spagnolo P 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
computer tomography angiography (CTA) has assumed an important role in patient screening before TAVI. The high volumes of iodinated contrast media (CM) injected during the examination represents the main limitation of CTA with a dose-dependent association with contrast-induced nephropathy.

Purpose
to show the feasibility of an ultra-low-dose CM pulmonary arterial injection protocol for CTA in TAVI candidates in high risk patients with severe renal failure.

Methods
retrospective study, 77 patients with CKD on stage 3b or worse (eGFR ≤ 45/min/1.73 m2) underwent pre-procedural CTA for TAVI-planning with a pulmonary arterial administration of CM. All CTA examinations were performed using a Dual Source 256-slice CT system. All enhanced CT acquisitions were performed using our dedicated biphasic injection protocol composed of two connected phases of contrast medium injection using different amount of CM (8, 10, 15 and 20 ml) according to BMI (&lt;22 kg/m2; 22-24 kg/m2; 24-28 kg/m2; &gt;28 kg/m2). The CM was administered directly into the pulmonary artery in all patients. For each examination was measured Intraluminal attenuation at thoraco-abdominal aorta and along the ilio-femoral vessels using the ROI (mean SD in HU) as objective image parameters (Picture 1). Serum creatinine and the eGFR were recorded pre-TAVI CT scan and after the procedures as reference of CM to renal function.

Results
CTA was successfully performed in all patients. Mean creatinine was 2.25 ± 0,76 mg/dL and mean GFR was 26.5± 8.1 mL/min/m2. Mean vessel attenuation was 352±164 HU at the aortic annulus, 238.1 ± 141,3 HU in the aortic arch and 266±168 in the iliac arteries (Picture 2).
The mean image noise was 28.2 ± 7 HU in the aortic annulus, 24.4 ± 10,9 in the right external iliac artery, and 25. ± 12,8 HU in the left external iliac artery. After CTA examination, a total of 74 patients (96%) underwent TAVI. Mean CM dose administered during TAVI procedure was 150,6 ± 85,8. Three patients (3.9%) were abolished for TAVI.
Postprocedural settings complications were recorded. A total of 31 patients (41%) had grade 1 paravalvular regurgitation, 10 patients (14%) grade 2. No cases of valve embolization or anulus rupture occured. No major vascular complications occured. No significant differences between creatine and eGFR pre and post procedures (p&lt;0,001).

Conclusions
the use of an ultra-low-dose CM pulmonary arterial injection protocol for CTA in TAVI candidates does not affect the renal function and procedural success rate is high and the clinical outcomes after TAVI is satisfactory according to the litterature.Intraluminal attenuation in aorta
Correlation between aortic valve calcium score and peak to peak gradient in patients with preserved or reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Benetos G , Stergianos E , Ktenopoulos N , Drakopoulou M , Synetos A , Tsalamandris S , Aznaouridis K , Tsioufis C , Toutouzas K 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
During the last decade, the use of aortic valve calcium (AVC) score as measured by multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) has gained ground as a reliable, supplemental method of detecting patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). The correlation between AVC score and peak to peak gradient during left heart catheterization is not well studied.

Purpose
We aimed to study the relationship between AVC score and peak to peak gradient in patients with AS undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), classified in reduced and preserved ejection fraction (EF).

Methods
We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 59 patients with tricuspid, degenerative, native valve severe AS that had TAVI in our hospital. All patients included had MDCT and Doppler echocardiography prior the operation while peak to peak gradient was measured during TAVI.

Results
Patients were classified according to their EF into Group A (N=46, preserved EF ≥50%) and Group B (N=13, reduced EF &lt;50%). Mean AVC score was higher in the preserved EF group (mean AVC group A=3670HU, mean AVC group B=2910HU) but there was not statistical significant differences between the groups (p=0.19). In group A, AVC score positively correlated with measured peak to peak gradient (r=+0.59, p&lt;0.001), Doppler-derived AV maximum velocity (r=+0.39, p=0.02) and mean AV gradient(r=+0.53, p=0.002), while in group B we did not found any significant association between AVC score and peak to peak gradient (p=0.92), AV maximum velocity (p=0.62) and mean AV gradient (p=0.07).

Conclusion
There was a strong correlation between AVC score and peak to peak gradient in patients with normal EF, but not in patients with low EF.