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Borghi F, Spinazzè A, Fanti G, Albareda A, Ghiraldini J, Campagnolo D, Carminati A, Keller M, Rovelli S, Zellino C, Giovanni DV, Cattaneo A, Cavallo DM. Exposure to airborne particulate matter in working from office and working from home employees. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38741242 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2024.2352608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The main aim of this study is to quantitatively evaluate the differences, in terms of exposure to PM (particulate matter), between WFO (working-from-office) and WFH (working-from-home) conditions. Two measurement surveys were performed: a long-term and a short-term campaign, focused on the monitoring of personal exposure to size-fractionated PM in these different working conditions. Results of the long-term campaign show that the WFH subject is exposed to higher (up to 4 times) PM concentration, compared to the WFO subject. Specific activities performed by the subjects impacted their exposure concentrations, even if the most relevant contribution to total exposure was made by desk work. Results of the short-term campaign indicate that the subjects can be divided into two groups: subjects most exposed during the WFH mode (HE_H - Higher_Exposure_Home) and subjects most exposed during the WFO mode (HE_O - Higher_Exposure_Office). HE_H group is exposed to levels of pollutants up to 4 times higher in the domestic than in the office environment, during the moment of desk work. The HE_O group is exposed to higher (double) concentration levels during desk work during the WFO day. Considering the possible growing trend towards remote work it is important to evaluate these "new domestic offices" comprehensively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Borghi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Como, Italy
| | - Andrea Spinazzè
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Como, Italy
| | - Giacomo Fanti
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Como, Italy
| | - Angelica Albareda
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Como, Italy
| | - Jacopo Ghiraldini
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Como, Italy
| | - Davide Campagnolo
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Como, Italy
| | - Alessio Carminati
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Como, Italy
| | - Marta Keller
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Como, Italy
| | - Sabrina Rovelli
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Como, Italy
| | - Carolina Zellino
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Como, Italy
| | - De Vito Giovanni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Andrea Cattaneo
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, Como, Italy
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Fanti G, Borghi F, Campagnolo D, Rovelli S, Carminati A, Zellino C, Cattaneo A, Cauda E, Spinazzè A, Cavallo DM. An In-Field Assessment of the P.ALP Device in Four Different Real Working Conditions: A Performance Evaluation in Particulate Matter Monitoring. TOXICS 2024; 12:233. [PMID: 38668456 PMCID: PMC11054920 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12040233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the performance, in terms of precision and accuracy, of a prototype (called "P.ALP"-Ph.D. Air Quality Low-cost Project) developed for monitoring PM2.5 concentration levels. Four prototypes were co-located with reference instrumentation in four different microenvironments simulating real-world and working conditions, namely (i) office, (ii) home, (iii) outdoor, and (iv) occupational environments. The devices were evaluated for a total of 20 monitoring days (approximately 168 h) under a wide range of PM2.5 concentrations. The performances of the prototypes (based on the light-scattering working principle) were tested through different statistical methods. After the data acquisition and data cleaning processes, a linear regression analysis was performed to assess the precision (by comparing all possible pairs of devices) and the accuracy (by comparing the prototypes against the reference instrumentation) of the P.ALP. Moreover, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) criteria were applied to assess the possible usage of this instrumentation, and to evaluate the eventual error trends of the P.ALP in the data storage process, Bland-Altman plots were also adopted. The outcomes of this study underlined that the P.ALP performed differently depending on the microenvironment in which it was tested and, consequently, on the PM2.5 concentrations. The device can monitor PM2.5 variations with acceptable results, but the performance cannot be considered satisfactory at extremely low and remarkably high PM2.5 concentrations. Thanks to modular components and open-source software, the tested device has the potential to be customized and adapted to better fit specific study design needs, but it must be implemented with ad hoc calibration factors depending on the application before being used in field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Fanti
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy; (D.C.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (C.Z.); (A.C.); (A.S.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Francesca Borghi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Davide Campagnolo
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy; (D.C.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (C.Z.); (A.C.); (A.S.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Sabrina Rovelli
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy; (D.C.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (C.Z.); (A.C.); (A.S.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Alessio Carminati
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy; (D.C.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (C.Z.); (A.C.); (A.S.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Carolina Zellino
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy; (D.C.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (C.Z.); (A.C.); (A.S.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Andrea Cattaneo
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy; (D.C.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (C.Z.); (A.C.); (A.S.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Emanuele Cauda
- Center for Direct Reading and Sensor Technologies, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15236, USA;
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pittsburgh, PA 15236, USA
| | - Andrea Spinazzè
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy; (D.C.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (C.Z.); (A.C.); (A.S.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Domenico Maria Cavallo
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy; (D.C.); (S.R.); (A.C.); (C.Z.); (A.C.); (A.S.); (D.M.C.)
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3
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Song W, Kwan MP, Huang J. Assessment of air pollution and air quality perception mismatch using mobility-based real-time exposure. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0294605. [PMID: 38412153 PMCID: PMC10898763 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Air pollution poses a threat to human health. Public perceptions of air pollution are important for individual self-protection and policy-making. Given the uncertainty faced by residence-based exposure (RB) measurements, this study measures individuals' real-time mobility-based (MB) exposures and perceptions of air pollution by considering people's daily movement. It explores how contextual uncertainties may influence the disparities in perceived air quality by taking into account RB and MB environmental factors. In addition, we explore factors that are related to the mismatch between people's perceived air quality and actual air pollution exposure. Using K-means clustering to divide the PM2.5 values into two groups, a mismatch happens when the perceived air quality is poor but the air pollution level is lower than 15.536μg/m3 and when the perceived air quality is good but the air pollution level is higher than 15.608μg/m3. The results show that there is a mismatch between air pollution exposure and perception of air pollution. People with low income are exposed to higher air pollution. Unemployed people and people with more serious mental health symptoms (e.g., depression) have a higher chance of accurately assessing air pollution (e.g., perceiving air quality as poor when air pollution levels are high). Older people and those with a higher MB open space density tend to underestimate air pollution. Students tend to perceive air quality as good. People who are surrounded by higher MB transportation land-use density and green space density tend to perceive air quality as poor. The results can help policymakers to increase public awareness of high air pollution areas, and consider the health effects of landscapes during planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanying Song
- Institute of Space and Earth Information Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mei-Po Kwan
- Institute of Space and Earth Information Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Geography and Resource Management, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
- Institute of Future Cities, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jianwei Huang
- Institute of Space and Earth Information Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
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Song W, Kwan MP. Air pollution perception bias: Mismatch between air pollution exposure and perception of air quality in real-time contexts. Health Place 2023; 84:103129. [PMID: 37856949 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2023.103129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Air pollution perception biases hinder the public's awareness of actual air quality. Past studies that examined the association and mismatch between actual and perceived air quality neglected individuals' dynamic exposure and their activity, travel, spatial, temporal, and social contexts. Using data collected with real-time air pollutant sensors and ecological momentary assessment (EMA), this study investigated the association and mismatch between momentary air pollution exposure and perceived air quality. It also examined how activity type, travel mode, spatial and temporal contexts, and social factors contribute to this disparity. The results show that exposure to air pollution is significantly higher in residential areas (1.777 μg/m3) and transportation land-use areas (2.863 μg/m3) compared to commercial areas. Exposure in the evening is 1.308 μg/m3 higher than in the afternoon. Working or studying activities are associated with 2.863 μg/m3 lower exposure, and individuals perceive air quality as good when working or studying and in residential areas. Conversely, individuals assess air quality as poor in railway travel contexts and being accompanied by friends. This study also reveals the nonstationary association between air pollution exposure and perceived air quality. The odds of underestimating air pollution are 1.8-2.7 times as high as that in residential areas and 2.1 to 2.6 times that in transportation land-use areas when compared to commercial areas. Implementing targeted mitigation measures in these contexts can enhance public awareness of air pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanying Song
- Institute of Space and Earth Information Science, Fok Ying Tung Remote Sensing Science Building, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China.
| | - Mei-Po Kwan
- Institute of Space and Earth Information Science, Fok Ying Tung Remote Sensing Science Building, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China; Department of Geography and Resource Management, Wong Foo Yuan Building, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China; Institute of Future Cities, Wong Foo Yuan Building, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China.
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Ryan I, Deng X, Thurston G, Khwaja H, Romeiko X, Zhang W, Marks T, Ye B, Lin S. Measuring students' exposure to particulate matter (PM) pollution across microenvironments and seasons using personal air monitors. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2022; 195:103. [PMID: 36374344 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-022-10624-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Particulate matter (PM) pollution is a significant concern in public health, yet children's exposure is not adequately characterized. This study evaluated PM exposures among primary school-aged children in NYS across different microenvironments. This study helps fill existing knowledge gaps by characterizing PM exposure among this population across seasons and microenvironments. Sixty students were recruited from randomly selected public primary schools representing various socioeconomic statuses. Individual real-time exposure to PM2.5 was measured continuously using AirBeam personal monitors for 48 h. Children were consistently exposed to higher PM2.5 concentrations in the fall (median: fall = 2.84, spring = 2.31, winter = 0.90 µg/m3). At school, 2.19% of PM2.5 measurements exceeded the EPA annual fine particle standard, 12 µg/m3 (winter = 7.38%, fall = 2.39%, spring = 1.38%). In classrooms, PM1-4 concentrations were higher in spring and overnight, while PM7-10 concentrations were higher in fall and school hours. At home, 37.2% of fall measurements exceeded EPA standards (spring = 10.39%, winter = 4.37%). Overall, PM2.5 levels in classrooms and during transportation never rose above the EPA standard for any significant length of time. However, PM2.5 levels routinely exceeded these standards at home, in the fall, and the evening. More extensive studies are needed to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Ryan
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - Xinlei Deng
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - George Thurston
- Department of Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Haider Khwaja
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, USA
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Xiaobo Romeiko
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - Wangjian Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - Tia Marks
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - Bo Ye
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - Shao Lin
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, USA.
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Akinosho TD, Oyedele LO, Bilal M, Barrera-Animas AY, Gbadamosi AQ, Olawale OA. A scalable deep learning system for monitoring and forecasting pollutant concentration levels on UK highways. ECOL INFORM 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoinf.2022.101609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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7
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Fanti G, Borghi F, Spinazzè A, Rovelli S, Campagnolo D, Keller M, Cattaneo A, Cauda E, Cavallo DM. Features and Practicability of the Next-Generation Sensors and Monitors for Exposure Assessment to Airborne Pollutants: A Systematic Review. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 21:4513. [PMID: 34209443 PMCID: PMC8271362 DOI: 10.3390/s21134513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In the last years, the issue of exposure assessment of airborne pollutants has been on the rise, both in the environmental and occupational fields. Increasingly severe national and international air quality standards, indoor air guidance values, and exposure limit values have been developed to protect the health of the general population and workers; this issue required a significant and continuous improvement in monitoring technologies to allow the execution of proper exposure assessment studies. One of the most interesting aspects in this field is the development of the "next-generation" of airborne pollutants monitors and sensors (NGMS). The principal aim of this review is to analyze and characterize the state of the art and of NGMS and their practical applications in exposure assessment studies. A systematic review of the literature was performed analyzing outcomes from three different databases (Scopus, PubMed, Isi Web of Knowledge); a total of 67 scientific papers were analyzed. The reviewing process was conducting systematically with the aim to extrapolate information about the specifications, technologies, and applicability of NGMSs in both environmental and occupational exposure assessment. The principal results of this review show that the use of NGMSs is becoming increasingly common in the scientific community for both environmental and occupational exposure assessment. The available studies outlined that NGMSs cannot be used as reference instrumentation in air monitoring for regulatory purposes, but at the same time, they can be easily adapted to more specific applications, improving exposure assessment studies in terms of spatiotemporal resolution, wearability, and adaptability to different types of projects and applications. Nevertheless, improvements needed to further enhance NGMSs performances and allow their wider use in the field of exposure assessment are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Fanti
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy; (A.S.); (S.R.); (D.C.); (M.K.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Francesca Borghi
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy; (A.S.); (S.R.); (D.C.); (M.K.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Andrea Spinazzè
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy; (A.S.); (S.R.); (D.C.); (M.K.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Sabrina Rovelli
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy; (A.S.); (S.R.); (D.C.); (M.K.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Davide Campagnolo
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy; (A.S.); (S.R.); (D.C.); (M.K.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Marta Keller
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy; (A.S.); (S.R.); (D.C.); (M.K.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Andrea Cattaneo
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy; (A.S.); (S.R.); (D.C.); (M.K.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Emanuele Cauda
- Center for Direct Reading and Sensor Technologies, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15236, USA;
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pittsburgh, PA 15236, USA
| | - Domenico Maria Cavallo
- Department of Science and High Technology, University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy; (A.S.); (S.R.); (D.C.); (M.K.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
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Shen H, Hou W, Zhu Y, Zheng S, Ainiwaer S, Shen G, Chen Y, Cheng H, Hu J, Wan Y, Tao S. Temporal and spatial variation of PM 2.5 in indoor air monitored by low-cost sensors. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 770:145304. [PMID: 33513497 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.145304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Indoor air pollution has significant adverse health impacts, but its spatiotemporal variations and source contributions are not well quantified. In this study, we used low-cost sensors to measure PM2.5 concentrations in a typical apartment in Beijing. The measurements were conducted at 15 indoor sites and one outdoor site on 1-minute temporal resolution (convert to 10-minute averages for data analysis) from March 14 to 24, 2020. Based on these highly spatially-and temporally-resolved data, we characterized spatiotemporal variations and source contributions of indoor PM2.5 in this apartment. It was found that indoor particulate matter predominantly originates from outdoor infiltration and cooking emissions with the latter contributing more fine particles. Indoor PM2.5 concentrations were found to be correlated with ambient levels but were generally lower than those outdoors with an average I/O of 0.85. The predominant indoor source was cooking, leading to occasional high spikes. The variations observed in most rooms lagged behind those measured outdoors and in the studied kitchen. Differences between rooms were found to depend on pathway distances from sources. On average, outdoor sources contributed 36% of indoor PM2.5, varying extensively over time and among rooms. From observed PM2.5 concentrations at the indoor sites, source strengths, and pathway distances, a multivariate regression model was developed to predict spatiotemporal variations of PM2.5. The model explains 79% of the observed variation and can be used to dynamically simulate PM2.5 concentrations at any site indoors. The model's simplicity suggests the potential for regional-scale application for indoor air quality modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huizhong Shen
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Weiying Hou
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yaqi Zhu
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Shuxiu Zheng
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Subinuer Ainiwaer
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Guofeng Shen
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yilin Chen
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Hefa Cheng
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Jianying Hu
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yi Wan
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Shu Tao
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.
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Levei L, Cadar O, Babalau-Fuss V, Kovacs E, Torok AI, Levei EA, Ozunu A. Use of Black Poplar Leaves for the Biomonitoring of Air Pollution in an Urban Agglomeration. PLANTS 2021; 10:plants10030548. [PMID: 33799386 PMCID: PMC7999536 DOI: 10.3390/plants10030548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Trees are considered to be an effective tool for metal pollution biomonitoring. In the present study, the concentration of metals (Cu, Pb, Zn, Cd, Co, Ni, Fe, Mn, and Al) in black poplar leaves (Populus nigra L.), together with the concentration of PM10, PM2.5, PM1, and total suspended particles (TSP), was used for the air pollution biomonitoring in 12 sites from various areas of Cluj-Napoca city, Romania. The concentration of PM10 in the air was high, but their metal content was low. However, Cu, Pb, and Zn were moderately enriched, while Cd was highly enriched in PM10 due to anthropogenic sources. The average metal concentration in leaves decreased in the order Zn>>Fe>Mn>Al>Pb>Ni>Cu>Co>Cd and increased with the increase of PM10 concentration, indicating that poplar leaves are sensitive to air pollution. The principal component analysis indicated that traffic, waste burning, road dust resuspension, and soil contamination are the main anthropogenic sources of metals in poplar leaves. The results indicated that black poplar leaves are a suitable biomonitoring tool for metal pollution, in urban environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Levente Levei
- INCDO-INOE 2000, Research Institute for Analytical Instrumentation, 67 Donath Street, RO-400296 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (L.L.); (V.B.-F.); (E.K.); (A.I.T.); (E.A.L.)
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, 30 Fantanele Street, RO-400294 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Oana Cadar
- INCDO-INOE 2000, Research Institute for Analytical Instrumentation, 67 Donath Street, RO-400296 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (L.L.); (V.B.-F.); (E.K.); (A.I.T.); (E.A.L.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Vanda Babalau-Fuss
- INCDO-INOE 2000, Research Institute for Analytical Instrumentation, 67 Donath Street, RO-400296 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (L.L.); (V.B.-F.); (E.K.); (A.I.T.); (E.A.L.)
- Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Agricultural Science and Veterinary Medicine, 3-5 Calea Manastur Street, RO-400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Eniko Kovacs
- INCDO-INOE 2000, Research Institute for Analytical Instrumentation, 67 Donath Street, RO-400296 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (L.L.); (V.B.-F.); (E.K.); (A.I.T.); (E.A.L.)
- Faculty of Horticulture, University of Agricultural Science and Veterinary Medicine, 3-5 Calea Manastur Street, RO-400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Anamaria Iulia Torok
- INCDO-INOE 2000, Research Institute for Analytical Instrumentation, 67 Donath Street, RO-400296 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (L.L.); (V.B.-F.); (E.K.); (A.I.T.); (E.A.L.)
| | - Erika Andrea Levei
- INCDO-INOE 2000, Research Institute for Analytical Instrumentation, 67 Donath Street, RO-400296 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (L.L.); (V.B.-F.); (E.K.); (A.I.T.); (E.A.L.)
| | - Alexandru Ozunu
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, 30 Fantanele Street, RO-400294 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- DIMTEC, University of the Free State, Nelson Mandela Street, Bloemfontein SA-9300, South Africa
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10
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INSIDE Project: Individual Air Pollution Exposure, Extracellular Vesicles Signaling and Hypertensive Disorder Development in Pregnancy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17239046. [PMID: 33561039 PMCID: PMC7731194 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17239046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Hypertensive disorders are common complications during pregnancy (HDP) with substantial public health impact. Acute and chronic particulate matter (PM) exposure during pregnancy increases the risk of HDP, although the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) may be the ideal candidates for mediating the effects of PM exposure in pregnancy as they are released in response to environmental stimuli. The INSIDE project aims to investigate this mechanism in pregnancy outcomes. The study population is enrolled at the Fetal Medicine Unit of Fondazione IRCCS Ca’Granda—Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico at 10–14 weeks of gestation. Exposure to PM10 and PM2.5 is assessed using the flexible air quality regional model (FARM) and Bayesian geostatistical models. Each woman provides a blood sample for EV analysis and circulating biomarker assessment. Moreover, a subgroup of recruited women (n = 85) is asked to participate in a cardiovascular screening program including a standard clinical evaluation, a non-invasive assessment of right ventricular function, and pulmonary circulation at rest and during exercise. These subjects are also asked to wear a personal particulate sampler, to measure PM10, PM2.5, and PM1. The INSIDE study is expected to identify the health impacts of PM exposure on pregnancy outcomes.
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Jensen ACØ, Harboe H, Brostrøm A, Jensen KA, Fonseca AS. Nanoparticle Exposure and Workplace Measurements During Processes Related to 3D Printing of a Metal Object. Front Public Health 2020; 8:608718. [PMID: 33324605 PMCID: PMC7723871 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.608718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Metal 3D printing has many potential uses within prototyping and manufacturing. Selective laser melting (SLM) is a process that uses metal powders in the micrometer range as printing material. The particle release from the entire SLM printing process is not well-studied. While the 3D printing itself often occurs in a sealed chamber, activities related to the process can potentially release harmful metal particles to the indoor working environment through resuspension of the printing powder or via incident nanoparticles generated during printing. The objective of this study was to improve the understanding of particle exposure in work processes associated with 3D printing and potential needs for interventions by a case study conducted in a 3D printing facility. In this setting, direct release and dispersion of particles throughout the workspace from processes related to metal 3D printing was investigated. The release from five activities were studied in detail. The activities included post-printing cleaning, object annealing, and preparation of new base substrate for the next printing was. Three of the five measured activities caused particles number concentrations in the working environment to increase above background levels which were found to be 8·102 cm-3. Concentrations during chamber emptying and the open powder removal system (PRS) cleaning processes increased to 104 and 5·103 cm-3, respectively, whereas grinding activity increased number concentrations to 2.5·105 cm-3. Size distributions showed that particles were mainly smaller than 200 nm. Respirable mass concentrations were 50.4 μg m-3, collected on filters. This was corroborated by respirable mass measured with a DustTrak of 58.4 μg m-3. Respirable mass concentrations were below the occupational exposure limits in Denmark for an 8 h time-weighted average.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anders Brostrøm
- Technical University of Denmark, DTU Nanolab - National Centre for Nano Fabrication and Characterization, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Keld A Jensen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ana S Fonseca
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Ruiter S, Kuijpers E, Saunders J, Snawder J, Warren N, Gorce JP, Blom M, Krone T, Bard D, Pronk A, Cauda E. Exploring Evaluation Variables for Low-Cost Particulate Matter Monitors to Assess Occupational Exposure. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E8602. [PMID: 33228125 PMCID: PMC7699371 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17228602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: Small, lightweight, low-cost optical particulate matter (PM) monitors are becoming popular in the field of occupational exposure monitoring, because these devices allow for real-time static measurements to be collected at multiple locations throughout a work site as well as being used as wearables providing personal exposure estimates. Prior to deployment, devices should be evaluated to optimize and quantify measurement accuracy. However, this can turn out to be difficult, as no standardized methods are yet available and different deployments may require different evaluation procedures. To gain insight in the relevance of different variables that may affect the monitor readings, six PM monitors were selected based on current availability and evaluated in the laboratory; (2) Methods: Existing strategies that were judged appropriate for the evaluation of PM monitors were reviewed and seven evaluation variables were selected, namely the type of dust, within- and between-device variations, nature of the power supply, temperature, relative humidity, and exposure pattern (peak and constant). Each variable was tested and analyzed individually and, if found to affect the readings significantly, included in a final correction model specific to each monitor. Finally, the accuracy for each monitor after correction was calculated; (3) Results: The reference materials and exposure patterns were found to be main factors needing correction for most monitors. One PM monitor was found to be sufficiently accurate at concentrations up to 2000 µg/m3 PM2.5, with other monitors appropriate at lower concentrations. The average accuracy increased by up to three-fold compared to when the correction model did not include evaluation variables; (4) Conclusions: Laboratory evaluation and readings correction can greatly increase the accuracy of PM monitors and set boundaries for appropriate use. However, this requires identifying the relevant evaluation variables, which are heavily reliant on how the monitors are used in the workplace. This, together with the lack of current consensus on standardized procedures, shows the need for harmonized PM monitor evaluation methods for occupational exposure monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sander Ruiter
- Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), 3584 CB Utrecht, The Netherlands; (E.K.); (M.B.); (T.K.); (A.P.)
| | - Eelco Kuijpers
- Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), 3584 CB Utrecht, The Netherlands; (E.K.); (M.B.); (T.K.); (A.P.)
| | - John Saunders
- Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Science and Research Centre, Harpur Hill, Buxton SK17 9JN, UK; (J.S.); (N.W.); (J.-P.G.); (D.B.)
| | - John Snawder
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 1090 Tusculum Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA; (J.S.); (E.C.)
| | - Nick Warren
- Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Science and Research Centre, Harpur Hill, Buxton SK17 9JN, UK; (J.S.); (N.W.); (J.-P.G.); (D.B.)
| | - Jean-Philippe Gorce
- Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Science and Research Centre, Harpur Hill, Buxton SK17 9JN, UK; (J.S.); (N.W.); (J.-P.G.); (D.B.)
| | - Marcus Blom
- Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), 3584 CB Utrecht, The Netherlands; (E.K.); (M.B.); (T.K.); (A.P.)
| | - Tanja Krone
- Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), 3584 CB Utrecht, The Netherlands; (E.K.); (M.B.); (T.K.); (A.P.)
| | - Delphine Bard
- Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Science and Research Centre, Harpur Hill, Buxton SK17 9JN, UK; (J.S.); (N.W.); (J.-P.G.); (D.B.)
| | - Anjoeka Pronk
- Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), 3584 CB Utrecht, The Netherlands; (E.K.); (M.B.); (T.K.); (A.P.)
| | - Emanuele Cauda
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 1090 Tusculum Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA; (J.S.); (E.C.)
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Hernandez W, Mendez A. Twelve-Year Analysis of NO 2 Concentration Measurements at Belisario Station (Quito, Ecuador) Using Statistical Inference Techniques. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 20:E5831. [PMID: 33076389 PMCID: PMC7602597 DOI: 10.3390/s20205831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In this paper, a robust analysis of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) concentration measurements taken at Belisario station (Quito, Ecuador) was performed. The data used for the analysis constitute a set of measurements taken from 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2019. Furthermore, the analysis was carried out in a robust way, defining variables that represent years, months, days and hours, and classifying these variables based on estimates of the central tendency and dispersion of the data. The estimators used here were classic, nonparametric, based on a bootstrap method, and robust. Additionally, confidence intervals based on these estimators were built, and these intervals were used to categorize the variables under study. The results of this research showed that the NO2 concentration at Belisario station is not harmful to humans. Moreover, it was shown that this concentration tends to be stable across the years, changes slightly during the days of the week, and varies greatly when analyzed by months and hours of the day. Here, the precision provided by both nonparametric and robust statistical methods served to comprehensively proof the aforementioned. Finally, it can be concluded that the city of Quito is progressing on the right path in terms of improving air quality, because it has been shown that there is a decreasing tendency in the NO2 concentration across the years. In addition, according to the Quito Air Quality Index, most of the observations are in either the desirable level or acceptable level of air pollution, and the number of observations that are in the desirable level of air pollution increases across the years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilmar Hernandez
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Aplicadas, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito 170125, Ecuador
| | - Alfredo Mendez
- Departamento de Matemática Aplicada a las Tecnologías de la Información y las Comunicaciones, ETS de Ingeniería y Sistemas de Telecomunicación, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28031 Madrid, Spain;
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Advances in Comprehensive Exposure Assessment: Opportunities for the US Military. J Occup Environ Med 2020; 61 Suppl 12:S5-S14. [PMID: 31800446 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Review advances in exposure assessment offered by the exposome concept and new -omics and sensor technologies. METHODS Narrative review of advances, including current efforts and potential future applications by the US military. RESULTS Exposure assessment methods from both bottom-up and top-down exposomics approaches are advancing at a rapid pace, and the US military is engaged in developing both approaches. Top-down approaches employ various -omics technologies to identify biomarkers of internal exposure and biological effect. Bottom-up approaches use new sensor technology to better measure external dose. Key challenges of both approaches are largely centered around how to integrate, analyze, and interpret large datasets that are multidimensional and disparate. CONCLUSIONS Advances in -omics and sensor technologies may dramatically enhance exposure assessment and improve our ability to characterize health risks related to occupational and environmental exposures, including for the US military.
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Robust Estimation of Carbon Monoxide Measurements. SENSORS 2020; 20:s20174958. [PMID: 32887227 PMCID: PMC7506760 DOI: 10.3390/s20174958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This paper presents a robust analysis of carbon monoxide (CO) concentration measurements conducted at the Belisario air-quality monitoring station (Quito, Ecuador). For the analysis, the data collected from 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2019 were considered. Additionally, each of the twelve years analyzed was considered as a random variable, and robust location and scale estimators were used to estimate the central tendency and dispersion of the data. Furthermore, classic, nonparametric, bootstrap, and robust confidence intervals were used to group the variables into categories. Then, differences between categories were quantified using confidence intervals and it was shown that the trend of CO concentration at the Belisario station in the last twelve years is downward. The latter was proven with the precision provided by both nonparametric and robust statistical methods. The results of the research work robustly proved that the CO concentration at Belisario station in the last twelve years is not considered a health risk, according to the criteria established by the Quito Air Quality Index.
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Borghi F, Fanti G, Cattaneo A, Campagnolo D, Rovelli S, Keller M, Spinazzè A, Cavallo DM. Estimation of the Inhaled Dose of Airborne Pollutants during Commuting: Case Study and Application for the General Population. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17176066. [PMID: 32825416 PMCID: PMC7504492 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17176066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
During rush hours, commuters are exposed to high concentrations and peaks of traffic-related air pollutants. The aims of this study were therefore to extend the inhaled dose estimation outcomes from a previous work investigating the inhaled dose of a typical commuter in the city of Milan, Italy, and to extend these results to a wider population. The estimation of the dose of pollutants inhaled by commuters and deposited within the respiratory tract could be useful to help commuters in choosing the modes of transport with the lowest exposure and to increase their awareness regarding this topic. In addition, these results could provide useful information to policy makers, for the creation/improvement of a mobility that takes these results into account. The principal result outcomes from the first part of the project (case study on a typical commuter in the city of Milan) show that during the winter period, the maximum deposited mass values were estimated in the “Other” environments and in “Underground”. During the summer period, the maximum values were estimated in the “Other” and “Walking (high-traffic conditions)” environments. For both summer and winter, the lowest values were estimated in the “Car” and “Walking (low-traffic conditions)” environments. Regarding the second part of the study (the extension of the results to the general population of commuters in the city of Milan), the main results show that the period of permanence in a given micro-environment (ME) has an important influence on the inhaled dose, as well as the pulmonary ventilation rate. In addition to these results, it is of primary importance to report how the inhaled dose of pollutants can be strongly influenced by the time spent in a particular environment, as well as the subject’s pulmonary ventilation rate and pollutant exposure levels. For these reasons, the evaluation of these parameters (pulmonary ventilation rate and permanence time, in addition to the exposure concentration levels) for estimating the inhaled dose is of particular relevance.
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Spinazzè A, Borghi F, Magni D, Rovida C, Locatelli M, Cattaneo A, Cavallo DM. Comparison between Communicated and Calculated Exposure Estimates Obtained through Three Modeling Tools. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17114175. [PMID: 32545369 PMCID: PMC7312254 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17114175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the risk assessment approach of the REACH legislation in industrial chemical departments with a focus on the use of three models to calculate exposures, and discuss those factors that can determine a bias between the estimated exposure (and therefore the expected risk) in the extended safety data sheets (e-SDS) and the expected exposure for the actual scenario. To purse this goal, the exposure estimates and risk characterization ratios (RCRs) of registered exposure scenarios (ES; “communicated exposure” and “communicated RCR”) were compared with the exposure estimates and the corresponding RCRs calculated for the actual, observed ES, using recommended tools for the evaluation of exposure assessment and in particular the following tools: (i) the European Centre for Ecotoxicology and Toxicology of Chemicals Targeted Risk Assessment v.3.1 (ECETOC TRA), (ii) STOFFENMANAGER® v.8.0 and (iii) the Advanced REACH Tool (ART). We evaluated 49 scenarios in three companies handling chemicals. Risk characterization ratios (RCRs) were calculated by dividing estimated exposures by derived no-effect levels (DNELs). Although the calculated exposure and RCRs generally were lower than communicated, the correlation between communicated and calculated exposures and RCRs was generally poor, indicating that the generic registered scenarios do not reflect actual working, exposure and risk conditions. Further, some observed scenarios resulted in calculated exposure values and RCR higher than those communicated through chemicals’ e-SDSs; thus ‘false safe’ scenarios (calculated RCRs > 1) were also observed. Overall, the obtained evidences contribute to doubt about whether the risk assessment should be performed using generic (communicated by suppliers) ES with insufficient detail of the specific scenario at all companies. Contrariwise, evidences suggested that it would be safer for downstream users to perform scenario-specific evaluations, by means of proper scaling approach, to achieve more representative estimates of chemical risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Spinazzè
- Dipartimento di Scienza e Alta Tecnologia, Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100 Como, Italy; (D.M.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (F.B.)
| | - Francesca Borghi
- Dipartimento di Scienza e Alta Tecnologia, Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100 Como, Italy; (D.M.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (F.B.)
| | - Daniele Magni
- Dipartimento di Scienza e Alta Tecnologia, Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100 Como, Italy; (D.M.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Costanza Rovida
- TEAM mastery S.r.l. Via Ferrari 14, 22100 Como, Italy; (C.R.); (M.L.)
| | - Monica Locatelli
- TEAM mastery S.r.l. Via Ferrari 14, 22100 Como, Italy; (C.R.); (M.L.)
| | - Andrea Cattaneo
- Dipartimento di Scienza e Alta Tecnologia, Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100 Como, Italy; (D.M.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
| | - Domenico Maria Cavallo
- Dipartimento di Scienza e Alta Tecnologia, Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Via Valleggio 11, 22100 Como, Italy; (D.M.); (A.C.); (D.M.C.)
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Commuters' Personal Exposure Assessment and Evaluation of Inhaled Dose to Different Atmospheric Pollutants. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17103357. [PMID: 32408600 PMCID: PMC7277859 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17103357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Several studies evaluating exposure to pollutants in microenvironments (MEs) are available in the scientific literature, but studies that evaluate the inhaled doses of pollutants are few in number. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the exposure of commuters to different pollutants (i.e., nitrogen dioxide [NO2] and fractionated particulate matter [PM], including ultrafine particles [UFPs]) using miniaturized and portable real-time monitoring instruments in selected MEs; the inhaled doses of these pollutants were estimated for each of these MEs. Measurements were performed along a typical commute, considering different traffic and nontraffic MEs. Experimental data were collected over four working weeks in two different seasons (winter and summer). Different portable and miniaturized instruments were used to evaluate PM and NO2 exposure. Furthermore, physiological parameters were evaluated using a heart rate monitor. The principal results show that higher exposure levels were measured in Underground (for all PM fractions and NO2) and in Car (UFP), while lower levels were measured in Car (PM and NO2) and in Train (UFP). In contrast, higher values of the inhaled cumulative dose were estimated in environments defined as Other, followed by Walking (ht), while lower values were observed in Walking (lt) and in Car.
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Exercise in Thermal Inversions: PM 2.5 Air Pollution Effects on Pulmonary Function and Aerobic Performance. Wilderness Environ Med 2020; 31:16-22. [PMID: 32033838 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2019.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Wintertime thermal inversions can lead to the accumulation of small particulate matter (PM2.5). Despite an association between respiratory hospital admissions and elevated PM2.5 levels, many people continue to exercise outdoors during inversions. This study compared pulmonary function and exercise performance during periods of low and high ambient PM2.5 concentrations. METHODS Forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 s were measured outdoors before and after two 3200 m running time trials: one with low ambient PM2.5 (0.6-14.7 microgram·m-3), and the other during high PM2.5 (19.1-42.5 micrograms·m-3). A 10 cm visual analog scale (VAS) administered postexercise quantified subjective ratings of respiratory discomfort. RESULTS The PM2.5 differential between trials was ≥18 micrograms·m-3 for 10 healthy runners. Despite feeling more respiratory discomfort (P=0.044) during the bad air trial (VAS: 4.6±1.8 cm) compared with the good air trial (VAS: 2.9±1.8 cm), the 3200 m run time (low PM2.5: 13:54±1:34 min:s; high PM2.5: 14:07±1:44 min:s) was not different (P=0.261) between trials. Postexercise forced vital capacity was not significantly different (P=0.846) between the low (4.86±1.00 L) and high (4.84±0.95 L) PM2.5 conditions. Similarly, the difference in postexercise forced expiratory volume in 1 s was not significant (P=0.750) between trials (4.22±0.89 L vs 4.23±0.85 L). CONCLUSIONS Neither run time nor pulmonary function of healthy adults were adversely affected by an acute bout of exercise in elevated ambient PM2.5, equivalent to yellow or orange on the air quality index.
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Adhikari S, Mahapatra PS, Pokheral CP, Puppala SP. Cookstove Smoke Impact on Ambient Air Quality and Probable Consequences for Human Health in Rural Locations of Southern Nepal. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E550. [PMID: 31952226 PMCID: PMC7014065 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17020550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Residential emission from traditional biomass cookstoves is a major source of indoor and outdoor air pollution in developing countries. However, exact quantification of the contribution of biomass cookstove emissions to outdoor air is still lacking. In order to address this gap, we designed a field study to estimate the emission factors of PM2.5 (particulate matter of less than 2.5 µ diameter) and BC (black carbon) indoors, from cookstove smoke using biomass fuel and with smoke escaping outdoors from the roof of the house. The field study was conducted in four randomly selected households in two rural locations of southern Nepal during April 2017. In addition, real-time measurement of ambient PM2.5 was performed for 20 days during the campaign in those two rural sites and one background location to quantify the contribution of cooking-related emissions to the ambient PM2.5. Emission factor estimates indicate that 66% of PM2.5 and 80% of BC emissions from biomass cookstoves directly escape into ambient air. During the cooking period, ambient PM2.5 concentrations in the rural sites were observed to be 37% higher than in the nearby background location. Based on the World Health Organization (WHO)'s AirQ+ model simulation, this 37% rise in ambient PM2.5 during cooking hours can lead to approximately 82 cases of annual premature deaths among the rural population of Chitwan district.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sagar Adhikari
- International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), G.P.O. Box 3226, Kathmandu 44700, Nepal; (S.A.); (P.S.M.)
| | - Parth Sarathi Mahapatra
- International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), G.P.O. Box 3226, Kathmandu 44700, Nepal; (S.A.); (P.S.M.)
| | | | - Siva Praveen Puppala
- International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), G.P.O. Box 3226, Kathmandu 44700, Nepal; (S.A.); (P.S.M.)
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Giechaskiel B, Mamakos A, Woodburn J, Szczotka A, Bielaczyc P. Evaluation of a 10 nm Particle Number Portable Emissions Measurement System (PEMS). SENSORS 2019; 19:s19245531. [PMID: 31847386 PMCID: PMC6960637 DOI: 10.3390/s19245531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
On-board portable emissions measurement systems (PEMS) are part of the type approval, in-service conformity, and market surveillance aspects of the European exhaust emissions regulation. Currently, only solid particles >23 nm are counted, but Europe will introduce a lower limit of 10 nm. In this study, we evaluated a 10-nm prototype portable system comparing it with laboratory systems measuring diesel, gasoline, and CNG (compressed natural gas) vehicles with emission levels ranging from approximately 2 × 1010 to 2 × 1012 #/km. The results showed that the on-board system differed from the laboratory 10-nm system on average for the tested driving cycles by less than approximately 10% at levels below 6 × 1011 #/km and by approximately 20% for high-emitting vehicles. The observed differences were similar to those observed in the evaluation of portable >23 nm particle counting systems, despite the relatively small size of the emitted particles (with geometric mean diameters <42 nm) and the additional challenges associated with sub-23 nm measurements. The latter included the presence of semivolatile sub-23 nm particles, the elevated concentration levels during cold start, and also the formation of sub-23 nm artefacts from the elastomers that are used to connect the tailpipe to the measurement devices. The main conclusion of the study is that >10 nm on-board systems can be ready for introduction in future regulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barouch Giechaskiel
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre, 21027 Ispra, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0332-78-5312
| | | | - Joseph Woodburn
- BOSMAL Automotive R&D Institute Ltd., 43300 Bielsko-Biala, Poland; (J.W.); (A.S.); (P.B.)
| | - Andrzej Szczotka
- BOSMAL Automotive R&D Institute Ltd., 43300 Bielsko-Biala, Poland; (J.W.); (A.S.); (P.B.)
| | - Piotr Bielaczyc
- BOSMAL Automotive R&D Institute Ltd., 43300 Bielsko-Biala, Poland; (J.W.); (A.S.); (P.B.)
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Hernandez W, Mendez A, Diaz-Marquez AM, Zalakeviciute R. Robust Analysis of PM 2.5 Concentration Measurements in the Ecuadorian Park La Carolina. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 19:E4648. [PMID: 31731546 PMCID: PMC6864519 DOI: 10.3390/s19214648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In this article, a robust statistical analysis of particulate matter (PM2.5) concentration measurements is carried out. Here, the region chosen for the study was the urban park La Carolina, which is one of the most important in Quito, Ecuador, and is located in the financial center of the city. This park is surrounded by avenues with high traffic, in which shopping centers, businesses, entertainment venues, and homes, among other things, can be found. Therefore, it is important to study air pollution in the region where this urban park is located, in order to contribute to the improvement of the quality of life in the area. The preliminary study presented in this article was focused on the robust estimation of both the central tendency and the dispersion of the PM2.5 concentration measurements carried out in the park and some surrounding streets. To this end, the following estimators were used: (i) for robust location estimation: α-trimmed mean, trimean, and median estimators; and (ii) for robust scale estimation: median absolute deviation, semi interquartile range, biweight midvariance, and estimators based on a subrange. In addition, nonparametric confidence intervals were established, and air pollution levels due to PM2.5 concentrations were classified according to categories established by the Quito Air Quality Index. According to these categories, the results of the analysis showed that neither the streets that border the park nor the park itself are at the Alert level. Finally, it can be said that La Carolina Park is fulfilling its function as an air pollution filter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilmar Hernandez
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Aplicadas, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito 170125, Ecuador
| | - Alfredo Mendez
- Departamento de Matemática Aplicada a las Tecnologías de la Información y las Comunicaciones, ETS de Ingeniería y Sistemas de Telecomunicación, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Angela Maria Diaz-Marquez
- Grupo Dinámicas + Lugar, Medio y Sociedad (D+LMS), Universidad de Las Américas, Quito 170125, Ecuador;
| | - Rasa Zalakeviciute
- Grupo de Biodiversidad, Medio Ambiente y Salud (BIOMAS), Universidad de Las Américas, Quito 170125, Ecuador;
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Abstract
A growing number of companies have started commercializing low-cost sensors (LCS) that are said to be able to monitor air pollution in outdoor air. The benefit of the use of LCS is the increased spatial coverage when monitoring air quality in cities and remote locations. Today, there are hundreds of LCS commercially available on the market with costs ranging from several hundred to several thousand euro. At the same time, the scientific literature currently reports independent evaluation of the performance of LCS against reference measurements for about 110 LCS. These studies report that LCS are unstable and often affected by atmospheric conditions—cross-sensitivities from interfering compounds that may change LCS performance depending on site location. In this work, quantitative data regarding the performance of LCS against reference measurement are presented. This information was gathered from published reports and relevant testing laboratories. Other information was drawn from peer-reviewed journals that tested different types of LCS in research studies. Relevant metrics about the comparison of LCS systems against reference systems highlighted the most cost-effective LCS that could be used to monitor air quality pollutants with a good level of agreement represented by a coefficient of determination R2 > 0.75 and slope close to 1.0. This review highlights the possibility to have versatile LCS able to operate with multiple pollutants and preferably with transparent LCS data treatment.
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