bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
P-347 PROVISION OF EFFICIENT AND VERIFIED BIOMONITORING METHODS BY THE MAK COMMISSION
Authors: Göen Thomas , Schäferhenrich Anja , Nübler Stefanie , Hartwig Andrea 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Biomonitoring is the most powerful approach to assess individual exposure and health risk of workers from chemical substances. However, availability and implementation of published biomonitoring methods often pose notable challenges. In 1955 the Permanent Senate Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area (MAK Commission) was founded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft. Within the Commission, the working group “Analyses of Hazardous Substances in Biological Materials” (AiBM) develops, verifies, and publishes procedures for the determination of biomonitoring parameters.

Methods
AiBM applies a multi-stage process to develop and evaluate biomonitoring methods. Within this process it is essential that every method is verified by a second laboratory to ensure the reproducibility of the analytical procedure and the reliability data. Submitted methods and examination reports are discussed within the working group. Positively evaluated methods are adopted for publication. Others are returned to the developer for revision. Methods with fundamental drawbacks are rejected. Adopted methods were published first in a book series and, since 2016, in the quarterly online journal “The MAK Collection for Occupational Health and Safety”.

Results and Discussion
Since 1985, AibM has published nearly 200 analytical methods in English. Such methods include inorganic parameters (e.g. Pb, Hg, As) as well as organic parameters (e.g. solvents, plasticizers, pesticides) and are available online free of charge (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/book/10.1002/3527600418 and https://series.publisso.de/de/pgseries/overview/mak/dam).

Conclusion
These detailed, ready-to-use protocols for human biomonitoring enable the monitoring of occupational exposure and often the determination of the background exposure in the general population as well.
P-350 FIREFIGHTERS´ OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE ASSESSMENT AND ESTIMATION OF ASSOCIATED HEALTH RISKS: AN OVERVIEW OF EUROPEAN DATA
Authors: Teixeira Joana , Almeida Pedro , Santos-Silva Alice , Costa Paulo , Morais Simone , Delerue-Matos Cristina , Rodrigues Francisca , Oliveira Marta 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The occurrence and severity of wildfires, with hotter and longer fire seasons, have increased due to global warming and climatic changes, particularly in Southern European countries. Occupational exposure as a firefighter is carcinogenic to humans due to the development of bladder cancer and mesothelioma. This activity is genotoxic, induces epigenetic alterations, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation. Participation in prolonged fire season can promote firefighters’ health burden. However, the exposure assessment of European firefighting forces remains limited.

Methods
This work presents an overview of available data related to firefighters’ exposure assessment in Europe and explores the estimated health risks.

Results and Discussion
Overall, available data demonstrate the exposure to health-relevant pollutants, e.g., fine/ultrafine particulate matter, metals, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons at fire stations’ microenvironments and during firefighting activities. Moreover, salivary, and urinary biomarkers of exposure as well as biomarkers of early health effects were increased in firefighters involved in firefighting. Some studies reported firefighters´ occupational exposure levels higher than the available recommended benchmark values, even when adequate personal protective equipment was used during fire combat.

Conclusion
Further studies with a more extensive exposure assessment among European firefighters are needed to contribute to the proposal and implementation of preventive measures and highlight future mitigation strategies. Funding: This work was funded by project PCIF/SSO/0090/2019 by the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia, Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior (FCT-MCTES), through national funds. Acknowledgments: This work received support from UIDB/50006/2020, UIDP/50006/2020, LA/P/0008/2020, 2022.05381.PTDC, and PCIF/SSO/0017/2018 by FCT-MCTES. M. Oliveira and F. Rodrigues are thankful for the scientific contracts CEECIND/03666/2017 and CEECIND/01886/2020, respectively.
P-352 HEXAVALENT CHROMIUM CAUSED DNA DAMAGE RESPONSE AND APOPTOSIS VIA THE PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 PATHWAY TRIGGERED BY OXIDATIVE STRESS IN LUNG OF RAT
Authors: Yu Shanfa 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Hexavalent chromium [Cr (VI)] is an occupational carcinogen, but the molecular mechanism of Cr (VI) causing lung injury and even lung cancer is still unclear.

Methods
36 SD male rats received inhalable intratracheal instillation of Cr (VI) (0.05, 0.25 mg Cr/kg) or same volume(3 ml/kg) of normal saline weekly for 28 days (total 5 times).Half of the rats in each group were sacrificed after 28d exposure, and the rest stopped exposure and self-repair for two weeks.the research was approved by the Experimental Animal Ethics Committee of Zhengzhou University (Grant Number: ZZUIRB 2021-117).

Results
Cr (VI) exposure caused the increase of blood Cr, urinary Cr, MDA, 8-OHDG, and the decrease of GSH and MDA,while two-week repair only reduced urinary Cr.Exposure to Cr (VI) upregulated FOXO1 and downregulated P-AKT and P-FOXO1 for two weeks.PI3K in the 0.25 mg Cr/kg group was inhibited after two-week repair. Cr (VI) exposure mainly promoted GADD45a and CHK2 in exposure group, mainly promoted BIM, BAX/BCL-2 and suppressed BCL-2 and BCL-XL in repair group.

Discussion
Cr (VI) exposure caused blood Cr accumulation, lung oxidative stress and DNA damage, also obvious after two-week repair, suggested that two-week repair couldn’t eliminate these effects. Cr (VI) exposure stimulated DNA damage response and apoptosis, and the PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 pathway was also activated, suggested there was a connection between them, PPI analysis also confirmed this hypothesis.

Conclusion
Cr (VI) may induce DNA damage response and apoptosis in lung by activating the PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 pathway, two-week repair may alleviate oxidative stress and DNA damage induced by Cr (VI) exposure but couldn’t eliminate its effects.
P-353 A NEW STUDY DESIGN FOR THE EVALUATION OF ALTERNATIVE PARAMETERS FOR THE BIOMONITORING OF LEAD EXPOSURE
Authors: Wolfschmidt-Fietkau Anna , Göen Thomas , Greiner Annette , Ott Stephan , Hebisch Ralph , Müller Lars , Prott Ulrich , Drexler Hans 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Lead in blood (BLL) shows a delayed response to changes in external exposure to lead. Thus, the Institute and Outpatient Clinic of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine (FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg) and the German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA) together devised an innovative study designed to address the issue of alternative biomarkers for lead exposure.

Methods
We consulted medical databases, guidelines, and expert knowledge to define parameters likely to react to lead exposure and which can be measured in blood or urine samples. We assessed possible methods of collecting and matching information on personal external lead exposure. For our study collective, we opted to recruit workers in the lead-manufacturing industry.

Results
We enlisted workers from five German plants dealing with lead and lead products, and initiated two measurement campaigns at each plant. Among other biomarkers, we chose to measure BLL and lead in plasma and urine at defined points in time. External exposure was measured by personal air monitoring and hand-wipe sampling.

Discussion
As measurements were conducted under typical working conditions, results are probably influenced by workers’ personal protective equipment and individual frequency of hand-to-mouth contact.

Conclusion
The linkage of external exposure measurements and the concentration of different internal exposure markers at different points in time facilitates evaluation of a possible correlation between external and internal exposure markers as well as whether an internal parameter exists which responds quickly enough to external changes to serve as a surrogate for short-term changes in lead exposure.
P-358 NOVEL SHEEP MONOCLONAL ANTIBODIES (SMABS) FOR 1-HYDROXYPYRENE GLUCURONIDE (1-OHPYRG), THE PRODUCTION OF A LATERAL FLOW (LF) TEST KIT AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF ON-SITE POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBON (PAH) BIOMONITORING
Authors: Ball Lathan , Carter Harry , Baker Claire , Porter Robert 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective
There is a need to develop cost-effective PAH biomonitoring test kits. 1-OHPyrG Mabs enabled the production of a PAH biomonitoring ELISA for laboratory analysis. The development of LF test will facilitate the production of a point-of-use test. On-site screening will allow employers to immediately confirm safe working practice and significantly increase the value of biomonitoring.

Methods
A novel LF was developed. The LF employs a sMab to capture the PAH biomarker (1-OHPyrG). The captured biomarker is visualised through a second Mab raised against the sMab-biomarker complex. This sandwich assay provides a positive correlation between the biomarker concentration and assay signal. A Smartphone camera allows signal quantification and an ‘app’ provides result interpretation. The ‘app’ reports results as exposed/non-exposed.

Results
A specific LF, with a measuring range of 1-10ug/l of 1-OHPyrG, can detect elevated levels of urinary biomarker. The LF correlates with established methods. The performance of the test kit was confirmed in an occupational biomonitoring study. In the occupational study all the elevated samples were correctly identified. When compared to the HPLC analysis the LF reported 1 false negative from 55 samples. The false positives (11/55) were associated with concentrated urines. Urine concentration is now being considered.

Discussion and Conclusions
The development of a LF test provides “real-time” analysis to occupational health professionals. On-site screening allows the immediate confirmation of safe working practice, provides on-the-job reassurance to those involved in potentially hazardous activities and increases the efficacy of biomonitoring. An ‘app’ to support LF testing provides new opportunities for data collection, analysis and storage.
P-360 SEVERITY OF PARKINSONISM ASSOCIATED WITH ENVIRONMENTAL MANGANESE EXPOSURE
Authors: Nelson Gill , Racette Brad Alan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Workers exposed to manganese can develop impaired cognitive and motor function, manifesting primarily as parkinsonism. The effects of exposure to lower, environmental levels are unclear.

Methods
We investigated the motor effects of exposure to ambient manganese from a ferromanganese smelter in South Africa. Two groups of adults (&gt; 40 years) participated from 2016 to 2020: 621 living near the smelter and 95 from an unexposed area. All were examined by a movement disorders specialist, using the Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale motor subsection part 3 (UPDRS3). All participants completed accelerometry-based kinematic (ABK) and grooved pegboard (GP) tests. Airborne PM2.5-Mn was measured in both areas. We compared performances between the two groups, using linear regression.

Results
The mean PM2.5-Mn concentration near the smelter was 203 ng/m3 in 2016-2017; 20 times higher than the 10 ng/m3 measured in 2020 in the unexposed area. UPDRS3 scores were 6.6 (95% CI 5.2-7.9) points higher in the exposed than the unexposed participants. Mean angular velocity for finger-tapping on the ABK test (degrees/second) was slower in the exposed than the unexposed participants: 74.9, 95% CI 48.7-101.2, and 82.6, 95% CI 55.2-110.1 for the dominant and non-dominant hand, respectively.

Discussion
We showed that exposure to low manganese levels is associated with parkinsonian motor dysfunction. Occupational health practitioners should be aware of the potential for workers to develop neurological health effects at low exposure levels of manganese.

Conclusion
The current OEL for manganese should be investigated, taking into account the findings from this and other similar studies.
P-364 METHOD DEVELOPEMENT FOR QUANTIFICIATION OF CYCLOPHOSPHAMIDE, DOXORUBICIN, DAUNORUBICIN, EPIRUBICIN, PACLITAXEL AND THEIR METABOLITES IN HUMAN PLASMA
Authors: Verscheure Eline , Creta Matteo , Poels Katrien , Struys Ilana , Vanoirbeek Jeroen , Lenaerts Liesbeth , Amant Frédéric , Ghosh Manosij , Godderis Lode 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Cyclophosphamide, daunorubicin, epirubicin, doxorubicin and paclitaxel are commonly used drugs in cancer treatment. Unintended exposure to antineoplastic agents, including occupational exposure of healthcare workers, can have an impact on health. Therefore, it is important to monitor exposure to these agents. We aimed to develop and validate a sensitive method for quantification of five antineoplastic drugs and their metabolites in plasma.

Methods
Plasma samples were prepared with solid phase extraction by use of Oasis PRiME HLB cartridges. The compounds were separated and analysed using Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography linked to tandem mass spectrometry with electrospray ionisation.

Results
We succeeded in developing a method for quantification of all compounds and their metabolites with following LLOQs: 0.05 ng/mL (cyclophosphamide), 0.3 ng/mL (doxorubicin, daunorubicinol), 0.7 ng/mL (epirubicin, epirubicinol, doxorubicinol), 1 ng/mL (daunorubicin and paclitaxel), 5 ng/mL (6-alpha-hydroxypaclitaxel) and 30 ng/mL (4-oxo-cyclophosphamide). The method was applied on seven samples of a pilot study and resulted in quantification of antineoplastic drugs ranging from &lt;LLOQ up to 2467.49 ng/mL.

Discussion
Even though the samples of the pilot study were not obtained in an occupational setting, the method is sensitive enough to be applied in an occupational context. A limitation of the study is that two of the compounds are also used as internal standards, which means they cannot be used in case the individuals are also exposed to these compounds.

Conclusion
The method has been successfully developed, validated and applied in a pilot study and shows potential to be implemented for biomonitoring in an occupational setting.
P-365 ANALYSIS OF HEAVY METALS INTERFERENCE IN BLOOD DELTA-AMINOLEVULINIC ACID DEHYDRATASE (Δ-ALAD) ACTIVITY
Authors: Prodia Cesio Vidiar , Fuk Liem Jen , Mulyana Mulyana , Pangaribuan Bertha , Mansyur Muchtaruddin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Lead may alter δ-ALAD activity, the enzymes involved in the heme synthesis pathway. In the occupational setting, lead exposure rarely appears alone but occurs together with other heavy metal. This study aims to analyze the relationship of multiple heavy metals exposure with the δ-ALAD activity.

Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional study in Java Island, Indonesia. A total of 71 participants were consecutively recruited from 3 locations. The questionnaire, physical examinations, and blood samples were taken from all subjects. Blood δ-ALAD activity was measured using NMAM 8000 method, while heavy metals levels were measured using ICPMS. 25-OH vitamin D was measured using ECLIA method.

Results
We identify that several occupational activities were the sources of heavy metals exposure. The median (min-max) of the blood δ-ALAD activity was 22.16 (2.88-36.98) unit/g hematocrit. The median (min-max) concentrations of lead, chromium, cadmium and 25-OH vitamin D levels were 6.97 (1.17-43.94) μg/dL, 9.26 (0.05-66.95) μg/L, 1.0 (0.01-6.43) μg/L and 21 (11-36) ng/mL, respectively. The δ-ALAD activity was found to be significantly correlated with blood lead, chromium, and cadmium level, as well as with the ratio of Pb/Mn, Cd/Mn, Cd/vitamin D, and Pb/vitamin D.

Discussion
Our findings indicated that some heavy metals may contribute to the catalysis activity of the δ-ALAD enzyme.

Conclusion
Blood δ-ALAD activity can be interfered with by lead, chromium, and cadmium. The health impacts mitigation efforts due to lead exposure need to pay attention to the potential involvement of co-exposure to other heavy metals. Keywords: Heavy metals, δ-ALAD activity, Ratio of metal to 25-OH vitamin D
O-198 IMPACT OF A WORK REHABILITATION PROGRAM ON FITNESS TO WORK AMONG WORKERS WITH CHRONIC LOWER BACK PAIN -A CASE OF KANSANSHI MINE, ZAMBIA
Authors: Bwalya Justine 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Chronic low back pain is a significant occupational health problem impacting a worker’s activities of daily living and work participation. At Kansanshi Mine a work rehabilitation pain management program was developed aimed at disability management, functional optimization and return to work for employees with chronic lower back pain.

Methods
A phased, 1-year structured, goal oriented and biopsychosocial approach modelled program was established in March 2022 and delivered within the mine lease by a multi-disciplinary team. Clients’ functional activities and fitness to work were assessed at enrolment and periodically using Functional Capacity Evaluations and comparing FCE results with job demands as indicated on the occupational risk exposure profile. Client attended x3 weekly group exercises sessions, individual & fortnight group psychotherapy sessions and monthly group information education counselling sessions. Permission to review program data was obtained from company management.

Results and discussion
Sixty-seven (67) employees with LBP were seen as of December 2022, mean age 41 years, males 94% and heavy mobile equipment operators 59%. A 30 % reduction in number of employees with low back pain issued with work restrictions was observed between 2021 and 2022. On fitness to work outcome, 50% of employees enrolled while on restricted and alternative duties and 25% on sick leave improved their fitness to work status to normal duty.

Conclusion
Chronic low back pain was commonest among heavy mobile equipment operators. A work rehabilitation pain management program can improve functional capacity and fitness to work outcomes. Employers should consider establishing work rehabilitation facilities as previously recommended in literature.
O-199 INTEGRATED PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELL-BEING PROGRAM FOR DOCK WORKERS IN THE LARGEST PORT IN SOUTH AMERICA – RECOVERING COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH AFTER THE PANDEMIC YEARS
Authors: De Lima Edgard Barros , Alves Aldenir , Ferreira Paulo R B 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused immense damage to the physical and mental health of workers in general, especially Dock workers, one of the categories that has not stopped working throughout this period, which has forced us to adapt our wellness program for this new reality.

Methods
A new Wellness program was designed, with emphasis on the integral health of our workers. It includes, in addition to the legally required exams, a multidisciplinary team, with a Doctor, Nurse, Psychologist, Nutritionist and Physical Education Teacher working inside the Terminal. In addition, participation in individual and collective physical activities is encouraged by employees and their families. The practice of sports was also encouraged and subsidized.

Results
We managed to reduce the absenteeism rates due to musculoskeletal and mental health diseases that we already had in the pre-pandemic period.

Discussion
Reducing absenteeism was a major concern due to the loss of health habits during the pandemic period, in addition to increased demand due to employees taking sick leave. In terms of mental health, the presence of psychological support inside the terminal and other decompression actions taken were very well accepted, with a high rate of adherence to the program and a drastic reduction in the number of leaves compared to the pandemic period.

Conclusion
A comprehensive worker health program must be multidisciplinary and aim to improve the physical and mental health of employees with a broad vision, taking care of all the different aspects involved with their well-being, even in a high-demand environment, such as the port.
O-202 EMPLOYER-PROVIDED INSURANCE COVERAGE AMONG INDONESIAN WORKERS AND CHARACTERISTICS OF THE UNINSURED: A TREND ANALYSIS OF THE NATIONAL LABOUR FORCE SURVEY 2018-2022
Authors: Khoe Levina Chandra , Mansyur Muchtaruddin , Wiseman Virginia , Asante Augustine 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Everyone has the rights for social security, nevertheless, there is still a big gap of insurance coverage among Indonesian workers. This study aims to examine the extent of employer-provided insurance coverage among Indonesian workers and analyse the characteristics of the uninsured working population.

Methods
We performed a secondary analysis of a nationally representative cross-sectional data from the National Labour Force Survey (NLFS) between 2018-2022. The primary dependent variable was the employer-provided health-related insurance (EPHI). The independent variables included having physical difficulties, number of working hours, duration of employment, union membership status, earning above the minimum wage, having written contract, and working in high risk jobs. Logistic regression analysis was employed using R statistical software.

Results
The findings indicate that the percentage of Indonesian workers with EPHI ranged from 36.1% to 38.4% between 2018 to 2022. Having a written contract was the most important factor contributing to the EPHI, followed by earning more than minimum wage, and being a member of the labour union.Workers with longer employment contracts (&gt; 5 years) and working more than 40 hours per week were more likely to be insured. Meanwhile, workers who had physical difficulties or are employed in high-risk jobs were less likely to be insured.

Discussion and Conclusion
We conclude that enforcement of Labor Law is necessary by making written contract as mandatory requirement, prioritizing workers in high risk jobs to be included in the social security scheme, encouraging regular inspection of social security activity, and setting up social dialogue platform that could facilitate the voice of workers in non-standard jobs.
O-203 EVALUATION OF A TRAINING PROTOCOL FOR LABOR INSPECTORS TO EVALUATE COMPLIANCE WITH THE MEXICAN STANDARD ON MANUAL LOAD HANDLING
Authors: Tovalin Horacio , Cruz Cointa Lagunes 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Compliance with the Mexican standard NOM 036-1 STPS-2018 on manual handling of loads (MMC) is a new issue, and training of labor inspectors is needed. This study’s objective was to evaluate a training protocol for inspectors in the application of the “Conformity Assessment Procedure” of NOM-036-1-STPS-2018 (NOM 036-1).

Methods
In this study, for the evaluation of a training proposal for labor inspectors on the MMC standard, 20 labor inspectors with different seniority and sex participated. The workshop contents were elaborated, and the evaluation of the training in the field. Finally, there was a group meeting to evaluate the training inspection and the utility of the indicators.

Results
In Phase 1: the contents of the course and group exercises were prepared and reviewed with the officials responsible for labor inspection. In Phase 2: the training workshop was held and indicators of compliance with the standard were prepared as a group. The indicators should facilitate the inspection of compliance with NOM-036-1. After that, the inspectors´ performance was observed in the field during an inspection. In Phase 3: the inspection results and usefulness of the indicators used were reviewed with the inspectors. The group of indicators was proposed to be integrated into the compliance verification system.

Discussion
The training and indicators were validated in the field and the use of the training model is proposed in subsequent training of inspectors.

Conclusion
The training made it easier for the inspectors to propose appropriate ergonomic risk indicators to observe compliance with the standard.