@article{ATM2385,
author = {Robert Sturm},
title = {Theoretical deposition of carcinogenic particle aggregates in the upper respiratory tract},
journal = {Annals of Translational Medicine},
volume = {1},
number = {3},
year = {2013},
keywords = {},
abstract = {Background: Numerous particles suspended in the atmosphere are composed of smaller particular components that form aggregates with highly irregular shape. Such aggregates, among which dusts and soot are the most prominent examples, may be taken up into the respiratory tract and, in the worst case, initiate a malignant transformation of lung cells.
Methods: Particle aggregates were theoretically modelled by using small spheres with equal diameters (1 nm) and arranging them randomly. This procedure resulted in the generation of various aggregate shapes (chain-like, loose, compact), for which essential parameters such as dynamic shape factors, χ, and aerodynamic diameters, dae, were computed. Deposition of aggregates consisting of 10, 50, 100, and 1,000 nano-spheres was simulated for the uppermost parts of the human respiratory system (extrathoracic region and airway generation 0 to 4), thereby distinguishing between sitting and light-work breathing as well as between nasal and oral inhalation.
Results: Based upon the modelling results, aggregate deposition in the human respiratory system can be described as a function of (I) aerodynamic diameter; (II) inhaled particle position within the airway system; and (III) breathing conditions. Therefore, highest deposition values were obtained for nano-scale aggregates (},
issn = {2305-5847}, url = {https://atm.amegroups.org/article/view/2385}
}