Predictive Models for Disposition of Inhaled Diesel Exhaust Particles in Humans and Laboratory Species

Dr. Yu's project addressed several important issues regarding improved quantification of dose from known concentrations of atmospheric particulate matter. By focusing first on a specific category of automotive-derived particles, diesel exhaust particulate, Dr. Yu was able to characterize those aerosol properties (such as the mass medican aerodynamic diameter and size distribution) that influence regional deposition. After formulating a mathematical deposition model, Dr. Yu calculated and compared the deposition of inhaled diesel exhaust particulate in laboratory animals and in humans of different ages.