Document 716M4VopLNKEqjgnqVBnqMZbV

Air Hygiene Foundation of America, Inc 4400 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pa. June 8, 1939 > REFERENCES TO RECENT LITERATURE ON INDUSTRIAL DISEASES (A) News Items 436 RESPIRATOR APPROVED BY BUREAU OF MINES FOR LEAD FUMES. Willson Products, Inc., in a circular, have announced the approval by the U, S. Bureau of Mines of a new respirator for protection against Type B Dispersoids, fumes of metals such as lead, mercury, manganese, arsenic, copper, zinc, etc. This is the first respirator of this type to receive the approval of the Bureau. 437 OHIO INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE BULLETIN. A new publication has been started by the Ohio Department of Health, Columbus. It is to bo issued monthly by the Department and will contain informational and educational material of interest to all employers. The first issue, April 1939, contains items on tho suaff and laboratory of the department, mobile laboratory, reporting of occupational diseases in the state and other items of goneral in terest. (B) Papers on Dust, Dust Diseases and General Industrial Hygiene 438 NOTE ON AN IMPROVED CELL FOR DUST COUNTING. K.L.Dunn. J. Ind. Hyg. & Toxicol., 21, 202-3 (May 1939). A description is given of a new cell for use in counting impingor dust samples. The new cell consists of two parts, one of which is a glass plate 1 mm. thick, ground on both surfacos, with a central hole of such a diameter that tho cell contains approximately 0.25 ml. The other part is a larger plate of optically flat polished glass. Both are of "pyrex" glass. Any suitable cover glass, such a3 those now used, may be employed as a cover glass. The new cell greatly re duces the loss of time in cleaning and recementing the standard Sedgwick-Rafter cell. The comparatively large sealing area prevents leakage of air into tho cell caused by evaporation of the liquid. Although no definite data has been collect ed to compare counts using the new cell with that of the Sedgwick-Rafter, rou tine plant studies have confirmed its apparent accuracy. Tho cell could also be easily adapted to plankton, sewage or bacteriological studies because of the simplicity of design and resistance to attack upon autoclave sterilization. 439 THE RATE OF PRODUCTION AND THE FREE SILICA CONTENT OF THE FINE HJST PRODUCED 3Y ROCK DRILLING. A. Shaw and J.Q. Graham. Trans. Instn. Min. Engrs. London, 97, 104-15, (April 1939). (British). The free silica contont of fine dust is almost always less than that of the rock from which it is formed. It is dependent also on the rate of drilling, being slightly higher the slower tho rate of drilling. The froo silica dust produc tion expressed as grams of dust per foot of hole drilled may be taken as an in dication of the silicosi3 producing character of the rock. The results indicate that all rocks from which more than 25 gm. of free siliea^dust are formed per foot of holo drillod should be considered harmful, and that precautions should then be taken. References to Recent Literature - 2 440 SILICOSIS AND ITS PREVENTION. J. S. Haldane, F. Haynes, A. Shaw and J. Q. Graham. Twins. Instn. Min. Engrs. London. 97, 40-67, (April 1939). (British). It is suggested that the term silicosis ho applied only to a fibrotic condition of the lungs in persons with an exposure to dust containing a high proportion (50# or more) of free silica. Clinical and radiological examination should not be regarded as sufficient basis for a diagnosis unless there is a reasonable history of exposure to free silica dust. Although a large number of coal workers in South Wales have boon certified as silicotic, the work-histories of the cases show that the men have not been subjected to highly siliceous dusts. The phthi sis death-rate among the coal miners, as shown by their statistics, is not sig nificantly higher than in tho general population of the district. The high in cidence of bronchitis among coal miners should not be attributed to silicosis, as has sometimes been done in the past. It is emphasized, however, that the in halation of excessive amounts of any dust will cause pulmonary damage. Follow ing the article are 15 pages of interesting discussions by other authorities in the field. Dr. V/. R. Jonos states that the authors* definition of silicosis (above) is highly misleading, as proved cases of silicosis in South Africa have been caused by dusts with as little as 4# free silica. In all, the paper con tributes little that has not already been known about tho disease. 441 REPORT OF THE MEDICAL RESEARCH COUNCIL FOR THE YEAR 1937-8. H. M. Stationery Office, London,(1939). (British). Among the large number of researches referred to in this report are some dealing directly with industrial health. The disease of coal miners, which resembles silicosis clinically, but not radiologically, is not compensable, whereas sili cosis is compensable. Efforts are being made to continue tho study of anthracosis in South Wales. Another research being carried on is the work of the Com mittee on Toxic Solvents, 'which, through the Association of Chemical Manufactur ers, checks at an early stage the toxicity of any new solvents that are intro duced. Mention is made of a publication which summarizes the literature on toxic solvents, fulfilling a very useful purpose. Other less important research es along industrial health lines are mentioned. 442 THE PRESENCE OF "CURIOUS BODIES" IN THE LUNGS OF SOUTH AFRICAN GOLD MINERS. E. Williams. J. Path. & Bacteriol., 48, 475-7 (March 1939). (British). "Curious bodies" is the term often applied to the peculiar structures found in asbestotic lungs. They are light colored, but similar dark ones have been found in the lungs of coal miners. The author reports briefly on such bodies seen in the lungs of 32 South African gold miners she has examined. Both light and dark colored bodies wero found, and in some lungs both types wore present simultaneously. There was no constant relation, however, between the presence of bodies and silicotic findings, and Dr. Williams is sure that the bodies are not significant in the development of anthraco-silicosis in tho coal miners and trimmers she has examined. They are probably the result of chance inhalation of fibers or spicules. These black corod bodies evidently cannot bo produced ex perimentally, although the pale asbestotic ones can be. 443 THE PR0IXJCTI0N OF DUST IN HARD HEADINGS AND MEANS FOR ITS SUPPRESSION. J. 0.. Graham, D. G Skinner and W. H. Walton. Trans. Instn. Min. Engrs. London. 97, 83-103 (April 1939). (British). Experiments are described which illustrate the concentrations of dust in the chief operations involved in the driving of hard headings, namely drilling, shot firing and filling. The most important means found to reduce the dust was the use of wet drilling methods. The use of a mist projector, with a wetting agent in the spray water, 'was only slightly successful. Ci r\ * * * ' \j 41 .'i References to Recent Literature - 3 444 A DEVICE FOR ARRESTING- EXPLOSIONS. G. Allsop, F. J. Hartwell and R. V. Wheeler. Trans, Instn* Min. Engr. London. .97, 20-39 {April 1939). {British). A description ia given of arrangements whereby firedamp explosions in coal mines can be extinguished. Tho arrangements involve the provision of (1) mortars from which a cloud of incombustible dust can be projected into the path of the explo sion, and {2) thermal relays which, when subjected to the heat of an explosion, close an electric current which operates the mortars. The incombustible dust found most effective consists of 80$ common salt, 18$ chalk and 2$ magnesium carbonate. Tests made with the apparatus have proved its effectiveness. 445 HEALTH CONSERVATION OF A METAL MINER. W. B. Daly. Min. Cong. J., 25, 64-7 (April 1939). To the mine operator, the problem of industrial health is not new; it has always been a more or loss hidden factor in his costs. The metal mining industry is fortunate by comparison with many other industries, in that it has but one im portant occupational disease, namely silicosis. The author, Manager of Mines, Anaconda Copper Mining Company, traces the dust control measures of that company since its campaign started in 1918. Tho paper gives a good broad discussion of the general problem of dust and its control. 446 SETTLING THE DUST PROELEM. J. M. Roche. Nat. Safety News, 39, 18-19, 72-4, (May 1939). Dust control is an important phase of industrial engineering management and should be given consideration. Much experience has been gained during the past and industries have found that tho cost of control of the dust problem has not been prohibitive. Consideration should be given to dust, whether hygienically significant or not, in the design of new buildings or new processes that may be potentially dusty. Air tests or dust counts should be made at regular intervals to check the efficiency of the systems, to maintain higher employee morale and to find unsuspected hazards. 447 APPLY MODERN CLEANING METHODS. Fred Daniels. Foundry, 67., 44-6, 92 (May 1939). An illustrated description is given of tho equipment in the new cleaning depart ment of a foundry. Small castings are cleaned in a tinbleblast machine; largo castings are cleaned by first removing the core with a stream of high pressure water, then blasting with steel shot. All dust arresting is by v/et methods and the sludge is reclaimed. This modern installation has not only almost elimin ated the dust hazard in tho foundry, but has realizod a saving of over 75$ in the time of removing cores in large castings. 448 PRACTICAL METHODS FOR THE CONTROL OF HYGIENIC EXPOSURES. G. A. Coburn. Am. J. Pub. Health. 29 , 501-6 {May 1939). The author presents a sumary of the general considerations in prevention of industrial diseases. The hazards of dust, chromium, lead, and other materials are discussed. The paper was presented at the October 28, 1933, meeting of the American Public Health Association in Kansas City. Following the paper is an 8-page discussion compiled by C, L. Pool which summarizes and describes typical methods for control of exposures in certain industries. 449 BEYOND JUST " THE LETTER OF THE LAY/." H.E.Roberts. Occup. Hazards & Safety, 1, 15-18, 28, (May 1939). The trend of court decisions is definitely towards application of tho common law, of considering an occupational disease the same as an injury, wherever spe cific coverage has yet to be enacted. Cases are presented to show the devious reasoning by which the courts have made awards for industrial disabilities and to show management why it may be wise to look beyond the lotter of the law in determining its responsibility. GjG4 References to Recent Literature - 4 450 ALLAYING LUST IN BITUMINOUS-COAL MINES WITH WATER. D. Harrington, I. J. Forbes, y, E. Cash, E. H. Denny, C A. Herbert, D. J. Parker, C. W. Owings and A. V.*. Miller. U. S. Bur. of Mines, Tedh. Paper, No. 593, 55 pp. (1939). For sale by Supt. of Doctacnts, Washington, D. C. for 15 cents. This bulletin describes more fully (see Abstract 110, 1939) the researches of the Bureau of Mines on the use of water in reducing dust in coal mines. To pre vent dust explosions in mines both water and dusting methods are being used in conjunction. The dusting cannot be applied within 15 foot of the face, and it is at this point where much of the coal-dusts and gases are oncountered. This bulletin enumerates tho du3t producing sources and describes practical methods of using water as one of the most effective methods of allaying dust in bitumin ous-coal mines. Excellent illustrations and sketches ore included. Apart from the reduction of dust because of its explosive qualities an increase of 10$ in the efficiency of the workers is claimed in some mines, due both to reduced dis comfort from coal dust and to increased visibility. 451 DIAGNOSTIC STANDARDS, TUBERCULOSIS OF THE LUNGS AND RELATED LYMPH NODES. Tenta tive Edition, National Tuberculosis Association, 1938. Copies obtainable from the Association. Address: 50 V/. 50th St., New York City. This 32 page booklet follows the 10th edition of 1935 and presents simply and briefly the outstanding points to consider in diagnosing pulmonary tuberculosis. The Industrial physician who examines large groups of workmen has an unusual opportunity to detect tuberculosis and this pamphlet should help him in arriving at a proper diagnosis. Tho finding of such cases not only improves industrial health but also that of tho general public. 452 TUBERCULOSIS MORTALITY IN INDUSTRIAL POPULATIONS OF MASSACHUSETTS PHD MICHIGAN. C. C. Dauer. Am. Rev. Tuborc. 39_, 603-16. (May 1939). Tuberculosis mortality rates have bean higher in four Massachusetts cities than in a similar group of approximately tho same size in Michigan. It appears that the difference in mortality in the two groups of cities can best be explained on tho basis of more unfavorable environmental and social conditions in the Massachusetts groups. It also appears that indirectly the composition of the population with respect to nationality has played some part in these differences in mortality. The paper includes tables and statistics which describe the data according to age groups, type of occupation, density of population and housing facilities. 453 REPORT OF THE DEPARTMENTAL COMMITTEE OH COMPENSATION FOR CARD ROOM WORKERS. K. M. Stationery Office, London, 1939. The Committee was appointed to consider an equitable compensation code for card room workers in cotton mills. For a long time it was thought that there was no specific disease among the operatives which could be the subject of precise clinical diagnosis, but the present Committee recommends the permission of workers to apply for compensation for a respiratory disease termed "byssinosis," after having worked in a card room or cotton blovdng room for 20 years or more. It it now thought that a special medical board is able to arrive at a definite conclusion as to the occupational origin of this disease, which resembles bronchitis and emphysema and which is presumably characteristic of the occupa tion. , 454 THE FLOW OF AIR AND ITS DISTRIBUTION THROUGH DUCTS. PART 4. DUCT LAYOUT. J. R. Zwickl. Heat. &Vcnt., 6, 48-50, (May 1939). See Abstract 378, 1939. This paper discusses the methods of duct layout and design based on technically correct methods. All sections of the system are first calculated as equivalent round ducts and then their equivalent rectangular ducts substituted, if necossary, to fit the structural requirements of tho building. The designing is based on the flow in the selected main duct and branches are calculated as percentages of the main. Equations for calculating duct sizes and head losses are included and explained. References to Recent Literature - 5 (C) Papers on Industrial Poisons, Cancer, Dermatitis, etc. 455 RESPIRATORY HAZARDS OF ELECTRIC ARC WELDING. 0. A. Sander. Ind. Med. 8, 177-80 (May 1939). Twenty years of electric welding experience seem to indicate that the operation is not a hazardous occupation provided the fume concentration is kept below a certain level. This danger level appears to be higher than the concentrations of fumes usually encountered in moderately largo and fairly well ventilated rooms. A great deal depends upon the materials being welded and materials in the welding rods. Newer type* are continually boing developed and care should be taken in the use of them. Some of the newer materials are manganese, selenium, arsenic and cadmium. The danger of lead poisoning is of consequence when mater ials containing lead are used. Welding should not be done in confined spaces without the use of exhaust ventilation even for short periods of time. Manufac turers of welding materials might well consider a program of research in the analysis of fumes given off by the newer electrodes; a program of this sort would be of benefit to the whole metal industry. 456 HEALTH HAZARDS IN CHEMICAL INDUSTRIES. H. F. Smyth, The Chemist, 16, 187-94, (April 1939). While it may be safest to assume that all chemicals may be potentially toxic un less definitely known to be otherwise, it is stated that any chemical material, however toxic, can be handled with a reasonable degree of safety if its toxicity is known and the indicated protective measures are followed. The author discuss es the hazards of toxic substances, their portals of entry into the body, the chemical and physical state in which the elements act and the organs generally affected. A program is described for measuring the known hazards and for eval uating the unknown hazards of new chemicals. The latter generally involves lenghthy experimentation, usually with animals, to deteimine acute and chronic effects. A list of protective measures for the use of toxic materials is includ ed. 457 RESPIRATORS. R. W. G. Davis. Chem. & Ind. 58, 334-6. (April 15, 1939). (British) The term respirator is applied to any device or appliance designed to afford protection to the respiratory organs of the wearer. The U3s and limitations of each kind (applying particularly to chemical gases) is explained. Suggestions are offered for the guidance of those who are called upon to select and provide equipment for varius chemical processes. 458 GASSING ACCIDENTS. S. H. Wilkes and D. Matheson. Chem. Ind. 58, 316-23, (April 15, 1939). (British). The authors, as inspectors of the Factory Department in England, have tabulated the reported gassing accidents that have occurred during the past six yoars. It is shown that carbon monoxide produces for more accidents than any other gos, almost as many as all others combined. Other gases encountered are hydrogen sulfide, 3ulfur dioxide, chlorine, nitrous fumes, ammonia, benzol and trichlorethylenc, to mention a few. Accidents are classed as those due to "expected" gases and as those due to "surprise" gases, and some of the most serious acci dents are caused by the latter in locations where the gas is not manufactured or handled, but is generated or encountered by accident. It is noted that chemical works do not produce a high proportion of the accidents, and that most are in the iron and steel trades, particularly the blast furnace and its associated equipment. Lenghthy descriptions arc given of certain general procautions to bo followed. References to Recent Literature) - 6 459 WAR GASES AND INDUSTRIAL HAZARDS IN THEIR MANUFACTURE. H. N. Cole, J. R. Driver, S. S. Bowen and G. Cooper, Arch. Dcrmat. & Syphilol., 39., 45-54 (January 1939). The authors were consultants in a factory in v.'hich dipheuylchloroarsine (DA), chloroacetophenone (CN), diphenylsminc-chloroarsine (XU), dichlorethylsulfide (IS mustard gas), and phonyldichlomrsinc (sternite) were prepared and which act ed as irritants on the skins of workers who wore exposed. The precautions and treatments in the use of each are listed. In general, the authors suggest the following prophylactic measures: (1) absolute cleanliness in the plant; (2) change of work clothes every 2 days; (3) careful washing of hands and face before each meal; (4) bathe and change to street clothes over/ night; (5) use gas masks in all operations whore exposure to dangerous gases is possible; (G) with all products except mustard gas, the wearing of rubber gloves and a mustard suit; and (7) immediate treatment of areas affected by DA or EM with freak solution of sodium hypochlorite. Areas affected by CN should be treated with 10% solution of sodium bicarbonate. 460 THE DETECTION OF TOXIC GASES AND VAPORS IN INDUSTRY, K. B. Vallender. Churn, &Ind., 58, 330-3 (April 15, 1939). (British). Tho sense of smell and the behavior of animals are both unreliable as general methods for detecting tho presence of traces of toxic gases encountered in many industrial atmospheres. The need for simple, rapid, semi-quantitative tests, sensitive to very low concentrations of gases and vapors is pointed out, and the suitability of existing methods discussed. A description is given of such a method for the detection of certain gases, some of which have been published by the Dept, of Scientific and Industrial Research (England). Those published to date have referred to hydrogen sulfide, hydrogen cyanide, sulfur dioxide, nitrous fumes and benzene; all have been noted in these abstracts. 461 THE TOXICITY OF ORGANIC SOLVENTS. T. HcClurkin. Chem. & Ind. 58, 339-42, (April 15, 1939). (British). Acute and chronic poisoning by vapors of organic solvents are described and ex amples oi' poisoning in man are given. The object has been to stress the danger not only of exposure to high concentrations but also the less frequently under stood danger of exposures to low concentrations. A clearer realization of these dangers will do much towards the application of caution in tho use of these sub stances in industry. 462 COLORIMETRIC DETERMINATION OF HEMOGLOBIN AS REDUCED HEMOGLOBIN OR AS ACID HEMATIN, BASED ON MANY INIXJSTRIIi-UEDICAL BOARD EXAMINATIONS. K. Humperdinck. Deutsch. Arch. f. kiln. Med., 185, 379-86, (February 7, 1939). (German). In two-thirds of 400 samples of blood, the hemoglobin values by Burker*s homoglobinometer and the Zeiss-Ikoa hemometer (acid hematin) were in agreement. Occasional acid hematin values differed greatly from those by Burker*s method, probably because of wido variations in the course of formation of acid hematin. By Burker*s method, absolute hemoglobin content per erythrocyte showed very little variation in the 400 subjects. Of the total number, 36# had 3 to 6.2 million erythrocytes per cu, mm. 463 CHRONIC CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING AND PERNICIOUS ANE.UA. H. Biedermann. Folia Haematol., 61, 186-200 (1938). (Italian). A subject repeatedly exposed tc carbon monoxide developed hematological and neurological symptoms indistinguiskable from those in pernicious anemia. The rapid regression of tho neurological signs under therapy lead the author to re gard the signs of pernicious anemia as symptomatic ccnsequencos of the carbon monoxide poisoning, rather than as indicators of an independent primary perni cious anemia. It is suggested that some apparently refractory cases of perni cious anemia may be due to unsuspocted, repeated exposure to carbon monoxide. References to Recent Literature - 7 464 METHODS FOR THE DETECTION OF TOXIC OASES IN INDUSTRY. NO. 5. NITROUS FUMES. Dept, of Sci. & Ind. Research, Great Britain. H. M. Stationery Office, London, 1939. Nitrous fumes are usually reddish-brown in color and consist of a mixture of NOg and NO^, with possibly traces of NO. Dangerous concentrations may be en countered in many important industries. They arc.also encountered in connection with electro-plating, engraving, metal cleaning and photogravure processes, and are formed during oxy-aeetylene welding when the flame plays on cold steel in a confined space. They have caused fatalities during the heat treatment of metals in molten nitrates. In the test described, one of a series for use by unskilled personnel, the sample is pumped through a solution of a-naphthalene and sulphanilic acid in acetic acid by a standard hand pump. The number of strokes of the pump to obtain the standard rose-pink color determines the concentration, which may bo detected to as low as 1 part in 100,000 (0.03 mg./I) Detailed descrip tions of the pump, bubbler preparations of the reagents and sampling methods are given in the leaflet. 465 CEREBRAL SU3C0RTICAL MYELINOPATHI IN CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING. Y. K. Hsii and Y. L. Ch'eng. Brain, 61, 384-92 (1938). The authors report and discuss two cases of "relapsing" carbon monoxide poison ing, in which diffuse degenerative lesions developed in the deeper cerebral white substance--lesions less often described than are the basal lesions. Of special interest is tho absence of bilateral softening of the globus pallidus in these cases since this is regarded as almost pathognomonic of acute carbon mon oxide poisoning. After listing tho brain lesions commonly found and reported, tho authors discuss tho various theories which have been presented to explain thoir development. They arrive at tho conclusion that no single theory seems to be adequate to explain in its entirety the action of this gas on tissue cells, and that probably several factors act together. Anoxemia, specific vascular disturbances, and the anatomical factor of peculiar blood supply in specific parts of the body (particularly in the brain), are believed to act together in producing the pathological lesions found. 466 FURTHER OBSERVATIONS ON THE POSSIBLE SYSTEMIC TOXICITY OF CERTAIN OF THE CHLOR INATED HYDROCARBONS WITH SUGGESTIONS FOR PERMISSIBLE CONCENTRATIONS IN THE AIR OF WORKROOMS. C. E. Drinker. J. Ind. Hyg. & Toxicol., 21, 155-9 (May 1939). Experiments on the toxicity of these compounds have been continued end are report ed in the paper. It is well known that a diet rich in calcium is effective in preventing acute atrophy of tho liver from exposure to carbon tetrachloride. To discover whether calcium in the diet would protect against liver damage from a toxic chlorinated hydrocarbon, two groups of rats were fed diets of high and low calcium, respectively, and subjected to inhalation of high concentrations of a mixture of ponta and hexachlomaphthalenes. It was found that a high calcium diet has no protective effect against tho characteristic liver lesions caused by these compounds. To check a supposition that xanthine injections reduced tho toxicity of these compounds, another series of animals was exposed to the vapors, and part of them were given xanthine in addition. No differences in the effects were noted. That the chlorinated hydrocarbons are broken up within the body was proven by a significant increase in the urinary chloride following inhalation of the compounds. Included in the paper is a list cf 15 of the im portant compounds of this series showing permissible limits of these substances in air. Most of them contain from 45 to 63$ chlorine; the limit of all with but three exceptions, is 0.5 mg* per cu. meter of air. The exceptions are: tricolornaphthalene plus a trace of totrachlornaplvthalcne -- 10.0 mg. per cu. n.; chlor inated diphenyl -- 10.0 mg. per cu. m.; and tetra and pentachlornaphthalencs -- 1.0 mg. per cu. m. 044 -_ r` j\ References to Recent Literature - 8 467 TOXIC EFFECTS UPON RABBITS OF P5MTACHL0RPHENQL AND SODIUM PS'ITACHLORPHENOL R. A. Kehoo, W. Deichmann-Gruebler and X. V. Kitzmilier. J. Ind. I-fyg. & Toxicol., 21, 160-72 {May 1939). Pentachlorphenol is used commercially as a preservative for wood and wood pro ducts. Since manual handling of treated lumber cannot be completely avoided, experiments on the material were carried out to check the reported toxic proper ties of the material. The substance when dissolved is capable of penetrating the skin surfaces and the investigations were made with this in mind. Pentachlorphenol, as well as its sodium salt, when absorbed into the tissues (cutaneously or subcutaneously) in sufficient quantify* produces an acute toxemia. The mini mum lethal dose, applied cutaneously, varied, depending on the solvent, from 39 mg. per kilogram of body weight (in pine oil) to 350 mg. per kg. (in olive oil). Animals not poisoned fatally usually recovored fully within various short periods and there was no indication that the absorption of repeated small doses induced a chronic type of poisoning. It is stated, however, that this latter point needs further observation and for this reason the material should bo em ployed with caution. 468 THE TOXICOLOGY OF SOME GLYCOLS AND DERIVATIVES. E. P. Laug, II. 0. Calvery, H.J. Morris and G. Woodard. J. Ind. Hyg. & Toxicol., 21, 173-201, (May 1939). This excollent paper presents a thorough review of the literature and reports on an extensive series of experiments with those compounds in determining their toxicitios. Over 2600 animals were used in the tests and the methods of statis tical analyses employed are especially interesting. After correlating the in formation in the literature with the results of the experiments, it is concluded that ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, ethylene glycol mono-ethyl-ether, di ethylene glycol mono-ethyl-ether and dioxan should be entirely omitted from food and drug preparations and that propylene glycol should be avoided except in very small concentrations. 469 FATE OF TRICHLORETHXLENE IN THE ORGANISM. H. M. Earrett and J. H. Johnston. J. Biol. Chem., 127, 765-70 (March 1939). Trichloracetic acid was identified in the urine of dogs which repeatedly inhaled narcotizing doses of trichlorethyleno. This may be present as a conjugated pro duct or may possibly be a decomposition product of some more complex unstable compound actually excreted. There are indications that the seme material is pre sent in the urine of humans exposed to trichlorethyleno. 470 TRICHLORETHXLENE DEGREASING TANKS AND THEIR SAFE OPERATION. W. B. Harris, C. B. Ford, F. A. Patty and T. Hatch. Indust. Bull., N. Y. State Dept, of Labor, 18, 132-4 (March 1939). This paper gives the results of a survey of 50 plants using trichlorethylene degreasing tanks, with a detailed survey of 15 of those studied. Recommendations are made for the design of equipment, location of equipment, local exhaust ven tilation, and operation. Dimensions of tank and room, quantity of flow and rate of flow for adequate ventilation are given. The exhaust ventilation should be applied laterally at the edges of the tank since the heavy vapor tends to roll over the edge and fall to the floor. A ventilating rate of 60 c.f.a. per foot of tank perimeter has been found to be adequate. This produces an air movement of approximately 20 f.p.m. toward the exhaust openings at a distance of one foot from the slot. It is necessary to keep the rate of air flow as low as possible to maintain efficiency of control and to prevent too large losses of the sol vent. References to Recent Literature - 9 471 TETRACHX0RETHYL221E IN THE TREATMENT OF BDQKWOBM DISEASE WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ITS TOXICITY. P. B. Fernando, M. d'Silva, G. K. B. Stork and G. R. Sinnatamby. Indian I. Med. Res., 26, 759-85 (January 1939). (India). Tetrachlorethylene, studied in ill patients, was found to be effective in expell ing hookworms; a single doso of 8 cc. for adultswill expel 100 (as many as 510 worms) but has little effect on roundworms. Careful examination of each patient was made in order to check the toxicity. Several liver tests were employed. Mo appreciable toxic effect on the liver was noted in any of them oven in those re ceiving double the maximum adult dose in general use. No depressant effects of any importance ?jore noted and no toxic action onthe kidneys. There was occa sional giddiness, faintness and weakness but these were only temporary. A dose of 8 cc. is the most effective, but one of 4-5 cc. can be given to adults at intervals of 10 days. The effects on children are also discussed. 472 EXPERIMENTAL CARBON TETRACHLORIDE POISONING IN THE CAT. II. THE INFLUENCE OF LIGATION OF SINGLE BILE DUCTS. H. L. Stewart and A. Cantarow. Arch. Path. 26, 1121-30 (1938). For abstract of first article in this series, see No. 758, 1938. The authors experimented with 44 cats, divided into two groups. The first re- ceived 0.3 cc. pure carbon tetrachloride per kg; in the second group, one or more ducts from the left lobes of the livor were ligated and divided. Two weeks later this group was given the same dose of carbon tetrachloride as Group I. Cats in both groups were sacrificed at different intervals and tho changes noted. Evidence of damage was much less marked in the second group in the first 6 days after carbon tetrachloride injection. By the end of 6 days, the Group II livers were essentially normal in contrast to signs of extensive residual damage in those of Group I. Also abnormalities in bilirubinemia, retention of bromsulphalein and urobilinuria aro less marked in thoso with ligation of ducts. 473 COMPARATIVE ACTION OF PURE AND COMMERCIAL BENZENE ON THE VASOMOTOR SYSTEM OF ANESTHETIZED DOGS. R. Charlior and P. Angenot. Compt. Rond Soc. biol., 130, 779-82 (1939). (French). NEW RESEARCH ON THE TOXICITY OF BENZENE. R. Charlier. Arch. Intern de Pharmacol, et Therap., 61, 123-53 (February 1939). (French). The authors describe Dautrobande*s work on the physiological effect of "crystallizable commercial benzene" on the central nervous system, tho peripheral vaso motor system and tho myocardium, and present the results of similar research on (1) the toxicological effect of chemically pure benzene, (2) a comparison of the effect of commercially and of chemically pure benzene, and (3) the origin of tho greater toxicological effect of commercially pure benzene. Experiments conducted on three organs (heart, intestines, and vasomotor system) showed commercially pure benzene to have a greater toxicity than chemically pure benzene. Research was then conducted to determine the compounds which caused this result. Follow ing the fractionation of commercially pure benzene into 4 important groups, it was found that the fraction boiling from 80.4 to 81.2C, had greatest toxicity, greater than pure benzene itself. Further studios of this fraction and of tho impurities in the substance are to be undertaken later. 474 SULFURETTED HYDROGEN PRODUCED BY BACTERIA IN A LEAD MINE. J. W. Edington. J. Hygiene, 38, 683-7 (November 1938). (British). Smarting eyes, markedly congested conjunctivao, and a stinging sensation in the nose and throat were found in 12 workers in a lead mine. The strong smell of hydrogen sulfide in the part of the mine whore they worked was traced to the stagnant mine water in which there were sulfur deposits. Samples of the water yielded great numbers of bacteria. Improved ventilation eliminated the trouble some gas. CO /n o 4 .. References to Recent Literature - 10 475 INTOXICATIONS BY BENZENES* M. Duvoir and H. Desoille. Presse med. pp 331-2 (March 1, 1939). (French). Acute intoxications, usually by accidental exposure to large concentrations of vapors, cause the same injury as do other lipoid solvents. The first symptoms are inebriation and vomiting but those disappear rapidly in fresh air. A more severe form causes loss of consciousnoss or heart failure and death. In chronic poisoning only the aromatic hydrocarbons of the benzene ring cause blood distur bances. Impurities play a small role and benzine does not seem to attach the blood. Methods of treatment and prophylaxis are given. If exposure cannot be prevented by enclosure of tho process or adequate ventilation, some other sub stance should be employed. Last year the French Society of Hematologists recom mended that where they are not indispensable, benzenes must be prohibited. 476 FATAL CASE OF ANGINA PECTORIS AFTER BREATHING HYDROGEN SULFIDE GASES. A. Hellfors. Munsch. Med. Y/chnschr., 85^ 1149 (1933). (Gorman). During experiments with hydrogen sulfide gas'the patient inhaled rather small amounts of the gas. Although others in the laboratory were equally exposed, none showed any reaction. The patient had a dizzy spell and suffered chest con striction and in the evening had irritation of the throat, cough, weak and irreg ular pulse, heart symptoms, diffuse bronchitis, diarrhea, vomiting. The next morning there was sugar in the urine and tho blood sugar was 126 rag.#. Hb was recovering, but on the 9th and 10th days, disregarding orders and actively moving about, he suffered a relapse of the heart and chest pains and the blood pressure again fell. This was followed by chills and fever and angina pains were felt at the slightest movement. In spite of treatment the condition became aggravated and the man died 6 hours later of angina pectoris (severe constricting pain in the chest). 477 EARLY DIAGNOSIS OF OCCUPATIONAL ARSENIC POISONING. G, Strauba. Deutsch. med. Y/chnschr., 65, 334-5 (1959). (German). In examining vineyard workers the author has attempted to distinguish between arsenic absorption and arsenic poisoning. He believes that those cases showing only hyperkeratosis may be considered as suffering from arsenic absorption. The presence of homy pearls, that can be discovered at an early stage by tho use of filtered ultraviolet light, is characteristic of the latter. 478 ANIMAL EXPERIMENTS ON LUNG CHANGES AFTER MANGANESE DUST INHALATION. H. Rcploh. Arbeitsschutz, pp 144-6 (1939). (German). The author, investigating the pneumonia producing properties of manganese, had rabbits and mice inhale dust containing 90# manganese dioxide. Of 32 animals, 9 died within the first 19 days, all of which showed more or less pronounced bronchopneumonia. Of the survivors some were infected intranasally with pneumo cocci and half of them exposed to drafts and cold. But three of those infected survived, and it was in these that tho lung changes found were most pronounced; those dusted only had no lung changes. Since Thomas slag induces pneumonia in man also, a dust, containing 10# manganese dioxide to simulate the slag dust, wa3 used in continued experiments. About the same results were obtained, namely, that those infected with pneumococci showed severe lung changes, that in those not infected the lung changes were not so marked. The author believes that the pneumonia caused by Thomas slag can possibly be traced to the manganese dioxide. 479 NOTES ON Y.'ORKING WITH BRONZE POWDERS. M. Deribere. Ann. d*I^g. Pub. Indust, et Soc. 16, 506-7, (1938). (French). Bronze powders, which are composed of salts of copper, are used in several in dustrial processes; The workers, under the impression that these powders are poisonous, tend to ascribe any sickness they experience to this cause. Large doses of copper salts are indeed poisonous; but such doses seldom, if ever, occur industrially. The copper salt3 &re rapidly eliminated and do not sot up a chronic poisoning within tho body. References to Recent Literature - 11 480 TOXICOLOGY OF FLUORIDES. A. 0. Gettler and L. Ellerbrook. Am. J. Med. 3ci., 197, 625-37 (May 1939). The methods of detection and quantitative determination of fluorine in body tissues are explained in detail and the normal content of fluorine in many of the organs is listed with both values from the literature and those found by the authors. Very small amounts of fluorine are found in normal human tissues (20 to 80 micrograms in 100 grams) and there seems to bo no appreciable accumu lation of fluorine in any one of the vital organs. The fluorine content of teeth and bones is higher, being of the order of 0.01 to 0.03$, which probably varies with the amount of fluorine in the daily diet. The symptoms of fluorine poisoning are reviewed and an attempt is made to estimate the minimum lethal dose (by ingestion). Not much attention is given to the inhalation of compounds of fluorine. 481 CHRONIC FLUORINE POISONING, SEEN FROM THE ROENTGENOLOGICAL STANDPOINT. P. F. Moller. Brit. J. Radiol. 12, 13-20 (January 1939). (British). Chronic fluorine poisoning in man was discovered in 1931 when the author was in vestigating silicosis in factory workers and came upon curious changes in the bones of a number of workers in a cryolite factory. It had boon recognized in nnjmfli experimentation many years before and it was found that the symptoms in both were the same. These symptoms were acute in character and included lack of appetite, nausea, and vomiting; they disappeared when the individual went into the open air. It was also noted that there is an apparent tolerance to the du3ts following continued exposures. The principal sign of fluorine poisoning is in bone changes, especially in the spongy bones. In the affected individ uals, there was almost complete disappearance of normal body structure, the bones of the vertebrae and spine having almost a milky white opacity. In the extremities, the compact layers of bone were much thickened and the.marrow cav ities narrowed. The earliest changes wore noted after 2 1/2 years of exposure; more extensive changes occurred after 4 to 11 years. Another feature of the condition concerns the teeth. These changes, described as mottled teeth, have been recognised in nearly all countries. It is stated that because the occurrance of fluorine is so extensive in nature, it presents a real dust problem. Work with cryolite, phosphorito and calcium fluoride should, in particular, be done with extreme caution. It is important that radiologists recognize the in cidence of fluorine poisoning, and certain aids in diagnosis are given in the paper. 482 INDUSTRIAL CHLORINE GAS POISONING. E. Schulze. Saram. v. Vergiftsf., 10, 1-2 (January 1939). (German). A worker in a small chemical plant v/as exposed to chlorine gas during the course of an experiment. Although he had breathed only a small amount of the gas, he had to be helped from the room and then lost consciousness. At the hospital he developed an acute, severe bronchitis, and about 5 weeks later this seemed cured but it again developed a few weeks later. The bronchitis became chronic and the patient was troubled with an increasingly severe cough and dyspnea. Respiratory functions were badly disturbed; vital capacity was only 1000 cc. and respiratory minute volume was almost double the normal. The case is unusual in that nonfatal cases usually do not load to this chronic condition. 483 UNION CONFERENCE ON LEAD POISONING. Labor Standards, 58-0. (April-May 1939). The control of lead poisoning v/as discussed by the Battery Council of the United Electrical, Radio and Machine Workers of America at a meeting in Phila delphia on March 15. An outcome of the meeting was the appointment of standing committees to gather detailed information and to conduct further conferences on the subject of occupational diseases. References to Recent Literature - 12 484 THE EARLY DIAGNOSIS OF ACUTE AND. LATENT PLUMBISM. F. L. Smith, 2nd, T. K. Rathwell and G. E. Marcil. Am. J, Clin. Path., 13, 471-508 (1938). Reprints obtainable from the senior author, Jefferson Medical College Hospital, Philadel phia, Pa. The many symptoms that may be found in lead poisoning aro listed and mention is made of tho difference in susceptibility to lead. The authors review figures given as normal lead in urine and concentrations in urine of exposed and poisoned persons. In discussing the significance of stippled cells, the authors list six teen other pathological conditions in which these colls have been reported. In the author's series and experiments, stippling did not precede symptoms and it often was absent in the toxic stage. Reticulocyte response and basophilic aggre gation are not considered adequate as diagnostic tests. Detailed blood data are given on a large number of patients grouped according to clinical manifestations, and the authors believe that a differential diagnosis can be made by accurate determination of lead in serum, cells and fibrin fraction when considered in re lation to the whole blood value. Their analytic method is given. In normal sub jects, climatic, seasonal and daily changes, had no effect on whole blood values, nor did food, fatigue or violent exorcise. It is significant that, in normal persons, lead was never detected in the serum, but in cases of plumbism, serum lead was present in amounts up to 0.015 mg. per 10 gsa. In chronic poisoning, load disappears from the serum but the whole blood lead values are higher than normal. If borderline cases are put on an acid diet, lead will reappear in the serum. 485 THE CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF PUNCTATE BASOPHILIA IN THE SHYTHROCYTE.E.E. Falconer, Ann. Int. Med., 12, 1429-41 (March 1939). The mean number of stippled erythrocytes in 205 normal adults was 92 per million red cells; in 234 patients with different clinical conditions, it was 363 per million. Five patients, to whom load was administered, had 3.9,950 per million after symptoms appeared, but 2250 up to the time symptoms appeared. In 8 workers exposed to lead but free of symptoms, the stippled cell count was 2100. Adminis tration of alkaline hematin to 2 patients resulted in stippled cell counts of 5250 and 2092. These data suggest that punctate basophilia is not a specific in dication of either lead absorption or lead intoxication. 486 BLOOD REGENERATION IN EXPERIMENTAL LEAD POISONING BY A 7/ATSR SOLUBLE LITER FAC TOR. M. Lauro, G. S. deSacy and A. Arthus. Compt. rend. Soc. et biol., 130, 642-4 (1939). (French), A brief report of experiments on 55 rabbits given six different liver extracts after anemia induced by lead. Regeneration of blood began within 3 to 8 days after intravenous injection of tho extract and reached a fairly high but sub normal lovol. Control animals given no extract recovered only slightly. Regen eration took place regardless of animal's age, duration of treatment, amount of load injected, gravity of anemia and time of liver injection. 487 INFLUENCE OF ACID AND ALKALINE DIETS ON PORPHYRINURIA IN EXPERIMENTAL LEAD POI SONING. A. Capellini. Med. del Lavoro, 30, 33-43, (1939). (Italian). Three rabbits on an acid diet and three on an alkaline one were given 30 cc, of 3# solution of lead acetate daily for 30 days. Porphyrine in a 24 hr. urine sample of tho animals on an alkaline diet was 90, 53 and 108 micrograms. The corresponding figures for the animals on acid diets were 187, 136 and 152, but in these latter, the porphyrinuria dropped more quickly when tho lead was dis continued. G04 42;j References to Recent Literature - 13 488 LEAD POISONING-, LEAD CONTENT OF BLOOD AND OF EXCRETA. S. L. Tompsett and A. B. Anderson. Lancet, pp. 559-62 (March 11, 1939). (British). The lead content of blood and excreta of 29 cases of suspected lead poisoning was deteimined by the sodium diethyldithiocarbonate method, certain improvements in which are stated in detail. The investigation confirmed the opinion that the estimation of blood-lead is more satisfactory than the dotemination of the ex cretion of lead. The upper limit of normality for blood lead is placed as 100 micrograms of lead per 100 ml. When this limit is exceeded, or if there is a total daily excretion of 1 mg. or more of lead, then lead poisoning is present. Details are given of a large number of determinations made. The concentration of lead in the blood of these cases was ten to twenty times that in the urine. Nevertheless, it cannot yet bo claimed that the chemical diagnosis of lead poi soning is infallible, even though it is surer than clinical methods. 489 A NET/ MICROCHEMICAL LEAD TEST, C. Mahr. Mikrochea., 26, 67-81 (February 14, 1939). (German). '* Lead can be detected in the presence of other heavy metals by the formation of very insoluble and highly specific lead thiourea nitrate. To the lead-containing solution in 2N nitric acid, 1/10 volume of solid thiourea is added. After di luting 1:100, formation of crystals is observed under the microscope. The lead thiourea nitrate precipitates as doubly refracting neodlelike prisms, 20-50 mi crons long and very thin. The needles are often crossed and frequently united in star-shaped bundles. By this direct procedure lead can be detected in the pre sence of 60-70 parts bismuth, 75 mercury and more than 100 of cadmium, arsonic, tin, silver, platinum and other metals. The metals of the ammonium sulfide and alkaline earth groups do not interfere at similar concentrations. The specifi city may be increased about 10 times by a previous separation of the lead as lead oxide on the platinum electrode. The limiting concentration of lead is about 1:40,000. 490 FAINTING PRACTICES. C. D. Bridges. Safety Eng. 77, 44-7, (May 1939). There are many different types of paints being manufactured by numerous firms, and so many ingredients aro used that it is impossible to determine the toxicity of all paints. The safest practice is to employ all precautions possible when using any type of paint or lacquer. When spraying paints, exhaust booths are desirable where it is possible to employ them. A description is given of the elemental principals of exhaust booth construction. Where exhaust ventilation is not applicable, respirators should be worn. They should be supplied air res pirators, as this type is more efficient and more comfortable for continued wear, and the air supply i3 convenient. The air line should be passed through a filter to remove fumes, dust, moisture, etc. It should be remembered that dust respir ators do not protect against fumes. Paint dermatoses, duo to allergy to the var ied ingredients, may bo controlled by protective clothing, and the use of pro tective skin creams such as vasoline and cold cream, and nreventing the use of solvents for washing. Paint brushing involves exposure/fo solvents and re quires, primarily, good ventilation. 491 MEDICOLEGAL COMPLICATIONS IN DERMATOLOGY CAUSED BY MASSACHUSETTS WORKMEN'S COM PENSATION ACT. J.H. Blaisdell. Arch. Deimatol. &Syphilol., 35^, 69-80 (January 1939). The author shows that the question of compensation is largely dependent on the interpretation which, since the enactment of the compensation act, has become evolved through practical experience. He stresses the difficulties that arise for the dermatologist in testifying before a group of lay referees because cf the impossibility of always giving a definite "Yes" or "No0 answer. He gives consideration to the use of patch tests in evidence before the referees. Follow ing those discussions are several suggestions for changes in the present lav;. References to Recent Literature - 14 492 CUTANEOUS ERUPTIONS AMONG INDUSTRIAL WORKERS. J. G. Downing. Arch. Dermat. Syphilol., 39^ 12-32 (January 1969}. The author presents a large mass of important data relative to industrial derma toses, taken from a study of 2000 cases. He has many tables which bear careful study by those interested in the subject. Prevention and diagnosis of dermato sis cases are much cheaper than neglect. A process should not be condemned as dangerous because ono or a few workers are peculiarly sensitive. The largest numbor of cases occurred in young untrained workers between the ages of 20 and 25 and the hands were the most frequently involved area of the body. There is an interesting discussion of the distribution of deimatosos according to occupa tions, and there are excellent summaries of important contacts, materials used and characteristic effects in the different occupations. In discussing preven tion he stresses the importance of detecting and eliminating hazards, the impor tance of mechanical devices, the importance of gloves, and protective liquids and creams. The author finds little value in pre-employment patch tests; he dis cusses the factors and the proper evaluation.of the tests as they regard occupa tional. exposure. 493 INDUSTRIAL DERMATITIS AND MELANOSIS DUE TO PB3T0SHJSITIZATI0N. H. R. Foerster and L. Schwartz* Arch. Dermat. & Syphilol., 39^, 55-68 (January 1939). The authors examined 500 men in factories using pitch and tar products. Most of the cutaneous lesions observed were found in workers who handled pitch or pitch products and who were doing their work outdoors. Patch tests were performed on 14 pitch workers and 6 control subjects with the different fractions of the pitch and tar, and the areas thus tested wore exposed to radiation of various wavelengths. Some of the aspects of the chemical and physical properties of the pitch are discussed in detail. From their studies, the authors conclude that pitch dermatitis and melanosis are the products of true photosensitization and not of allergic sensitization or predisposition. This photosensitization occurs through local exogenous activity of a specific photosensitizer. The tests re vealed that no particular fraction of the pitch or distillate of the tar can be held responsible for the production of photosensitization. The most important radiation is that in the range of blue and violet of visible light and in the long wavelengths of ultraviolet light (3900 to 5000 angstroms). The most active carcinogenic hydrocarbon in pitch, namely, 1,2 benzpyrene, which has fluorescent bands at 2500 and 3800 Angstroms, is probably not ono of the photosensitizing ingredients. 494 OIL DERMATITIS. Anonymous. Safety Eng., 77, 49-50, (May 1939). The article reports on some researches carried out on dermatitis from cutting oils, about which the following conclusions are drawn. Tho oil itself is not the direct cause of the skin irritation; rather it is the dust and bacteria for which the oil forms a suitable vehicle. The bacteria are not from the oil, but are on the skin; all cutting oils are capable of penetrating the skin surfaces and the bacteria enter by this moans. These bacteria also find entry to the skin through minute cuts made by metallic particles in suspension in the oils. Prevention is best accomplished by thorough cleanliness. The affected parts should be washed twice a day in soap and water and no oils or gasoline should be used to remove dirt. 495 ALKALI ECZEMA, ITS DEVELOEMENT AND PREVENTION, WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO MODERN SOAPS (PRACUTAN, SATINA). H.T.Schreu3. Med. Welt., 13, 222-5, (1939). (German). The author considers that usually in hypersensitivity to alkalies, no real aller gic hypersensitivity is present, but am immediate sensitivity brought on by chem ical and physico-chemical reactions. Only prolonged contacts are invariably effective. Since alkali eczemas are only exacerbated by alkaline soaps, special alkali-free soaps such as "Pracutan" are recommended. p. n /> "7 L- U references to Recent Literature - 15 496 CHRONIC GRANULOMA IN INDUSTRIAL DERMATOLOGY. H. 2. Miller. Arch. Dennat. & Syphilol. 39, 33-44 {January 1939). In 3000 patients examined for the industrial responsibility of their eruption the author found 26 with chronic granulomata of which 16 were syphilis, 9 were cutaneous tuberculosis, 1 blastomycosis, 1 actinomycosis, and 3 wore leprosy. The role which each plays in these cases is discussed briefly. When chancres develop in the sites of industrial injuries, the carrier of insurance must pro vide treatment. The localization of lesions of secondary syphilis is rarely in fluenced by trauma, but the lesions of late and latent syphilis may often local ize on the sites of injury and will therefore be important in the evaluation of industrial dermatoses. Miller warns physicians diagnosing and treating indus trial dermatoses to be on the lookout for tuberculous chancres since he believes the incidence will rise in tho future due to the definite decrease in early pul monary infections now noted. 497 SOME CHIEF MEDICAL ASPECTS OF THE INDUSTRIAL DERMATOSES. S. F. Meek. Occup. Hazards & Safety, 2_, 31-3 (May 1939). Carefully planned medical records will provide a means for doteimining the inci dence of various types of dermatoses and relate such indices to occupations or specific exposures. Pre-Baployment examinations can be made to afford an oppor tunity to classify tho skin as to reaction type and enable the physician to ad vise safe job assignment. The author discusses some of the important practical points to consider in examining workers who are likely to bo exposed to dermato sis-producing materials. 498 DERMATITIS FROM INDUSTRIAL CONTACT WITH NICOTINIC ACID. R. M. Watrous. J. Am. Med. Assoc., 112, 2132 (May 27, 1939). Nicotinic acid has been reported as being a comparatively inert substance aside from its specific effect in curing pellagra. Patients have, however, noticed a sensation of warmth and flushing of the skin following oral or intravenous ad ministration. In this short article, case histories are presented which indicate that nicotinic acid is capable of producing a transient dermatitis in certain persons working with nicotinic acid tablets during tho course of their manufac ture. In nearly all of the 4 cases presented, the affected parts of the skin had the appearance of a mild sunburn with a mild burning and itching sensation, and in all cases the condition subsided within a day or two. Only a small pro portion of the workers experienced these reactions. 499 ASEPTIC NECROSIS OF BONE. I. INFARCTION OF BONES IN CAISSON DISEASE RESULTING IN ENCAPSULATED AND CALCIFIED AREAS IN DIAPHTSES AND IN ARTHRITIS DEFORMANS. S. C. Kahlstrom, C. C. Burton, and. D. B. Phcaaister. Surg., Gyn., & Obst.., 68, 129-46 (February 1939). Caisson disease (compressed air disease) is tho result of tissuo injury caused by nitrogen which cooes out of solution in the blood and body fluids in the form of bubbles following too rapid decompression after exposure to increased pressure Because of the greater solubility of nitrogen in fats, body tissues with a high fat content are sites of predilection for bubble formation. The tendency for bubble formation to occur in tho spinal cord, the nerves, and tho subcutaneous tissue is thus explained and has often been described. However, with tho ex ception of a single case, reported in 1888, there is no report cn tho patholog ical findings in tho bones and joints in caisson disease. Tho present paper describes 4 cases of compressed air illness in which extensive bone and joint changes are found. The cases are unusually well presented, with complete case histories, x-ray and autopsy material, and illustrations. It is not improbable that as a result of the findings, bone and joint changes attributable to this disease will come to be regarded as a compensable occupational disease, and more attention will be paid to the prevention and early treatment of tho condition. 0 References to Recent Literature - 16 500 COMPRESSED AIR DISEASE IN BUILDING THE REICH AUTO ROAD WHAVELBRUCKE-WERDER" AT THE SOUTHERN TANGENT OP THE BERLIN RING. R. Konig. Munch, med. ffchnschr., 86, 370-3 (1939)*- (Geman). The author, as pemanent medical supervisor of the compressed air work which reached a depth of 30 meters water gage, was always present during construction. He presents three interesting case histories and gonersl data on the symptoms observed. It is of interest that in rocompression, improvement took place at 2 to 3 meters water gage. 501 AERO-OTITIS MEDIA: ITS ALLEVIATION OR PREVENTION BY THE INHALATION OF HELIUM AND 0XYG2N, V/. R. Lovelace, C. V/. Mayo and W. M. Boothby. Proc. Staff Meetings Mayo Clinic, 14, 91-6 (February 8, 1939). Probably the most common subjective complaint of airplane pilots end passengers is discomfort in the ears during descent In flight. This is duo to the pecu liarity of the Eustachian tube which causes ii to tend to remain collapsed unless frequent voluntary swallowing efforts or other measures aro employed to open it during descent for the purpose of equalizing pressure in the middle ear. It has been discovered by experiment that helium-oxygen mixtures prevent or greatly di minish thi3 discomfort and it is suggested that, in airplanes equipped with in halation apparatus, helium-oxygen mixtures be inhaled during marked changes in altitude, especially when descending. 502 INDIVIDUAL VARIATIONS IN ABILITY TO ACCLIMATIZE TO HIGH ALTITUDE. A. Keys, B.H. V/. Matthews, W. H. Forbes and R. A. McFarland. Proc. Roy. Soc., 126, Series B, 1-24 (September 1938). (British). Individuals differ markedly in their ability to adjust to tho rarefied air of high altitude, and this ability appears to be related to a number of measurable characteristics at sea-level. For relatively normal men between tho ages of 29 and 44, habituated to sea-lovel, it appears that youth, slow pulse, low-normal blood oxygen capacity, lov/ alveolar-oxygon pressure, high alveolar-carbon di oxide pressure and high alkaline reserve at sea-level are favorable for accli matization at high altitude. It is concluded that careful observation over a number of day3 by trained observers gives a better indication as to relative perfection of acclimatization than any laboratory measures yet devised. 503 A CONTRIBUTION TO THE MECHANISM OF ADAPTATION OF TEE ORGANISM TO HIGH THIPERA- TURE. S. P. Sharovatova, Bull. Biol, et Med. exp., U.S.S.R., 671-4, (1938). (Russian). Single or repetitive exposure of dogs to heat (50C) decreased gastric secretion in response to a particular food stimulus, and increased the organic components of the juice; the inorganic components remained practically unchanged. The ob served changes indicate the participation of both the neuro-reflex and neuro chemical regulating systems. 504 HEAT STROKE AND ALLIED CONDITIONS. T. B. Nicholls. J. Roy. Army Med. Corp., 72 , 73-84 (February 1939). (3ritish). A review of the subject, written especially for anay men in the tropics. The use of salt in tho author's group reduced heat stroke to zero. 505 OBSERVATIONS ON THE BLOOD OF WORKMEN EXPOSED TO HIGH TEMPERATURES. P.L. McLain and E.S. Montgomery. J. Clin. Invest., 17, 417-22 (1938). Observations on a control group of 43 workers in hot industries and 30 patients admitted to a hospital for heat symptoms. In the latter group there were 17 cases of heat cramps, 6 of heat exhaustion and 7 of heat retention ("stroke"). Careful blood tests were made; in the controls there wa3 dehydration and fall of blood sugar following work; in tho patients, the changes depended on the typo of heat ailment involved. CO References to Recent Literature - 17 506 HEATING /HD VENTILATING SYSTEMS FOR PHYSICAL COMFORT. A. Bindley. J. Inst. Heat, & Vent. Engrs. London., 7/ 36-4 (March 1939). (British). In this short paper the author gives a sound .and interesting discussion of heat ing and ventilating systems in relation to human comfort. Ho regards as the main essentials-{for sedentary workers in Great Eritain), a temperature of 64 to 68F.; a'moderate relative himidity, cloan air, and adequate air movement; he later refers to the desirability of variable air currents rather than a uniform and monotonous rate of movement. The author concludes that, in Great Britain, except for certain industrial purposes, air conditioning is overrated, and that the air washer and refrigerator could bo dispensed with, substituting for venti lating purposos only a larger volmo of fresh air and making provision for in creased air movement to be usod as required. 507 PROTECTION AGAINST EYE ACCIDENTS. Home Office, Factory Department, Form 1987, December 1938. (British). Over 7600 eye accidents were reported to the'Factory Inspectors in Groat Britain during 1936. As the accidents reported are probably only those causing disable ment for 3 days or more, the total number of eye accidents is not known but this number is probably in the neighborhood of 100,000 yearly. The leaflet deals with methods of preventing such accidents. Screens (fixed and portable), holmots, face masks, visors, veils and goggles, are referred to, and the requirements for various operations are mentioned. Cautions as to the maintenance of protective appliances are given. 508 CHEMICAL MUSCLE CHANGES INDUCED BY ELECTRIC TRAUMA. G. Wonteznartini. Folia nod., 17, 76-86 (1939). (Italian). In animals experimentally shocked or killed with an electric current, the author finds demineralization, reduction of glycogen and alteration in calcium, magne sium, and potassium values. These values roturn to normal, however, some time after the end of exposure to electricity. 509 THE IGNITION OF FIREDAMP BY PURITES DURING COAL-CUTTING.' G. Allsop and R. V. Wheeler. Trans. Instn. Min. Engrs. Lend., 9, 310-2 (February 1939). (British). Experiments have clearly established that methane-air mixtures can easily be ignitod by the rubbing of blunt pick3 or of pick-boxes against pyrites, and it is thought that the mechanism of the ignition is as follows. Under the rubbing action, some of the pyrite is reduced to a fine powder and heated to between 200 and 300C. Within thi3 range of temperature, oxidation of the powdered pyrite proceeds rapidly and ultimately flame (burning sulfur) appears. This flame ignites the firedamp. 510 DOCUMENTS OF OCCUPATIONAL ANTHRAX. Med. du travail, U 48-66 (1939). (French). French rules regarding compensation of anthrax a3 an occupational disease and its former compensation as an accident, are reproduced and discussed. Instruc tions for the prevention of the disease are also included. One author reports on two cases treated with serum and with fomentations of septoplix (paraminophcnil-sulfamid). He also mentions eight other cases treated by Murteanu and Zeltzman with other sulfonids. 511 PROPHYLAXIS OF MINERS* ANKYLOSTOMIASIS IN THE LOIRE VALLEY. C. Garin and E. Roman. Ann. d*hyg. pub. ind. soc., pp. 56-66 (February 1939). (French). In France, minors* ankylostomiasis (also callod miners* anexaia or tunnel anemia) is a compensable disease. It can bo prevented by keeping the mines as free as possible of worm larvae and by examining and treating the workers. An intensive 00 44 3 3' References to Recent Literature - .18 effort was made in two mines employing 4900 men. The percentage of infested men, varying widely from pit to pit, was found to range from 1 6$ to 65$. Of the infestod workers treated with totrachlorethylenc, 80$ were entirely freed of para sites; chcnopodium oil and thymol were not more than 50$ effective and quinacrine was useless. Final examination showed the infestation to have dropped markedly in all groups although it had not been completely wiped out. 512 WEIL'S DISEASE IN COAL MINERS. V/. E. Roes. Brit, Med. J., pp. 603-5 (March 25, 1939). II. CLINICAL PATHOLOGY. A. F. Sladden. Ibid. pp. 605-7. (British). The prevalence of Weil's disease is further shown by the six cases reported here among South 'Wales cool miners. The symptoms were typical; jaundice, nephritis,and sudden onset of generalized muscular pains. One of the cases was fatal. The diagnosis was verified in each case by serological investigation and positive agglutination reaction for leptospira. Laboratory investigations are sot out in tables containing details of blood examinations, blood counts, urine examinations, tests for red-cell fragility, Wassemann reactions, animal inoculation experi ments, Van den Bergh reactions, and the presence of urine bilirubin, urobilinogen and urobilin. Three of the men worked together and all worked in wot places in fested with rats. Stops are being taken to rid the mines of rats, as no further cases have occurred in mines having done so. 513 SPIROCHETAL JAUNDICE IN BUFFALO, NEW YORK. REPORT OF A FATAL CASE IN A FISH MERCHANT. N. W. Elton. Am. J. Clin. Path., 219-25 (March 1939). This is said to be the eighth proven death from Weil's disease (see Abstract 433, 1939) in this country. Its course is described along with very careful laboratory tests. Urine obtained on the patient's admittance to the hospital was injected into a guinea pig which developed jaundice on the 12th day and died within 24 hrs. On sectioning, its liver was 3eon to be swarming with typical lentospirao, which wore spread uniformly over the liver and wore abundant in the /fuSuIar epithelium. A second guinea pig, innoculnted with the urine of the first, also died. Microscopically no spirochetes were visible in tho patient's urine or in the guinea pigs' blood or urine. 514 FACTORS INFLUENCING SUSCEPTIBILITY OF PLANTS TO SULPHUR DIOXIDE INJURY. Carl Setterstrom and P. W. Zimmerman. Contrib. Boyce Thompson Institute. 10, 155- 181 (Janunry-March 1939). From a review of the literature and new experimental data the knowledge of the action of sulphur dioxide on plants has been increased. Some of the conclusions made are as follows: (1) plants are more resistant to sulphur dioxide at tem peratures below 40F.; (2) resistance generally decreases with an increase in the relative humidity, (3) plants grown with an ample supply of water are more susceptible than those with an inadequate supply, (4) plants grown in poor soil are more susceptible than plants in good soil, (5) reduction in light intensity (as a heavy shade) below 35$ decreases the resistance, and (6) young plants are more resistant than older ones. A second paper on the subject is to follow at a later date. 00 44