bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
116 A Phase-Gate Nano-Risk Governance Approach Reflecting International Standards
Authors: Jensen Keld Alstrup , Liguori Biase , Ribalta Carla , Shandilya Neeraj , Bakker Martine , Suarez-Merino Blanca , Porcari Andrea , Delpivo Camilla , Bleeker Eric , Pohl Anna , Nymark Penny , Nowack Bernd , Franken Remy , Hristozov Danail , Fransman Wouter 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Risk governance, sustainability and safety-by-design have high attention in current research projects and policy. In the EU H2020 Gov4Nano project, we refined the EU H2020 caLIBRAte phase-gate nano-risk innovation governance framework, its guidance and expanded the list of supporting risk governance tools. Stakeholder wishes were mapped from previous projects and consultations made within Gov4Nano and across the two other EU H2020 NMBP-13 governance projects (NANORIGO and RiskGone) and considered in the refinement. The revised framework considers three pre-defined phase-gate models for minor (fast-track/low risk), intermediate (medium risk) and novel (high-risk) developments. The guidance was further elaborated to direct users though sustainability and safety-by-design considerations and risk mitigation actions. ISO21505 was used as the backbone for the risk governance framework. The approach allows design of the specific nano-risk governance project and information requirements for decision-making. The list of recommended nano-risk governance tools was expanded and selected considering their reliability and performance. An important step in this process was an evaluation of tools made under the umbrella of the OECD (ENV/CBC/MONO(2021)23; ENV/CBC/MONO(2021)27/REV; ENV/CBC/MONO(2021)28; ENV/CBC/MONO(2021)29/REV) and development of a new tool assessment framework called TRAAC (Transparency, Reliability, Accessibility, Applicability and Reliability). Limitations in application domains remains an issue for future developments. The approach and tools are made accessible via a nano-risk governance portal produced by the three NMBP-13 projects (http://nanoriskgov.eu/).
Funding: European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme under Grant Agreement 814401.
123 Finding Optimal Methods for SbD Hazard Testing of Nanomaterials: The Effect of Cell Model and Exposure Method on Cytokine Response
Authors: Ruijter Nienke , Boyles Matthew , Carrière Marie , Katsumiti Alberto , Candalija Ana , Cabellos Joan , Ayerbe Rafael , Rodriguez Isabel , Marshall Jessica , Cassee Flemming , Braakhuis Hedwig 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
The concept of safe-by-design (SbD) can help toxicologists and risk assessors to keep pace with the rapidly expanding field of nanotechnology. As part of SbD, the hazard potential of a new nanomaterial (NM) is identified at the first stages of product development. For this, simple yet predictive toxicity assays are crucial. We investigated the suitability of several in vitro models and exposure methods to predict the human (pulmonary) inflammation potential of NMs. Four silica NMs were selected of which in vivo pulmonary toxicity ranking had previously been established: DQ12 (quartz) &gt; NM-203 (fumed silica) &gt; Colloidal silica &gt; Silanized colloidal silica. Several cell types including a 3D human airway epithelial model, lung epithelial cell lines, and immune cell lines, either in mono- or co-culture were exposed to the four materials either in a submerged setting or at the air-liquid interface (ALI). After 24 hours of exposure, cytokine response was assessed using either 13-plex LegendPlex, ELISA, or qPCR, and toxicity rankings were compared. The results indicate differences in sensitivity between cell models and exposure methods. Submerged exposure of a cell-line seems a suitable first tier for SbD hazard testing in case of NMs that can easily be dispersed. For NMs that are not compatible with submerged testing, ALI exposure might be needed. Higher tier testing might be used to confirm the ranking.
128 Exposure to soot, Measured as Black Carbon and PAH, in Swedish Chimney Sweeps
Authors: Klang Therese , Strandberg Bo , Molnár Peter , Johannesson Sandra , Tinnerberg Håkan 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
The overall aim of our research is to study chimney sweeps exposure to soot to be able to give recommendations on how to effectively reduce the exposure. To do this a suitable method to study soot exposure is required. In this study we use a new method to study the personal airborne exposure to soot measured as black carbon (BC). BC is measured with a AethLabs MA200 micro aethalometer with a flow rate of 100 mL/min and sampling time of 1 min. By using a direct-reading instrument we aim to identify variability in exposure levels during the workday, and potential work tasks contributing to elevated exposure to soot. The study includes 20 chimney sweeps performing black sweeping in Sweden and BC is measured for eight workdays for each individual. During these days individuals also fill out a diary of work tasks performed. To assess the value of the BC levels, airborne polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) is also measured with personal sampler for particulate- and gas phase PAH. PAH is measured in parallel with BC during one workday. Preliminary results show variability of BC levels between different individuals as well as different workdays for the same individual. We are also able to link BC levels with work tasks from the diaries. Significantly elevated PAH levels and especially the particle-bound PAHs, including the carcinogenic benzo(a)pyrene, were observed in most samples.
132 Colorimetric Assessment of Household Settled Dust Captured on Silicon Nanomembranes
Authors: Romanick Samantha , Cashion Garrett , Madejski Greg , Elder Alison , McGrath James 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Humans spend 70-90% of their time indoors, however, there is a significant lack of knowledge regarding human exposure to microplastic particles and fibers (MPs) within the indoor environment. Fibers make up more than 90% of household settled dust worldwide and have been found in indoor air. Studies have identified MPs larger than 50 micrometers in indoor dust, but these are unlikely to be respirable and little information is available regarding smaller airborne particles. It is evident that humans are inhaling these particles as they have been found in excised diseased and healthy human lung tissues. We have developed methods to identify plastic particles in settled household dust larger than one micrometer in diameter by distinguishing plastic from cellulosic, proteinaceous, and inorganic materials using two different stains, Nile Red for plastics, and Trypan Blue for cellulosic materials. Proteinaceous and inorganic materials remain unstained. Household settled dust is collected onto silicon nitride nanomembranes where in situ analysis of particles can be characterized. The innovative use of nanomembranes allow for particle capture and multiple analyses to take place on the same substrate. Particle analysis via colorimetric staining and imaging is followed by polymer identification via Raman spectroscopy and subsequently characterized via scanning electron microscopy for size and surface morphology. Using this innovative approach, microplastic particles larger than one micrometer in diameter have been identified in all settled dust samples.
140 A Framework for Grouping Inhaled Multi-Component Nanomaterials to Streamline Hazard Assessment
Authors: Stone Vicki , Oomen Agnes , Johnston Helinor , Hristozov Danail , Schmidt Otmar , Stoeger Tobias , Ramos Juan Antonio Tamayo , Aparicio Santiago , Murphy Fiona 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
The GRACIOUS Framework (www.h2020gracious.eu) supports the grouping of nanomaterials to streamline hazard testing of nanomaterials. The GRACIOUS Framework includes a template to generate grouping hypotheses based upon use and life cycle stage (to inform exposure route), physicochemical properties (what they are), fate or toxicokinetics (where they go) and hazard (what they do). The gathering of evidence to test these hypotheses was supported by tailored Integrated Approaches to Testing and Assessment (IATAs). Subsequent NMBP-16 projects have developed the hypothesis template further for multicomponent nanomaterials. Modifications include additional information requirements to accommodate the complexity of composition (what they are) and enhanced properties, with an aim to incorporate the relationship of these to the mechanism of hazard. Furthermore, the template considers potential for the components to dissociate, disintegrate or dissolve, with different kinetics, leading to a complex exposure scenario both in lung lining fluid and inside cells. This knowledge informs the hazard assessment (whether hazard is driven by the intact multicomponent nanomaterial or various components) and whether interactions between the components may lead to antagonism, synergism or potentiation of response. Hazard assessment outcome can then inform Safe-by-Design modifications. The template has been adapted to formulate clear questions needed to test all aspects of the hypothesis, with these questions being used to formulate the IATA. Case studies of different multicomponent nanomaterials are being used to inform the design process, and demonstrate its usefulness.
Funding acknowledgement European Commission Horizon 2020 for GRACIOUS, SUNSHINE, HARMLESS and DIAGONAL, Grant Agreement No. 760840, 952924, 953183 953152 respectively.
5 Exploring the Carcinogenic Potential of Nanoplastics
Authors: Domenech Josefa 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Nanoplastics are all around us. Therefore, humans are unavoidably and continuously exposed to them. Among other effects, the accumulation of nanoplastics in tissues and organs has been reported. Due to their persistence, nanoplastics can trigger effects that have been related to the carcinogenic process. Knowing that carcinogenesis is a long-term process, the ubiquity and persistence of nanoplastics, along with the continuous exposure, make them potential carcinogens. Traditionally, short-term genotoxicity tests were performed to assess the carcinogenic potential of agents owing to the well-known capacity of DNA damage and mutation as initiators. However, carcinogenesis is a multi-stage process that involves initiation, promotion, and progression events. The validated Bhas-42 cell transformation assay allows the in vitro simulation of the in vivo initiation and promotion stages of carcinogenesis, thus, the detection of agents with initiating and/or promoting activity. Using the novel Bhas-42 in vitro approach, the carcinogenic potential of polystyrene (PS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polylactic acid (PLA) nanoplastics has been assessed. These plastic types are among the most represented in our daily life as food packages, building insulation, plastic films, electrical and electronic equipment, inner liner for fridges, eyeglasses frames, cleaners, etc. Preliminary results indicate the lack of PS’ carcinogenic potential, which agrees with the reported literature. However, an evident dearth of knowledge about other types of MNPLs, such as PET and PLA, exists. Ongoing research will shed light on the carcinogenic risk of these non-studied nanoplastics to date that could pose a risk to human health.
53 Cognitive Decline, Dementia and Air Pollution: A Report by the Committee on the Medical Effects of Air Pollutants
Authors: Maynard Robert , Carare Roxana , Grigg Jonathan , Fox Nick , Love Seth , Mudway Ian , Shaddick Gavin , Delgado-Saborit Juana Maria , Guercio Valentina , Earl Naomi , Mitsakou Christina , Doutsi Artemis , Exley Karen , Robertson Sarah , Douglas Philippa , Gowers Alison 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of conditions that affect how the brain works and, in particular, the ability to remember, think and reason. It mainly affects older people, both men and women, and gets worse over time. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the possibility that exposure to outdoor air pollution could increase the risk of dementia. COMEAP reviewed epidemiological and experimental studies and concluded that it is likely that air pollution contributes to a decline in mental ability and dementia in older people. The most likely way this occurs is through effects on the circulatory system. It is known that air pollutants, particularly fine particles, can affect the heart and blood vessels, including those of the brain. These effects are linked to vascular dementia, which is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the brain. Experimental studies suggest that air pollution may also stimulate immune cells in the brain, which can then damage nerve cells. It is also likely that some nano-sized (ultrafine) particles can enter the brain, either by transport along the olfactory nerve or by entering the circulation and crossing the blood-brain barrier. These particles may cause direct damage. Nonetheless, based on the available evidence, it does not seem likely that this is an important mechanism for the development of dementia. Recommendations were made for further research which would help develop the evidence on this important topic.
83 Assessing Exposure to Fungal Bioaerosols in Transport Environments: Analysing Fungal Composition of Passive Dust Samples Collected in UK Railway Stations
Authors: Marczylo Emma , Macchiarulo Sameirah , Brookes Jodi , Crook Brian , Douglas Philippa , Hansell Anna 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Bioaerosols consist of a complex mixture of airborne microorganisms including fungi, bacteria, pollen, particulates and by-products of cells. While exposure to diverse microorganisms is essential for normal immune system development, bioaerosol inhalation has been associated with respiratory allergy and inflammation. Bioaerosols are ubiquitous, yet their composition within different environments is not well understood. Such information is essential for assessing exposure and associated health impacts. Here we focus on transport environments, namely railway stations (RSs), which pose a potential source of occupational and community exposure. Over 1200 passive dust samples were taken from 17 RSs across the UK from 03/2014-05/2015. Geographical Information System methods were used to provide information on population characteristics of the immediate surrounding area of the RSs. Together with information on RS layout and passenger numbers, this informed the selection of 250 samples, representing 9 RSs of varied geographical location, layout and footfall for further analysis. High throughput sequencing (HTS) with a metabarcoding approach targeting the ITS2 region was used to analyse the fungal composition of the sample subset. Such HTS techniques provide an opportunity to measure a wider range of microorganisms than traditional culture or microscopy techniques. RS characteristics were varied and included indoor/enclosed and mostly outdoor layouts. Annual footfall varied from approximately 10-148 million. The fungal composition of RS over time and relationships with different RS characteristics will be presented, identifying those driving any differences in composition.
87 Assessing Translocation of Diesel Particles Across Permeable Insert Membranes with Different pore Sizes
Authors: Gunasingam Gowsinth , He Ruiwen , Fink Alke , Rothen Barbara 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
During inhalation, airborne particles, especially particulate matters (PM) ≤ 2.5 µm, can deposit and accumulate on the alveolar epithelial cells, and induce the release of inflammatory mediators in the lungs. Some in vivo studies have shown that PM2.5 as well as these inflammatory mediators can cross the air-blood tissue barrier into the blood circulation, inducing adverse effects on organs beyond the lungs. However, methods to quantify the translocation of particles across the lung barriers are still not well established. In this study, SRM2975 diesel exhaust particles (DEPs) dispersions at 80, 20, 2 and 0.1 µg/mL were prepared and added to empty permeable cell culture inserts with different pore sizes (0.4, 1 and 3 µm) membranes for 24 hours. Subsequently, the apical and basal fraction were collected for analysis by electron micrograph (TEM) and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS). Our results showed that translocation of DEPs at 80, 20 and 2 µg/mL from apical to basal fraction can occur through membranes with 1 and 3 µm, but not 0.4 µm pore sizes. Approximatively, 60-65% of DEPs can translocate through the membrane with 3.0 µm pore size and 33-55% can translocate through with 1.0 µm pore size. Moreover, higher translocation was observed with DEPs at 20 µg/mL compared to 80 µg/mL. In conclusion, the translocation of DEPs depends not only on the apical concentration but also on the pore sizes of the membranes. We currently quantify the translocation across inserts with A549 lung cell tissues and the analysis is ongoing.
117 The Impact of Cell Passage Number on Elucidating Toxicological Mechanisms in Vitro
Authors: Marchant Katie , Conway Gillian E , Doak Shareen H , Clift Martin J D 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Cell passage number is of high importance in experimental design and can cause biochemical, genetic, and/or morphological changes to a cell. This project aimed to understand the impact of increasing cell passage number on the structure and function of epithelial cells from different organs. Two epithelial cell types were studied, NCI-H441 lung cells (type II alveolar cells), and HepG2 liver cells. Predefined ranges of 11-20, 21-30, 31-40, and 41-50 were studied. Cells were exposed to 1µg/mL tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα) and 15µM hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) via submerged or quasi-air liquid interface, according to GIVIMP guidelines. Endpoints tests included cytotoxicity (lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release), cell death (BCL2, BAX, FAS), (pro-) inflammatory mediators (IL6 & IL8), oxidative stress (SOD1) and genetic toxicology (DNA damage (p21 & p53)). In addition, confocal microscopy was used to observe any changes to cell morphology. Preliminary data indicates the NCI-H441 epithelial cell passage range has an effect on the secretion of (pro-)inflammatory mediators, with an increase in IL8 and IL6 in higher passage ranges (41-50) compared to lower passage ranges (11-20) when stimulated with TNFα as a positive control. In HepG2 cells there is also an increase in IL8 production across passage range, however, it is considerably less than NCI-H441 cells. In addition, IL6 production in HepG2 cells was negligible across all passage ranges. LDH assay showed minimal variation between cell type and passage number. Data obtained suggests passage range, depending on cell type, has an influence on the effect level of the end point measured.
32 Changes in Exposure and Related Health Effects After Preventive Actions at Black Steel Welding Environments
Authors: Assenhöj Maria , Karlsson Helen , Ljunggren Stefan 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Welding fume constitutes a source of particles and dust that effects a large number of individuals at occupational environments throughout the world. Besides being classified as a carcinogen, welding fume has potential inflammatory properties and has been linked to cardiovascular disease. To further increase the knowledge regarding potential health and inflammatory effects, workers at occupational environments with exposure to welding fume were investigated before but also after extensive preventive actions to investigate potential effects that may be pathways for cardiovascular disease. Exposure was assessed by collecting respirable dust through stationary and personal sampling at multiple occasions over the study. Dust was used for metal analysis by ICP-MS. Particle levels were assessed by using three handheld particle-counting instruments, Lighthouse 3016-IAQ (0.3-10 µm), DustTrak 8520 (0.1-10µm) and Philips Aerasense NanoTracer (10-300 nm). A total of approximately 100 individuals were screened at the beginning and end of a workweek at the beginning of the study and again after two years after the companies had introduced a wide range of preventive actions to reduce the exposure of the workforce. Participants had metals measured in both blood and urine, markers used in clinical practice for stress in different tissues were measured, lung function using spirometry was done and a set of 40 different acute inflammatory markers were measured using electrochemiluminiscence. The study adds to the growing knowledge of effects of welding fumes on human health and how preventive actions may affect this.
40 Establishing a Physiologically Relevant in Vitro Airway Model to Assess the Health Impacts from Different Fungal Species
Authors: Goode Emma-Jane , Bowsher Rachel , Effah Felix , Marczylo Tim , Marczylo Emma 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Allergic airway disease (AAD) is a collective term for respiratory disorders that can be exacerbated upon exposure to airborne allergens, including fungi and other air pollutants. Fungi are of particular interest as they are present in both outdoor and indoor air and are associated with asthma and allergy. A recent literature review identified key pathways contributing to the allergic responses to fungal allergens. However, due to the heterogeneity of models and methods used, it is not clear whether there are common or specific pathways induced by different fungi/fungal components. Air-liquid interface (ALI) culture was used to induce differentiation of nasal (RPMI 2650), bronchial (HBEC3-KT, BEAS-2B, Calu-3) and small airways (A549) epithelial cells into a columnar stratified epithelium with cilia, goblet cells, and the formation of tight junctions. Cultures were harvested at 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days, and the expression of molecular markers of basal, ciliated and mucus producing cells were assessed with reverse-transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Different cell lines produce subtly different differentiated models, with downregulation of basal (undifferentiated) cell markers and upregulation of markers of ciliated and mucus producing cells from day 7. While no ciliated cells were observed in any of the differentiated cell lines, mucus was produced in some. The differentiation of primary cell lines at ALI, and expression of genes of interest (including known fungal receptors and genes identified in driving fungal allergy) were also measured to inform selection of appropriate model(s) to better understand the allergenic response to fungi/fungal components.
64 Effects of Graphene Oxide, Molybdenum Disulfide and Boron Nitride on Human Dendritic Cells
Authors: Lin Hazel , Bianco Alberto 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Graphene oxide and other 2D materials such as molybdenum disulfide and boron nitride have been gaining popularity in various biochemical and industrial applications. Dendritic cells (DCs) are important innate cells that regulate adaptive immune responses and have emerged as the next immune cell of nano-science importance after the commonly published macrophages, as they can also take up nanomaterials. DCs have also been used in nanotechnology to modulate immune response in oncology and autoimmunity and it is crucial to evaluate DC compatibility of common 2D nanomaterials. By using primary human DCs, we show that all materials did not impact DC viability. In terms of cell uptake, BN was mostly located in the cytoplasm while GO was mostly found in phagosomes, and MoS2 was found in both phagosomes and cytoplasm. BN and GO increase DC maturation to different extents, while GO also leads to the release of reactive oxygen species and pro-inflammatory cytokines. BN and MoS2 increased T cell proliferation with and without the presence of DCs. BN exerts minimal toxic effect on DC viability and DC-mediated T cell polarization, although some effects were observed in T cells alone. MoS2 did not have an effect on DC maturation, unlike BN, despite having greater material association with DCs. Overall, materials ranked in term of inherent DC toxicity provided the following trend: GO &gt; BN = MoS2, with GO most cytotoxic. With these, we hope to better shape design of 2D nanomaterials for improved immune compatibility.
* H Lin, et al. Small. 2022, 18(20), e2107652.