bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
100 Lightweight Air Sampling Badge for Material-Specific Monitoring of Workplace Aerosol Exposure
Authors: Schweinar Kevin , Manole Mihaela , Szakács Zoltán , Bieri Rudolf
Published: May 2023

Monitoring occupational exposure to hazardous airborne materials like carbon nanotubes (CNTs) or graphene is an inevitable element of every risk mitigation strategy to protect employees. Conventional air samplers are often bulky, need to be operated by trained personnel and results are not available on-site. Here, we address these issues and introduce the patented Stat Peel Identifier system comprised of portable, lightweight sampling badges and a fully automatized Raman spectroscopy-based bench-top reader. This presentation is focused on the characterization of our air sampling badge and its capabilities in combination with our reader. The badges feature silent micro air pumps and a series of sensors to monitor flow rate, temperature, relative humidity, TVOC and movement during sampling. Filtration slides provide the means for inertia-based particle separation and deposition onto collection membranes optimized for efficient particle retention and inspection with Raman spectroscopy. The sampling characteristic of the badges closely follows the respirable convention according to ISO 7708 with an average sampler bias below 10%. Our analytical approach to quantify the collected particles using Raman spectroscopy and in-house developed analysis routines provide unprecedented sensitivity and material-specificity enabling e.g., the unambiguous distinction between CNTs and carbon black. The Identifier system provides fast results directly on-site and facilitates continuous monitoring and recording of long-term exposure histories for locations and employees. Lastly, recent advancements in the development of our respirable sampler towards a combined respirable/thoracic sampler are discussed in the context of emerging fields of application ranging from RCS to active pharmaceutical ingredients and modern battery materials.
111 Portable Measurement of Preservatives in Air Using New Spe-Discs
Authors: Farbrot Anne , Klang Therese , Akdeve Hatice Koca , Pfeifer Annette , Möller Rickie , Dahlman-Höglund Anna
Published: May 2023

Background

Water based paint has improved the work environment during occupational as well as domestic painting. Development of water-based paint formulations demanded an addition of anti-fungal/anti-microbial preservatives, and isothiazolinones (ITZ) have been frequently utilized over the last two decades. Isothiazolinones are known to cause skin sensitization and is furthermore suspected to cause problems from the respiratory tract. To assess professional painters’ exposure to air-borne ITZ, there is a need to develop an easy-to-use light-weight portable sampling technique of the three most abundant ITZ.

Method

Three different designs of SPE-samplers and three different chemistries were evaluated regarding resistance to flow, handling during sampling, analyte break-through and sample elution. The quantification was performed using RP-HPLC-UV.

Results

SPE-samplers are easy-to-use in a field setting. However, only the novel disc-type designs of SPE worked with the portable pumps because of the relatively low pressure drop over the disc. SPE disks can be obtained either as a syringe-type or as a filter-type. While the syringe-type can be used straight away the filter-type has to be mounted in a sampler. However, the latter design outperformed the former regarding sampling as well as elution procedure.

Conclusion

The novel design of SPE-discs works well for sampling of ITZ down to 1 nmol/m3 (0.15 µg/m3) when sampling for 8 hours. It is thereby possible to assess workers’ exposure to air concentrations of ITZ previously reported using impinger flasks.
124 Laboratory Evaluation of Low-Cost Optical Particle Counters for Occupational Respirable Exposure Measurements
Authors: Bard Delphine , Hunwin Graeme , Kuijpers Eelco , Ruiter Sander , Cauda Emanuele , Gorce Jean-Philippe , Snawder John , Pronk Anjoeka , Saunders John , Warren Nick
Published: May 2023

Direct-reading, time-resolved devices, such as optical particle counters (OPCs) and photometers, offer a unique insight into the temporal and spatial distribution of airborne particles. They can provide a comprehensive picture of changes in concentration of airborne particles in occupational settings and therefore can be used to investigate failures in engineering control systems as well as identify exposures driven by working procedures and methods. In recent years, new developments have led to the commercialisation of low- cost optical-based sensors, which provide particle matter (PM) mass concentrations including PM2.5 and PM10 for environmental monitoring. TNO, NIOSH, and HSE are investigating their application to occupational settings with the aim to produce guidelines for calibration and use. This study evaluated the performance and accuracy of six commercially available low-cost sensors (Airbeam 2, Airveda, Omni Awair, OPC-N3, OPC-R1 and PATS+), in calm air test chambers, against reference devices including an Aerodynamic Particle Sizer (APS 3320), GK2.69 respirable cyclones, and pDR-1500 photometers. Several factors were considered: type of dust (particles having different size distribution, shape and refractive index), within- and between-device variations and exposure pattern (peak and constant concentrations). The devices were subjected to relatively high respirable concentrations (greater than 1 mg/m3) in addition to low concentrations. This presentation will present the results of the laboratory testing with particular focus on their accuracy, response, and calibration for quantitative exposure measurements. The low-cost sensor devices are also being deployed in the workplace for further evaluation and practicality of use.
131 An Alternative Method for Measuring Sample Pump Pulsation
Authors: Langlois Eddy , Trompette Nicolas
Published: May 2023

Sampling pumps are an essential part of the chemical exposure assessment process, as the flowrate is used for the calculation of the atmospheric concentration of pollutants. Flowrate stability is important for its contribution to uncertainty, but also because some of sample trains require a specific flow rate value to properly operate, especially for particle sampling. Pump principles are based on rotary or alternative movements which involves a very short variation in flowrate, called “pulsation”, which lasts few milliseconds and is not perceptible with a conventional flowmeter. This pulsation is a critical parameter to be measured for the characterization of the pump. The international standard ISO 13137 specifies the method for evaluating the pulsation which is based on the use of a rapidly responding hotwire anemometer. This method is particularly precise and sensitive but complex to set up and calibrate. We have developed an alternative method for measuring pump pulsation based on the determination of acoustic pressure. Assuming that the sample pumps connected to a solid tube are plane wave generators with infinite impedance, the acoustic pressure measurement is the sum of the incident and reflected waves. Using five microphones in the the acoustic pressure can be measured in the tube to calculate the acoustic velocity and therefore the dynamic flow with a very high frequency. 13 different individual pumps were tested with both hotwire anemometry and acoustic pressure methods. Pulsation result comparison with both methods exhibits a great agreement. Acoustic pressure measurement is therefore a very convenient alternative method for the personal pump pulsation determination.
158 Keynote: Useful Measurements of Air Pollutants for Evaluating their Impacts on Health
Authors: McFiggans Gordon
Published: May 2023

UK air pollution is an acknowledged current problem and will change significantly over coming decades, driven by national and local policies to reduce PM2.5 and NO2 emissions and by transition to a low carbon economy, including energy-efficient affordable urban housebuilding programmes. This should reduce outdoor pollution and infiltration indoors, whilst increasing exposure to poorly defined indoor polluted atmospheres. Whilst several common pollutants are routinely measured for regulatory compliance, characterisation of the complex mixture of airborne pollutants to provide comprehensive chemical fingerprinting is only available to a few specialised research groups, particularly for PM. Moreover, there is extremely low spatial coverage and resolution provided by routine measurements and little or no coverage of the indoor environment. Deployment of low-cost sensors promises to plug some of these gaps, and may provide some information about pollution levels. However, there remain substantial questions around the accuracy, specificity, and general utility of these sensors, particularly in relation to the differential toxicity of pollutants and hence their effects on human health. Nonetheless, widespread deployment of low-cost sensor data might provide highly useful information on the spatial exposure to hazard if supplemented by suitable source attributed toxicological information, chemical fingerprinting of PM and relationships between activity and chemically speciated pollutants. This presentation will outline some of the tools and approaches at our disposal to evaluate current and possible future health effects of air pollutants.
160 Keynote: Linking Air Pollution to Mortality: The Role of the Hallmarks of Environmental Insults
Authors: Peters Annette
Published: May 2023

Population-based cohort studies have shown robustly the link between ambient fine particulate matter and mortality. The evidence was essential for the formulation of the ambient air quality guidelines 2021 issued by the World Health Organization. The presentation will summarize the findings that underpin the updated guidelines and highlight the need to alignment of standards to these guidelines. In addition, the presentation will discuss the biological mechanisms underlying the associations of the ambient air pollution with mortality. Specifically, the presentation will build on the review proposing eight hallmarks of environmental insults published in 2021 (Peters, Nawrot et al. 2021). Examples linking fine particle exposure to molecular phenotypes in cohort studies will be given. Thereby, novel insights based on molecular epidemiology will be discussed. In an outlook, future research needs will be highlighted.

Reference

Peters, A., T. S. Nawrot and A. A. Baccarelli (2021). "Hallmarks of environmental insults." Cell 184(6): 1455-1468.
12 Exposure to Metals and Particles in Welding and Episodes of Asthma/Wheeze and Rhinitis: a Canadian Cohort Study.
Authors: Galarneau Jean-Michel , Beach Jeremy , Cherry Nicola
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Welders are exposed through welding fume to particles and metals, including nickel and chromium, that may act as respiratory sensitizers. In a Canadian study of male and female welders we investigated the relation of modelled welding exposures to episodes of asthma/wheeze and rhinitis.

Methods

Welders who had been registered in an apprenticeship were recruited and followed up at 6-month intervals for up to five years. Women were recruited from across Canada, men just from Alberta. At each contact participants were asked about their health and specifically about symptoms of asthma and rhinitis and age these had first occurred. A complete job history was taken and at each contact after recruitment the participant completed a detailed welding task questionnaire. A job exposure matrix was developed, reflecting type of welding, base metal and consumables. This was validated against urinary metal concentration.

Results

1001 welders, including 447 women, were recruited. In bivariate analyses, hours of welding/week, hours grinding/day and estimated exposures to total particles, manganese, nickel and aluminum were related to episodes of asthma/wheeze.  Hours welding, grinding and nickel exposure were related to rhinitis. In multivariable models, including all exposures and confounders, the number of hours welding/week and hours grinding/day were related to asthma/wheeze episodes and hours grinding and nickel exposure to rhinitis.

Conclusions

Duration of welding tasks was related to episodes of asthma/wheeze and rhinitis. There was less evidence that estimated metal concentrations were associated with respiratory ill-health, having adjusted for hours welding.
24 Safe-by-Design Guidance for Multicomponent Nanostructured Materials (MCNM): Heavy Metals Containing Perovskites
Authors: Di Battista Veronica , Gajewicz-Skrętna Agnieszka , Werle Kai , Skjolding Lars Michael , Jeliazkova Nina , Baun Anders , Wohlleben Wendel
Published: May 2023

Industry develops increasingly complex and advanced materials while incorporating the Safe-by-Design (SbD) concept into the R&D goals. Within HARMLESS (EU H2020), we use concepts of similarity for the risk screening during the SbD iterations. We rely predominantly on Novel Approach Methodologies (NAMs) due to ethical reasons, speed and parallel testing of several SbD versions.  In general, aerosolization of nanostructured materials leading to inhalation of respirable fraction is considered one of the most important routes of exposure. Depending on the physicochemical properties of the materials, MCNM may either dissolve or persist within the lung. We selected in chimico NAMs (i.e., biodissolution in lung simulant fluids and surface reactivity assay) to understand how the properties of six different perovskites, intended to be used in the automotive catalysis sector, are connected to inhalation hazard endpoints. They all share a common concern: Co and Ni (heavy metals) in the structure. We found that the composition and surface properties play an important role in determining the particles fate upon inhalation, influencing metals bioavailability and the induced oxidative damage. At pH 7.5 and 4.5 simulant fluids, both relevant for pulmonary clearance, dissolution depended minimally on the noble metal doping but rather on the %weight of heavy metal in the structure.  Furthermore, high surface reactivity was observed for all perovskites. Interestingly, the induced oxidative damage was correlating with the Ni %weight, surface thickness and Ni oxidation state.  The results allowed us to rank different SbD versions against benchmarks, providing Safe-by-Design guidance on multicomponent, heavy metals-containing perovskites.
28 Assessment of Gene Expression Modulation Using Graph Analysis on Pairwise Expression Ratios. Impact of PM2.5-0.3 on 3-D Bronchial Epithelium Model.
Authors: Despréaux Philomène , Jeanton Capucine , Dorota Desaulle , Margueritta Al Zallouha , Verdin Anthony , Cazier Fabrice , Courcot Dominique , Momas Isabelle , Achard Sophie
Published: May 2023

Chronic exposure to fine particles (PM2.5-0.3) can have dramatic consequences for health, especially for the most vulnerable people, such as asthmatics. In order to better understand the impact of PM2.5-0.3 from different emission sources on the modulation of gene expression, a 3-D in vitro model of human bronchial epithelium (MucilAir-HF™) reconstructed from primary cells from healthy (EpiH) or asthmatic (EpiA) donors was used. Repeated exposures to PM2.5-0.3 (collected at industrial or road traffic sites) were performed during three weeks, and epithelia were sacrificed to extract RNAs and assess gene expression. Data were analysed according to emission sources, physiological status and exposure doses using an innovative method consisting of a graph analysis on pairwise expression ratios. Results obtained were related to those obtained with the common ΔΔCt method. Graph analysis on pairwise expression ratios proved to have better statistical properties than the common ΔΔCt method and demonstrated that repeated PM2.5-0.3 exposures induced a dose-dependent up-regulation of metabolic genes (CYPs) and a down-regulation of inflammation gene (CXCL10). These modulations were greater for "industrial" than for "urban traffic" PM2.5-0.3, and the effects were found to be greater after exposure of EpiA compared to EpiH, emphasing the importance of the epithelium physiological status in the sensitivity to particles. In conclusion, our study, original in terms of experimental conditions and statistical analysis method, highlights the importance of particle chemistry on the modulation of cellular and molecular responses, which may vary according to the vulnerability of the individuals.
30 Engineered Nanoparticle Resuspension Contributing to Inhalation Exposure from Contaminated Protective Clothing
Authors: Tsai Candace
Published: May 2023

In this study, we investigated engineered nanoparticle (ENP) release associated with the contamination of personal protective clothing during the simulated motion of the human wearing the ENP-contaminated protective clothing and evaluated the relative ENP retention on the fabric. The release of airborne ENPs can contribute to inhalation exposure, which is the route of exposure of most concern to cause adverse health effects in the pulmonary system. The evaluation focuses on four popular fabric materials making the laboratory coats (cotton, polypropylene, polyester cotton blend, and Tyvek®) and three types of ENPs (Al2O3, carbon black and CNT). The magnitudes of particle contamination and resuspension were investigated by measuring the number concentration increase of airborne particles in sizes of 10 nm to 10 μm and the weight changes on fabric pieces. Collected aerosol particles and contaminated fabric surfaces were further characterized for understanding particle morphology, elements, agglomeration and surface contamination status. The particle resuspension from contaminated lab coat fabric was found to vary by the type of fabric material. Cotton fabric showed the highest level of particle resuspension for all three tested ENPs. Data were evaluated to determine the dominant forces responsible for ENP adhesion on the surface of the fabric. Tyvek® fabric was determined as the best fabric for trapping Al2O3 and carbon black ENPs indicating less resuspension of particles meaning lower subsequent release, but not durable enough to wear for the long term compared with other fabrics.
38 Physicochemical Characterisation and Potential Health Effects of Tyre Wear Particles
Authors: O'Loughlin David , Selley Liza , Haugen Molly , Willis Anne , Boies Adam , MacFarlane Marion
Published: May 2023

Tyre wear is an increasing source of ambient particulate matter pollution in the UK and around the world. Currently, tyre wear accounts for 11% of total particulate matter (PM2.5) in the UK, and over the next 10 years that figure is projected to steadily increase, with UK brake and tyre emissions projected to reach 6 kilotonnes by 2030. Being able to reliably identify and monitor tyre wear PM in ambient sources is of increasing importance due to its potential human health effects. Here we present a series of characterisation experiments on tyre particles, size-fractionated using a dynamometer. Chemical and elemental composition has been determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and two dimensional gas chromatography time of flight mass spectrometry (GCxGC-TOF-MS), with particle morphology studied using a scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and an electrical low pressure impactor (ELPI). The potential health effects of these particles have then been assessed in vitro using human bronchial epithelial cells following the IARC characteristics of carcinogenicity, specifically looking at (pro)inflammatory cytokines, cytotoxicity and mitochondrial function. Tyre wear particles have the ability to reduce mitochondrial function significantly from doses as low as 5μg/ml after 24 hours, with the induction of cytokines and chemokines currently being profiled. Additionally, a representative elemental and chemical fingerprint of tyre rubber has now been established. By understanding the composition and morphology of these particles, we can begin to detect them in atmospheric samples, and using in vitro models, understand their potential health effects.
48 Understanding the Effects of Quartz Aerosols on Human Airway 3D Models Combined with Primary Macrophages
Authors: Keshavan Sandeep , He Ruiwen , de Almeida Mauro Sousa , Petri-Fink Alke , Rothen-Rutishauser Barbara
Published: May 2023

Toxicology assessment using human lung tissue models is critical and complementary for determining the hazards for aerosolized materials. In the present study, we investigated the functional, morphological and reactivity features of reconstituted human airway epithelium (MucilAir™) derived with cells from healthy and asthmatic donors. Tissues were combined with primary human monocyte derived macrophages (MDMs), and response to single Dörentrup Quartz (DQ12) dosage (10 μg/cm2) exposure over 10 days was investigated. Our study showed that DQ12 in healthy and asthmatic tissues with or without MDMs did not affect cell viability and tight junctions’ formations for up to 10 days. Pre-stained macrophages seeded on top of the healthy tissues moved towards the insert's edges, whereas a more constrained movement was observed for macrophages seeded on top of the asthmatic tissues. The reduced macrophage motility in asthmatic tissues can be attributed to stronger mucus production under pathophysiological, i.e., asthmatic, conditions and related restriction of the cilia beating effect. In addition, we found that in healthy tissues, the overexpression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β and interleukin (IL)-8 was more pronounced following exposure to DQ12, but the addition of MDMs mitigated the inflammatory reaction of DQ12. Our findings emphasize the potential key role of macrophages added to the 3D human airway epithelia model in orchestrating the significant inflammatory responses generated by DQ12 exposure.
59 First-in-Human Controlled Exposure to Inhaled Graphene Oxide
Authors: Andrews Jack , Joshi Shruti , Tzolos Evangelos , Syed Maaz , Cuthbert Hayley , Crica Livia , Lozano Neus , Raftis Jennifer , Bruce Lorraine , Poland Craig , Duffin Rodger , Fokkens Paul , Leseman Daan , Boere John , Megson Ian , Whitfield Phillip , Okwelogu Emmanuel , Hadjidemetriou Marilena , Bussy Cyrill , Cassee Flemming , Newby David , Kostarelos Kostas , Miller Mark
Published: May 2023

Graphene oxide nanomaterials have been developed for wide-ranging applications, but has potential safety concerns for human health. Controlled inhalation exposures in human volunteers have been a vital means to determine the effects and mechanisms of ultrafine particles in air pollution, however, few studies have used this approach to explore the effects of nanomaterials. We conducted a double-blind randomised controlled study to determine whether inhalation of graphene oxide affects pulmonary or cardiovascular function. A high purity graphene oxide was synthesised with a thickness of 1-2 layers in two sizes: ‘small’ (lateral dimensions: 100-1700 nm) and ‘ultrasmall’ (30-500 nm). Graphene oxide particles at 200 µg/m3, or filtered air, were inhaled for 2 hours by 14 young healthy volunteers on repeated visits, with measurement of cardiorespiratory parameters before and across 4 hours after exposure. Graphene oxide exposure was well-tolerated with no adverse effects. Heart rate, blood pressure, lung function and inflammatory markers were unaffected by graphene oxide irrespective of particle size. GO did not change blood biomarkers of coagulation, however, there was a mild increase in thrombus formation in an ex vivo model of arterial injury. Proteomics revealed very few differential plasma proteins. Overall, acute inhalation of graphene oxide was not associated with overt detrimental effects in healthy humans. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of carefully controlled human exposures for risk assessment of graphene nanomaterials.
61 Evaluation of the Toxicity, Alveolar Cell Accumulation and Clearance of PET and PS Nanoplastics in Mouse Lungs
Authors: Loret Thomas , Holme Sonja , Kuttykattil Aswin , Villacorta Aliro , Rodríguez-Garraus Adriana , Venus Tom , Estrela-Lopis Irina Irina , Catalán Julia , Marcos Ricard , Hernández Alba , Bussy Cyrill
Published: May 2023

Airborne micro and nano-plastics (MNPs) have been detected in both indoor and outdoor settings, raising concerns about potential adverse effects upon inhalation. Yet, their potential pulmonary toxicity has not been studied extensively.

Herein, we evaluated the pulmonary toxicity and clearance of nanometric Poly-Ethylene Terephthalate (PET; ~50-200 nm) fragments from plastic bottles and two nanometric polystyrene (PS; 50 and 200 nm) beads. Adult mice were exposed to a unique dose of 50 ug in 30uL/mouse of PET, PS-50, PS-200, or vehicle by pharyngeal aspiration. The lungs, broncho-alveolar lavage fluids (BALF) and lymph nodes were collected at 1, 7 and 28 days after exposure. MNPs presence in lung tissue, accumulation in alveolar cells, and clearance from the alveolar cavity and lungs were assessed using confocal Raman microscopy (CRM). Inflammation and tissue damages were evaluated by histology, immunostaining and ELISA. PET and PS nanoplastics were detected by CRM in lungs and alveolar phagocytes. Evaluation of MNPs elimination and translocation to lymph nodes is underway. Pulmonary exposure to MNPs induced immune cell infiltration respective of MNP type or size. Recruitment of neutrophils at day 1 and eosinophils at day 7 was more pronounced for the PS-50 than for the other two MNPs. Recruitment of lymphocytes was noted at day 7, yet only for PS-50 nm. Potential long-term impact (genotoxicity, fibrosis) is under investigation. These results will inform the design of future chronic low-dose exposure studies, and path the way to new policies about the impact of MNPs on human health.
75 Effect of Atmospheric Aging on Soot Particle Toxicity in Airway Epithelial-Endothelial Co-Culture Models at the Air–Liquid Interface
Authors: Offer Svenja , Bucchianico Sebastiano Di , Czech Hendryk , Alsaleh Rasha , Kersch Christian , Schmitz-Spanke Simone , Pardo Michal , Rudich Yinon , Zimmermann Ralf
Published: May 2023

Secondary organic aerosols (SOAs) formed from anthropogenic or biogenic volatile precursors in the atmosphere substantially contribute to the ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) burden, which has been associated with adverse human health effects. However, there is only limited evidence of their differential toxicological impact. To study those effects, we generated different aerosols by atmospheric aging of volatile biogenic (β-pinene) or anthropogenic (naphthalene) precursors of SOA that condensed on soot particles (SPs). In-depth, physicochemical aerosol characterization revealed very similar physical properties for SOAβPIN-SP and SOANAP-SP, but distinct differences in chemical composition. For example, SOANAP-SP was associated with the formation of more oxidized and more aromatic SOAs with a higher oxidative potential compared to β-pinene. By exposing a co-culture model system consisting of lung epithelial cells (A549) and endothelial cells (EA.hy926) at the air-liquid interface to different aerosol concentrations, we aimed to discriminate toxicological effects. Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomics analysis revealed induction of stress-related airways remodeling and an early type I immune response, for the A549 cells, especially after the exposure to SOANAP-SP. The underlying EA.hy926 cells showed similar transcriptomic changes in early response genes and genes related to cardiovascular pathologies after exposure to both SOA types, however to a greater extent after SOANAP-SP. While fresh SP without coating by SOA evinced only minor changes in both cell lines. Altogether, this supports the assumption of a pivotal role of atmospheric chemistry and the chemical PM composition on the toxicological outcomes and highlights the importance of organic compounds on cellular effects.
85 An Approach to Test Effects on Secondary Organs via Lung Cells Exposed at the Air Liquid Interphase
Authors: Mariussen Espen , Skuland Tonje , Dahlman Hans Jørgen , Låg Marit , Øvrevik Johan
Published: May 2023

Air pollutions are shown to increase the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases and ischemic stroke. These effects imply an indirect exposure of secondary organs downstream of the respiratory system as the primary target of exposure. Mechanistic studies of air pollution on secondary organs have traditionally been performed on organ specific monocultures at submerged conditions. Direct exposure to organ specific cells secondary exposed to air pollution have the drawback that it does not imply realistic exposure conditions. In this study we have indirectly exposed organ specific cells to particulate matter via exposure of a bronchial lung model at the air liquid interphase (ALI). The lung model was exposed to a model diesel particle (DEP) and an equivalent dose of an acetone extract of the DEP. The DEP induced induction of IL-6 formation of which the DEP was more potent than the DEP extract. The DEP extract inhibited CXCL8 formation, which appeared contradictory since both the DEP and DEP-extract increased expression of CXCL8 mRNA. Our results showed a substantial increased expression of CyP1A1 and CyP1B1 in both epithelial and endothelial cells in the lung model of which no differences were observed between the DEP and DEP-extract. However, the solvent extract induced the CYPs with a higher potency in the secondary exposed HepG2 liver cells, probably due to faster permeation of dissolved substances in the DEP extract through the lung barrier. Thus, organ specific cell models can be combined to achieve a more realistic so-called body-specific model to study secondary effects.
92 In Vitro Cytokinesis Block Micronucleus (CBMN) Assay to Evaluate the Genotoxicity of Multicomponent Nanomaterials – a Tiered Testing Approach
Authors: Saccardo Angela , Evans Stephen J , Tendero Mariajose Lopez , Balbuena José , Cormano José M L , Jenkins Gareth J S , Clift Martin J D , Doak Shareen H
Published: May 2023

The development of nanomaterials has seen exponential growth in the last two decades and, more recently, of complex multicomponent nanomaterials (MCNM), which represent challenges for human hazard testing. This study aims to determine exposure-dose-response relationships and the potential human hazard of industrially relevant MCNMs with a tiered testing approach. Tier1 is a simple in vitro assay, while Tier2 is a more complex in vitro model suitable for mimicking inhalation exposure. The intent was to explore the differences between the complexity of the assays and the genotoxicity response. The cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of selected MCNMs were evaluated with an OECD-approved in vitro Tier1 testing approach with nano-specific modifications. Chromosomal breakage (genotoxicity) was measured with the in vitro cytokinesis-blocked micronucleus (CBMN) assay alongside relative population doubling (RPD) to assess cytotoxicity. For Tier1 testing, the CBMN assay was performed on human lymphoblastoid (TK6) cells; a co-culture of lung epithelial cells (A549) and monocytes (d-THP-1) was utilised for Tier2 genotoxicity testing. MCNMs from four industrially-relevant case studies were analysed. Some materials demonstrated differences in the dose-response relationship between the core components and the MCNM when using Tier1 in vitro tests, suggesting a synergistic effect when the materials were combined. These results are compared across the tier testing system to determine if advanced culture models can provide more physiologically relevant data as compared to standard in vitro systems.

This research has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme for the SUNSHINE project under grant agreement No 952924.
96 Longitudinal Profiling of Carbon Nanotube-Induced Sporadic Mesothelioma Development: Defining the Adverse Outcome Pathway for Disease Progression
Authors: Cabeza Joaquin Zacarias , Chernova Tatyana , Sun Xiao-Ming , Craxton Andrew , Galavotti Sara , Cauchy Pierre , Beier Sina , Spriggs Ruth , Murphy Fiona A , Greaves Peter , Poland Craig A , Willis Anne E , MacFarlane Marion
Published: May 2023

Exposure to asbestos causes pathological changes in the pleural cavity, including malignant mesothelioma (MPM). Length-dependent retention of asbestos fibres in the pleural cavity is crucial for disease development. Chronic inflammation induced by biopersistent asbestos fibres plays a key role in carcinogenesis. Engineered CarbonNanoTubes (CNT) are similar to long-fibre asbestos (LFA) in terms of their high aspect-ratio and thus may pose an asbestos-like inhalation hazard, with evidence from our laboratory and others showing the carcinogenic potential of Long-CNT.  Asbestos-induced MPM is diagnosed most commonly at late stage; as a result, little is known about the genetic or epigenetic aberrations occurring in pre-malignant pleural lesions and whether they align with deletions/mutations commonly found in end-stage asbestos-exposed patient tumours. Using a mouse model of direct injection into the pleural cavity, we compared the molecular changes that occur at the mesothelium following injection with an occupationally-relevant dose of Long-CNT or LFA over 20-months. We show a common molecular signature induced by Long-CNT and LFA throughout disease progression eventually leading to the development of sporadic MPM. DNA methylation, gene expression profiles, as well as specific genes are similarly altered in the presence of Long-CNT and LFA, at matched longitudinal exposure times. For the first time, these data uncover the Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) from initial Long-CNT exposure through to induction of pre-neoplastic lesions and the development of sporadic pleural mesothelioma, replicating the pathogenesis of end-stage asbestos-induced human disease. This reinforces concerns that high aspect-ratio CNT may pose an asbestos-like hazard, including sporadic malignant mesothelioma.
101 Novel Stoffenmanager® Algorithms for Quantitative Estimation of Exposure to Respirable Dust and Quartz in Construction, Formulating and Metal Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Zilaout Hicham , Koppisch Dorothea , Arnone Mario , Colomo Carlota Alejandre , Heussen Henri
Published: May 2023

Stoffenmanager® is a well-established and widely accepted tool that is applied for regulatory risk assessments (e.g. REACH). This online-tool enables companies to identify hazardous chemicals, chemical risks and to control exposure to hazardous substances at the workplace. In the current version, however, Stoffenmanager® is not applicable to all areas of activity with solids in which dusty hazardous substances are used or may arise. Therefore, the aim of this project is to expand the applicability domain of Stoffenmanager® by developing three innovative algorithms: 1) respirable dust and quartz for tasks with dusty products, 2) respirable dust for metal-cutting manufacturing and 3) respirable dust and quartz for the mechanical processing of stone. To derive new quantitative regression models calibration and validation measurement datasets on hazardous substances are required. In this project, a total of approximately 6000 data points including comprehensive contextual information were extracted from the IFA Exposure database MEGA and MEGA variables were converted into Stoffenmanager® variables. Subsequently, the variables were divided into classes with scores on a logarithmic scale. Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated, and in case of significant positive relationship between the Stoffenmanager® scores and the measurements statistical regression analyses were performed to calculate the regression equations. After the development of the new algorithms, exposure models were validated against exposure data from the MEGA database. Scatter plots and regression equations will be presented. The new algorithms serve to improve workers’ health by reducing occupational exposure to respirable dust and quartz which are known to be human carcinogens.
102 Insights from Workplace Exposure Campaigns During Metal 3D Printing Procedures with Portable Equipment to Monitor Ultrafine Particles Emissions
Authors: Martins Carla , Laranjeira João , Matos Cristina , Alberto Rita
Published: May 2023

Metal 3D printing is an emergent technology gaining much interest in a wide range of sectors, namely in the automotive and aeronautics sectors. This technology enables rapid prototyping, offering development of products with a remarkable time and cost reduction, and allows the creation of almost any shape, overcoming the difficulties of the conventional techniques. However, innovation always brings new risks and uncertainties about human exposure and hazards of the new materials, products, or by-products of the innovative technologies. It has been reported that from metal 3D printing procedures, volatile and non-volatile particles might be emitted, turning the people directly involved in the process and the other present in the facilities, potentially exposed to those emissions. Therefore, especial efforts must be imputed on risk assessments to particles emitted on occupational or domestic settings, from 3D printing activities. Addressing the exposure to airborne ultrafine particles during several metal 3D printing procedures, namely plasma metal deposition, wire arc additive manufacturing, wire-laser additive manufacturing and atmospheric pressure plasma deposition, this study evaluated the use of real-time portable equipment to characterise the exposure (in terms of number and size of particles). Different operating conditions were investigated, with different machines and materials. The airborne ultrafine particles emissions were characterised, and the efficiency of the implemented control measures was evaluated. Some limitations were found, and therefore as outcome from the study, some recommendations are proposed concerning the exposure mitigation and insights from the monitoring campaigns are provided.
103 Tyre Wear Particle Sampling Position During Real-World Driving Impacts Bioreactivity on Human Lung Alveolar Epithelial Cells in Vitro
Authors: Akande Toyosi , Alobaidi Ayeh , Alzahabi Khaled , Gamble Georgia May , Molden Nick , Stettler Marc , Tetley Teresa
Published: May 2023

Tyre wear particles (TWPs) are a predominant component of particulate air pollution from road transport and emissions may increase in future due to increasing use of heavier cars. We hypothesized that inhaled respirable TWPs would have adverse effects on human lung alveolar epithelium, which would differ between alveolar type 1 (AT1; gas exchanging) and type 2 (AT2; secretory) cells. Two real-time road-generated samples were each collected into Milli-Q water using custom-made apparatus whilst driving a car for 2h: S1) high, behind the tyre (“pure” TWP) and S2) low, sideways to the tyre (mixed TWP/brake/road wear). Alveolar epithelial type 1-like (AT1L) and type 2-like (AT2L) cell lines were exposed for 24h to each TWP sample at 62.5-250µg/ml. The response differed between AT1L and AT2L cells. AT1L cell viability/metabolism and cytotoxity (MTT/LDH assays) were unaffected by either TWP sample, whereas AT2L cell metabolic activity increased (MTT measures metabolic activity) at all concentrations of TWP, ~20%-30% (p<0.01). S1 induced IL-6 mediator release (~5-fold; p<0.0001) and IL-8 mediator release (~2.2-fold; p<0.01) by AT1L cells, whereas S2 did not. S1 and S2 induced IL-6 (S1, ~10-fold, p<0.0001: S2, ~4-fold, p<0.0001)  and IL-8 (S1, ~4-fold, p<0.0001: S2, ~2-fold, p<0.0001) release by AT2L cells, thus mediator release was significantly greater for S1 and greater than for AT1L cells. These data indicate that AT2L cells were more sensitive to TWP than AT1L cells; the “pure” TWP were significantly more bioreactive than the mixed TWP/brake/road wear particles.
105 What is the Association Between Smoking or Vaping and Covid-19 Susceptibility?
Authors: Bowsher Rachel , Marczylo Tim , Bailey Alexis , Wright Matthew , Gooch Karen , Marczylo Emma
Published: May 2023

Currently, any association between smoking and COVID-19 susceptibility is conflicted as there is limited research especially on the impact of vaping. This systematic literature review will identify genes and signalling pathways that are affected by smoking or vaping that may play a role in altering the susceptibility of an individual to COVID-19. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, OVID and Web of Science databases, were searched (1946 to Nov 2021). Abstracts and subsequent full texts were screened for eligibility by RB, with EM and AB screening 5% each. Discrepancies were discussed and agreed between all. Papers were excluded for reasons such as focussing on comorbidities, immune cells or those with no exposure. Data from included papers detailing the exposure (type, duration and dose if applicable), pathway or gene of interest, sample type (species and cell type) and the overall findings, were extracted. Pathway analysis was undertaken to identify those pathways in common between smoking, vaping, nicotine and COVID-19 (g:Profiler and Cytoscape). We identified genes within the respiratory tract involved in both the initial viral response and those affected by smoking, vaping or nicotine exposure. This enabled us to determine signalling pathways of interest and therefore areas for further study. This systematic review will inform further research to identify any altered susceptibility and the risk of severe COVID-19 posed to smokers and vapers. This will inform Public Health Policies, highlighting vulnerable groups and provide guidance of relevance to both COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses.
108 Workplace Exposure to Ultrafine Particles, Dust, and Chemicals During Plastic Production with Recycled Plastics
Authors: Ferree Patrick , Jensen Alexander , Ribalta Carla , Nøjgaard Jakob , Sahlgren Nicklas , Nielsen Signe , Berthing Trine , Jensen Keld
Published: May 2023

The plastics industry is a major contributor to the world economy, and in 2019 alone, there were some 480 million metric tons of plastic produced worldwide. Although a great deal of attention has been given to measuring and understanding the extent of plastic in the environment and its associated human exposure, much less is known about the human exposure to plastics during its production. The aim of this study is to characterize in detail the particulate matter (PM) emitted from various processes involved in the manufacturing and recycling of plastics. Here we report our findings from an initial campaign carried out at a Danish plastics factory. Online instruments were used to determine the particle number and mass concentrations for particles in the range of 10nm to 10µm, over the course of five hours, at both near- and far-field positions with respect to activities associated with the processing of plastics, including extruding, thermoforming, mixing, crushing, and rolling. For fine particles (<300nm), the average total particle number concentrations associated with these activities were 3.3x104, 4.0x103, 2.8x104, 3.5x104, and 6.9x104 #/cm3, respectively. Respirable dust concentrations were 13, 7, 9, 7 (calculated), and 12 µg/m3, respectively, and total dust concentrations were similar or slightly higher. These data suggest that the principal contributions to human exposure in the facility are fine and ultrafine particles. In addition to the real-time data and mass concentrations, samples are also analyzed for elemental composition and plastics. This research was supported by FFIKA, a grant from the Danish government.
110 Laboratory Testing of an Innovative Respirable Sampler and Chemical Analysis of Filters at Multiple Research Facilities
Authors: Bard Delphine , Asbach Christof , Clavaguera Simon , Giesen Jörg , Hall Samantha , Hunwin Graeme , Morton Jackie , Müller Clarissa , Musgrove Darren
Published: May 2023

Traditionally, workers’ exposure to hazardous dust is measured using a size selective sampler. The sampler is connected to an independent pump, which requires adjustment and calibration. The PARTICLEVER sampler is an innovative sampler for workplace exposure measurements. It is a light-weight and self-contained battery operated device with a reliable steady flow rate. Particles, including nanoparticles, are sampled onto a polycarbonate filter for post chemical analysis using e.g. X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy, Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The filter is hosted in a removal cassette holder. This paper compiles results from three laboratories commissioned independently by ITGA (France) to assess the performance of the PARTICLEVER sampler for the respirable fraction in test chambers. This study indicates that the collection efficiency of this sampler is in good agreement with the respirable EN 481 convention. Generally, the PARTICLEVER sampler undersampled when compared with the German MPGII elutriator. However, the MPGII was designed to follow the Johannesburg convention rather than the EN 481 respirable convention.
122 Elucidating the Impact of Inhaled Micro-, Nanoplastics (MNPs) from Surgical Face Masks In Vitro
Authors: Hodgetts Lewis , Meldrum Kirsty , Bateman Joshua , Auyang Eric , Levermore Joseph , Vogel Ulla , Doak Shareen , Wright Stephanie , Clift Martin
Published: May 2023

Surgical face masks are routinely used in clinical settings, but also extensively by the public during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. These masks contain a high proportion of plastic, specifically polypropylene (PP), which could shed microscopic particles to the environment or nasal cavity. However, to-date, despite focus upon an increased environmental burden, the (human) hazard relevant to inhaled MNPs remains largely unknown. The aim of this project therefore, was to determine the toxicity of inhaled PP (commercially available powders, or extracted from surgical masks; either (i) all layers, or (ii) the innermost layer only), using an advanced in vitro approach. Type-II lung epithelial cells (NCI-H441) were cultured at the air-liquid interface and exposed to respirable PP via aerosol for 24hrs at depositions of 500, 100 and 2000 ng/cm2 (Vitrocell Cloud12). Carbon black (Printex 90) was used as a positive particle control. Respirable MNP samples required cryomilling and cryotome slicing, and were analysed using pyrolysis-GCMS. In addition to acellular deposition, as well as particle and cellular morphology (electron microscopy) assessed endpoints of cytotoxicity (trypan blue exclusion), barrier integrity (dextran blue), (pro-)inflammatory response (IL-1β/IL-6/IL-8), oxidative stress (SOD-1), and genotoxicity (mononucleate micronucleus) were conducted. So far, a concentration-dependent decrease in cell viability was observed following exposure to commercial PP and complete mask PP samples, whilst a concentration-dependent increase in all (pro-)inflammatory mediators assessed was noted. Further, initial genotoxicity assessment suggests a minor increase to micronucleus formation for both exposure samples. Preliminary data therefore suggests that aerosolised MNPs instigate a hazardous response in vitro.