bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Benzene and lymphohematopoietic malignancies in humans†
Authors: Hayes Richard B. , Songnian Yin , Dosemeci Mustafa , Linet Martha 
Published: October 2004

AbstractBackgroundQuantitative evaluations of benzene‐associated risk for cancer have relied primarily on findings from a cohort study of highly exposed U.S. rubber workers. An epidemiologic investigation in China (NCI/CAPM study) extended quantitative evaluations of cancer risk to a broader range of benzene exposures, particularly at lower levels.MethodsWe review the evidence implicating benzene in the etiology of hematopoietic disorders, clarify methodologic aspects of the NCI/CAPM study, and examine the study in the context of the broader literature on health effects associated with occupational benzene exposure.ResultsQuantitative relationships for cancer risk from China and the U.S. show a relatively smooth increase in risk for acute myeloid leukemia and related conditions over a broad dose range of benzene exposure (below 200 ppm‐years mostly from the China study and above 200 ppm‐years mostly from the U.S. study).ConclusionsRisks of acute myeloid leukemia and other malignant and nonmalignant hematopoietic disorders associated with benzene exposure in China are consistent with other information about benzene exposure, hematotoxicity, and cancer risk, extending evidence for hematopoietic cancer risks to levels substantially lower than had previously been established. Am. J. Ind. Med. 40:117–126, 2001. Published 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Respiratory effects of exposure to low levels of concrete dust containing crystalline silica
Authors: Meijer E. , Kromhout H. , Heederik D. 
Published: October 2004

AbstractBackgroundDusts containing crystalline silica are generated in mining, construction, glass, granite and concrete production industries. The association between exposure to low levels of concrete dust containing crystalline silica and reduction in lung function, was evaluated in a cross‐sectional study.MethodsThe study was carried out among 144 concrete workers, from two factories, with exposure assessment of respirable dust and silica by personal samplers. Results of respiratory questionnaires and standardized measurements of lung function were compared with the results in a control population. Multiple linear regression analysis was used in selecting factors that predict (age and standing height standardized residual) lung function.ResultsThe average concentration of respirable dust in both factories was 0.8 mg/m3 and 0.06 mg/m3 for respirable silica. The average silica content of the dust was 9%. The average cumulative dust exposure was 7.0 mg/m3 year and cumulative silica exposure was 0.6 mg/m3 year. Significant associations between exposure to concrete dust and a small lung function (FEV1/FVC ratio, MMEF) loss were found, independent of smoking habits and of a history of allergy.ConclusionsOur results indicate that, concrete workers with chronic obstructive pulmonary symptoms and/or work‐related lower respiratory symptoms are at risk of having a reduction in lung function (FEV&1/FVC ratio) outside the 5th percentile of the external reference population, and therefore, of mild chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, at respirable concrete dust levels below 1 mg/m3 with a respirable crystalline silica content of 10% (TWA, 8 hr). Am. J. Ind. Med. 40:133–140, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Health effects among employees in sewage treatment plants: A literature survey
Authors: Thorn Jörgen , Kerekes Erika 
Published: October 2004

AbstractBackgroundOver the years, there have been regular reports in the media of work‐related symptoms among employees at sewage treatment plants. Concern has spread among employees over the lack of knowledge of risk agents' symptoms, and diseases in that environment. This paper reviews the investigations of health risks in employees working in the sewage treatment plants.MethodsA literature search was performed with the search terms; sewage, waste water, health effects, infection, and health hazards. Articles on health effects in relation to sewage were selected.ResultsWork in sewage water plants can involve exposure to different types of microorganisms and chemicals. The bacterial exposure is dominated by bacteria that naturally occur in nature. However, different bacteria and viruses that give rise to infections can be present in this environment and thus there exists a risk of infection, especially of hepatitis A. Investigations suggest that gastrointestinal tract symptoms are more common among employees at sewage treatment plants than among controls. Respiratory symptoms, fatigue, and headache have also been reported in several investigations. The cause of the symptoms is unknown, although certain data suggest that they are caused by inflammation. The results suggest that endotoxin in Gram‐negative bacteria may be one of the causative agents. As regards cancer, some studies report an increased risk of stomach cancer and a few studies report an increased risk of cancer in the larynx, liver or, prostate or of leukemia. The spread of the cancers over a multitude of organs does not support a hypothesis of causality with agents commonly found in sewage treatment plants.ConclusionsFurther investigations are needed to determine the work‐related effects and ascertain the causal agents. Am. J. Ind. Med. 40:170–179, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Malignant mesothelioma from neighborhood exposure to anthophyllite asbestos
Authors: Rom William N. , Hammar Samuel P. , Rusch Valerie , Dodson Ron , Hoffman Shepard 
Published: October 2004

AbstractBackgroundAnthophyllite asbestos has been reported to cause asbestosis, lung cancer, mesothelioma, and pleural plaques in occupationally exposed workers. Anthophyllite has also been associated with pleural plaques in Finland and Japan among those who live near mines and mills and have neighborhood or environmental exposure.MethodsWe evaluated a 38‐year‐old patient with pleural mesothelioma who lived, attended school, and delivered newspapers near a manufacturing facility that used exclusively anthophyllite asbestos fiber from ages 8–17 years. He had no work exposure to asbestos.ResultsThe pleural mesothelioma was an epithelial type with tubulopapillary structures and was treated with an extrapleural pneumonectomy followed by radiation therapy. The malignant cells were positive by immunohistochemistry for cytokeratin but negative for carcinoembryonic antigen, S100, B72.3, and leu M1 antigen. Anthophyllite fibers were > 5 μm in length in lung tissue compared to 3 μm from a general population study.ConclusionsAnthophyllite asbestos has been associated with neighborhood environmental exposure and pleural plaques; we now report a neighborhood exposure and pleural mesothelioma. Am. J. Ind. Med. 40:211–214, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A method for assessing occupational pesticide exposures of farmworkers†
Authors: Stewart Patricia A. , Prince Jacqueline K. , Colt Joanne S. , Ward Mary H. 
Published: October 2004

AbstractBackgroundThe health of farmworkers as related to pesticide exposure is of concern but assessing exposures for epidemiologic studies requires different techniques than approaches used for studies of industrial workers.MethodsA review of the literature identified possible factors that affect exposure intensity. A model was developed to estimate an exposure score. Exposures in the literature were estimated using the model and compared to the measurements in the literature.ResultsThree studies were found with information appropriate for evaluation of the model. There was a statistical difference between the means of the scores corresponding to above and below the median of the measurements. The correlation coefficient between the scores and the measurements from the literature was 0.77.ConclusionsAlthough the evaluation was limited, the model appeared to work well, but more testing is needed. More research is also needed to increase understanding of what affects the exposures of these workers. Am. J. Ind. Med. 40:561–570, 2001. Published 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prenatal exposure to pesticides: A feasibility study among migrant and seasonal farmworkers
Authors: Cooper Sharon P. , Burau Keith , Sweeney Anne , Robison Tracy , Smith Mary Ann , Symanski Elaine , Colt Joanne S. , Laseter John , Zahm Shelia Hoar 
Published: October 2004

AbstractBackgroundMigrant and seasonal farmworkers have a high potential for pesticide exposures, yet are rarely included in epidemiologic studies. This study examined the feasibility of assessing prenatal exposures to pesticides and other compounds in pregnant Hispanic farmworkers.MethodsNine women completed a survey about work experiences during pregnancy. Maternal urine, cord blood, and placenta samples were obtained at delivery for analysis of 51 analytes, including 6 phenoxy acid or triazine herbicides, 21 organochlorine insecticides, 10 PCBs, and 14 volatile organic compounds.ResultsSeven of 51 analytes were found in the biological samples. DDE, DDT, dichlorbenzene, toluene, trimethylbenzene, and endosulfan sulfate were detected in cord blood samples, and 2,4‐D in urine from one or more women.ConclusionsWe documented the feasibility of following farmworkers to assess in utero exposure to pesticides and other contaminants, and demonstrated exposure to these compounds. Difficulties in measuring pesticides with short half lives were noted. Am. J. Ind. Med. 40:578–585, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tracing migrant farmworkers in Starr County, Texas
Authors: Cooper Sharon P. , Burau Keith , Hanis Craig , Henry Judy , MacNaughton Nancy , Robison Tracy , Smith Mary Ann , Sweeney Anne , Vernon Sally W. , Zahm Shelia Hoar 
Published: October 2004

AbstractBackgroundIn response to The National Cancer Institute (NCI) concerns about the ability to conduct studies among migrant farmworkers, this study evaluated the feasibility of identifying migrant farmworkers in their home state and tracing them over an extended period of time.MethodsIn 1995, a group of 196 persons who had classified themselves as “migrant farmworkers” in two earlier chronic disease studies was identified. The primary objective of the current study was to determine the proportion of these farmworkers who could be located in 1995–1996.ResultsOf these farmworkers, 163 were located and were living (83.2%), 15 had died (7.6%), and 18 (9.2%) were lost to follow‐up.ConclusionsThe excellent follow‐up rate was due in part to the high participation rates among persons contacted for information, stability of the farmworkers' permanent homes, predictable timing of migration, and a longstanding health research program with established community contacts. Am. J. Ind. Med. 40:586–591, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Search for a shared segment on chromosome 10q26 in patients with bipolar affective disorder or schizophrenia from the Faroe Islands
Authors: Ewald Henrik , Flint Tracey J. , Jorgensen Tove H. , Wang August G. , Jensen Per , Vang Maria , Mors Ole , Kruse Torben A. 
Published: October 2004

AbstractPrevious linkage studies have suggested a new locus for bipolar affective disorder and possibly also for schizophrenia on chromosome 10q26. We searched for allelic association and chromosome segment and haplotype sharing on chromosome 10q26 among distantly related patients with bipolar affective disorder or schizophrenia and controls from the relatively isolated population of the Faroe Islands by investigating 22 microsatellite markers from a 35 cM region. We used a combined approach with both assumption free tests and tests based on genealogical relationships. The 6.5 cM region between D10S1230 and D10S2322, which has been implied in previous linkage analyses, received some support. A search for segment sharing yielded empiricalP‐values around 0.02 among patients with bipolar affective disorder and around 0.03 for patients with schizophrenia. For both disorders combined allelic association yielded empiricalP‐values around 0.003 at marker D10S1723. A haplotype data mining approach supported haplotype sharing in this region. In another, more distal, 11.5 cM region between markers D10S214 and D10S505, which has received support in previous linkage studies, increased haplotype sharing in patients with bipolar affective disorder was supported by Fisher's exact test, tests based on genealogy and by haplotype data mining. Our findings yield some support for a risk gene for bipolar affective disorder and possibly also for schizophrenia. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Two siblings with early onset fetal akinesia deformation sequence and hydranencephaly: Further evidence for autosomal recessive inheritance of hydranencephaly, fowler type
Authors: Witters I. , Moerman Ph. , Devriendt K. , Braet P. , Van Schoubroeck D. , Van Assche F.A , Fryns J.P. 
Published: October 2004

AbstractWe report a 13‐week‐old female fetus with early onset fetal akinesia deformation sequence (FADS) and hydranencephaly. In a previous pregnancy, the same ultrasonographic findings were noted at 13 weeks. Fetopathological examination of both female fetuses confirmed FADS with severe arthogryposis, multiple pterygia, and muscular hypoplasia. Neuropathological examination showed massive cystic dilatation of the cerebral ventricles (hydranencephaly) with calcification of the basal ganglion and brain stem and a proliferative vasculopathy throughout the central nervous system. The findings in the two female siblings document the earliest echographic diagnosis of hydranencephaly, Fowler type, and this observation further supports autosomal recessive inheritance of this distinct type of hydranencephaly. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
“Mowat‐Wilson” syndrome with and without Hirschsprung disease is a distinct, recognizable multiple congenital anomalies‐mental retardation syndrome caused by mutations in the zinc finger homeo box 1B gene
Authors: Zweier Christiane , Albrecht Beate , Mitulla Beate , Behrens Rolf , Beese Maike , Gillessen‐Kaesbach Gabriele , Rott Hans‐Dieter , Rauch Anita 
Published: October 2004

AbstractRecently mutations in the gene ZFHX1B (SIP1) were shown in patients with “syndromic Hirschsprung disease” with mental retardation (MR) and multiple congenital anomalies (MCA), but it was unclear if Hirschsprung disease is an obligate symptom of these mutations and if the distinct facial phenotype delineated by Mowat et al. [1998: J Med Genet 35: 617–623] is specific for ZFHX1B mutations. In order to address these open questions we analyzed the ZFHX1B gene in five patients, three of whom had “syndromic Hirschsprung disease” two with and one without the facial phenotype described by Mowat et al. [1998], and two of whom had the distinct facial gestalt without Hirschsprung disease. Analyses of microsatellite markers and newly identified SNPs, and/or FISH with BACs from the ZFHX1B region excluded large deletions in all five patients. Direct sequencing demonstrated truncating ZFHX1B mutations in all four patients with the characteristic facial phenotype, but not in the patient with syndromic Hirschsprung disease without the distinct facial appearance. We demonstrate that there is a specific clinical entity with a recognizable facial gestalt, mental retardation and variable MCAs which we propose be called the “Mowat‐Wilson syndrome.” © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular characterization of 22q11 deletion in a three‐generation family with maternal transmission
Authors: Iascone Maria R. , Vittorini Simona , Sacchelli Monica , Spadoni Isabella , Simi Paolo , Giusti Sandra 
Published: October 2004

AbstractHaploinsufficiency of chromosome 22q11.2 is a well‐established cause of both the DiGeorge anomaly and the velocardiofacial syndrome. This condition shows a continuous spectrum of phenotypic manifestations with a considerable inter‐ and intrafamilial variability. We report on a three‐generation family with four members sharing the same 3 Mb long deletion but showing different phenotypic expression. In the first generation, the deleted patient has hypernasal speech and suffers from recurrent psychotic episodes. Two of her offspring inherited the deletion. One of these, a male, has hypernasal speech, low‐set ears, hypocalcemia, severe development delay, and tetralogy of Fallot. The other, a female, has hypernasal speech, minor facial anomalies, and very mild mental retardation. Her daughter has tetralogy of Fallot, velopharyngeal insufficiency, and mild facial anomalies. This family is an example of the widely variable phenotypic expressivity of the 22q11.2 deletion. There is no correlation between the size of the deletion and the phenotypic manifestations. Genetic background and/or environmental factors could explain the different phenotypes observed in the affected members of the family. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Further evidence for a third deafness gene within the DFNA2 locus
Authors: Goldstein Jayne A. , Lalwani Anil K. 
Published: October 2004

AbstractDFNA2 is a complex locus. Two hearing loss genes have been identified at this site: GJB3, the gene that encodes the gap junction protein connexin 31, and KCNQ4, a voltage‐gated potassium channel gene. A third gene has previously been postulated to explain the hearing loss in an Indonesian family linked to the region but devoid of mutation in either known gene (Van Hauwe et al. [1999: Nat Genet 21:263]). We have identified a large five‐generation family with nonsyndromic, autosomal dominant progressive high‐frequency hearing loss. The hearing impairment maps to 1p34, the site of the DFNA2 locus. Two‐point linkage analysis of microsatellite markers spanning the locus resulted in a lod score of 6.6 at D1S391 at θ = 0. We have investigated both identified deafness genes in affected and unaffected family members and have not found any disease‐causing mutations, suggesting that another hearing impairment gene resides at the DFNA2 locus. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Thai mother and son with distal symphalangism, hypoplastic carpal bones, microdontia, dental pulp stones, and narrowing of the zygomatic arch: A new distal symphalangism syndrome?
Authors: Kantaputra Piranit N. , Kinoshita Akira , Limwonges Chanin , Praditsup Oranud , Niikawa Norio 
Published: October 2004

AbstractA Thai mother and son with distal symphalangism and other associated abnormalities are reported. Distal and middle phalanges of fingers and toes 2–5 were either aplastic/hypoplastic or fused between the corresponding digits. The second fingers and fourth fingernails were most severely affected in both patients. The mother's hands were less severely affected; the middle and distal phalanges of her hands were malformed and fused. Besides the absence of fusion lines, the shape of the fused middle and distal phalanges was quite different from that of other types of fusion, i.e., fused bones in both patients did not maintain the normal configuration of bone, referring to as “middle‐distal phalangeal complex”. Distal symphalangism was observed in toes 2–5 of the mother and in toe 3 of the son. Both patients had additional clinical manifestations such as narrowing of the zygomatic arch, dental pulp stone, microdontia of a mandibular permanent central incisor, cone‐shaped epiphyses of middle phalanges of fingers, and absence of scaphoid, trapezium, trapezoid, and pisiform bones. Mutation analysis of NOG and ROR2, the genes responsible for proximal symphalangism and brachydactyly type B, respectively, was negative. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Urinary androgen and corticoid levels in captive, male Western lowland gorillas (Gorilla g. gorilla): Age‐ and social group‐related differences
Authors: Stoinski T.S. , Czekala N. , Lukas K.E. , Maple T.L. 
Published: October 2004

AbstractUrinary androgen and corticoid levels were measured for 52 captive male Western lowland gorillas to examine age‐related variance and potential differences resulting from various social situations. Significant diurnal variation was present in both hormones. Age‐related differences in androgens revealed that males experienced two stages of androgen increase and one stage of decrease: increases occurred from juvenile (less than 10 yr of age) to subadult (between 10–13 yr) and subadult to young adult (14–20 yr), whereas decreases occurred from young adult to adult (> 20 yr). Age‐related differences in corticoid levels varied depending on the time of day, but morning corticoids were greatest in juvenile males, followed by young adult males. The type of social grouping was associated with differences in corticoid levels, as animals housed socially (in either a heterosexual or all‐male group) had similar corticoid levels, whereas solitary males showed greater corticoid levels than their socially‐housed counterparts. The increased levels of corticoids in solitary‐housed males suggest this management strategy might not be optimal, although more data are needed. Additionally, the significantly greater levels of androgens and corticoids in young adult male gorillas may present management challenges, and thus zoos may need to consider increasing the flexibility of their current management practices with respect to males. Am. J. Primatol. 56:73–87, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Park6‐linked parkinsonism occurs in several european families
Authors: Valente Enza Maria , Brancati Francesco , Ferraris Alessandro , Graham Elizabeth A. , Davis Mary B. , Breteler Monique M.B. , Gasser Thomas , Bonifati Vincenzo , Bentivoglio Anna Rita , De Michele Giuseppe , Dürr Alexandra , Cortelli Pietro , Wassilowsky Dietmar , Harhangi Biswadjiet S. , Rawal Nina , Caputo Viviana , Filla Alessandro , Meco Giuseppe , Oostra Ben A. , Brice Alexis , Albanese Alberto , Dallapiccola Bruno , Wood Nicholas W. 
Published: October 2004

AbstractThe Parkin gene on 6q25.2–27 is responsible for about 50% of autosomal recessive juvenile parkinsonism and less than 20% of sporadic early‐onset cases. We recently mapped a novel locus for early‐onset parkinsonism (PARK6) on chromosome 1p35–p36 in a large family from Sicily. We now confirm linkage to PARK6 in eight additional families with Parkin‐negative autosomal recessive juvenile parkinsonism from four different European countries. The maximum cumulative pairwise LOD score was 5.39 for marker D1S478. Multipoint linkage analysis gave the highest cumulative LOD score of 6.29 for marker D1S478. Haplotype construction and determination of the smallest region of homozygosity in one consanguineous family has reduced the candidate interval to a 9cM region between markers D1S483 and D1S2674. No common haplotype could be detected, excluding a common founder effect. These families share some clinical features with the phenotype reported for European Parkin‐positive cases, with a wide range of ages at onset (up to 68 yrs) and slow progression. However, features typical of autosomal recessive juvenile parkinsonism, including dystonia at onset and sleep benefit, were not observed in PARK6‐linked families, thus making the clinical presentation of late‐onset cases indistinguishable from idiopathic Parkinson's disease. PARK6 appears to be an important locus for early‐onset parkinsonism in European Parkin‐negative patients.