Showing papers in "Archives of Environmental Health in 1986"
TL;DR: This pilot study modified methods used in estimating the amount of soil ingested by ruminants to measure soil ingestion by children, using aluminum, silicon, and titanium as tracers as tracer.
Abstract: In this pilot study, we modified methods used in estimating the amount of soil ingested by ruminants to measure soil ingested by children. Using aluminum, silicon, and titanium as tracers, we estimated soil ingestion for 59 children aged 1–3 yr from East Helena, Montana. Estimated daily soil ingestion based on aluminum and silicon concentrations were 181 and 184 mg/day, respectively, whereas the estimate based on the titanium concentration was about 10 times higher, 1,834 mg/day. Although we do not consider these estimates accurate measures of soil ingestion, the method we used is a reasonable approach that, to our knowledge, has not been used before in humans. However, our estimates will be revised as refinement of this method and better understanding of the metabolism of aluminum, silicon, and titanium lead to more accurate data for analysis.
163 citations
TL;DR: A direct toxic effect of increased lead absorption on sperm production or transport in man is suggested.
Abstract: To determine if increased lead absorption was associated with sperm count suppression or perterbation of the hypothalamopituitary system, we compared battery workers (N=18), who were exposed to high airborne lead levels, with cement workers (N=18), who were exposed to ambient lead levels. Blood lead, urinary lead, semen lead, and zinc protoporphyrin concentrations were markedly elevated (p<.001) in battery workers. Battery workers had a significantly shifted (p<.025) frequency distribution of sperm count (median count, 45 vs. 73 × 106 cells/cc, respectively). There were no significant differences between the two groups in mean follicle-stimulating hormone, testosterone, prolactin, luteinizing hormone, or total neutral 17-ketosteroid levels. Potential confounding factors (alcohol, cigarette, and coffee consumption, frequency of intercourse, and days of abstinence prior to semen donation) were not significantly different between the two groups. These results suggest a direct toxic effect of increas...
156 citations
TL;DR: The mean content of cadmium in fat tissue of male smokers was four times that of non-smokers, the difference was statistically significant, and no differences were found in trace and heavy metal contents of different brands and packs from different decades.
Abstract: Trace and heavy metal and pesticide contents of different tobacco brands sold in Finland during 1920 to 1984 were determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry with the purpose of investigating the variation in contents over time. In addition, the following were studied: the effect of commercial filters in cigarettes in preventing the inhalation of metals, the transfer of metals and pesticides to the mainstream smoke; and the correlation between the cadmium content of adipose tissue of smokers and their smoking habits. No differences were found in trace and heavy metal contents of different brands and packs from different decades. The pesticide residues in tobacco have followed the pattern of their use in the tobacco plantation. The dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) content of tobacco has decreased during the past 20 yr to about 1/200 of the peak value, i.e., from 34.5 to 0.17 micrograms/g. Cigarette filters significantly prevent the inhalation of cadmium, lead, magnesium, and iron. The mean content of cadmium in fat tissue of male smokers was four times that of non-smokers. The difference was statistically significant.
141 citations
TL;DR: Blood lead was measured in 185 samples of maternal blood and in 162 samples of cord blood drawn from members of a cohort of mother-infant pairs to investigate the possibility that the fetus under stress tends to accumulate Pb.
Abstract: It has been suggested that lead (Pb) at low exposure levels is a behavioral teratogen. Blood lead (Pb-B) was measured in 185 samples of maternal blood and in 162 samples of cord blood drawn from members of a cohort of mother-infant pairs. Routine newborn assessments, an examination for minor anomalies, the Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment (NBAS), and part of the Graham/Rosenblith Behavioral Examination (G/R) were administered. Maternal and cord Pb-B correlated 0.80. In regression analyses, Apgar scores, birthweight, length, head circumference, neonatal anomalies, and seven behavioral scales were unrelated to either maternal or cord Pb-B. Three scales—the NBAS Abnormal Reflexes, the G/R Neurological Soft Sign, and the G/R Muscle Tonus Scales—were related minimally to either cord or maternal Pb-B. Because of the contrast in maternal and cord results, despite the high correlation of maternal and cord Pb-B, the data were reanalyzed for 132 cases with paired data. Only the Soft Sign Scale rema...
108 citations
TL;DR: In the 20-54 yr old age group, there was an association between leukemia morbidity and index of background radiation, and X-ray treatment and electrical work were also associated with increased rate ratios.
Abstract: The effect of potential risk factors for acute myeloid leukemia was evaluated in a case-referent study encompassing 59 cases and 354 referents, all of whom were alive. Information on exposure was obtained through a questionnaire mailed to the subjects. The possible effect of background radiation was evaluated by means of a gamma radiation index, which accounted for the differences between cases and referents in this respect, i.e., in time spent in concrete buildings both at home and at work places. In the 20-54 yr old age group, there was an association between leukemia morbidity and index of background radiation. X-ray treatment and electrical work were also associated with increased rate ratios. With regard to solvents, only styrene appeared as a risk factor, but the number of exposed subjects was small. Other exposures were less clearly associated with increased risks.
78 citations
TL;DR: It is concluded that symptoms of work-related asthma in red cedar workers are more common after 10 yr of exposure, and that levels of pulmonary function are lower with higher wood dust exposures.
Abstract: Measurements of total dust concentration were made in a western red cedar sawmill that employed 701 workers. Both area sampling and personal sampling of total dust were done over an 8-hr shift corresponding to job descriptions and locations to assign each worker an exposure level. A total of 652 (93%) of the workers completed a respiratory-occupational questionnaire and performed spirometry, of whom 334 were assigned an exposure level. Dust exposure ranged from undetectable to 6.0 mg/m3 with a median exposure level of 0.2 mg/m3. Only 10% of the workers with an assigned exposure level were exposed to more than 1.0 mg/m3. Work-related asthma, defined as symptoms of asthma which improved on days off work, was reported by 52 workers (8.0%) and was more prevalent after 10 or more yr of employment. Chronic cough, dyspnea, persistent wheeze, and physician-diagnosed asthma were unrelated to either work duration or exposure. Levels of forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1.0) were lower with dust concentrations greater than 2.0 mg/m3, controlling for age and smoking; maximum mid-expiratory flow rate (FEF25-75%) and FEV1.0/FVC were unrelated to dust exposure concentration. Work-related symptoms of eye irritation were seen more commonly with exposure to dust concentrations of 3.0 mg/m3 or more. It is concluded that symptoms of work-related asthma in red cedar workers are more common after 10 yr of exposure, and that levels of pulmonary function are lower with higher wood dust exposures.
74 citations
TL;DR: More sensitive but objective indicators of toxicity need to be included in routine medical screening so as to help diagnose the etiology of neuropsychological symptoms and prevent long-term sequelae in workers exposed to mercury.
Abstract: Forty-two workers from a chemical plant producing inorganic mercury compounds were evaluated for neurologic, nephrotic, and ophthalmologic toxicity. Despite elevated blood and urinary mercury levels, routine clinical testing such as physical examination, blood chemistries, and urinalysis were generally normal. These findings from the routine examination are in contrast to the complaints of neuropsychological symptoms, elevated urinary n-acetyl B-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) levels, decreased motor nerve conduction velocities, and the presence of lenticular opacities on slit-lamp examination that were found, when organ systems known to be affected by mercury were targeted. More sensitive but objective indicators of toxicity need to be included in routine medical screening so as to help diagnose the etiology of neuropsychological symptoms and prevent long-term sequelae in workers exposed to mercury.
72 citations
TL;DR: The results show that there is a decrease of lead in bone after the end of exposure and that it is considerably faster than estimated earlier from various data on lead metabolism.
Abstract: Lead levels in finger bone were monitored using an in vivo X-ray fluorescence technique in retired lead workers. Eight subjects followed for 2-5 yr directly after end of exposure all displayed a decrease. Their average half-time was 7 (range 3-15) yr. In a second group of six persons, followed from year 7 to year 13 after finishing lead work, a decrease was seen in all but one. The average half-time for this group was 8 (range 2 infinity) yr. The mean value for both groups was 7 yr. The results show that there is a decrease of lead in bone after the end of exposure and that it is considerably faster than estimated earlier from various data on lead metabolism.
70 citations
TL;DR: In this article, Andersen microbial air samplers were used to enumerate the numbers and kinds of respirable fungi and bacteria inside the residences of condominium homes with central air conditioning compared with that of the typically more open-type of naturally ventilated Hawaiian homes.
Abstract: The atmospheric burden of viable particulates in the interiors of condominium homes with central air conditioning was compared with that of the typically more open-type of naturally ventilated Hawaiian homes. Andersen microbial air samplers were used to enumerate the numbers and kinds of respirable fungi and bacteria inside the residences. The results were compared with that obtained outside the homes to evaluate the impact of the air conditioning systems on indoor air quality. There were no significant differences in microbial air contaminants between the outdoors and the air inside naturally ventilated residences. The air inside air conditioned homes were found to have fewer fungi, including a significantly smaller number of Cladosporium sp., but had a significantly greater number of Aspergillus sp. when compared to the outdoors. The total number of bacteria and the number of Gram positive (+) cocci were significantly larger inside air-conditioned residences than outside. A preliminary health status survey revealed occupants of centrally air-conditioned homes had more complaints of eye irritation, sneezing, nasal congestion, and cough.
67 citations
TL;DR: An age-dependent increase of Cd, Zn, and Cd/Zn was observed in the kidney; increases peaked at mid-age and were followed by a decline, and no other correlation was found between Cu and MT in either organs.
Abstract: Liver and kidney cortex samples were obtained from 89 human autopsies for the determination of metallothionein (MT), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu). An age-dependent increase of Cd, Zn, and Cd/Zn was observed in the kidney; increases peaked at mid-age and were followed by a decline. Cadmium was present at a low constant level in the liver at all ages. The mean concentrations of Cd and Zn were 18.0 and 40.1 micrograms/g wet weight, respectively, in the kidney, and for the liver the values for Cd and Zn were 2.0 and 79.0 micrograms/g wet weight, respectively. A positive linear relationship was observed between Cd or Zn and MT in the kidney and between Zn and MT in the liver. No other correlation was found between Cu and MT in either organs. Similar values were obtained for MT when estimated by Ag-hem and Cd-hem methods.
62 citations
TL;DR: A strong association was revealed between exposure to grain and flour dusts and the prevalence of respiratory and allergic disorders.
Abstract: Symptoms suggestive of chronic bronchitis or chronic productive cough were found in 29.0% of 100 workers exposed to flour dust in a flour mill, 26.0% presenting with chronic cough and 29.0% with phlegm. In the control group, the prevalence of chronic cough and phlegm was only 6.6% in each category. While 22.0% of the workers complained of chest tightness on exposure, and 18.0% developed symptoms and signs of bronchial asthma, only 3.3% of the controls complained of chest tightness and 3.3% of asthma. Respiratory measurements before and after the working shift showed a significant drop (p less than .001) in the forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1.0) and forced vital capacity (FVC) in the exposed group. Fifty-eight percent of the exposed workers experienced a drop in FEV1.0 and FVC measurements. A positive skin reaction to wheat flour extract was recorded among 31% of the exposed workers vs. 10% of the controls. The prevalence of other associated allergic symptoms was 17.0% and 19.0% for sinusitis and conjunctivitis, respectively; in the unexposed group, the prevalence of the same symptoms ranged between 3.3% and 6.6%. A strong association was revealed between exposure to grain and flour dusts and the prevalence of respiratory and allergic disorders.
TL;DR: Mortality due to bronchial asthma decreased immediately in response to improvement of pollution, whereas mortality due to chronic bronchitis decreased to the level in the control area 4 to 5 yr after the concentration of sulfur dioxide (SO2) began to satisfy the ambient air quality standard.
Abstract: Death certificates issued in Yokkaichi, Japan, during the 21 yr from 1963 until 1983 were surveyed to determine the relationship between changes in air pollution and mortality due to bronchial asthma and chronic bronchitis. The following results were obtained. In response to worsening air pollution, mortality for bronchial asthma and chronic bronchitis began to increase. Mortality due to bronchial asthma decreased immediately in response to improvement of pollution, whereas mortality due to chronic bronchitis decreased to the level in the control area 4 to 5 yr after the concentration of sulfur dioxide (SO/sub 2/) began to satisfy the ambient air quality standard. In the polluted area, mortality due to bronchial asthma in subjects who were 20 yr of age was higher during the period in which higher concentrations of sulfur oxides were prevalent.
TL;DR: Evidence from animal experiments and human studies suggests that electromagnetic fields may be human leukemogens and further epidemiological research is needed to establish an association between exposure to electromagnetic fields and the risk of leukemia.
Abstract: Evidence from animal experiments and human studies suggests that electromagnetic fields may be human leukemogens. Epidemiological studies of leukemia in occupational groups and in the general populations are reviewed. The results are inconsistent. In the few studies showing an association between exposure to electromagnetic fields and the risk of leukemia, the temporal relationship between exposure and effect was not established, the observed associations were weak, the dose-response relationships were based on qualitative levels of exposure without regard to the duration of exposure or secondary sources of exposure, and the risk ratios were probably biased due to the population selection procedures used and misclassification of exposure. The proportionate mortality or cancer incidence ratios are unreliable estimates of relative risk. Further epidemiological research is needed to establish an association between exposure to electromagnetic fields and the risk of leukemia.
TL;DR: This negative finding agrees with the previous results, but contrasts with findings elsewhere of respiratory dysfunction after exposure to 0.3 ppm; the discrepancy is presently unexplained, but it may relate to different severity of asthma in different subject groups.
Abstract: Twenty-one mildly asthmatic volunteers were exposed to 0,03,10, and 30 ppm nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in purified background air in an environmental control chamber Exposures were separated by 1-wk periods and occurred in random order Each lasted 1 hr and included three 10-min bouts of moderately heavy exercise (mean ventilation rate 41 L/min) Exposure temperature was near 22°C and relative humidity near 50% Specific airway resistance and maximal forced expiratory performance were measured preexposure, after the initial exercise, and near the end of exposure Bronchial reactivity was assessed immediately following exposure, by normocapnic hyperventilation with subfreezing air Symptoms were recorded on questionnaires before, during, and for 1-wk after each exposure Exercise induced significant bronchoconstriction regardless of NO2 level No statistically significant untoward response to NO2 was observed at any exposure concentration This negative finding agrees with our previous results, but
TL;DR: Although deaths due to digestive cancer were elevated among those with 1-5 yr of work experience, there was no excess among those working more than 5 yr as would be expected from occupational exposure.
Abstract: This historical cohort study examined mortality among 1,510 white male researchers employed from 1950-1959 who handled chemicals. During 1950-1979, 95 deaths were observed, significantly less than the 173.2 predicted by general population rates (SMR = 55). This was due to deficits in overall cancer deaths (SMR = 66), particularly respiratory cancer (SMR = 28), and reduced mortality from circulatory diseases and accidents. Those who had worked directly with chemicals for more than 5 yr and those who had the most hazardous exposures experienced similar low mortality for all causes, all cancers, and respiratory cancer. Although deaths due to digestive cancer were elevated among those with 1-5 yr of work experience, there was no excess among those working more than 5 yr as would be expected from occupational exposure.
TL;DR: It is concluded that short exposures to 2 ppm FA do not result in acute or subacute changes in lung function among healthy individuals either at rest or with exercise and subjective complaints following such exposures are confined to irritative phenomena of the upper airways.
Abstract: Formaldehyde (FA) is a common indoor air pollutant with irritative properties. It has been suggested that FA may produce physiologic alterations of the respiratory system. To study such responses, 15 nonsmoking, healthy subjects were exposed in a double blind, random manner to 0 and 2 ppm FA for 40 min in an environmental chamber. In addition, the same exposures were repeated on a separate day with the subjects performing moderate exercise (450 kpm/min) for 10 min. Exposures were carried out under controlled environmental conditions (temperature = 23° C, relative humidity = 50%). Pulmonary function was measured before, during, and after exposures using partial and maximal flow-volume curves and airway resistance. Symptom diaries were given to the subjects; upper and lower airway symptoms were recorded for up to 24 hr following exposures. No significant bronchoconstriction was noted in this group. In 3 subjects, sequential measurements of peak flow over a 24-hr period following FA exposure failed ...
TL;DR: Eight essential metals were detected at considerable concentrations in hepatic bile and urine collected simultaneously from three Japanese individuals, and the supplementation of these metals should occur during treatment of diseases accompanied by loss of hepatics bile.
Abstract: Fifteen metals (lead, cadmium, arsenic, inorganic mercury, organic mercury, iron, manganese, magnesium, chromium, zinc, copper, nickel, cobalt, tin, and aluminum) were determined in the hepatic bile and urine collected simultaneously from three Japanese individuals (2 males, 1 female). The presence of these metals was classified as follows: (1) hepatic biliary concentrations were higher than urinary concentrations (lead, arsenic, and iron); (2) urinary concentrations were higher than hepatic biliary concentrations (cadmium, inorganic mercury, tin, cobalt, magnesium, chromium, copper, zinc, and nickel); (3) hepatic biliary concentrations were almost equal to urinary concentrations (manganese and organic mercury); and (4) relationship between hepatic biliary and urinary concentrations changed occasionally (aluminum). Eight essential metals (iron, manganese, magnesium, zinc, chromium, copper, nickel, and cobalt) were detected at considerable concentrations in hepatic bile. Accounting for the daily f...
TL;DR: X-ray microanalysis using bronchoalveolar lavage macrophages can be helpful for clarification of mixed dust exposures, to identify particles when light microscopy indicates retained dust in patients with no known history of exposure, and to monitor retained particles after removal from exposure.
Abstract: This study shows that energy dispersive x-ray microprobe analysis to identify and quantify intracellular particles in macrophages obtained by the minimally invasive method of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) can detect inorganic dust exposures of many different kinds. Bronchoalveolar lavage macrophages from 22 patients have been examined. Twelve patients had occupational exposure to asbestos, talc, silica, hard metal or printing ink, while 10 had no known history of dust exposure. X-ray microprobe analysis identified particles which related to the known exposures, superimposed on a background of other particles related to smoking (kaolinite and mica) or to the general environment (silicon, titanium, and iron). The particle identification provided useful objective confirmation of the known exposures, except for silica, which could not be distinguished from the general background levels. X-ray microanalysis using BAL macrophages can be helpful for clarification of mixed dust exposures, to identify particles when light microscopy indicates retained dust in patients with no known history of exposure, and to monitor retained particles after removal from exposure.
TL;DR: The results indicated that urinary volume significantly affects not only nonadjusted urinary concentration for all substances, but also affects timed excretion and concentrations adjusted to urinary specific gravity and to urinary creatinine for most substances.
Abstract: The effects of urinary volume on adjusted and nonadjusted urinary excretion of 11 heavy metals and organic substances were examined in relation to plasma and erythrocyte concentrations in 19 metal workers under conditions of water restriction and loading. Blood lead concentrations in these workers ranged from 25 to 59 micrograms/dl. The results indicated that: urinary volume significantly affects not only nonadjusted urinary concentration for all substances, but also affects timed excretion and concentrations adjusted to urinary specific gravity and to urinary creatinine for most substances; the concentration adjusted to urinary volume is, on the other hand, independent of urinary volume; and urinary excretion of lead and mercury is related more closely to erythrocyte concentration than to plasma concentration. This last finding reflects complex renal excretory mechanisms for these heavy metals.
TL;DR: The size and quantity of fibers that reached the pleural cavity of test rats was time-dependent, with two peaks on day 7 and 21, which are compatible with a heterogeneous migration of chrysotile fibrils toward the pleura.
Abstract: After intratracheal injection of 0.5 mg of UICC chrysotile, rats were sacrificed at various time intervals over a 1-month period, and their pleural cavity washed with saline. Samples were examined by means of transmission electron microscopy for identification, quantitation, and sizing of chrysotile fibers. No fibers were found in control rats injected with saline. The size and quantity of fibers that reached the pleural cavity of test rats was time-dependent, with two peaks on day 7 (mean number = 9.6 × 104; mean length = 1.3 μm) and on day 21 (mean number = 1.3 × 105; mean length = 0.3 μm). Such variations are compatible with a heterogeneous migration of chrysotile fibrils toward the pleura.
TL;DR: In this carefully characterized group of men with chronic lead and calcium exposure, definite, if subclinical, effects on renal function and serum phosphorus but not calcium or vitamin D metabolism were demonstrable.
Abstract: To assess the pathophysiologic significance of increased body burdens of lead and cadmium, detailed renal function studies and evaluation of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D metabolism were carried out in 38 industrial workers exposed to lead and cadmium for 11 to 37 yr. Body burden of lead, as assessed by x-ray fluorescence measurement of tibia lead content, was elevated in 58% of the men and, when assessed by excretion of lead after Ca-EDTA infusion, was elevated in 36%. Liver or kidney cadmium burden, as assessed by neutron activation analysis, was elevated in 31%. Creatinine clearance was normal in all workers. One worker was hyperuricemic and two were proteinuric; three had increased beta 2 microglobulin excretion and one had diminished urinary acidifying ability. Maximal urinary concentrating ability was abnormal in a significant fraction, i.e., 52% of the men. Individuals with a high lead burden had a slight decrease in mean serum phosphorus but no accompanying phosphaturia. There was no abnormality of serum calcium. Twenty-two percent of subjects were hypercalciuric and two had low vitamin D levels, but these abnormalities bore no relation to heavy metal burden. In this carefully characterized group of men with chronic lead and calcium exposure, definite, if subclinical, effects on renal function and serum phosphorus but not calcium or vitamin D metabolism were demonstrable.
TL;DR: The chronic pulmonary effects of exposure to volcanic ash were investigated by conducting a cross-sectional epidemiological study of 2,006 women between 30 and 59 yr of age who lived in three areas subjected to different levels of airborne ash.
Abstract: The chronic pulmonary effects of exposure to volcanic ash were investigated by conducting a cross-sectional epidemiological study of 2,006 women between 30 and 59 yr of age who lived in three areas subjected to different levels of airborne ash. In the three areas prevalences of chronic bronchitis and other respiratory symptoms were so low that volcanic ash did not seem to be a major cause of respiratory disease. In the highly exposed area, however, 9.9% of the women experienced symptoms of one or more respiratory diseases, while 6.4% of the women in the medium- and 5.4% of the women in the low-exposure area had these symptoms. Prevalences of each disease and symptom increased as total suspended particulate level increased, suggestive of an association of mild respiratory symptoms with volcanic ash.
TL;DR: The results showed that the group of workers who were exposed to carbon black dust had an increased prevalence of chronic cough, sputum production and wheezing and the mean forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1.0) and flow between 25% and 75% of the FVC were significantly less than those of the nonexposed group.
Abstract: The respiratory health of 3,027 carbon black workers employed in 19 plants (18 Western Europe, 1 U.S.A.) was assessed by questionnaire and spirometry; chest radiographs were used to assess 935 workers in the group. The results showed that the group of workers who were exposed to carbon black dust had an increased prevalence of chronic cough, sputum production and wheezing and the mean forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1.0) and flow between 25% and 75% of the FVC (MMEF 25-75%) were significantly less than those of the nonexposed group. Multiple regression analysis showed that the decline in respiratory health was related to the influence of smoking and age, with only a small part being associated with the combined effects of dust exposure and age. A simple type of pneumoconiosis was found in 6 of the workers, all of whom had more than 10 yr of dust exposure. Carbon black should be regarded as a nuisance dust without specific effect on the lungs.
TL;DR: It is impossible to cite any environmental factor, particularly one related to the volcanic activity in the country, which could explain the high incidence of thyroid cancer, but genetic factors are very likely to be of great importance in the small, isolated island of Iceland.
Abstract: Environmental or genetic factors are sought to explain the high incidence of thyroid cancer in Iceland. At present, it is impossible to cite any environmental factor, particularly one related to the volcanic activity in the country, which could explain the high incidence of thyroid cancer in Iceland. However, the thyroid gland in Icelanders is very small due to the high intake of iodine from seafood. It is, therefore, easier for physicians to find thyroid tumors. Furthermore, genetic factors are very likely to be of great importance in the small, isolated island of Iceland.
TL;DR: The renal clearance of "filterable" plasma substance was significantly greater than GFR for Cr, Cu, and TUS and was significantly smaller for Pb, ALA, and CP.
Abstract: To estimate “filterable” plasma concentration (FPx), glomerular filtration, tubular balance, and renal clearance of heavy metals and organic substances, the authors examined the regressions of the 24-hr urinary excretion on glomerular filtration rate [GFR, 24-hr endogenous creatinine (Cn) clearance] in 19 gun-metal foundry workers with blood lead (Pb) concentrations of 25–59 μg/dl. It was estimated that the proportion of FPx to total plasma concentration was on average 15,7,3,0.6,0.06, and 0.008% for Pb, cadmium (Cd), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr), and copper (Cu), respectively. The estimated FPx value was 2.8 × 102, 4,0.08, and 2.8 × 104 μg/dl. for hippuric acid (HA), delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA), coproporphyrin (CP), and total urinary solutes (TUS), respectively. The estimated glomerular filtration was significantly greater than the zero level for all substances but inorganic mercury (Hg). Similarly, the estimated net tubular secretion was significantly greater than the zero level...
TL;DR: Strong associations between exposure to lead and the prevalence of central nervous system symptoms, abdominal colic, and constipation were recorded.
Abstract: Health effects of occupational exposure to lead were investigated among 92 exposed workers in lead-acid battery factory and 40 nonexposed workers serving as a control group from an oil mill in Khartoum North industrial area. The two groups were closely similar in age, stature, body weight, and socioeconomic conditions. A highly significant increase (P less than .01) was recorded in blood lead, urinary coproporphyrin, and basophilic stippled red blood cells of the exposed group in comparison to the control group. Central nervous system symptoms (insomnia, fatigue, weakness, and drowsiness) were reported by 50% and other symptoms such as abdominal colic and constipation were reported by 41% of the exposed group. Blue line on the gum was detected only on 2% of the exposed group. Strong associations between exposure to lead and the prevalence of central nervous system symptoms, abdominal colic, and constipation were recorded. Exposure to exceedingly high levels of lead in the working environment causes adverse health effects.
TL;DR: Exposure to contaminants from the Binghamton, NY office building in 1981 did not result in substantial absorption or cause any major short-term health effects, and significant correlations were observed between serum PCB concentrations and levels of liver enzymes and lipids.
Abstract: A medical surveillance program has been established for 482 persons who were potentially exposed to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dibenzo-p-dioxins, and dibenzofurans from an electrical transformer fire in a Binghamton, NY office building in 1981. Blood samples were analyzed for serum concentrations of PCBs and for biochemical and hematologic parameters at the time of the fire and 9 to 12 mo later. Firefighters and individuals who were in the building for 25 hr or more were also asked about post-fire symptomatology and examined after 1 yr for disorders of the skin, eyes, liver, and neurologic system. The results indicated that reported exposure was positively related to mean serum PCB levels (p = .004). The means and individual values, however, were within the range reported by other studies of persons with no unusual exposures. Significant correlations were observed between serum PCB concentrations and levels of liver enzymes and lipids, but mean levels of these biochemical parameters were not associated with reported exposure after adjustment for relevant covariables. Approximately one-half of those examined had skin lesions, but no cases of chloracne were detected, and there was no clinical evidence of any other exposure-related systemic disorder. The data suggest that exposure to contaminants from the building did not result in substantial absorption or cause any major short-term health effects.
TL;DR: It is suggested that this model for the human reaction to environmental noise, which has now been demonstrated for aircraft, train, and traffic noise, should be considered for the establishment of standards.
Abstract: The annoyance due to road traffic noise was studied in 18 areas in five countries. A total of 1379 interviews was performed and noise measurements were made in each area. The relation between Leq and the extent of the population expressing that they were "very annoyed" was poor (rxy = 0.03). An augmentation of the number of heavy vehicles from 1000/24 hr up to greater than 3000/24 hr did not increase the extent of annoyance. The highest correlation was obtained for the maximum noise level. The dose-response relationship implies that the number of events above a certain limit will not increase the extent of annoyance: it is determined by the highest noise level from single vehicles. It is suggested that this model for the human reaction to environmental noise, which has now been demonstrated for aircraft, train, and traffic noise, should be considered for the establishment of standards.
TL;DR: Insights were provided that are being examined in more refined epidemiologic studies using different designs and strategies--especially of larger, more homogeneous population groups in which exposure status can be better characterized--focused primarily on discerning any potential effects on the urinary tract, liver, neurological, and immune systems.
Abstract: In 1971, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzodioxin (TCDD)-containing waste oils were sprayed for dust control on residential, recreational, and work areas in Missouri. In several of these areas, the magnitude and the extent of this environmental contamination were not known until late 1982 or 1983. In the first phase of the investigation, a group of persons considered to be at highest risk of exposure and an appropriate comparison group were selected from reviews of Health Effects Survey screening questionnaires. These persons received complete medical examinations and a series of laboratory tests focused on detecting presymptomatic effects in key target organ systems (i.e., hepatic, dermatologic, immunologic, and neurologic effects). Comparisons of these two groups did not produce any firm indications of increased disease prevalence directly related to the putative exposures; of significance is the fact that no cases of chloracne or porphyria cutanea tarda were seen. Nevertheless, no overall definitive conclusion should be based just on this initial pilot study. Insights were provided that are being examined in more refined epidemiologic studies using different designs and strategies--especially of larger, more homogeneous population groups in which exposure status can be better characterized--focused primarily on discerning any potential effects on the urinary tract, liver, neurological, and immune systems. Concurrently, research into the development of replicable laboratory analytical methods and reference ranges for measuring TCDD body burden are being pursued.
TL;DR: This survey included 1,239 children, representing 50% of the elementary school population of the lead smelting town of Port Pirie, who had a capillary blood lead level equal to or greater than 30 micrograms/dl, which is the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council's "level of concern."
Abstract: This survey included 1,239 children, representing 50% of the elementary school population of the lead smelting town of Port Pirie. Of these children, 7% had a capillary blood lead level equal to or greater than 30 micrograms/dl, which is the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council's "level of concern." There was a statistically significant difference in capillary lead levels by area of residence that was independent of age, sex, soil lead, rainwater tank lead, and school attended. A case-control study indicated that the following subset of factors was most predictive of an elevated blood lead level: household members who worked with lead in their occupations; living in a house with flaking paint on the outside walls; biting finger nails; eating lunch at home on school days; when at school, appearing to have relatively dirty clothing; when at school, appearing to have relatively dirty hands; and living on a household block with a large area of exposed dirt. A program to reduce the risk of elevated blood lead levels in Port Pirie children has been introduced.