bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Participatory ergonomics as a return‐to‐work intervention: A future challenge?
Authors: Anema J.R. , Steenstra I.A. , Urlings I.J.M. , Bongers P.M. , de Vroome E.M.M. , van Mechelen W. 
Published: August 2003

AbstractBackgroundParticipatory ergonomics (PE) are often applied for prevention of low back pain (LBP). In this pilot‐study, a PE‐program is applied to the disability management of workers sick listed due to LBP.MethodsThe process, implementation, satisfaction, and barriers for implementation concerning the PE‐program were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively for 35 workers sick listed 2–6 weeks due to LBP and their ergonomists.ResultsTwo‐hundred‐and‐seventy ergonomic solutions were proposed to the employer. They were targeted more at work design and organization of work (58.9%) than at workplace and equipment design (38.9%). They were planned mostly on a short‐term basis (74.8%). Almost half (48.9%) of the solutions for work adjustment were completely or partially implemented within 3 months after the first day of absenteeism. Most workers were satisfied about the PE‐program (median score 7.8 on a 10‐point scale) and reported a stimulating effect on return‐to‐work (66.7%). Main obstacles to implementation were technical or organizational difficulties (50.0%) and physical disabilities of the worker (44.8%).ConclusionsThis study suggests that compliance, acceptance, and satisfaction related to the PE‐program were good for all participants. Almost half of the proposed solutions were implemented. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:273–281, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Previously undetected silicosis in New Jersey decedents
Authors: Goodwin Susan S. , Stanbury Martha , Wang Mei‐Lin , Silbergeld Ellen , Parker John E. 
Published: August 2003

AbstractBackgroundDespite a reported decline in mortality and hospitalizations associated with silicosis [U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1999], this decline may be artifactual, stemming in part from underdiagnosis by physicians.MethodsThis study estimates, through radiological confirmation, the prevalence of unrecognized silicosis in a group of silica‐exposed New Jersey decedents whose cause of death was chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), tuberculosis, or cor pulmonale. Two expert readers re‐evaluated the chest X‐rays of this group to determine the presence or absence of silicosis. The study population was considered to be presumptively exposed to silica dust by virtue of their usual industry of employment as listed on the death certificate.ResultsRadiographic evidence of silicosis was found in 8.5% of this population, and evidence of asbestosis was found in another 10.7%, for a total of 19.2%.ConclusionsThe existence of previously unrecognized silicosis and asbestosis in 19.2% of this study group suggests that occupational lung disease is under‐recognized and, hence, undercounted. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:304–311, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The concordance of pollution prevention and occupational health and safety: A perspective on U.S. policy
Authors: Enander Richard T. , Gute David M. , Cohen Howard J. 
Published: August 2003

AbstractBackgroundOccupational health and pollution prevention, although conceptually linked by the common goals of preventing exposure to toxic materials and lowering risk functions, have been largely confined to separate patterns of practice and professional development. Some analysts see this as a missed opportunity for synergy and raising the level of protection afforded to both the worker and the ambient environment. By using current specific examples we show how strategies that integrate pollution prevention and occupational health practices can be effective at reducing chemical exposures and environmental releases beyond the levels normally achieved using traditional methods alone.MethodsSimilarities in approaches to addressing chemical hazards at the source, are analyzed in the context of U.S. policy and recent state and federal initiatives. Results obtained from the analysis of multi‐pathway risks found within the automotive refinishing sector serve as examples of how best to select engineering and control strategies.ResultsIndustry survey, metal speciation, and methylene chloride usage data from studies conducted in Rhode Island, coupled with case reports from other settings, demonstrate that opportunities exist to concurrently mitigate multiple environmental and occupational health hazards.ConclusionsThe collaborative initiatives undertaken in the automotive refinishing industry sector demonstrate that an integrated environmental and occupational health approach can more effectively address multiple chemical releases and workplace exposures. Such synergy should be advanced in the future by similar integrative and collaborative strategies. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:312–320, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Occupational asthma (OA) with sensitization to diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) presenting at the onset like a reactive airways dysfunction syndrome (RADS)
Authors: Perfetti Luca , Bramé Barbara , Ferrari Massimo , Moscato Gianna 
Published: August 2003

AbstractBackgroundTwo types of OA are distinguished: immunological (OA with sensitization) and non‐immunological, i.e., irritant induced asthma or reactive airways dysfunction syndrome (RADS).MethodsWe describe the case of a worker who developed respiratory symptoms after a spill of diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) at the workplace. RADS was initially diagnosed and the worker resumed working. The progressive worsening of symptoms and the appearance of symptoms–work relationship one year later, when concentrations of isocyanates were no longer “irritant,” suggested immunological OA.ResultsThe diagnosis was confirmed by specific inhalation challenge test, followed by removal from exposure and complete recovery.ConclusionsIn the case of RADS due to an agent with both irritant and sensitizing properties, history should be repeatedly assessed for a possible symptom–work relationship. If this is found, further investigations should be carried out, including specific inhalation challenges, to confirm the possibility of immunological OA. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:325–328, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Asbestos fiber length as related to potential pathogenicity: A critical review
Authors: Dodson Ronald F. , Atkinson Mark A.L. , Levin Jeffrey L. 
Published: August 2003

AbstractBackgroundAsbestos inhalation is recognized as an exposure that increases the risk for the development of lung disease. It is unique among dusts in that it is both a carcinogen and capable of inducing extrapulmonary responses such as pleural thickening and fibrosis as well as malignancy. One feature of asbestos suggested as crucial in its pathological activity is its fibrous morphology. Long fibers that have been inhaled are cleared less readily and are thus more persistent in the body. Furthermore certain experimental models link fiber length to levels of risks for development of certain diseases. The present review will survey the data on this subject.MethodsThe review considers experimental models that have been used to assess the response to various lengths of fibers in animal models in addition to data obtained from studies of human materials. The review also emphasizes the importance in defining the method by which a sample is categorized.ResultsData are offered which support the potential for longer fibers as well as shorter fibers to contribute to pathological responses.ConclusionsThe data presented argue that asbestos fibers of all lengths induce pathological responses and that caution should be exerted when attempting to exclude any population of inhaled fibers, based on their length, from being contributors to the potential for development of asbestos‐related diseases. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:291–297, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reliability of data from next‐of‐kin: Results from a case‐control study of occupational and lifestyle risk factors for cancer
Authors: Kaerlev Linda , Lynge Elsebeth , Sabroe Svend , Olsen Jorn 
Published: August 2003

AbstractBackgroundUse of surrogate responders often needs to be considered in case‐control studies with a high case fatality.MethodsAgreement between 98 colon cancer patients and their closest relative was expressed as a percentage of the exact agreement and by Kappa coefficients and intra‐class correlation coefficients.ResultsThe percentage of “don't know” answers was higher for surrogates than for index cases and the highest percentage was seen for questions on early events like childhood diseases. Agreement was best for responses to dichotomous questions on smoking and for prevalent or chronic diseases like diabetes or psoriasis, and lower (54–64%) when a quantitative response of, e.g., smoking was requested. The next‐of‐kin reported fewer job periods than the study person, 4.5 and 2.8, respectively, and there was a higher agreement for the latest job held than for the longest held job. We found an overall agreement between 91% and 100% for responses to ever having worked in a specific type of industry or occupation.ConclusionsUse of next‐of‐kin data will often be a better alternative than excluding severely ill or deceased cases, if the exposure under study correlates with disease progression. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:298–303, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Risk factors for falls among Iowa farmers: A case‐control study nested in the Agricultural Health Study
Authors: Sprince Nancy L. , Zwerling Craig , Lynch Charles F. , Whitten Paul S. , Thu Kendall , Gillette Patricia P. , Burmeister Leon F. , Alavanja Michael C.R. 
Published: August 2003

AbstractBackgroundFarmers are at increased risk for fall‐related injury compared with other occupations. Little is known about risk factors for non‐fatal falls on the farm. This case‐control study, nested within the Agricultural Health Study, aimed to assess risk factors for work‐related falls among Iowa farmers.MethodsA screener questionnaire sent to 6,999 farmers in 1998 identified 79 farmers who reported a fall‐related farm injury that required medical advice or treatment in the previous year. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess several possible risk factors for injury among these farmers compared with 473 farmers with no injury in the previous year.ResultsThere were significant associations between fall‐related farm injury and age between 40 and 64 years (OR = 2.21; 95% CI = 1.20–4.07), doctor‐diagnosed arthritis/rheumatism (OR = 2.05; 95% CI = 1.11–3.79), difficulty hearing normal conversation (even with a hearing aid, in the case of those who used one) (OR = 1.82; 95% CI = 1.07–3.08), and taking medications regularly (OR = 1.80; 95% CI = 1.02–3.18).ConclusionsAging and health impairments, such as arthritis and hearing difficulties, are risk factors for which accommodations and preventive strategies can be devised to prevent fall‐related injuries on the farm. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:265–272, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The Drake Health Registry Study: Cause‐specific mortality experience of workers potentially exposed to beta‐naphthylamine
Authors: Cassidy Laura D. , Youk Ada O. , Marsh Gary M. 
Published: August 2003

AbstractObjectiveTo examine the cause‐specific mortality experience of an occupational cohort with probable past exposure to beta‐naphythylamine (BNA).MethodsSubjects were 374 male and 26 female workers employed at a Pennsylvania chemical plant that produced or used beta‐naphthylamine (BNA) between 1940 and 1981. Vital status through 1998 was determined for 97.5% of the cohort and cause of death for 100% of 79 deaths. Limited industrial hygiene data and reports from former employees were used to categorize workers as high, medium, or low risk for BNA exposure. Statistical analyses included US and local county‐based standardized mortality ratios (SMRs).ResultsWe observed statistically significantly elevated county rate‐based SMRs for all causes combined (SMR = 1.98, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.56–2.49), all malignant neoplasms combined (28 deaths, SMR = 3.08, 95% CI = 2.05–4.46), respiratory system cancer (12 deaths, SMR = 3.91, 95% CI = 2.02–6.83), and bladder cancer (four deaths, SMR = 16.83, 95% CI = 4.59–43.1). Three bladder cancer cases were classified as high risk (SMR = 26.79, 95% CI = 5.53–78.29). Mortality risks were also elevated for most other malignant and non‐malignant cause of death categories examined.ConclusionsBladder cancer risk remains highly elevated among Drake/Kilsdonk workers and appears to be causally related to past BNA exposure. While lifestyle and behavioral risk factors may explain some of the mortality excesses for non‐urological cancers, the possibility remains that BNA exposure may have also played a role in these and other observed cancer excesses. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:282–290, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Serum pneumoproteins: A cross‐sectional comparison of firefighters and police
Authors: Burgess Jefferey L. , Witten Mark L. , Nanson Christopher J. , Hysong Tracy A. , Sherrill Duane L. , Quan Stuart F. , Gerkin Richard , Bernard Alfred M. 
Published: August 2003

AbstractBackgroundSerum pneumoproteins provide a measure of the permeability of the lower respiratory tract, and have shown promise as a biomarker of acute and chronic exposure to respiratory toxicants.MethodsTo evaluate the effects of chronic occupational smoke exposure, 105 firefighters were compared with 44 police controls in a cross‐sectional study using spirometry, diffusing capacity of the lung, serum Clara cell protein (CC16), and serum surfactant‐associated protein A (SP‐A) measurements.ResultsThere were no significant differences in age, gender, height, spirometry (FVC and FEV1), and diffusing capacity between the two groups. Serum SP‐A was lower in firefighters (260.1 ± 121.2 μg/L) than police (316.0 ± 151.4 μg/L, P = 0.019). Serum CC16 was also lower in firefighters (8.39 ± 3.11 μg/L) than police (10.56 ± 4.20 μg/L, P < 0.001), although this difference lost statistical significance when adjusted for confounders.ConclusionsFirefighters have lower serum concentrations of SP‐A than do police. Although the clinical significance of this finding is presently unknown, SP‐A deserves further study as a biomarker of toxic exposure to the lower respiratory tract. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:246–253, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neurological symptoms among Sri Lankan farmers occupationally exposed to acetylcholinesterase‐inhibiting insecticides
Authors: Smit Lidwien A.M. , van‐Wendel‐de‐Joode Berna N. , Heederik Dick , Peiris‐John Roshini J. , van der Hoek Wim 
Published: August 2003

AbstractBackgroundIn many agricultural districts in Sri Lanka, pesticide poisoning is a leading cause of death. This study aims to evaluate the impact of pesticide use on Sri Lankan farmers' health.MethodsA total of 260 subjects were surveyed in both a low and a high exposure period. Acetylcholinesterase activity was measured and data on symptoms were collected with questionnaires.ResultsTwenty‐four percent of surveyed farmers had suffered at least once from acute pesticide poisoning. Farmers showed significantly more inhibition of cholinesterase activity than controls. Acute symptoms indicative for exposure to cholinesterase‐inhibiting pesticides were associated with farming and a higher degree of cholinesterase suppression (more than 13% inhibition). Integrated Pest Management (IPM) training seemed to result in less insecticide use, and less cholinesterase inhibition.ConclusionsOur results suggest that occupational acetylcholinesterase‐inhibiting insecticide exposures have a negative impact on Sri Lankan farmers' health. Overall reduction in pesticide use seems the best option to protect farmers from the adverse effects of pesticides. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:254–264, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Agricultural injury in California migrant Hispanic farm workers
Authors: McCurdy Stephen A. , Samuels Steven J. , Carroll Daniel J. , Beaumont James J. , Morrin Lynne A. 
Published: August 2003

AbstractBackgroundAgriculture is among the most hazardous industries in the United States.MethodsA longitudinal study of injury among migrant Hispanic farm workers residing in six Northern California Migrant Family Housing Centers (MHCs) during the 1997 harvest season was conducted. Participants completed an initial interviewer‐administered work‐and‐health questionnaire at the beginning of the harvest season addressing the preceding year; there were three periodic follow‐up surveys.ResultsThere were 1,201 adult farm workers (participation 85.2%) who completed the initial questionnaire. Of these, 837 (69.7%) completed the final follow‐up survey. There were 86 agricultural injuries (incidence 9.3/100 full‐time equivalent employees (FTEs), 95% CI 7.5–11.5/100 FTE). Increased risk for agricultural injury occurred among women paid piece‐rate (RR 4.9, 95% CI 1.8–12.8). Sprains and strains were most common (31%), followed by lacerations (12%).ConclusionsAgricultural injury experience in this cohort is comparable to that of agricultural workers in other U.S. settings. Increased risk among women paid piece‐rate suggests further study and potential policy changes regarding payment regimens. Heterogeneity of injury in this population presents a major prevention challenge. In view of high frequency of strain and sprain injuries, ergonomic interventions deserve further study. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:225–235, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Asthma following household exposure to hydrofluoric acid
Authors: Franzblau Alfred , Sahakian Nancy 
Published: August 2003

AbstractBackgroundAlmost all reports of respiratory health effects of hydrofluoric acid are derived from industrial settings and usually involved massive and conspicuous exposures. In the present report we describe a case of adult‐onset asthma immediately following use of a household rust stain remover that contained an 8–9% aqueous solution of hydrofluoric acid (HF).MethodsThis is a case‐report. A literature search of hydrogen fluoride, and reactive airways dysfunction syndrome (RADS) was performed.ResultsA previously healthy 26‐year‐old woman developed asthma immediately following inhalation exposure to hydrofluoric acid from a household cleaner, consistent with reactive airways dysfunction syndrome. The circumstances of exposure and possible mechanism of disease are discussed.ConclusionsIt is likely that this patient's use of the rust stain remover resulted in inhalation exposure to hydrofluoric acid well above any applicable standard, and hence constituted a ‘high level’ irritant exposure capable of inducing reactive airways dysfunction syndrome. In our opinion, the presence of this concentration hydrofluoric acid in a consumer product may be unduly hazardous. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:321–324, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc
Sequence‐Based, in situ detection of chromosomal abnormalities at high resolution
Authors: Knoll Joan H.M. , Rogan Peter K. 
Published: August 2003

AbstractWe developed single copy probes from the draft genome sequence for fluorescence in situ hybridization (scFISH) which precisely delineate chromosome abnormalities at a resolution equivalent to genomic Southern analysis. This study illustrates how scFISH probes detect cryptic and subtle abnormalities and localize the sites of chromosome rearrangements. scFISH probes are substantially shorter than conventional recombinant DNA‐derived probes, and Cot1 DNA is not required to suppress repetitive sequence hybridization. In this study, 74 single copy sequence probes (>1,500 bp) have been developed from ≥100 kb genomic intervals associated with either constitutional or acquired disorders. Applications of these probes include detection of congenital microdeletion syndromes on chromosomes 1, 4, 7, 15, 17, 22 and submicroscopic deletions involving the imprinting center on chromosome 15q11.2q13. We demonstrate how hybridization with multiple combinations of probes derived from the Smith‐Magenis syndrome interval on chromosome 17 identified a patient with an atypical, proximal deletion breakpoint. A similar multi‐probe hybridization strategy has also been used to delineate the translocation breakpoint region on chromosome 9 in chronic myelogenous leukemia. Probes have also been designed to hybridize to multiple cis paralogs, both enhancing the chromosomal target size and detecting chromosome rearrangements, for example, by splitting and separating a family of related sequences flanking an inversion breakpoint on chromosome 16 in acute myelogenous leukemia. These novel strategies for rapid and precise characterization of cytogenetic abnormalities are feasible because of the sequence‐defined properties and dense euchromatic organization of single copy probes. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Double heterozygosity in bone growth disorders: Four new observations and review
Authors: Flynn Maureen A. , Pauli Richard M. 
Published: August 2003

AbstractBecause matings between individuals of small stature is common, information regarding double heterozygosity for dominantly inherited bone growth disorders is of considerable importance. We summarize seven occurrences of four combinations of double heterozygosity (achondroplasia/spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita, achondroplasia/pseudoachondroplasia, achondroplasia/osteogenesis imperfecta type I, achondroplasia/hypochondroplasia (non‐FGFR3)), and review additional reports from the literature. Each of the eight different examples of double heterozygosity for bone growth disorders now reported results in distinct phenotypic features, differing severity, and disparate expectations. We document the natural history of each. The genetic processes underlying these disorders also are examined to assess whether knowledge of molecular mechanisms can be used to predict clinical severity. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of four novel mutations in the alpha glucosidase gene in five Italian patients with infantile onset glycogen storage disease type II
Authors: Pittis Maria Gabriela , Montalvo Anna Lisa E. , Miocic Snjezana , Martini Cristina , Deganuto Marta , Candusso Manila , Ciana Giovanni , Bembi Bruno 
Published: August 2003

AbstractGlycogen storage disease type II (GSDII) is an autosomal recessive disorder due to the deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme acid alpha glucosidase. Four novel mutations (C670T, G989A, G2188T, and Δ 23 nt 828‐850) were identified in five Italian patients with the infantile form of the disease. The C670T mutation was present in two unrelated patients in heterozygosity; the effect on enzyme activity was assessed by in vitro expression. COS‐1 cells expressing the C670T allele had a twofold higher activity than the negative control cells. The G989A and G2188T point mutations lead to the introduction of premature stop signals that results in truncated forms of alpha glucosidase. The in vitro expression of G2188T allele demonstrated no increment in activity compared to negative control. The frame shifting deletion of nucleotides 828–850 was identified in one patient in heterozygosity. The shift in the reading frame introduces a stop codon 135 nucleotides downstream the deletion junction that results in a truncated protein without catalytic activity. Nested PCR screening showed that the mutation was carried by the mother and was absent in the other members of the family. The four novel severe mutations herein described concerned only infantile onset GSDII patients; the loss of enzyme activity is correlated with the severity of the disease. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.