Author: SynAir-G

Ongoing SynAir-G work on creating an infrastructure for large-scale AI experiments and developing ETL processes

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SynAir-G’s WP6 focuses on developing the project’s centralized data infrastructure and AI modeling capabilities. Progress is on track, with several items completed, including upgrading data collection mechanisms and creating data mapping templates. Ongoing work includes creating an infrastructure for large-scale AI experiments and developing ETL processes. Finally, our future planning involves, guaranteeing data reliability, and developing mechanisms to handle data issues, as well as monitoring AI performance and visualizing the results of the AI modeling.

WP6 is focused on developing the project’s data infrastructure and Artificial Intelligence (AI) modeling capabilities. Progress is on track, with several items completed and others ongoing. Regarding the achieved milestones, an upgraded version of the data collection mechanisms from various resources has been deployed. Moreover, Data mapping and data manual templates for collecting information related to the nature of the data from various project resources were created, as well as, parts in the database for the collection of metadata that will be produced from the AI analysis tasks. For that purpose, we upgraded our data processing functionalities for signal processing, including filtering, frequency domain modifications, and feature extraction on time series data.

According to the ongoing work, Task 6.3 has started creating an infrastructure for orchestrating large-scale experiments on AI analysis and synergistic effects exploration, while the development of Extract, Transform, and Load (ETL) processes is in progress, which is responsible for the proper data insertion from various resources into the AI modeling mechanisms of the Intelligence Engine.We aim always to ensure effective collaboration and communication among project partners involved in WP6, and guarantee also the data reliability. For that reason, we plan to develop a mechanism capable of handling and managing issues such as wrong data generation, missing values, and information loss from various resources. Finally, we aim to develop two major infrastructures that will be responsible for monitoring the performance AI experimental phase, addressing any issues that arise, automatically, and visualizing the results of the AI modeling to a dashboard in such a manner, that can be easily interpreted by humans (stakeholders: researchers, scientists, doctors, etc.).

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Organoids and Organ-on-Chip Technologies for Studying Synergistic Effects on Lung Health

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The SynAir-G project is exploring the potential of organoids and organ-on-chip models in air pollution biology, aligning with the project’s objective to create cutting-edge methodologies that replicate human lung physiology. These models enable precise assessments of pollutant interactions, supporting the development of tools to inform quality standards and mitigate the health impacts of complex exposures.

Organoids and Organochips in Air Pollution Biology

The study of air pollution and its effect on cell biology has advanced significantly with the introduction of cutting-edge models such as respiratory system organoids and organ-on-chip models. These technologies bridge the gap between conventional cell culture systems and in vivo studies, providing a more accurate representation of human physiology in the context of air pollution research.

Organoids in Air Pollution Biology

Human airway or alveolar organoids are cutting-edge cell culture models that mimic the cell-cell interactions in a 3D model. They are derived from stem cells or progenitor cells and provide an excellent model for studying the effects of air pollution at the cellular level.

Organochips in Air Pollution Biology

Lung-on-a-chips are microfluidic devices that replicate the physical and functional properties of the lung. By integrating multiple cell types within a dynamic, perfused environment, they simulate the interaction between different tissues, which is critical for understanding the systemic effects of air pollution.

  • Applications:
    • Toxicity Assessment: These platforms are useful to investigate how certain air pollutants, such as particulate matter and volatile organic compounds, affect the respiratory epithelium.
    • Disease Modeling: Both organoids and organ-on-a-chips help model chronic diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease under exposure to pollutants.
    • Mechanistic Insights: They enable the study of molecular pathways, such as oxidative stress, inflammation, cell distress and DNA damage caused by air pollutants.
  • Advantages:
    • Physiological relevance compared to 2D cell cultures.
    • Genetic and epigenetic responses closer to in vivo systems.
    • Amenable to personalized medicine approaches by using patient-derived cells.

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Full steam ahead for sensor boxes, “smart” gardens, and air purifiers

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Recruitment update

The clinical cohort for WP2 is advancing rapidly! Finland, Georgia, the UK, and Greece are actively recruiting children to join the study, while France is in the final stages of preparation to begin.
Sensor boxes have already been installed in schools, capturing valuable data about classroom environments. The data being collected are related to chemical pollutants, levels of VOCs, dust, and allergens.

Major milestone achieved!

A major milestone for WP2 was achieved: NAAVA Green Walls have been successfully installed in two schools in Greece! Finland is set to follow in the next phase with its own green wall installations.
Green Walls are “smart” gardens that incorporate natural plants to improve air quality and overall well-being in indoor spaces.

🌱 Natural air purification: They act as natural filtration systems, removing toxins and microparticles from the air.

🌿 Environmental and aesthetic benefits: The systems are based on scientific research, offering enhanced well-being, productivity, and aesthetic upgrades to the spaces where they are installed.

A significant step for the environment, education, and health!

Nest steps

TEQOYA Air Purifiers are scheduled to be installed in three schools in Greece by the end of December, further enhancing indoor air quality for our young participants.

WP2 is moving full steam ahead!

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Second SynAir-G episode on improving indoor air quality for healthier children held in Athens

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Following a successful project annual general meeting in Athens, the second SynAir-G workshop was organised to address the pressing issue of indoor air quality (IAQ) and its impact on children’s health. The workshop highlighted the voice of students facing challenges with poor indoor air quality and how scientific findings can be transformed into effective measures, with a focus on tailoring solutions to the local context and implications of IAQ in schools.

The keynote address by Prof. George P. Chrousos, Professor of Pediatrics and Endocrinology Emeritus at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and one of the most cited scientists internationally, set the tone for the workshop, emphasizing the importance of clean indoor air for children’s health. As an expert in pediatrics and endocrinology, Prof. Chrousos provided valuable insights into the physiological impact of air pollutants on children, underscoring the need for evidence-based policy interventions.

The first session, entitled “Clean Air Indoors: the Role of EU Policies in Reducing Air Pollutants,” featured a panel discussion on current EU regulations related to IAQ. During this time, the role of research was highlighted as a tool to help identify and study requirements in order to adapt an EU-wide definition of IAQ. Furthermore, during the presentation of key takeaways of the IDEAL cluster policy brief, a special emphasis was placed on improving awareness about the importance of IAQ and addressing the public misconception that indoor air is safer than outdoor air as this is not always the case. The promotion of clean-air alternatives and the use of modern heating were also encouraged.

The second session focused on “Enhancing IAQ in Greek Schools: National Strategies and Implementation.” This session brought together stakeholders from various sectors in Greece, including a primary school principal, a student with Asthma, and a pediatrician to discuss the challenges and progress made in implementing IAQ strategies in schools. Participants highlighted the SynAir-G project’s role in developing practical solutions for improving air quality in educational settings and ensuring a healthier environment for children across the country.

The workshop closed with a further overview of what the SynAir-G project has accomplished thus far and the next steps the project is making to ensure that IAQ across partner schools are improved and that key results and learnings are shared to a wider audience.

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SynAir-G Annual General Assembly 2024 in Athens, Greece

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On 7 and 8 October 2024, the SynAir-G project consortium gathered in Athens (Greece) for the second annual General Assembly, hosted by the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.

During the Annual General Assembly, all project partners came together to review progress, share updates, and plan future activities. Detailed reports from each work package (WP), including milestones and preliminary results achieved, challenges faced, and next steps were presented and discussed.

Of particular development to be highlighted is that the SynAir-G consortium is on the right track with the successful installation of advanced technical equipment in selected classrooms to monitor air quality and detect potential pollutants and allergens. This includes high-tech sensors for measuring chemical pollutants, as well as innovative devices that track allergens and viral particles in the air. These systems are designed to work continuously, providing real-time data to help understand the indoor air environment better. Data collection is already underway, and this information is being used by the consortium to improve sensor performance and develop models that predict pollution levels and air quality trends. This work is a crucial step toward creating healthier environments for students and staff in classrooms.

Furthermore, topics such as project management, communication strategies, data management, and exploitation plans were also reviewed to ensure alignment across all partners. Additionally, strategic decisions regarding the project’s direction, such as timeline adjustments, were made in collaboration with all partners. The assembly fostered collaboration, ensured accountability, and set the course for the next phase of the project.

The meeting was chaired by Prof. Nikolaos G. Papadopoulos, SynAir-G Coordinator, and the different work packages and tasks leaders provided comprehensive updates on the progress made over the past twelve months and outlined their action plans for the upcoming period.

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SynAir-G advocating for Clean Air on the 2024 International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies

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The 7th of September is the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies and SynAir-G stands at the forefront of the global effort to combat air pollution and promote sustainable living. The awareness day was created by the United Nations Environment Programme, in response to the growing community’s awareness of air pollution risks and to underscore the necessity of further efforts to improve air quality to safeguard human and environmental health.

The 2024 theme “Invest in #CleanAirNow” is a call to governments, corporations, civil society, individuals and schools to start adopting and investing in daily actions that lead the fight for cleaner air in multiple sectors of society. This year’s theme perfectly aligns with SynAir-G’s mission to revolutionise the way we understand and address indoor air pollution, particularly in environments where the most vulnerable populations, such as children, spend their time. The global campaign calls on schools and universities to explore options and install air quality monitors so that the community is aware of the air they are breathing, to integrate air pollution issues in educational programmes and activities for students; and to involve students, teachers and professors to make their contribution to the mission.

SynAir-G project supports the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies 2024, with awareness-raising actions on indoor air quality in schools and on the health impact on children and school workers, especially those with allergies and asthma. SynAir-G aims at providing scientific evidence on indoor air quality in schools, after revealing and quantifying synergistic interactions between different pollutants and their impact on human health.

SynAir-G is more than just a research project: it is a critical part of the Indoor Air and Health Cluster (IDEAL Cluster), a group of EU-funded research projects dedicated to improving indoor air quality, effectively contributing to the EU’s Zero Pollution Action Plan SynAir-G is committed to this call, not only by advancing the science on indoor air quality but by ensuring that the knowledge we generate is accessible and actionable for all stakeholders. By aligning our work with this year’s theme ‘Invest in #CleanAirNow’ , we are reinforcing our commitment to creating healthier indoor environments for everyone, especially for children at school.

Let’s come together to ensure that clean air is a reality for all, both indoors and out, today and for years to come.

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National and Kapodistrian University of Athens shares important milestones for SynAir-G research activities

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Image 1: SynAir-G researchers (Milena Papatesta, Maria Lappa, and Maria Kritikou) with the school teacher and principal in the 8th Primary School of Zografou (Athens, Greece)

The team from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), who is also the project coordinator, achieved important advancements within the research activities of WP02 “Clinical cohort”:

Exciting Developments in Our European Study Centers

The five SynAir-G clinical centres have completed all necessary procedures and obtained approvals to start recruiting children from primary schools located in areas with diverse population levels.

Recruitment Update

The study centre in Athens, Greece, has successfully completed recruitment for the current academic year, enrolling 250 children from five different schools in Athens. This milestone marks significant progress in our project. The team in Greece has already screened more than 20 children to form the nested cohort, which includes children with allergy–associated diseases and matched controls!

Image 2: SynAir-G poster hanged closed to children drawings in a school in Athens

Upcoming Recruitment

Looking ahead, our study centres in Finland, the UK, Georgia, and France are gearing up to begin their recruitment efforts in September 2024. Each of these centres will be reaching out to primary schools within their regions to engage students and families in clinical SynAir-G study.

SynAir-G Boxes Deployment

In parallel with the recruitment efforts, we are excited to announce that the SynAir-G boxes are ready for deployment. The devices will be installed in the participating schools to start collecting data regarding the quality of air in the classrooms. This step is vital for our research, as it will provide insights into the environmental factors influencing children’s health.

 

Image 3: SynAir-G researchers (Milena Papatesta, Maria Lappa) and teachers from the 6th Primary School of Agia Paraskevi (Athens, Greece)

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World Environment Day 2024

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SynAir-G for the World Environment Day

The 5th of June is World Environment Day (WED). Led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), World Environment Day is the biggest international day for the environment. On this day millions of people from government, business, civil society and schools across the world join efforts to raise awareness on the environmental challenges and influence environmental action.

 

“Our Land. Our Future We are #GenerationRestoration”

is the UNEP campaign slogan in 2024, focusing on restoring land, halting desertification and building drought resilience.

 

The SynAir-G project supports the World Environment Day shining a spotlight on climate change and health-related consequences on highly susceptible populations, including children and those people living with allergies and asthma.

The world’s ecosystems are endangered, driven by unsustainable production and consumption patterns that fuel the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

Climate change is a health threat. The health impact of climate change has become an undeniable reality. Climate-driven hazards such as heatwaves, air pollution, water scarcity, and food supply problems increase deaths and disease in the EU and globally.

People living with allergy and asthma are particularly vulnerable. Several environmental risk factors including indoor and outdoor pollution, as well as climate change can elicit and exacerbate allergic diseases. These factors also impact our indoor air. The quality of the air that we breath daily in our homes, offices or schools, is highly susceptible to pollutants coming from indoor but also outdoor.

SynAir-G will reveal and quantify the synergistic interactions between different pollutants affecting health, with a specific focus on the school setting. One of SynAir-G’s core outcomes includes interventions with the potential to upgrade the living environment of schools in Europe, with all children enjoying not just clean air, but a “forest-grade” indoor climate.

It is crucial to protect the Environment and mitigate the effects of climate change by conserving and restoring ecosystems.

SynAir-G mission is to safeguard and promote citizens’ health and well-being, by preventing premature deaths, diseases and inequalities related to environmental pollution and degradation. Early awareness of health hazards and participation in their management from a young age is SynAir-G’s contribution to increasing resilience of the population to air-pollution and climate change related health effects.

 

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School Campaign in Athens 2024

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The FORTH team performed the first comprehensive air quality monitoring SynAir-G campaign inside and outside the 8th Elementary School of Zografou in Athens from January 25 to February 17, 2024.

The main objectives of the campaign were to:

  • Monitor gas and particulate air pollutants inside a classroom with state-of-the-art continuous instruments and low-cost sensors.
  • Monitor the air outside the school with the same sets of instruments.
  • Develop appropriate calibration approaches for the low-cost sensors for a typical classroom using machine learning algorithms.
  • Characterize the volatile organic compounds in the classroom continuously using high mass resolution proton-transfer time-of-flight mass spectrometry (PTR-ToF/MS).
  • Quantify the sources of air pollutants in the studied classroom.

The study combined low-cost sensor measurements (the FORTH ENSENSIA system) alongside high-end instrumentation. The ENSENSIA box includes electrochemical sensors measuring CO2, CO, NOx, O3, SO2, PM2.5, total VOCs, HCHO, temperature and relative humidity. The high-end instrumentation included several monitors for CO2, CO, NOx, O3, SO2, an aethalometer for black carbon, a Scanning Mobility Particle Sizer for particle size distributions and the PTR-ToF/MS for continuous measurements of individual volatile organic compounds.

The monitoring equipment included 5 ENSENSIA low-cost sensor systems, 2 placed inside the classroom and 3 outdoors. The high-end instrumentation was inside the FORTH mobile lab, which was parked outside the school but near the classroom. An automatic valve mechanism was used to interchange between indoor and outdoor measurements for the high-end instrumentation every 20 min.

The results of the measurements are currently analyzed by the FORTH team.

Image 1: Photo of the FORTH mobile laboratory parked outside the school. The blue ENSENSIA low-cost air quality system can also be seen.

Image 2: Photo of some of the instruments inside the FORTH mobile laboratory during the measurements.

Image 3: Photo of the classroom in which the measurements took place after hours. The blue ENSENSIA monitoring system can be seen on top of the bookshelf.