bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
25 Strategy for Assessing Exposure of Ship Painters to a Mixture of Organic Solvents
Authors: Gherardi Monica , L'Episcopo Nunziata , Gordiani Andrea , Pigini Daniela , Sisto Renata , Tranfo Giovanna 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Background
Painters are exposed to different substances, among which volatile organic compounds. Similar Exposure Groups (SEG) should be identified according to the European Standard EN:689/2019 to perform representative measurements of exposure. This approach was applied to 15 ship painters.

Methods
Two SEGs were identified considering environment and application technique: 6 spray painters (group A) working inside a hangar and 9 roller painters (group B) working on the ship. Gaseous toluene, xylenes, acetone, ethylacetate, n-butyl acetate, ethylbenzene and benzene were collected using Radiello samplers and determined by GC/MS.

Results
The ratios between each exposure value and the corresponding occupational exposure limit (Italian for toluene, xylenes, acetone, ethylbenzene, and benzene; German for ethylacetate and n-butyl acetate) were below 0.5 for Group A and well below 0.1 for Group B. Considering the common neurotoxic effect, workers’ exposure was also evaluated for the additive contribution of each component to the mixture. The mixture exposure index resulted 1.01 for spray painters and 0.09 for roller painters.

Short Discussion/Conclusions
Considering single substances, exposure levels were below the limits for both groups; when the mixture exposure is assessed, it reaches the mixture occupational limit for group A (spray) while it remains well below for group B (rollers). Results confirm that environment features and application techniques significantly affect the exposure levels, that are to be monitored on a SEG basis, and that considering the exposure to the mixture is crucial in order to orient the medical surveillance to prevent the neurotoxic effect in spray painters.
54 Nickel Exposure During Abrasive Tasks – Influence of the Nickel Content of the Material
Authors: Koppisch Dorothea , Bünning Gunter , Pitzke Katrin , Gabriel Stefan 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Nickel is widely used for the production of steel and alloys. It can provoke nickel allergy and several nickel compounds are classified as carcinogens. Data on the level of exposure of welders have been published repeatedly. However, data on nickel exposure during abrasive work are limited. The aim of this study is to estimate the nickel exposure during abrasive tasks taking into account the nickel content of the material. Data from the German exposure database MEGA are used for the study. The material used is classified according to its nickel content into three groups: less than 5% (mild steel); 5 to 30% (stainless steel); more than 30% (nickel-base alloy). Additionally task and year of measurement are defined as criteria for the statistical evaluations. Percentiles are calculated and, if sufficient data is available, regression methods are used. Between 1975 and 2016, about 6700 measurements from nickel in the inhalable dust fraction in MEGA are related to abrasive tasks. For grinding (wet and dry combined) the 50th percentile was 0.0024 mg Ni/m3 for mild steel, 0.052 mg/m3 for stainless steel and 0.16 mg/m3 for nickel-base alloys during 1990-2006. After 2006 measurements were mainly performed during dry grinding. These measurements resulted in similar exposures. Further results are presented for polishing, milling and drilling. The high differences in the level of exposure to nickel caused by different nickel content of the material show that this information should be collected when measuring nickel exposure at workplaces where abrasive tasks with steel and alloys are performed.
93 Microbial Contaminants and Pro-Inflammatory Properties of Organic Dust From Different Occupational Settings
Authors: Cyprowski Marcin , Zapór Lidia , Marciniak Lilianna , Gołofit-Szymczak Małgorzata , Ławniczek-Wałczyk Anna , Stobnicka-Kupiec Agata , Górny Rafał L 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
The study aimed to characterize the microbial contamination of dust samples from various occupational environments and to assess their impact on the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines from cell culture. The research was conducted in six occupational settings, including waste sorting and composting plants, a sewage treatment plant, a cement plant using alternative fuel, a power plant co-firing biomass as well as a poultry farm. In total, 76 organic dust samples were collected at 26 workplaces in the above-mentioned plants to assess the concentrations of: inhalable dust fraction, crystalline silica, aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, fungi as well as peptidoglycans, endotoxins and (1→3)-β-D-glucans. The alveolar epithelial cells (A549) were exposed to dust extracts and the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IL-8) were determined. The highest inhalable dust concentrations were found in the power plant samples – 5.60 mg/m3 (SD=9.13). In poultry houses, the highest concentrations were noted for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria – 201129 cfu/m3 (SD=62795) and 72702 cfu/m3 (SD=13532), respectively. In turn, the waste sorting plant workplaces were the most contaminated with fungi – 36335 cfu/m3 (SD=27270), endotoxins – 23.9 ng/m3 (SD=21.5) and SiO2 – 0.024 mg/m3 (SD=0.026). The highest levels of peptidoglycans – 7930 ng/m3 (SD=6049) and (1→3)-β-D-glucans – 180.5 ng/m3 (SD=46.4) were found at workplaces in composting plant. The release of cytokines was significantly dependent (p&lt;0.05) on dust concentrations for composting and cement plants; however, to a lesser extent, their production were also stimulated by aerobic bacteria, fungi, endotoxins and crystalline silica. The microbial characteristics of organic dusts may trigger the pro-inflammatory reactions in workers.
9 Understanding how CeO2 Nanoparticles Modulate Bleomycin-Induced Inflammatory and Fibrotic Events in Both in Vivo and in Vitro Models
Authors: Guo Chang , Leonard Martin , Buckley Alison , Robertson Sarah , Gant Tim , Valsami-Jones Eugenia (Éva) , Smith Rachel 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2NPs) from some diesel fuel additives and other applications have been detected in ambient air. Concerns have been raised over their potential human health impact in situations of inadvertent exposure. Oxidative mechanisms have been suggested as a common feature for pulmonary injury in response to airborne particulate matter, including engineered nanomaterials. To understand in depth how CeO2NPs may influence oxidative stress induced pulmonary inflammation and fibrotic events, we used both in vivo and in vitro bleomycin-induced lung injury models. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were intratracheally instilled with bleomycin or saline (control) followed by nose-only inhalation exposure to nano-sized CeO2NP aerosols (mass concentration 1.8 mg/m3) or water (controls) for 3 hours per day for 4 days per week for one or two weeks. At 3 days post exposure, animals were sacrificed and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid, lung histopathology and global mRNA expression analysed. Bleomycin exposure resulted in an increase in total BAL cells, fibrotic staining and significant induction of inflammatory and oxidative stress on mRNA sequencing analysis. Modifications of these responses by one-week exposure to CeO2NPs included attenuation of fibrotic staining and gene expression markers of lung function, inflammation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). CeO2NP alone resulted in increased inflammatory responses but did not appear to cause fibrotic changes. Interpretation of these responses at a cellular level was further explored using 3D human small airway epithelium cultures (SmallAirTM) in an aerosol exposure air-liquid-interface system. This also indicated that some bleomycin-induced cellular responses could be attenuated by exposure to CeO2NP aerosols.
62 Evaluating the Potential Exposure to Metal Fine and Nano Particles Generated During Wire and Powder Laser Metal Deposition
Authors: Pernetti Roberta , Previtali Barbara , Maffia Simone , Bergamaschi Enrico , Oddone Enrico 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the release of fine and nano particles during Additive Manufacturing with wire and powder Laser Metal Deposition where the layers of metal feedstock are deposited and contemporaneously melted by a high-energy beam during the building phase. We analysed an experimental set-up in a research laboratory equipped with two different nozzles: one operates by jetting powder while the second by depositing a metal wire. The campaign included environmental and personal monitoring during whole processes adopting AISI-316L as feedstock. Fine particles are assessed by the optical counter Lighthouse3016-IAQ, allowing to detect six size classes (0.3-10 µm). DiSCmini was used for measuring number and average diameter of nanoparticles (10-300 nm). A significant release of nanoparticles occurred with both nozzles during the building phase and, although the peaks were higher when using the powder nozzle (2.9 x 106 n/cm3), the average values were around five times higher with the wire nozzle (6.5 x 105 n/cm3, 75 nm). Adopting the wire nozzle reduced the particle emissions during initialization and cleaning phase, avoiding handling powders. Considering the state of the art and industrial practice, the relevant novelty of the work lays in the detection of nanoparticles even for wire laser metal deposition due to the melting and partial vaporisation phenomena induced by the high-power density of the laser beam. The results highlight the importance of adopting proper working procedures and personal protective equipment for the operators entering the box when interrupting the building phase with both powder and wire nozzles.
118 Murine Expression of Humanized Toll-Like Receptor 4 Augments Local and Systemic Immune Responses Following Oropharyngeal Aspiration of Nickel Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Roach Katie , Stefaniak Aleks , Roberts Jenny 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
It has been demonstrated that murine expression of humanized Toll-like receptor-4 (hTLR-4) confers enhanced immunological responsivity to nickel in the skin; however, it remains unclear if hTLR-4 expression also augments nickel-induced immune responses in the lung. hTLR-4 positive/negative mice of both sexes were exposed to vehicle control (dispersion media) or nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiONP; 48 nm; 2.5, 5, or 20 µg) by oropharyngeal aspiration. Mice were euthanized 1, 7, 14, or 28 days post-exposure. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed, blood was collected, and the lung-associated lymph nodes (LALN) and spleen were harvested for phenotypic analysis. By 7d, total BAL cells, lung LDH, and circulating leukocyte number were all significantly elevated in both female/male hTLR-4 positive mice compared to same-sex hTLR-4 negative mice—effects which normalized by 14d. Dose-responsive increases in LALN size were observed in all NiONP-exposed animals by 14d, but no significant differences were observed between hTLR-4 positive/negative animals. The cellular composition of the LALN and spleen, however, was significantly altered at this timepoint between hTLR-4 positive/negative mice of both sexes. In general, hTLR-4 positive mice exhibited selective increases in proportionality and activation status of CD4+ T-cells and B-cells within both tissues. This alteration remained significant at 28d in female mice only. Collectively, these findings suggest that hTLR-4 expression confers significant alterations in early immune responses to NiONP in the lung and associated lymphoid tissues—effects which may render the hTLR-4 mouse model a more translationally-relevant approach for studying respiratory nickel allergy in vivo.
130 Exposures to Airborne Human-Respirable Microplastic Particles
Authors: Elder Alison , Chalupa David , Romanick Samantha , Madejski Gregory , McGrath James 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Plastics and their breakdown products, specifically microplastics, are ubiquitously present in the environment from a variety of sources. Analysis of air samples has also revealed the presence of fragmented, spherical, and fibrous plastic particles in a wide range of sizes from the submicrometer scale up to tens of micrometers in length and diameter. However, few studies have addressed the health consequences associated with exposures to airborne microplastics, specifically whether they can enter the respiratory tract, where they will deposit, and how polymer chemistry and morphology are linked to adverse health outcomes. Whether microplastics have unique toxicological properties in comparison to other particle types is also unknown. Our work has sought to address critical questions about the inhalability and respirability of microplastics in indoor and outdoor air via particle size-restricted sampling coupled with morphological assessment and estimation of plastic burdens via Nile red staining. We found Nile red-positive (putative plastic) particles in air samples from indoor environments (office, campus/household laundry rooms, 3-D printing/engineering laboratory), most of which appeared to have a fragment-like morphology. These particles represented ~1% of the total collected sample in terms of number. Importantly, these particles were also found when sampling was restricted to the human-respirable fraction (&lt;4 micrometers in aerodynamic diameter), suggesting that they can reach the gas exchange region. Ongoing work is focused on identifying the polymeric species in these air samples, their distribution across particle size classes, and whether indoor and outdoor microplastic particles are similar in terms of morphology, size, and chemistry.
151 TRPA1/V3-Dependent Regulation of Airway Epithelial Cell Damage and Repair Triggered by wood/Biomass Smoke Particulate
Authors: Serna Samantha , Golkowski Martin , Reilly Christopher 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Wood/biomass smoke particulate material (WBSPM) is a pervasive environmental pollutant. Acute high-dose inhalation exposure can cause airway epithelial cell (AEC) damage and respiratory dysfunction. We hypothesized that AEC damage is limited by compensatory signaling to allow epithelial repair. RNA sequencing, proteomics, targeted interventions, and cultured human AECs treated with WBSPM and Transient Receptor Potential Ankyrin-1 (TRPA1) agonists revealed TRPA1-driven endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and oxidative stress (OS) as contributory pathways to cytotoxicity. Alternatively, TRP vanilloid-3 (TRPV3) counteracted these events despite also being activated by WBSPM. Using the TRPA1 agonist AITC (and others) as a surrogate for WBSPM, morphological distortion indicative of AEC damage was observed 2-4h post-treatment; at &gt;6h cells recovered. Strikingly, at 2h, the abundance of only 6 proteins changed including loss of fibronectin and tubulin and increased heme oxygenase 1. At 6h, 36 proteins changed, including ER chaperones and transcriptional/cell cycle regulatory proteins, OS-response, and structural/matrix proteins. Analysis of the phosphoproteome revealed changes in 2672 and 1886 unique phosphosites at 2 and 6h, attributable to PKC, p38 MAPK, EGFR, Akt and other kinase activities based on “phosphosite-GSEA” analysis. A kinase inhibitor screen linked PKC, p38 MAPK, GSK3b and ERK1/2 with cytotoxicity, while EGFR, MEK1/2, JNK1/2/3 and Akt were protective. Considering that TRPV3 expression is regulated by EGFR following WBSPM injury and TRPV3 enhanced adhesion and slowed proliferation via attenuated EGFR signaling, we propose a mechanism whereby the balance of TRPA1, TRPV3, and calcium/growth factor receptor-dependent kinase signaling coordinates WBSPM injury, compensation and repair.
4 An Introduction to the Sunshine Project Investigating the Risk Assessment of Multicomponent Nanomaterials.
Authors: Hunt Neil 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Multicomponent nanomaterials (MCNM), sometimes called nanohybrids, are advanced materials receiving increased interest in their novel or enhanced properties. Research into MCNM is in its infancy meaning that little is known about their hazard, risk or whether there is regulatory preparedness for their increased use. SUNSHINE is an industry-oriented project, where leading research and technology organisations will cooperate with SMEs and large industries to develop and implement simple, robust, and cost-effective Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) strategies for materials and products incorporating advanced multi-component nanomaterials. This presentation will introduce the key elements in the project including investigations into whether existing characterisation and toxicology testing protocols are applicable and whether existing regulatory frameworks are fit for purpose for these complex structures. It will also introduce how MCNM are being used as a case study for the use of the Safe and Sustainable by Design framework.
SUNSHINE project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 952924.
76 Combined Exposure to road wear Particles and Diesel Exhaust Particles Induces Enhanced pro-Inflammatory Responses in Cells of the Human Airways
Authors: ter Grytting Vegard Sæ , Kirkerød Elisabeth , Skuland Tonje , Refsnes Magne , Øvrevik Johan , Gustafsson Mats , Låg Marit 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Ambient particulate matter (PM) is one of the leading environmental mortality risk factors worldwide. PM is not a single entity but consists of a complex and variable mixture of particles from multiple sources. Nevertheless, there is a paucity of experimental studies assessing the potential combinatory effects of different types of particles, and most focus on the effects of individual PM components or mixed PM samples. In the present study, the pro-inflammatory effects of combined exposure to road wear particles and diesel exhaust particles (DEP), two important constituents of traffic-derived PM, were assessed in vitro. Human bronchial epithelial cells (HBEC3-KT) and differentiated THP-1 macrophage-like cells were exposed to road wear particles and two different samples of DEP under submerged conditions, both alone and in combination. Particle-induced release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (CXCL8 and IL-1β) was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results show that combined exposure to road wear particles and DEP induced enhanced release of pro-inflammatory cytokines compared with the effects of the individual particle samples. The combinatory effects appeared to depend on properties of the DEP samples and also differed between the HBEC3-KT cells and THP-1 macrophage-like cells. This study shows that the effects of combined exposure to different types of particles may surpass the effects anticipated by the effects of the individual particulates. These combinatory effects between types of particles could have implications when assessing measures to reduce PM-induced health effects.
77 Aerosolized Particulate Matter from Fragmentation of Carbon Nanotube-Enhanced Concrete
Authors: Abrahamsson Camilla , Rissler Jenny , Hedmer Maria , Kåredal Monica , Isaxon Christina 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Construction and demolition workers are exposed to high levels of particulate matter (PM) from building materials throughout their working life. Although nano-enabled building materials (NEBMs) may improve the performance and functionality of buildings, concerns are being raised regarding health risks from occupational exposure to PM from NEBMs. In this work, an experimental set-up for integrated resuspension and characterization of PM from NEBMs was developed and tested using three types of concrete (low density, normal, high strength), each enhanced with Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) at different concentrations (0, low, high). The performance of portable devices used in occupational exposure assessments (DustTrak and NanoTracer) was compared with stationary instruments and gravimetric filter techniques. 40-70% of the mass and 90-98% of the number of particles were within the respirable fraction, with primary modes at 150 nm and 2-3 µm. Addition of CNTs significantly decreased mean particle number concentrations (PNCs) across the entire characterized size range (7 nm - 20 µm) for low density concrete, whereas the opposite was the case for normal strength and high strength concrete. It was hypothesised that the concrete matrix primarily governs the PM formation, which is in turn modulated by CNT-matrix interactions either suppressing or supporting fragmentation during crushing. SEM imaging could display partially submerged CNTs protruding from concrete fragments. Fundamental interactions at the interface of the nanomaterial and the surrounding matrix needs to be investigated to determine how the PM generated from NEBMs differ from their non-nano counterparts and how to prevent future exposure during demolition.
104 Influence of the Physicochemical Properties of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes on Their Toxicity in Lung Cells
Authors: Seidel Carole , Sébillaud Sylvie , Darne Christian , Barthel Hélène , Gaté Laurent 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are promising nanomaterials because of their various physicochemical properties. However, their production and handling can lead to their aerosolization. Then, they can be inhaled, reach the deep lung and induce health effects. The respiratory system is composed of different cell types, including epithelial cells and alveolar macrophages, which are on the front line following inhalation of MWCNTs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of their physicochemical properties on their toxic effects. To address this objective, we use two in vitro models, NR8383 rat alveolar macrophages and BEAS-2B human bronchial epithelial cells. BEAS-2B cells are treated with low concentrations of nanomaterials for 6 weeks in order to evaluate a potential epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). NR8383 macrophages are treated for up to 24 hours in order to study their polarization and cell signalling. The first results show that the treatment of BEAS-2B cells induced a modification of their phenotype in a differential time-scale and concentration depending on the MWCNT. This modification is accompanied by a change in the expression of genes specific to EMT. In addition, the treatment of NR8383 induced a modification of cell signalling, which can be observed in particular through the expression of transmembrane receptors and that of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The differential effects observed following treatment of the cells with the different types of MWCNTs can be considered regarding their physical properties, such as their length, diameter and specific surface area, as well as their chemical properties, in other terms their functionalization.