The Rapid Rise of Silicosis in Victoria, Australia Associated With Artificial Stone Countertop Industry Work.

Background: The fabrication and installation of artificial (engineered) stone countertops is a relatively new cause of silicosis. Our aim was to investigate silicosis rates in Victoria, Australia, and the association with stone countertop industry work.

Methods: Workers' compensation claims for silicosis from January 1, 1991 to December 31, 2022 were analyzed across 8-year time periods.

Measuring improvements in occupational health and safety in the artificial stone benchtop industry.

Objectives: Workers in the stone benchtop industry in Australia are at high risk of silicosis due to exposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) from the dry processing of artificial stone. In Victoria, Australia, a multifaceted response including education, regulatory changes, inspection site visits, and occupational health screening programme began in 2019. We aimed to review the success of this approach to safety practices in the industry.

Bauxite mine and alumina refinery workers: mortality and cancer risk.

Background: Aluminium industry workers are at risk of long-term health consequences.

Aims: To investigate mortality and cancer incidence in bauxite mine and alumina refinery workers.

Methods: A pre-existing cohort of workers was re-linked with the Australian National Death Index, and the Australian Cancer Database to provide additional death (7 years) and cancer (9 years) data.

Microplastic ingestion in mussels from the East Mediterranean Sea: Exploring its impacts in nature and controlled conditions.

Microplastic ingestion poses a significant concern for a plethora of marine organisms due to its widespread presence in marine ecosystems. Despite growing scientific interest, the effects on marine biota are not yet well understood. This study investigates the ingestion of microplastics (MPs) by mussels from various marine environments and assesses the associated effects that can be induced by MPs and associated toxic chemicals.

Erdheim-Chester disease and nuclear medicine imaging. A case report and brief review.

Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD) is a rare clonal myeloid neoplasm typically affecting adults over 50 years old, with bone lesions in almost all patients. The prognosis is poor in most cases if left untreated. Clinical manifestations are not specific, which hinders early diagnosis.