Browsing by Author "Martinsone, Žanna"
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Item Assessing Daily Intake of Indoor Air Pollutants from 3D Printing(Rēzeknes Tehnoloģiju akadēmija, 2024-06-27) Laicāns, Ivars; Ķibilda, Elīza; Žvagiņa, Krista; Martinsone, Žanna; Pavlovska, Ilona; Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine; Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental Health; Laboratory of Hygiene and Occupational DiseasesThe scientific community is increasingly focusing on indoor air quality (IAQ) more than ever, driven by on-goingresearch and fresh perspectives including development of 3D technologies. Exposure dose (EDa) resulting from inhalation of indoor air pollutants emitted by 3D printers were calculated in this study. The consideration of emissions from 3D printers is based on experimental data, primarily sourced from reviewed literature. However, this research also includes some experimental values, excluding the background levels of these pollutants.Experiments were conducted using several 3D printers available (Zortrax M300 Dual) to compare the indoor air pollutants generated and their concentrations with information gathered from earlier research. In the experiments, filaments containing ABS (acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene copolymer material, commonly used for 3D printing) were utilized. EDavalues ofstyrene, toluene, formaldehyde, and acetaldehyde for 8-hourand 12-hourshifts for average and maximal (reported)concentrations were calculated based on the available experimental and literature data. The average concentrations of these pollutants were determined by calculating the arithmetic mean, which incorporated concentration values obtained from previous research and experimental data collected within this study.It was concluded that further investigation should focus on aerial concentrations of styrene generated during 3D printing. Calculated EDafor styrene from several studies exceeded the recommended guidelines for Tolerable Daily Intake (TDI) set by the World Health Organization (WHO) by at least35%. Further exploration is imperative to incorporate additional pathways of indoor air pollutant exposure, such as skin contact and ingestion. This comprehensive approach will provide a more thorough understanding of the overall health risks associated with indoor air quality during 3D printing.Item Assessment of Indoor Radon Gas Concentration in Latvian Households(2024-05-18) Reste, Jeļena; Rīmere, Nadīna; Romans, Andris; Martinsone, Žanna; Mārtiņsone, Inese; Vanadziņš, Ivars; Pavlovska, Ilona; Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine; Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental HealthExposure to radon gas in households presents serious health risks, including an increased likelihood of lung cancer. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the change in individual habits has led to more time spent in indoor environments with remote activities; thus, the need to raise the awareness of air quality in dwellings and to mitigate the exposure of inhabitants to radon has emerged. This study investigated radon gas concentrations in the air of Latvian dwellings. RadTrack2 passive detectors were deployed in a representative sample of households across 106 municipalities of Latvia (98% of the territory), yielding data from 487 households (973 detectors). The data revealed a median radon concentration of 52 Bq/m3 (Q1 and Q3 were 29 and 93 Bq/m3), with the majority of samples (95.6%) falling below the national reference limit of 200 Bq/m3. The building type and presence of a cellar significantly impacted radon levels, with structures lacking cellars and older buildings exhibiting higher concentrations. Mechanical ventilation proved to be more effective in reducing radon levels, compared to natural ventilation. These findings emphasize the necessity of proactive measures to mitigate indoor radon exposure and to ensure the well-being of occupants. Additionally, the dissemination of research data on radon exposure through open-access scientific publications is vital for raising awareness and implementing effective mitigation strategies.Item Comparison of biological markers in aerosol-weighed workplaces(2019-07-01) Pavlovska, Ilona; Martinsone, Žanna; Ramata-Stunda, Anna; Vanadziņš, Ivars; Mārtiņsone, Inese; Seile, Anita; Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental HealthAirborne particulates present a potential hazard to health in a variety of indoor workplaces, from offices to the manufacturing floor. Dust and aerosols are two of the most common occupational risk factors in the workplace worldwide. It is very important to understand when it is sufficient to describe dust exposure only by given mass concentration that dust particles could be in the nanosized range in the workplace air even for brief exposures, such as welding aerosols. The main objective was to assess total dust and nanoparticle concentrations in the selected workplaces and to evaluate their impact on workers’ health. This project describes nanoparticle concentrations and their potential impact on workers’ health considering the exposure levels in three workplaces. Industrial and non-industrial environments have been included in the project. The office environment was used as an indicator for the background level of comparison with the metalworking and woodworking industries for measurements of dust particles including the nanoscale particles (> 100 nm). Fraction size of the samples according to a dispersity of > 10 μm, 0.25–10 μm, < 0.25 μm, and 1–100 nm was analysed in order to describe the particles’ chemical composition at the different stages. The worst working conditions (the smallest particles, 12 nm), the highest total dust concentrations, and the lowest difference between total inhalable particle and nanoparticle concentrations were detected among woodworkers. These findings provide a basis on how to evaluate nanoparticle exposure and its impact on workers’ health because the highest immune cell counts and relatively high IL-6 expression were observed among woodworkers compared with the other groups. The data show a negative tendency of nanoparticle exposure concentrations on workers’ health based on the increase of inflammatory processes and damage to airway epithelial cell functionality.Item Evaluation of Histological Findings of Airways of Rats Exposed to Highly Polluted Indoor Air in Offices(2016-10-01) Martinsone, Žanna; Pilmane, Mara; Moisejevs, Georgijs; Sprudža, Dagmara; Baķe, Marite Arija; Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental Health; Institute of Anatomy and Anthropology; Bioķīmijas zinātniskā laboratorijaHumans are exposed to chemicals and PM (particulate matter), including ultrafine particles (nanoparticles), mainly through inhalation. This creates a risk to their health. Another effect to exposure is expression of cytokines and their role in lung inflammation and morphpathogenesis. We conducted a pilot project based on testing of realistic exposure scenarios by describing morphological changes of the respiratory tract in Wistar rats (male) during a 30-day exposure in office where there was high intensity of printing activities. Tracheal tissue of experimental animals had increasing concentrations of inflammatory interleukin IL-1 and decreasing concentrations of IL-6 and TNF-α. The lungs of the experimental animals tended to show focal infiltration of inflammatory cells, vascular plethora, focal and/or diffuse localisation of lymphatic nodules, and also vascular sclerosis and focal emphysema. The results suggested potential dangerous and adverse effect of poor indoor air quality (particles, including nanoparticles, and chemical compounds) on respiratory tract tissue of rats.Item Identification, Evaluation and Prioritization of Chemicals for National Human Biomonitoring Program : Insights from Latvia(2025-02) Matisāne, Linda; Akūlova, Lāsma; Martinsone, Žanna; Pavlovska, Ilona; Komarovska, Laura; Venžega, Kristiāna; Jakimova, Dace; Sproģe, Kristīne; Kadiķis, Normunds; Mārtiņsone, Inese; David, Madlen; Kolossa-Gehring, Marike; Vanadziņš, Ivars; Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental Health; Laboratory of Hygiene and Occupational DiseasesHuman biomonitoring (HBM) is a critical tool for assessing chemical exposure in populations and informing public health policies. This study aimed to prioritize chemical substances for the development of a national HBM program in Latvia, addressing the need for systematic evaluation of chemicals in the local context. Initially, 318 chemical substances were reviewed, of which 130 were shortlisted and assessed using an adapted Hanlon methodology. Substances were assessed based on their health significance, hazardous properties, exposure characteristics, national relevance, and public interest. The results identified 30 high-priority substances across various categories, providing a foundation for the HBM4LV program. This prioritization process highlighted the challenges of data gaps, resource limitations, and the need to balance national priorities with alignment to European frameworks. Despite addressing key methodological challenges, the study highlights the importance for ongoing refinement, robust data collection, and strengthened international collaboration to enhance the program’s scope and long-term sustainability. While the methodology addressed key challenges, further refinement and international collaboration are essential to enhance the program’s scope and sustainability.Item In vitro impact preliminary assessment of airborne particulate from metalworking and woodworking industries(2021-10-12) Pavlovska, Ilona; Ramata-Stunda, Anna; Martinsone, Žanna; Boroduskis, Martins; Patetko, Liene; Mārtiņsone, Inese; Seile, Anita; Vanadziņš, Ivars; Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental HealthInhalation is the main route of exposure to airborne pollutants. To evaluate the safety and assess the risks of occupational hazards different testing approaches are used. 3D airway epithelial tissues allow to mimic exposure conditions in vitro, generates human-relevant toxicology data, allows to elucidate the mode of action of pollutants. Gillian3500 pumps were used to collect the airborne particulate from woodworking and metalworking environments. EpiAirway tissues were used to model half working day (4 h), full working day (8 h), and 3 working day exposures to occupational pollutants. Tissue viability was assessed using an MTT assay. For preliminary assessment, RT-qPCR analyses were performed to analyze the expression of gelsolin, caspase-3, and IL-6. Tissue morphology was assessed by hematoxylin/eosin staining. An effect on the proliferation of lung epithelial cell line A549 was assessed. Acute exposure to workspace pollutants slightly affected tissue viability and did not change the morphology. No inhibiting effect was observed on the proliferation of A549 cells. Preliminary analysis showed that both types of particles suppressed the expression of gelsolin, with the effect of metalworking samples being more pronounced. A slight reduction in caspase-3 expression was observed. Particles from metalworking suppressed IL-6 expression.Item Indoor Air Radon Concentration in Premises of Public Companies and Workplaces in Latvia(2022-02-10) Reste, Jeļena; Pavlovska, Ilona; Martinsone, Žanna; Romans, Andris; Mārtiņsone, Inese; Vanadziņš, Ivars; Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental Health; Laboratory of Hygiene and Occupational Diseases; Department of Occupational and Environmental MedicineConsidering the multitudes of people who spend their time working indoors in public premises and workplaces, it is worth knowing what their level of exposure is to natural radioactive radon gas, the second most widespread and dangerous carcinogen for lung cancer development after cigarette smoking. This state‐level study covered most of the territory of Latvia and conducted 941 radon measurements with Radtrack2, placed for 4–6 months in the premises of public companies, educational institutions, medical care institutions, etc. The study found that 94.7% of samples did not exceed the national permissible limit (200 Bq/m 3), the level at which preventive measures should be initiated. The median value of average specific radioactivity of radon in these premises was 48 Bq/m 3 (Q1 and Q3 being 27 and 85 Bq/m 3), which is below the average of the European region. Slightly higher concentrations were observed in well‐insulated premises with plastic windows and poorer air exchange, mostly in schools (59 (36, 109) Bq/m 3) and kindergartens (48 (32, 79) Bq/m 3). Industrial workplaces had surprisingly low radon levels (28 (16, 55) Bq/m 3) due to strict requirements for air quality and proper ventilation. Public premises and workplaces in Latvia mostly have low radon concentrations in the air, but more attention should be paid to adequate ventilation and air exchange.Item Mortality related to cold temperatures in two capitals of the Baltics : Tallinn and Riga(2019-08-02) Åström, Daniel Oudin; Veber, Triin; Martinsone, Žanna; Kalužnaja, Darja; Indermitte, Ene; Oudin, Anna; Orru, Hans; Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental HealthBackground and objectives: Despite global warming, the climate in Northern Europe is generally cold, and the large number of deaths due to non-optimal temperatures is likely due to cold temperatures. The aim of the current study is to investigate the association between cold temperatures and all-cause mortality, as well as cause-specific mortality, in Tallinn and Riga in North-Eastern Europe. Materials and Methods: We used daily information on deaths from state death registries and minimum temperatures from November to March over the period 1997–2015 in Tallinn and 2009–2015 in Riga. The relationship between the daily minimum temperature and mortality was investigated using the Poisson regression, combined with a distributed lag non-linear model considering lag times of up to 21 days. Results: We found significantly higher all-cause mortality owing to cold temperatures both in Tallinn (Relative Risk (RR) = 1.28, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 1.01–1.62) and in Riga (RR = 1.41, 95% CI 1.11–1.79). In addition, significantly increased mortality due to cold temperatures was observed in the 75+ age group (RR = 1.64, 95% CI 1.17–2.31) and in cardiovascular mortality (RR = 1.83, 95% CI 1.31–2.55) in Tallinn and in the under 75 age group in Riga (RR = 1.58, 95% CI 1.12–2.22). In this study, we found no statistically significant relationship between mortality due to respiratory or external causes and cold days. The cold-related attributable fraction (AF) was 7.4% (95% CI-3.7–17.5) in Tallinn and 8.3% (95% CI-0.5–16.3) in Riga. This indicates that a relatively large proportion of deaths in cold periods can be related to cold in North-Eastern Europe, where winters are relatively harsh.Item Multiple Path Particle Dosimetry Model Concept and its Application to Determine Respiratory Tract Hazards in the 3D Printing(Rezekne Higher Education Institution, 2023) Borisova, Anna; Rudus, Karīna; Pavlovska, Ilona; Martinsone, Žanna; Mrtiņsone, Inese; Laboratory of Hygiene and Occupational Diseases; Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental Health; Department of Occupational and Environmental MedicineThe Multiple Path Particle Dosimetry (MPPD) model is computer software that estimates and visualizes the deposition, clearance, and retention of particles in the respiratory tract systems of humans, rats, and other species. The mathematical model provides a broad spectrum of settings and input options. This research aims to explore the MPPD model concept and determine the deposition fraction (DF), clearance, and retained mass in the human respiratory tract (HRT) based on the geometric mean diameter (GMD) and mass concentration (MC) of particulate matter (PM) emitted during the 3D printing process. We used the real-time air sample data collected during the 8-hour working shift in the 3D printing office. Ultrafine PM deposits mainly in lungs (56%), fine PM mostly deposits in the upper respiratory tract (URT) (41%) and lungs (39%), but coarse PM mostly deposits in the URT (81%). The biggest DF in lower respiratory tract is ultrafine PM (487 μg), the smaller DF is coarse PM (185 μg) and the smallest DF is fine PM (123 μg). The biggest DF in lung for all PM - lower lobes (fine PM - 60%, ultrafine PM, coarse PM - 61%). In a model, where exposure was 5 hours a day, five days a week, during one month, followed by one year of post-exposure period, it was shown that retained mass in the tracheobronchial (TB) region was 1% for ultrafine and coarse PM each, 2% for fine PM, and 55% for all PM in the pulmonary region. The MPPD software is an easily accessible and valuable tool for assessing the impact of PM on the HRT. Particulate matter decreasing in diameter, tend to deposit mostly in the deeper levels of HRT. Tracheobronchial region clearance is more rapid than pulmonary region clearance. Potentially for persons using the 3D-printer regularly the worst health impact could be associated with smaller size of PM, due to tendency deposit mostly in pulmonary region where the clearance rate is slower.Item Nerūpniecisko iekštelpu gaisa kvalitātes rādītāji un darba vides riska novērtēšanas pamatmetožu izstrāde. Promocijas darba kopsavilkums(Rīgas Stradiņa universitāte, 2012) Martinsone, Žanna; Baķe, Mārīte Ārija; Eglīte, MaijaPromocijas darbā ir 162 lpp., 75 attēli, 86 tabulas, 161 literatūras avoti, 10 pielikumi. Promocijas darbs ir sarakstīts latviešu valodā. Darba mērķi: novērtēt nerūpnieciskās darba vides iekštelpu gaisa kvalitātes rādītājus un to noteikšanas metodes, kā arī izveidot zinātniski pamatotu pamatmetožu kopumu nerūpnieciskās darba vides iekštelpu gaisa kvalitātes un darbinieku veselības riska novērtēšanai. Darba metodes: darbā izmantotas starptautiski atzītas iekštelpu gaisa kvalitātes novērtēšanas metodes un iekārtas, kā arī Latvijā pirmo reizi darba vidē novērtēts putekļu daļiņu skaits un virsmas laukums. Darbā veikta biroju darbinieku aptauja, lai izvērtētu iekštelpu gaisa kvalitāti un sūdzības par veselību. Putekļu daļiņu (t.s. nanodaļiņu) iespējamās ietekmes uz biroju darbinieku veselību izvērtēšanai veikti eksperimenti in vivo (žurkas) un in vitro (šūnas). Darba galvenie rezultāti: iekštelpu gaisa kvalitātes rādītāju mērījumu rezultāti parādīja, ka nozīmīgākie biroju iekštelpu gaisa piesārņotāji ir CO2, formaldehīds, ogļūdeņraži (summāri pēc C), etilacetāts, putekļu daļiņas, t.sk. nanodaļiņas (vērtējot pēc skaita un alveolārās frakcijas virsmas laukuma), NO2 un O3, nozīmīgi ir arī mikroklimatiskie rādītāji darba vidē. Mērījumu un aptaujas dati pierādīja ciešas sakarības starp CO2 koncentrācijām un specifiskām sūdzībām par veselību (grūtībām koncentrēties, nogurumu, galvassāpēm u.c.). Aptaujas rezultāti pierādīja, ka nelabvēlīgiem darba vides riska faktoriem pakļautiem biroju darbiniekiem statistiski ticami lielākas izredzes ir iegūt tādas sūdzības par veselību kā: sausu ādu (OR=3,4) un sausas un iekaisušas acis (OR=2,5) samazināta gaisa mitruma gadījumā; sliktu dūšu vai nelabuma sajūtu (OR=2,6) un iekaisušu, sausu kaklu (OR=2,6) ķīmisko vielu iedarbības gadījumā; šķaudīšanu (OR=2,2) pārāk mazas gaisa kustības gadījumā u.c. Tomēr jāņem vērā, ka tādu veselības simptomu, kā sprandas nogurums, sāpes mugurā u.c. attīstībā, nozīme ir arī vecumam un dzimumam. Eksperimentā ar žurkām tika konstatēts, ka statistiski ticami palielinājušies iekaisuma rādītāji, imūnkompetento šūnu skaita pārmaiņas, kas liecina par kompensējamu iekaisuma procesa attīstību. Perifērās mononukleārās asins šūnās pēc daļiņu iedarbības tika novērota eksocitoze (šūnu fragmentācija). Kopumā ilglaicīga un sistemātiska nekvalitatīva nerūpnieciskās darba vides iekštelpu gaisa ietekme biroju darbiniekiem var radīt veselības sūdzības.Item Nerūpniecisko iekštelpu gaisa kvalitātes rādītāji un darba vides riska novērtēšanas pamatmetožu izstrāde. Promocijas darbs(Rīgas Stradiņa universitāte, 2012) Martinsone, Žanna; Baķe, Mārīte Ārija; Eglīte, MaijaPromocijas darbā ir 162 lpp., 75 attēli, 86 tabulas, 161 literatūras avoti, 10 pielikumi. Promocijas darbs ir sarakstīts latviešu valodā. Darba mērķi: novērtēt nerūpnieciskās darba vides iekštelpu gaisa kvalitātes rādītājus un to noteikšanas metodes, kā arī izveidot zinātniski pamatotu pamatmetožu kopumu nerūpnieciskās darba vides iekštelpu gaisa kvalitātes un darbinieku veselības riska novērtēšanai. Darba metodes: darbā izmantotas starptautiski atzītas iekštelpu gaisa kvalitātes novērtēšanas metodes un iekārtas, kā arī Latvijā pirmo reizi darba vidē novērtēts putekļu daļiņu skaits un virsmas laukums. Darbā veikta biroju darbinieku aptauja, lai izvērtētu iekštelpu gaisa kvalitāti un sūdzības par veselību. Putekļu daļiņu (t.s. nanodaļiņu) iespējamās ietekmes uz biroju darbinieku veselību izvērtēšanai veikti eksperimenti in vivo (žurkas) un in vitro (šūnas). Darba galvenie rezultāti: iekštelpu gaisa kvalitātes rādītāju mērījumu rezultāti parādīja, ka nozīmīgākie biroju iekštelpu gaisa piesārņotāji ir CO2, formaldehīds, ogļūdeņraži (summāri pēc C), etilacetāts, putekļu daļiņas, t.sk. nanodaļiņas (vērtējot pēc skaita un alveolārās frakcijas virsmas laukuma), NO2 un O3, nozīmīgi ir arī mikroklimatiskie rādītāji darba vidē. Mērījumu un aptaujas dati pierādīja ciešas sakarības starp CO2 koncentrācijām un specifiskām sūdzībām par veselību (grūtībām koncentrēties, nogurumu, galvassāpēm u.c.). Aptaujas rezultāti pierādīja, ka nelabvēlīgiem darba vides riska faktoriem pakļautiem biroju darbiniekiem statistiski ticami lielākas izredzes ir iegūt tādas sūdzības par veselību kā: sausu ādu (OR=3,4) un sausas un iekaisušas acis (OR=2,5) samazināta gaisa mitruma gadījumā; sliktu dūšu vai nelabuma sajūtu (OR=2,6) un iekaisušu, sausu kaklu (OR=2,6) ķīmisko vielu iedarbības gadījumā; šķaudīšanu (OR=2,2) pārāk mazas gaisa kustības gadījumā u.c. Tomēr jāņem vērā, ka tādu veselības simptomu, kā sprandas nogurums, sāpes mugurā u.c. attīstībā, nozīme ir arī vecumam un dzimumam. Eksperimentā ar žurkām tika konstatēts, ka statistiski ticami palielinājušies iekaisuma rādītāji, imūnkompetento šūnu skaita pārmaiņas, kas liecina par kompensējamu iekaisuma procesa attīstību. Perifērās mononukleārās asins šūnās pēc daļiņu iedarbības tika novērota eksocitoze (šūnu fragmentācija). Kopumā ilglaicīga un sistemātiska nekvalitatīva nerūpnieciskās darba vides iekštelpu gaisa ietekme biroju darbiniekiem var radīt veselības sūdzības.Item Non-Industrial Indoor Air Quality and Development of Basic Methods for the Occupational Risk Assessment. Summary of the Doctoral Thesis(Rīga Stradiņš University, 2012) Martinsone, Žanna; Baķe, Mārīte Ārija; Eglīte, MaijaThe paper consists of 162 pages, 75 pictures, 86 tables, 161 literature references, 10 attachments. The thesis is completed in Latvian. Aim of Study: to assess the non-industrial workplace indoor air quality indicators and detection methods, as well as set the science-based methods for non-industrial workplace indoor air quality and assess the health complains of workers. Methods and Materials: there have been used internationally recognized indoor air quality assessment methods and equipment in study, as well as the first time in the occupational environment of Latvia were estimate dust particle count and surface area concentrations. The employee‘s survey was done to evaluate impact of indoor air quality and health complaints in offices. The dust particles (include nanoparticles) potential effects on office workers' health was conducted by experiments in vivo (rats) and in vitro (cells). Main Results: the measurement results of indoor air quality indicated that the most important indoor air pollutants in offices are: CO2, formaldehyde, hydrocarbons (by C), ethyl acetate, the count of dust particles (nanoparticles), surface area of dust alveolar fraction. NO2 and O3, as well as humidity, temperature and air velocity should be taken in account by evaluation of the non-industrial occupational environment of workplaces. Data of measurements and survey indicated a strong correlation between CO2 concentrations and specific health complaints (difficulty concentrating, fatigue, headaches, etc.). The survey results also indicated that poor indoor air quality in offices gave the higher odds ratio for such health complains as: dry skin (OR = 3.4) and dry and itchy eyes (OR = 2.5) in case of low air humidity; nausea or feeling sick (OR = 2.6) and sore, dry throat (OR = 2.6) in case of chemicals exposure; sneezing (OR = 2.2) in case on low air velocity etc. However, considering that age and sex play a role in the development of health symptoms (neck fatigue, back pain, etc.). The experiments in vivo showed statistically significantly increasing of inflammatory indicators, changes of immune-competent cells, it shows that inflammatory process in lung is offset. Cell‘s fragmentation was observed after exposure to nanoparticles in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. In general, long-term and systematic impact of poor non-industrial indoor air can cause health complaints to office workers.Item Number of fine particles’ and their mass concentration : Comparison of emission of new printing technology versus traditional laser technology(Rēzeknes Tehnoloģiju akadēmija, 2021-06) Paegle, Linda; Martinsone, Žanna; Vanadziņš, Ivars; Pavlovska, Ilona; Akūlova, Lāsma; Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental HealthFor many years the printers have been essential part of our offices and exposures from various printing technologies have been widely researched. The main objective of this study was to compare emitted number and mass of fine particles from laser printers and new Micro Piezo technology ink jet printers during the printing process and one hour afterwards as these emissions have potential for negative health effects. Air samples were taken with the particle size spectrometer for real-time ELPI+, Dekati (air flow rate 10 l/min). Measurements were taken ~0.5 m from the printers: one hour before the test, during printing and one hour afterwards. Similar class black&white (b/w) and colour printer of each technology were tested. Each printer performed a 10-page and a 100-page test according to ECMA 328-1 Standard [1]. During laser printer tests from 8324 to 19943 pt/cm 3 fine particles were determined on printing phase from b/w and colour printers. Ink jet (Micro Piezo) printers produced less: from 3239 to 5247 pt/cm 3. One hour after the printing phase for both types of laser printers’ there were 54722 to 152351 pt/cm 3 particles in air and 4270 to 9579 pt/cm 3 particles for ink jet printers. Detected particle mass differences was insignificant: in range of 0.002 to 0.012 mg/m 3 for laser printers and 0.002 to 0.019 mg/m 3 for ink jet printers. Micro Piezo technology printers emitted mass particles were with bigger median size μm. The highest number of particles was observed one hour after the printing for both tested printer technologies. Laser printers’ emitted 2.5 to 3.8 times more particles in printing phase and 12.8 to 15.9 times more after printing phase. Particle mass in mg/m 3 was detected in the size range 6nm - 2.5 μm with no significant mass differences.Item Organic solvents as chemical risk factors of the work environment in different branches of industry and possible impact of solvents on workers' health : Oganiskie škīdinātāji kā darba vides ķīmiskā riska faktori dažādās ražošanas nozares un to iespējamā ietekme uz nodarbināto veselību(2010-01-01) Ǎrija Baķe, Marite; Eglite, Maija; Martinsone, Žanna; Buiķe, Inita; Piķe, Anita; Sudmalis, Pavels; Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental Health; Rīga Stradiņš UniversityThe aim of our study was to investigate organic solvents as chemical risk factors of the work environment in different branches of the industry in Latvia during 1998-2006 and to evaluate the possible impact of solvents to worker health according to the exposure index. The work conditions were studied in 116 enterprises of different branches of industries in Latvia. The analysis of 1790 measurements showed that organic solvents in the work environment have different degrees of exposure probability risk on worker health. The exposure levels in workplaces differ. More than half of surveyed workplaces (56.7%) had a low organic solvent exposure probability level, in 25.2% workplaces it was medium, and in 18.1% workplaces high. The most widely used organic solvents were aromatic hydrocarbons, which was recorded in 35% of the measurements made during assessment of aromatic hydrocarbon group organic solvent exposure in the work environment. In most workplaces several solvents were present simultaneously. Since solvents have a one-way effect on the human body, the actual exposure risk level is higher than shown when evaluating the exposure index of a single solvent only.Item Phthalates and substitute plasticizers : Main achievements from the European human biomonitoring initiative HBM4EU(2024-06) Gerofke, Antje; Lange, Rosa; Vogel, Nina; Schmidt, Phillipp; Weber, Till; David, Madlen; Frederiksen, Hanne; Baken, Kirsten; Govarts, Eva; Gilles, Liese; Martin, Laura Rodriguez; Martinsone, Žanna; Santonen, Tiina; Schoeters, Greet; Scheringer, Martin; Domínguez-Romero, Elena; López, Marta Esteban; Calvo, Argelia Castaño; Koch, Holger M.; Apel, Petra; Kolossa-Gehring, Marike; Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental HealthPhthalates and the substitute plasticizer DINCH belong to the first group of priority substances investigated by the European Human Biomonitoring Initiative (HBM4EU) to answer policy-relevant questions and safeguard an efficient science-to-policy transfer of results. Human internal exposure levels were assessed using two data sets from all European regions and Israel. The first collated existing human biomonitoring (HBM) data (2005–2019). The second consisted of new data generated in the harmonized “HBM4EU Aligned Studies” (2014–2021) on children and teenagers for the ten most relevant phthalates and DINCH, accompanied by a quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) program for 17 urinary exposure biomarkers. Exposures differed between countries, European regions, age groups and educational levels. Toxicologically derived Human biomonitoring guidance values (HBM-GVs) were exceeded in up to 5% of the participants of the HBM4EU Aligned Studies. A mixture risk assessment (MRA) including five reprotoxic phthalates (DEHP, DnBP, DiBP, BBzP, DiNP) revealed that for about 17% of the children and teenagers, health risks cannot be excluded. Concern about male reproductive health emphasized the need to include other anti-androgenic substances for MRA. Contaminated food and the use of personal care products were identified as relevant exposure determinants paving the way for new regulatory measures. Time trend analyses verified the efficacy of regulations: especially for the highly regulated phthalates exposure dropped significantly, while levels of the substitutes DINCH and DEHTP increased. The HBM4EU e-waste study, however, suggests that workers involved in e-waste management may be exposed to higher levels of restricted phthalates. Exposure-effect association studies indicated the relevance of a range of endpoints. A set of HBM indicators was derived to facilitate and accelerate science-to-policy transfer. Result indicators allow different groups and regions to be easily compared. Impact indicators allow health risks to be directly interpreted. The presented results enable successful science-to-policy transfer and support timely and targeted policy measures.Item Pilot Study on the Physical, Chemical, and Biological Determinants of Indoor Air Quality in University Classrooms(2023-11) Edelmers, Edgars; Kauce, Rūta; Konopecka, Vita; Veignere , Elizabete; Sprūdža, Klinta Luīze; Neļķe , Valters; Citskovska , Elizabete; Šipilova , Viktorija; Čikuts , Matīss; Skrebele , Elizabete; Skadiņš, Ingus; Martinsone, Žanna; Borodinecs , Anatolijs; Rīga Stradiņš UniversityIn the context of an escalating energy crisis, the burgeoning prevalence of remote work,and challenging climatic conditions, ensuring optimal indoor air quality (IAQ) has emerged as a pressing concern. This pilot study rigorously investigates the complex interplay between biological, chemical, and physical parameters that characterize IAQ, focusing specifically on university classrooms during active teaching sessions. Employing a comprehensive array of instrumentation – such as SAS SUPER ISO 100 for microbiological sampling, Aranet4 for monitoring relative humidity, temperature, and CO2 concentration, and PCE-PCO 1 and PCE-RSCM 16 for particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) quantification—the study spanned a duration of three days in November 2022 and covered classrooms of varying dimensions, both reliant on natural ventilation. An extensive collection of 52 microbiological samples were obtained and cultured on specialized growth media to differentiate between various classes of airborne microorganisms. Concurrently, the pilot study meticulously recorded students' activity patterns,along with the temporal dynamics of window openings and closures. The colony-forming units per cubic meter (CFU/m3) fluctuated between 174 and 934 CFU/m3, with fungi constituting the majority. Furthermore, the CFU/m3 for fungi cultivated on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar ranged from 24 to 610 CFU/m3, whereas bacteria cultured on Trypticase Soy Agar and Mannitol Salt Agar exhibited ranges of 42–476 CFU/m3 and 42–254 CFU/m3, respectively. Contrasting these findings with extant guidelines that recommend microbiological contamination not exceeding 500CFU/m3 highlights significant IAQ concerns. Thermal assessments revealed that the smaller classroom surpassed the acceptable indoor temperature threshold of 25 °C within an average duration of 50 minutes, while the larger classroom remained compliant. Notably, the highest CO2concentrations recorded over the three-day period were alarmingly high: 2689 ppm, 1970 ppm,and 2131 ppm on the first, second, and third days, respectively. A 25-minute ventilation intervention was sufficient to reduce CO2 levels to 499 ppm, although existing literature stipulatest hat CO2 concentrations should not surpass 1000 ppm. Importantly, the pilot study highlighted the rapid increasing of PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations in crowded instructional settings,averaging 400 μg/m3 and 35 μg/m3, respectively. This underscores the necessity for a continuous air ventilation and purification mechanism during classroom activities. Despite these pivotal findings, the study identifies a glaring absence of standardized regulations or guidelines pertaining to maximum acceptable concentrations of particulate matter and microbial CFU in public indoor environments, indicating a critical area requiring immediate policy intervention.Item Toxic effects of nanoparticles - differences and similarities with fine particles : Nanodaļiņu toksiskie efekti - atšķirīgais un līdzīgais ar mikrodaļiņām(2010-01-01) Martinsone, Žanna; Baķe, Mārīte Ārija; Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental HealthThere is increasing recognition that nanoparticles may pose a risk to human health. Toxicology studies have indicated that specific properties of nanoparticles drive their toxicity. These properties include surface area and chemistry, size and shape of particles, as well as charge and number, but to a lesser extent, mass. Nanoparticles can influence human health by occupational exposure and by environmental contacts. Uptake of nanoparticles may occur by inhalation, transdermal means and by ingestion. After inhalation, oral administration or parenteral administration, nanoparticles reach the lungs, gastrointestinal tract and brain. It is important to understand the similar and dissimilar features of nanoparticles and fine particles regarding impact on health. The general picture that emerges from experimental animal studies is that, on a mass dose basis, pulmonary toxicity is enhanced when particle size is reduced from the micrometre to the nanometre range. The increase in toxicity appears to be related to the increase in particle surface area. However, different existing materials in the nanometre size exhibit different degrees of toxicity on the respiratory tract. It is not possible to reach generic conclusions about toxicity based on consideration of size alone; the potential toxicity of each individual nanoparticulate material needs to be considered on a case-by-case basis. There is a clear lack of information on the potential health effects of nanoparticles produced for nanotechnologies. These uncertainties arise because of gaps in knowledge about the factors that are essential for predicting health risks - factors such as routes of exposure, translocation of materials once they enter the body, and interaction of the materials with the body's biological systems.