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Gupta GK, Kapoor RK. Recent advances in eco-friendly technology for decontamination of pulp and paper mill industrial effluent: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2024; 196:275. [PMID: 38363444 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-024-12399-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
The economic development of a country directly depends upon industries. But this economic development should not be at the cost of our natural environment. A substantial amount of water is spent during paper production, creating water scarcity and generating wastewater. Therefore, the Pollution Control Board classifies this industry into red category. Water is used in different papermaking stages such as debarking, pulping or bleaching, washing, and finishing. The wastewater thus generated contains lignin and xenobiotic compounds such as resin acids, chlorinated lignin, phenols, furans, dioxins, chlorophenols, adsorbable organic halogens (AOX), extractable organic halogens (EOCs), polychlorinated biphenyls, plasticizers, and polychlorinated dibenzodioxins. Nowadays, several microorganisms are used in the detoxification of these hazardous effluents. Researchers have found that microbial degradation is the most promising treatment method to remove high biological oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) from wastewater. Microorganisms also remove AOX toxicity, chlorinated compounds, suspended solids, color, lignin, derivatives, etc. from the pulp and paper mill effluents. But in the current scenario, mill effluents are known to deteriorate the environment and therefore it is highly desirable to deploy advanced technologies for effluent treatment. This review summarizes the eco-friendly advanced treatment technologies for effluents generated from pulp and paper mills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guddu Kumar Gupta
- Enzyme and Fermentation Technology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, 124001, Haryana, India
| | - Rajeev Kumar Kapoor
- Enzyme and Fermentation Technology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, 124001, Haryana, India.
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Batterman S, Grant-Alfieri A, Seo SH. Low level exposure to hydrogen sulfide: a review of emissions, community exposure, health effects, and exposure guidelines. Crit Rev Toxicol 2023; 53:244-295. [PMID: 37431804 PMCID: PMC10395451 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2023.2229925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a toxic gas that is well-known for its acute health risks in occupational settings, but less is known about effects of chronic and low-level exposures. This critical review investigates toxicological and experimental studies, exposure sources, standards, and epidemiological studies pertaining to chronic exposure to H2S from both natural and anthropogenic sources. H2S releases, while poorly documented, appear to have increased in recent years from oil and gas and possibly other facilities. Chronic exposures below 10 ppm have long been associated with odor aversion, ocular, nasal, respiratory and neurological effects. However, exposure to much lower levels, below 0.03 ppm (30 ppb), has been associated with increased prevalence of neurological effects, and increments below 0.001 ppm (1 ppb) in H2S concentrations have been associated with ocular, nasal, and respiratory effects. Many of the studies in the epidemiological literature are limited by exposure measurement error, co-pollutant exposures and potential confounding, small sample size, and concerns of representativeness, and studies have yet to consider vulnerable populations. Long-term community-based studies are needed to confirm the low concentration findings and to refine exposure guidelines. Revised guidelines that incorporate both short- and long-term limits are needed to protect communities, especially sensitive populations living near H2S sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart Batterman
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, United States
| | - Amelia Grant-Alfieri
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, United States
| | - Sung-Hee Seo
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, United States
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Spencer PS, Palmer VS, Kisby GE, Lagrange E, Horowitz BZ, Valdes Angues R, Reis J, Vernoux JP, Raoul C, Camu W. Early-onset, conjugal, twin-discordant, and clusters of sporadic ALS: Pathway to discovery of etiology via lifetime exposome research. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1005096. [PMID: 36860617 PMCID: PMC9969898 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1005096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The identity and role of environmental factors in the etiology of sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (sALS) is poorly understood outside of three former high-incidence foci of Western Pacific ALS and a hotspot of sALS in the French Alps. In both instances, there is a strong association with exposure to DNA-damaging (genotoxic) chemicals years or decades prior to clinical onset of motor neuron disease. In light of this recent understanding, we discuss published geographic clusters of ALS, conjugal cases, single-affected twins, and young-onset cases in relation to their demographic, geographic and environmental associations but also whether, in theory, there was the possibility of exposure to genotoxic chemicals of natural or synthetic origin. Special opportunities to test for such exposures in sALS exist in southeast France, northwest Italy, Finland, the U.S. East North Central States, and in the U.S. Air Force and Space Force. Given the degree and timing of exposure to an environmental trigger of ALS may be related to the age at which the disease is expressed, research should focus on the lifetime exposome (from conception to clinical onset) of young sALS cases. Multidisciplinary research of this type may lead to the identification of ALS causation, mechanism, and primary prevention, as well as to early detection of impending ALS and pre-clinical treatment to slow development of this fatal neurological disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter S. Spencer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States,Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States,*Correspondence: Peter S. Spencer,
| | - Valerie S. Palmer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Glen E. Kisby
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific Northwest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR, United States
| | - Emmeline Lagrange
- Department of Neurology, Reference Center of Neuromuscular Disease and ALS Consultations, Grenoble University Hospital, Grenoble, France
| | - B. Zane Horowitz
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Oregon-Alaska Poison Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Raquel Valdes Angues
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Jacques Reis
- University of Strasbourg, Faculté de Médecine, Strasbourg, France
| | - Jean-Paul Vernoux
- Normandie Université, UNICAEN, Unité de Recherche Aliments Bioprocédés Toxicologie Environnements, Caen, France
| | - Cédric Raoul
- INM, University of Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - William Camu
- ALS Reference Center, Montpellier University Hospital and University of Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
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Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) in the Environment: Occupational and Exposure Events, Effects on Human Health and Fertility. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10070365. [PMID: 35878270 PMCID: PMC9323099 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10070365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In the last decade or so, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) garnered renewed attention in the scientific community due to new evidence pointing at their continued presence in the environment and workplaces and the potential human risks related to their presence. PCBs move from the environment to humans through different routes; the dominant pathway is the ingestion of contaminated foods (fish, seafood and dairy products), followed by inhalation (both indoor and outdoor air), and, to a lesser extent, dust ingestion and dermal contact. Numerous studies reported the environmental and occupational exposure to these pollutants, deriving from building materials (flame-retardants, plasticizers, paints, caulking compounds, sealants, fluorescent light ballasts, etc.) and electrical equipment. The highest PCBs contaminations were detected in e-waste recycling sites, suggesting the need for the implementation of remediation strategies of such polluted areas to safeguard the health of workers and local populations. Furthermore, a significant correlation between PCB exposure and increased blood PCB concentrations was observed in people working in PCB-contaminated workplaces. Several epidemiological studies suggest that environmental and occupational exposure to high concentrations of PCBs is associated with different health outcomes, such as neuropsychological and neurobehavioral deficits, dementia, immune system dysfunctions, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. In addition, recent studies indicate that PCBs bioaccumulation can reduce fertility, with harmful effects on the reproductive system that can be passed to offspring. In the near future, further studies are needed to assess the real effects of PCBs exposure at low concentrations for prolonged exposure in workplaces and specific indoor environments.
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Neitzel RL, Andersson M, Lohman S, Sällsten G, Torén K, Andersson E. Dust Exposures in Swedish Soft Tissue Paper Mills. Ann Work Expo Health 2021; 66:14-26. [PMID: 34409426 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxab063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Paper dust has previously been linked to adverse health effects. However, a comprehensive dataset of paper dust exposures does not appear to have been published previously. Our study was intended to address this need by describing a large dataset of measurements made in Swedish soft tissue paper mills. METHODS We compiled personal and area total dust exposure measurements collected from a range of operations by our research staff at four soft tissue paper mills in Sweden. We also compiled measurements made by the occupational health staff at each mill and the Swedish Work Environment Authority. We analyzed these measurements to describe patterns and trends in exposures and used mixed-effects regression models to identify measurement characteristics that predicted exposure levels. RESULTS We compiled 1578 measurements from 1971 to 2009, of which 1026 (65%) were personal samples. Statistically significant differences were found between measurements made by research, mill, and Swedish Work Environment Authority staff, as well as between personal and area measurements. The measurement data suggest that, beginning in the 1980s, exposures declined at three of the four mills, but that overexposures were still common at the end of the period. Papermaking and converting operations had the highest observed dust exposures. One mill had significantly lower exposures than the others. Type of measurement (personal versus area) and source of measurement (research staff, company, or regulatory agency) were not significant predictors of measured total dust exposure after controlling for mill, operation, and time. CONCLUSIONS Our analysis of measured paper dust exposures may be useful for historical and contemporary exposure assessment in our own and other epidemiological studies. We have identified specific characteristics (i.e. papermaking operations and mill) and time trends that are important data features to consider, and documented continuing overexposure situations. Our results highlight the ongoing need for application of exposure controls to reduce paper dust exposures in the soft tissue paper industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Neitzel
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Marianne Andersson
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Susanna Lohman
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Gerd Sällsten
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kjell Torén
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Eva Andersson
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Hendry-Hofer TB, Ng PC, McGrath AM, Soules K, Mukai DS, Chan A, Maddry JK, White CW, Lee J, Mahon SB, Brenner M, Boss GR, Bebarta VS. Intramuscular cobinamide as an antidote to methyl mercaptan poisoning. Inhal Toxicol 2021; 33:25-32. [PMID: 33356664 PMCID: PMC8063453 DOI: 10.1080/08958378.2020.1866123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methyl mercaptan occurs naturally in the environment and is found in a variety of occupational settings, including the oil, paper, plastics, and pesticides industries. It is a toxic gas and deaths from methyl mercaptan exposure have occurred. The Department of Homeland Security considers it a high threat chemical agent that could be used by terrorists. Unfortunately, no specific treatment exists for methyl mercaptan poisoning. METHODS We conducted a randomized trial in 12 swine comparing no treatment to intramuscular injection of the vitamin B12 analog cobinamide (2.0 mL, 12.5 mg/kg) following acute inhalation of methyl mercaptan gas. Physiological and laboratory parameters were similar in the control and cobinamide-treated groups at baseline and at the time of treatment. RESULTS All six cobinamide-treated animals survived, whereas only one of six control animals lived (17% survival) (p = 0.0043). The cobinamide-treated animals returned to a normal breathing pattern by 3.8 ± 1.1 min after treatment (mean ± SD), while all but one animal in the control group had intermittent gasping, never regaining a normal breathing pattern. Blood pressure and arterial oxygen saturation returned to baseline values within 15 minutes of cobinamide-treatment. Plasma lactate concentration increased progressively until death (10.93 ± 6.02 mmol [mean ± SD]) in control animals, and decreased toward baseline (3.79 ± 2.93 mmol [mean ± SD]) by the end of the experiment in cobinamide-treated animals. CONCLUSION We conclude that intramuscular administration of cobinamide improves survival and clinical outcomes in a large animal model of acute, high dose methyl mercaptan poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara B. Hendry-Hofer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Patrick C. Ng
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado,Brooke Army Medical Center, Ft Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Alison M. McGrath
- Department of Environmental Health and Safety, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Kirsten Soules
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - David S. Mukai
- Beckman Laser Institute, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Adriano Chan
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Joseph K. Maddry
- 59th Medical Wing/Science & Technology, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas,San Antonio Military Medical Center, JBSA-Ft Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Carl W. White
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Jangwoen Lee
- Beckman Laser Institute, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Sari B. Mahon
- Beckman Laser Institute, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Matthew Brenner
- Beckman Laser Institute, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Gerry R. Boss
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Vikhyat S. Bebarta
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
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Neitzel RL, Andersson M, Lohman S, Sällsten G, Torén K, Andersson E. A semi-quantitative job exposure matrix for dust exposures in Swedish soft tissue paper mills. Am J Ind Med 2020; 63:359-367. [PMID: 31953960 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Total paper dust exposure has been associated with respiratory problems among workers in the soft tissue paper industry. However, a comprehensive job exposure matrix (JEM) has not been developed for application to this industry. Our study was intended to address this need and to support further studies of mortality and morbidity in a cohort of Swedish workers from this industry. METHODS We evaluated four participating soft tissue paper mills in Sweden. We combined information on process and equipment status from the mills with knowledge of the mills obtained through research efforts and paper dust measurements made at all four mills to develop a semi-quantitative JEM with seven dust exposure levels. The JEM was targeted at workers enrolled into a soft tissue paper mill cohort and working any time between 1960 and 2009. RESULTS The JEM includes a total of 14 421 cells, with each cell corresponding to the exposure for a job title, department, or work location for a one-year period. Exposure levels in the JEM were estimated to decline at three of the four mills from 1971 to 2009, but overexposures (ie, exceedances of the relevant occupational exposure limits) remained common at the end of the period. CONCLUSIONS The JEM results highlight the need for ongoing exposure control efforts in the soft tissue paper industry, and will inform ongoing epidemiological studies of the health effects of exposure to paper dust in Sweden. It is freely available for use by other researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L. Neitzel
- Department of Environmental Health SciencesUniversity of MichiganAnn Arbor Michigan
| | - Marianne Andersson
- Section of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska AcademyUniversity of GothenburgGothenburg Sweden
| | - Susanna Lohman
- Section of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska AcademyUniversity of GothenburgGothenburg Sweden
| | - Gerd Sällsten
- Section of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska AcademyUniversity of GothenburgGothenburg Sweden
| | - Kjell Torén
- Section of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska AcademyUniversity of GothenburgGothenburg Sweden
- Occupational and Environmental MedicineSahlgrenska University HospitalGothenburg Sweden
| | - Eva Andersson
- Section of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska AcademyUniversity of GothenburgGothenburg Sweden
- Occupational and Environmental MedicineSahlgrenska University HospitalGothenburg Sweden
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Wu MY, Lo WC, Chao CT, Wu MS, Chiang CK. Association between air pollutants and development of chronic kidney disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 706:135522. [PMID: 31864998 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Revised: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The association between incident chronic kidney disease (CKD) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and exposure to outdoor air pollution is under debate. We aimed to examine this relationship based on a systematic review with random-effects meta-analysis. METHODS We screened the literature on long-term air pollution exposure assessment in the general population using an electronic search of PubMed, Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library from inception to 20 October 2019. Observational studies investigating the association between long-term exposure to gaseous (CO, SO2, NO2, O3) or particulate (PM2.5 or PM10) outdoor air pollutants and CKD, ESRD, or renal dysfunction were included, and summary risks were estimated. RESULTS Of 4419 identified articles, 23 met our inclusion criteria after screening and 14 were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled effect estimates had the following summary risk ratios (RRs) for CKD: 1.10 (95% confidence intervals [CI] 1.00, 1.21; derived from four studies) per 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 and 1.16 (95% CI 1.05, 1.29; derived from four studies) for PM10; 1.31 (95% CI 0.86, 2.00; derived from two studies) per 10 ppm increase in CO; and 1.11 (95% CI 1.09, 1.14; derived from three studies) per 10 ppb increase in NO2. For the pooled effect on eGFR, increases in PM10 and PM2.5 (of 10 μg/m3) were associated with eGFR decline by -0.83 (95% CI -1.54, -0.12; derived from two studies) and -4.11 (95% CI -12.64, 4.42; derived from two studies) mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Air pollution was observed to be associated with CKD and renal function decline. Although more longitudinal studies are required, we argue that air pollution is pernicious to kidney health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Yi Wu
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan; Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Cheng Lo
- Graduate Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Statistical Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ter Chao
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital BeiHu Branch, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Toxicology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mai-Szu Wu
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan; Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Kang Chiang
- Graduate Institute of Toxicology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Integrated Diagnostics & Therapeutics, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Food Safety and Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Heiden M, Zetterberg C, Mathiassen SE. Trunk and upper arm postures in paper mill work. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2019; 76:90-96. [PMID: 30642529 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2018.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 12/08/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess postures and movements of the trunk and upper arm during paper mill work, and to determine the extent to which they differ depending on method of assessment. For each of 28 paper mill workers, postures and movements were assessed during three full shifts using inclinometer registration and observation from video. Summary metrics for each shift, e.g., 10th, 50th, and 90th posture percentile, were averaged across shifts and across workers. In addition, the standard deviation between workers, and the standard deviation between shifts within worker were computed. The results showed that trunk and arm postures during paper mill work were similar to other occupations involving manual materials handling, but the velocities of arm movements were lower. While postures determined by inclinometry and observation were similar on a group level, substantial differences were found between results obtained by the two methods for individual workers, particularly for extreme postures. Thus, measurements by either method on individuals or small groups should be interpreted with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Heiden
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Occupational and Public Health Sciences, University of Gävle, SE-801 76, Gävle, Sweden.
| | - Camilla Zetterberg
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Occupational and Public Health Sciences, University of Gävle, SE-801 76, Gävle, Sweden.
| | - Svend Erik Mathiassen
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Occupational and Public Health Sciences, University of Gävle, SE-801 76, Gävle, Sweden.
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Heiden M, Garza J, Trask C, Mathiassen SE. Predicting Directly Measured Trunk and Upper Arm Postures in Paper Mill Work From Administrative Data, Workers' Ratings and Posture Observations. Ann Work Expo Health 2017; 61:207-217. [PMID: 28395353 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxw026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives A cost-efficient approach for assessing working postures could be to build statistical models for predicting results of direct measurements from cheaper data, and apply these models to samples in which only the latter data are available. The present study aimed to build and assess the performance of statistical models predicting inclinometer-assessed trunk and arm posture among paper mill workers. Separate models were built using administrative data, workers' ratings of their exposure, and observations of the work from video recordings as predictors. Methods Trunk and upper arm postures were measured using inclinometry on 28 paper mill workers during three work shifts each. Simultaneously, the workers were video filmed, and their postures were assessed by observation of the videos afterwards. Workers' ratings of exposure, and administrative data on staff and production during the shifts were also collected. Linear mixed models were fitted for predicting inclinometer-assessed exposure variables (median trunk and upper arm angle, proportion of time with neutral trunk and upper arm posture, and frequency of periods in neutral trunk and upper arm inclination) from administrative data, workers' ratings, and observations, respectively. Performance was evaluated in terms of Akaike information criterion, proportion of variance explained (R2), and standard error (SE) of the model estimate. For models performing well, validity was assessed by bootstrap resampling. Results Models based on administrative data performed poorly (R2 ≤ 15%) and would not be useful for assessing posture in this population. Models using workers' ratings of exposure performed slightly better (8% ≤ R2 ≤ 27% for trunk posture; 14% ≤ R2 ≤ 36% for arm posture). The best model was obtained when using observational data for predicting frequency of periods with neutral arm inclination. It explained 56% of the variance in the postural exposure, and its SE was 5.6. Bootstrap validation of this model showed similar expected performance in other samples (5th-95th percentile: R2 = 45-63%; SE = 5.1-6.2). Conclusions Observational data had a better ability to predict inclinometer-assessed upper arm exposures than workers' ratings or administrative data. However, observational measurements are typically more expensive to obtain. The results encourage analyses of the cost-efficiency of modeling based on administrative data, workers' ratings, and observation, compared to the performance and cost of measuring exposure directly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Heiden
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Occupational and Public Health Sciences, University of Gävle, Gävle SE-801 76, Sweden
| | - Jennifer Garza
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Occupational and Public Health Sciences, University of Gävle, Gävle SE-801 76, Sweden.,Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Catherine Trask
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Occupational and Public Health Sciences, University of Gävle, Gävle SE-801 76, Sweden.,Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon S7N OW8, Canada
| | - Svend Erik Mathiassen
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Occupational and Public Health Sciences, University of Gävle, Gävle SE-801 76, Sweden
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Abstract
Occupational health nurses need to be aware of the current science on breast cancer risks in the workplace because they are risk communicators for employees and their families. Occupational health nurses can serve as advocates for necessary research ultimately leading to risk reduction and prevention strategies in the workplace. Current research suggests exposure to organic solvents, metals, acid mists, sterilizing agents (ethylene oxide), some pesticides, light at night (shift work), and tobacco smoke increases breast cancer risk among women in occupational settings. Animal cancer bioassays conducted by the National Toxicology Program indicate more than 40 chemicals can induce mammary tumors, and most of these are still in production. A variety of occupations worldwide, including health care providers and metal, textile, dye, rubber, and plastic manufacturing workers, have been identified as having some evidence of higher breast cancer risk. Although some chemical exposures are suspected to affect breast cancer risk, estimates of or actual exposures to these chemicals in the workplace often have not been determined. Research needed to better identify breast cancer risks in occupational settings includes monitoring breast cancer incidence in occupations with exposures to suspected carcinogens, characterizing chemical exposures by job type and task, determining whether potential gender differences affect chemical exposures, and using molecular approaches to identify gene-environment interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne M Snedeker
- Program on Breast Cancer and Environmental Risk Factors, Sprecher Institute for Comparative Cancer Research, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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Ramdzan AN, Almeida MIG, McCullough MJ, Kolev SD. Development of a microfluidic paper-based analytical device for the determination of salivary aldehydes. Anal Chim Acta 2016; 919:47-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2016.03.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2015] [Revised: 03/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Westberg H, Elihn K, Andersson E, Persson B, Andersson L, Bryngelsson IL, Karlsson C, Sjögren B. Inflammatory markers and exposure to airborne particles among workers in a Swedish pulp and paper mill. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2016; 89:813-22. [PMID: 26875192 PMCID: PMC4871919 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-016-1119-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2015] [Accepted: 01/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To study the relationship between exposure to airborne particles in a pulp and paper mill and markers of inflammation and coagulation in blood. METHODS Personal sampling of inhalable dust was performed for 72 subjects working in a Swedish pulp and paper mill. Stationary measurements were used to study concentrations of total dust, respirable dust, PM10 and PM2.5, the particle surface area and the particle number concentrations. Markers of inflammation, interleukins (IL-1b, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10), C-reactive protein (CRP), serum amyloid A (SAA), and fibrinogen and markers of coagulation factor VIII, von Willebrand, plasminogen activator inhibitor, and D-dimer were measured in plasma or serum. Sampling was performed on the last day of the work free period of 5 days, before and after the shift the first day of work and after the shifts the second and third day. In a mixed model analysis, the relationship between particulate exposures and inflammatory markers was determined. Sex, age, smoking, and BMI were included as covariates. RESULTS The average 8-h time-weighted average (TWA) air concentration levels of inhalable dust were 0.30 mg/m(3), range 0.005-3.3 mg/m(3). The proxies for average 8-h TWAs of respirable dust were 0.045 mg/m(3). Significant and consistent positive relations were found between several exposure metrics (PM 10, total and inhalable dust) and CRP, SAA and fibrinogen taken post-shift, suggesting a dose-effect relationship. CONCLUSION This study supports a relationship between occupational particle exposure and established inflammatory markers, which may indicate an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Håkan Westberg
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Örebro University Hospital, 701 85, Örebro, Sweden.
| | - Karine Elihn
- Department of Applied Environmental Science, Atmospheric Science Unit, Stockholm University, 106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Andersson
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Box 414, 405 30, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Bodil Persson
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, 221 85, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Linköping University Hospital, 581 85, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Lennart Andersson
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Örebro University Hospital, 701 85, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Ing-Liss Bryngelsson
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Örebro University Hospital, 701 85, Örebro, Sweden
| | | | - Bengt Sjögren
- Work Environment Toxicology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
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García-Pérez J, Lope V, López-Abente G, González-Sánchez M, Fernández-Navarro P. Ovarian cancer mortality and industrial pollution. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2015; 205:103-110. [PMID: 26046426 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2015.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2014] [Revised: 04/14/2015] [Accepted: 05/21/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
We investigated whether there might be excess ovarian cancer mortality among women residing near Spanish industries, according to different categories of industrial groups and toxic substances. An ecologic study was designed to examine ovarian cancer mortality at a municipal level (period 1997-2006). Population exposure to pollution was estimated by means of distance from town to facility. Using Poisson regression models, we assessed the relative risk of dying from ovarian cancer in zones around installations, and analyzed the effect of industrial groups and pollutant substances. Excess ovarian cancer mortality was detected in the vicinity of all sectors combined, and, principally, near refineries, fertilizers plants, glass production, paper production, food/beverage sector, waste treatment plants, pharmaceutical industry and ceramic. Insofar as substances were concerned, statistically significant associations were observed for installations releasing metals and polycyclic aromatic chemicals. These results support that residing near industries could be a risk factor for ovarian cancer mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier García-Pérez
- Cancer and Environmental Epidemiology Unit, National Center for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health, Avda. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029 Madrid, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Spain; IIS Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Spain.
| | - Virginia Lope
- Cancer and Environmental Epidemiology Unit, National Center for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health, Avda. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029 Madrid, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Spain; IIS Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Spain.
| | - Gonzalo López-Abente
- Cancer and Environmental Epidemiology Unit, National Center for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health, Avda. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029 Madrid, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Spain; IIS Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Spain.
| | - Mario González-Sánchez
- Cancer and Environmental Epidemiology Unit, National Center for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health, Avda. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029 Madrid, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Spain; IIS Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Spain.
| | - Pablo Fernández-Navarro
- Cancer and Environmental Epidemiology Unit, National Center for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health, Avda. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029 Madrid, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Spain; IIS Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Spain.
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15
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Cancer incidence among Swedish pulp and paper mill workers: a cohort study of sulphate and sulphite mills. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2012; 86:529-40. [PMID: 22644408 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-012-0785-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2011] [Accepted: 05/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Associations between various malignancies and work in the pulp and paper industry have been reported but mostly in analyses of mortality rather than incidence. We aimed to study cancer incidence by main mill pulping process, department and gender in a Swedish cohort of pulp and paper mill workers. METHODS The cohort (18,113 males and 2,292 females, enrolled from 1939 to 1999 with >1 year of employment) was followed up for cancer incidence from 1958 to 2001. Information on the workers' department and employment was obtained from the mills' personnel files, and standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) were calculated using the Swedish population as reference. RESULTS Overall cancer incidence, in total 2,488 cases, was not increased by work in any department. However, risks of pleural mesothelioma were increased among males employed in sulphate pulping (SIR, 8.38; 95 % CI, 3.37-17) and maintenance (SIR, 6.35; 95 % CI, 3.47-11), with no corresponding increase of lung cancer. Testicular cancer risks were increased among males employed in sulphate pulping (SIR, 4.14; 95 % CI, 1.99-7.61) and sulphite pulping (SIR, 2.59; 95 % CI, 0.95-5.64). Female paper production workers showed increased risk of skin tumours other than malignant melanoma (SIR, 2.92; 95 % CI, 1.18-6.02). CONCLUSIONS Incidence of pleural mesothelioma was increased in the cohort, showing that asbestos exposure still has severe health consequences, and highlighting the exigency of strict asbestos regulations and elimination. Testicular cancer was increased among pulping department workers. Shift work and endocrine disruptors could be of interest in this context.
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Rixen T, Baum A, Sepryani H, Pohlmann T, Jose C, Samiaji J. Dissolved oxygen and its response to eutrophication in a tropical black water river. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2010; 91:1730-1737. [PMID: 20435403 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2010.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2009] [Revised: 01/22/2010] [Accepted: 03/23/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The Siak is a typical, nutrient-poor, well-mixed, black water river in central Sumatra, Indonesia, which owes its brown color to dissolved organic matter (DOM) leached from surrounding, heavily disturbed peat soils. We measured dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and oxygen concentrations along the river, carried out a 36-h experiment in the province capital Pekanbaru and quantified organic matter and nutrient inputs from urban wastewater channels into the Siak. In order to consider the complex dynamic of oxygen in rivers, a box-diffusion model was used to interpret the measured data. The results suggest that the decomposition of soil derived DOM was the main factor influencing the oxygen concentration in the Siak which varied between approximately 100 and 140 micromol l(-1). Additional DOM input caused by wastewater discharges appeared to reduce the oxygen concentrations by approximately 20 micromol l(-1) during the peak-time in household water use in the early morning and in the early evening. Associated enhanced nutrient inputs appear to reduce the impact of the anthropogenic DOM by favoring the photosynthetic production of oxygen in the morning. A reduction of 20 micromol l(-1), which although perhaps not of great significance in Pekanbaru, has strong implications for wastewater management in the fast developing areas downstream Pekanbaru where oxygen concentrations rarely exceed 20 micromol l(-1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Rixen
- Leibniz-Zentrum für Marine Tropenökologie, Fahrenheitstr. 6, 28359 Bremen, Germany.
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Andersson E, Persson B, Bryngelsson IL, Magnuson A, Westberg H. Cancer mortality in a Swedish cohort of pulp and paper mill workers. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2009; 83:123-32. [DOI: 10.1007/s00420-009-0446-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2008] [Accepted: 07/03/2009] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Marchant G, Bullock C, Carter C, Connelly R, Crane A, Fayerweather W, Johnson K, Reynolds J. Applications and findings of an occupational exposure database for synthetic vitreous fibers. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2009; 6:143-150. [PMID: 19116861 DOI: 10.1080/15459620802664382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Occupational exposure databases are being used increasingly to characterize worker exposures in industries involving a variety of exposure scenarios. The glass and rock/slag segments of the synthetic vitreous fiber industry (in the United States) has developed a large (>14,000 samples) exposure database that can be used to estimate worker exposures based on industry sector, fiber type, product type, and job function. This article describes the development of this database as part of an industry-Occupational Safety and Health Administration collaborative Health and Safety Partnership Program and summarizes the findings and potential applications of the database.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary Marchant
- SDOCOL/SOLS, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona.
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Monge-Corella S, García-Pérez J, Aragonés N, Pollán M, Pérez-Gómez B, López-Abente G. Lung cancer mortality in towns near paper, pulp and board industries in Spain: a point source pollution study. BMC Public Health 2008; 8:288. [PMID: 18702814 PMCID: PMC2527328 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-8-288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2008] [Accepted: 08/14/2008] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study sought to ascertain whether there might be excess lung cancer mortality among the population residing in the vicinity of Spanish paper and board industries which report their emissions to the European Pollutant Emission Register (EPER). METHODS This was an ecological study that modelled the Standardised Mortality Ratio (SMR) for lung cancer in 8073 Spanish towns over the period 1994-2003. Population exposure to industrial pollution was estimated on the basis of distance from town of residence to pollution source. An exploratory, near-versus-far analysis was conducted, using mixed Poisson regression models and an analysis of the effect of municipal proximity within a 50-kilometre radius of each of the 18 installations. RESULTS Results varied for the different facilities. In two instances there was an increasing mortality gradient with proximity to the installation, though this was exclusively observed among men. CONCLUSION The study of cancer mortality in areas surrounding pollutant foci is a useful tool for environmental surveillance, and serves to highlight areas of interest susceptible to being investigated by ad hoc studies. Despite present limitations, recognition is therefore due to the advance represented by publication of the EPER and the study of pollutant foci.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Monge-Corella
- Cancer and Environmental Epidemiology Area, National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier García-Pérez
- Cancer and Environmental Epidemiology Area, National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria Aragonés
- Cancer and Environmental Epidemiology Area, National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marina Pollán
- Cancer and Environmental Epidemiology Area, National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Pérez-Gómez
- Cancer and Environmental Epidemiology Area, National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Gonzalo López-Abente
- Cancer and Environmental Epidemiology Area, National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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Chen JL, Liu CY. Separation of dialkyl sulfides by metallo-mesogenic stationary phases for complexation gas chromatography. J Chromatogr A 2007; 1161:269-74. [PMID: 17568598 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2007.05.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2007] [Revised: 05/22/2007] [Accepted: 05/29/2007] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
A copper mesogenic side-chain polymer (P-C(15)CuC(18)) was cross-linked onto the capillary wall as a stationary film for gas chromatography (GC) separation of alkyl sulfides. These organic sulfides are of interest for their large health impact because of their wide range of volatiles and high reactivities toward metals. Different GC parameters for optimal separation efficiency are discussed for use with a mesogenic polymer column along with flame photometric detection (FPD). Both the carrier gas flow-rate and column temperature were studied to determine the relationship of plate height to the chemical structure of the solutes, as well as to determine the morphology of the mesogenic polymer. Van 't Hoff plots show phase transitions of the stationary mesophase as the column temperature was varied. The results reveal that the separation mechanism might be based on ligand exchange and polarity interaction between the analytes and the stationary phase, with the vapor pressure of the analytes also being important. The former interaction dominates in the lamellar crystalline phase and the latter interaction dominates in the hexagonal columnar-discotic phase. With high reproducibility for retention time (RSD< or =0.37%) and for peak area (RSD< or =5.16%), the GC-FPD system produced linear calibration graphs (r> or =0.9918) for the determination of 13 sulfides with a detection limit below 2.5 ng.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Lian Chen
- Department of Occupational Safety and Health, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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Laakkonen A, Kyyrönen P, Kauppinen T, Pukkala EI. Occupational exposure to eight organic dusts and respiratory cancer among Finns. Occup Environ Med 2006; 63:726-33. [PMID: 16601013 PMCID: PMC2077994 DOI: 10.1136/oem.2005.025825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/14/2006] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is inconclusive evidence concerning cancer risks of organic dusts. AIM The carcinogenic exposures are mainly inhalatory and the authors therefore studied associations between occupational exposure to eight different organic dusts and respiratory cancers in Finland. METHODS The authors followed up a cohort of all economically active Finns born between 1906 and 1945 for 30 million person-years during 1971-95. Incident cases of nasal, laryngeal, and lung cancer and mesotheliomas were identified through a record linkage with the Finnish Cancer Registry. Occupations from the population census in 1970 were converted to exposures to eight organic dusts with a job-exposure matrix (FINJEM). Cumulative exposure (CE) was calculated as a product of prevalence, level, and estimated duration of exposure. Standardised incidence ratios (SIR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) adjusted for age, period, and social class were calculated for each organic dust using the economically active population as the reference. RESULTS A total of 20 426 incident cases of respiratory cancer were observed. Slightly increased risk was observed among men exposed to wood dust for nasal cancer (SIR 1.42, 95% CI 0.79 to 2.44). For laryngeal cancer, men exposed to plant dust (mainly grain millers) had a raised SIR in the high exposure class (SIR 3.55, 95% CI 1.30 to 7.72). Men exposed to wood dust had a raised SIR for lung cancer, but only in the low exposure class (SIR 1.11, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.18). Women exposed to wood dust showed an increased SIR for mesotheliomas in the low exposure class (SIR 4.57, 95% CI 1.25 to 11.7) and some excess in the medium exposure category. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to organic dusts is unlikely to be a major risk factor of respiratory cancer. Even exposure to wood dust which is a major exposure in Finland seems to have minor effect for nasal cancer. The authors found suggestive evidence that exposure to grain dust may increase the risk of laryngeal cancer, and some support to the hypothesis that exposure to textile dust, and to plant and animal dust (agricultural dusts) may decrease the risk of lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Laakkonen
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Helsinki, Finland.
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Langseth H, Kjaerheim K. Mortality from non-malignant diseases in a cohort of female pulp and paper workers in Norway. Occup Environ Med 2006; 63:741-5. [PMID: 16757509 PMCID: PMC2077989 DOI: 10.1136/oem.2005.024232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of the present study was to investigate the risk of death from non-malignant diseases in female pulp and paper workers in Norway. METHODS A total of 3143 women first employed between 1920-93 were included in the study cohort. Information about each cohort member was obtained from personnel record files in the mills in order to identify employment periods and job categories. Data on cause and date of death were added by linkage to the Cause of Death Register using unique personal identification numbers. The follow up period was 1951-2000. Standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated using the national female mortality rates as reference. Poisson regression analysis was used to examine internal relations between the duration of employment in paper departments and the risk of death from selected causes. Relative risks (RRs) and 95% CIs were calculated. RESULTS The study showed a significantly increased risk for total non-malignant mortality (SMR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.24), mainly due to increased mortality from ischaemic heart disease (SMR = 1.22, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.43) and cerebrovascular diseases (SMR = 1.16, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.42). Analysis by department showed the highest risk of death in paper department workers with short term employment. Internal analyses showed a 5% and 9% increase in risk of dying from ischaemic heart disease and respiratory diseases, respectively, among paper department workers exposed to paper dust. The risk decreased with increasing duration of employment. CONCLUSION The increased risk of ischaemic heart diseases and respiratory diseases seen among employees of paper departments may be related to exposure to paper dust.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Langseth
- Cancer Registry of Norway, Institute of Population-based Cancer Research, Montebello, Oslo, Norway.
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Wise PM, Canty TM, Wysocki CJ. Temporal integration of nasal irritation from ammonia at threshold and supra-threshold levels. Toxicol Sci 2005; 87:223-31. [PMID: 15976196 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfi229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Two experiments examined integration of perceived irritation over short-term (approximately 100-4000 ms) delivery of ammonia into the nasal cavity of human subjects. Experiment 1 examined trade-offs between time and concentration at threshold level by means of nasal lateralization, a common measure of irritation threshold. Within experimental sessions, the duration of a fixed-concentration stimulus varied to determine the shortest, detectable pulse. Subjects could lateralize increasingly weaker concentrations with longer stimulus presentations. Experiment 2 examined an analogous trade-off for supra-threshold irritation. Subjects rated irritation from presentations of ammonia that varied both in concentration and in duration. Rated intensity for a given concentration increased with stimulus duration. Hence integration occurred at both threshold and supra-threshold levels. However, more than a twofold increase in duration was required to compensate for a twofold decrease in concentration to maintain threshold lateralization or a fixed level of perceived intensity. These results suggest that an imperfect mass-integrator model may be able to describe short-term integration of nasal irritation from ammonia at both the threshold and supra-threshold levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M Wise
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104-3308, USA.
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