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Tagesse M, Deti M, Dadi D, Nigussie B, Eshetu TT, Tucho GT. Non-Combustible Source Indoor Air Pollutants Concentration in Beauty Salons and Associated Self-Reported Health Problems Among the Beauty Salon Workers. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2021; 14:1363-1372. [PMID: 33833599 PMCID: PMC8021251 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s293723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cosmetic products emits Total Volatile Organic Compound (TVOC) and Particulate Matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 10 micrometers (PM10) of different sizes and characteristics with adverse health effects. Despite the increasing need for cosmetic products, related pollutants level of concentration from beauty salon is not well understood in developing countries. Objective This study aims to assess indoor air pollutant concentrations in the beauty salon and self-reported health problems among the salon workers in Jimma town. Methods A cross-sectional study design was used on 87 beauty salons from May 13-24, 2019. The concentrations of PM10, TVOCs, CO2, room temperature, and relative humidity were measured and triangulated with the survey data collected through measurements and questionnaires. A statistical software package, SPSS v.21, was used to analyze the data. A binary logistic regression was used to analyze categorical data and linear regressions to predict pollutants level and associated health outcomes. Results The results show that 93.1% of the respondents are females, and 85% were below 30 years old. More than 60% of the respondents were married individuals. 56.3% and 44.8% of the workers work over 10 hours per day and work the whole week. 34.6% of the workers reported as worked during pregnancy. About 70% of the workers know the harmful effects of cosmetics, benefits of ventilation, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) use, but only 19.4% use face masks. The majority (88.5%) reported health problems after starting work in the beauty salon. The mean volume of the beauty salon was 36.3 m3, with a mean PM10 concentration of 0.465 mg/m3 and a mean TVOC concentration of 1034.2 µg/m3. These air pollutants have shown a statistically significant association with self-reported health problems. Hence, urgent intervention with subsequent continuous awareness creation is needed to reduce the health consequences of a beauty salon's indoor air pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihretu Tagesse
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Mulunesh Deti
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Dessalegn Dadi
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Berhanu Nigussie
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, College of Education and Behavioural Science, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Tizita Teshome Eshetu
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Gudina Terefe Tucho
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
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102
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Indirect Economic Effects of Vertical Indoor Green in the Context of Reduced Sick Leave in Offices. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13042256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Low indoor humidity has been shown to influence the transmission of respiratory diseases via air. A certain proportion of sick leave in offices is therefore attributable to dryness of air. An improvement in these conditions thus means a reduction in sick leave, which is accompanied by cost savings for companies. Vertical indoor greening has a verifiable positive effect on air humidity, especially in winter months. In this article, the correlation between improved air humidity in greened rooms and reduction of sick leave due to improved air humidity was described. The resulting indirect economic effect was determined by comparing the costs for construction, green care, and technical maintenance of indoor greenery with savings due to lower sick leave. Based on long-term measurement data on air humidity and temperature, and actual cost values for three buildings, located in Vienna, Austria, with 6 greened and 3 reference rooms without greenery, the correlation of the method was derived and finally formulated in a generalized way using dimensioning factors. Only considering the influence on air humidity, profitability of 6.6 m2 vertical greening installed in an example office with six workplaces equipped with technical ventilation and saving of two sick days already results after about 4.5 years.
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103
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Wolkoff P, Azuma K, Carrer P. Health, work performance, and risk of infection in office-like environments: The role of indoor temperature, air humidity, and ventilation. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2021; 233:113709. [PMID: 33601136 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2021.113709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological and experimental studies have revealed the effects of the room temperature, indoor air humidity, and ventilation on human health, work and cognitive performance, and risk of infection. In this overview, we integrate the influence of these important microclimatic parameters and assess their influence in offices based on literature searches. The dose-effect curves of the temperature describe a concave shape. Low temperature increases the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases and elevated temperature increases the risk of acute non-specific symptoms, e.g., dry eyes, and respiratory symptoms. Cognitive and work performance is optimal between 22 °C and 24 °C for regions with temperate or cold climate, but both higher and lower temperatures may deteriorate the performances and learning efficiency. Low temperature may favor virus viability, however, depending on the status of the physiological tissue in the airways. Low indoor air humidity causes vulnerable eyes and airways from desiccation and less efficient mucociliary clearance. This causes elevation of the most common mucous membrane-related symptoms, like dry and tired eyes, which deteriorates the work performance. Epidemiological, experimental, and clinical studies support that intervention of dry indoor air conditions by humidification alleviates symptoms of dry eyes and airways, fatigue symptoms, less complaints about perceived dry air, and less compromised work performance. Intervention of dry air conditions by elevation of the indoor air humidity may be a non-pharmaceutical treatment of the risk of infection by reduced viability and transport of influenza virus. Relative humidity between 40 and 60% appears optimal for health, work performance, and lower risk of infection. Ventilation can reduce both acute and chronic health outcomes and improve work performance, because the exposure is reduced by the dilution of the indoor air pollutants (including pathogens, e.g., as virus droplets), and in addition to general emission source control strategies. Personal control of ventilation appears an important factor that influences the satisfaction of the thermal comfort due to its physical and positive psychological impact. However, natural ventilation or mechanical ventilation can become sources of air pollutants, allergens, and pathogens of outdoor or indoor origin and cause an increase in exposure. The "health-based ventilation rate" in a building should meet WHO's air quality guidelines and dilute human bio-effluent emissions to reach an acceptable perceived indoor air quality. Ventilation is a modifying factor that should be integrated with both the indoor air humidity and the room temperature in a strategic joint control to satisfy the perceived indoor air quality, health, working performance, and minimize the risk of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peder Wolkoff
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.
| | - Kenichi Azuma
- Dept Environmental Medicine and Behavioral Science, Kindai University, Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Osaka, Japan.
| | - Paolo Carrer
- Dept Biomedical and Clinical Sciences "L. Sacco", University of Milan, 20157, Milan, Italy.
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104
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Liu J, Liu J, He Z, Yang Z, Yuan J, Wu H, Zhu P, Fu X, Lin Y, Zhang Y, Zhao Z, He S, Ma X. Duration of SARS-CoV-2 positive in quarantine room environments: A perspective analysis. Int J Infect Dis 2021; 105:68-74. [PMID: 33578005 PMCID: PMC7872842 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2021.02.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine the duration of SARS-CoV-2 persistence in quarantine hotel environments. Methods 39 Patients confirmed by RT-PCR were included. We collected clinical features, laboratory test results, smear sample information, and quarantine room information. Genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were conducted. We analyzed the factors associated with environmental contamination. Result Among 39 COVID-19 cases, 10 were asymptomatic and 37 were imported from aboard. We collected 271 swab samples from environmental surfaces related to observational patients. Eighteen swab samples from seven patients were positive. The highest contamination rates occurred on cups (100%), followed by hand sink (12.82%), toilet seat and flush (7.89%), telephone (5.56%), bedside table (5.56%), and floor drain (5.41%). The results showed that environmental surface contamination was associated with the clinical cycle threshold values for patients (P = 0.01) and the sampling interval time after the cases left their rooms (P = 0.03). The duration of environmental surface contamination was associated with the wet status of the sampling site (P = 0.01). Conclusion Our findings showed that environmental contamination might be attributed to the viral load in the respiratory tracts of patients and the sampling interval time after the cases left their rooms. Moist surfaces were more vulnerable to remaining SARS-CoV-2 RNA-positive. Our study highlights the importance of implementing strict chemical disinfection strategies in quarantine rooms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Liu
- Department of Disinfection, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Baiyun District Qi De Road in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510440, China
| | - Jingwen Liu
- Department of Virology and Immunology, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Baiyun District Qi De Road in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510440, China
| | - Zheng He
- Department of Disinfection, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Baiyun District Qi De Road in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510440, China
| | - Zhicong Yang
- Director Office, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Baiyun District Qi De Road in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510440, China
| | - Jun Yuan
- Director Office, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Baiyun District Qi De Road in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510440, China
| | - Haoying Wu
- Department of Disinfection, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Baiyun District Qi De Road in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510440, China
| | - Pingting Zhu
- Department of Virology and Immunology, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Baiyun District Qi De Road in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510440, China
| | - Xuesong Fu
- Department of School Health, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Baiyun District Qi De Road in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510440, China
| | - Yunwan Lin
- Department of Disinfection, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Baiyun District Qi De Road in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510440, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Virology and Immunology, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Baiyun District Qi De Road in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510440, China
| | - Zhengyang Zhao
- Department of Disinfection, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Baiyun District Qi De Road in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510440, China
| | - Shiyu He
- Department of Disinfection, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Baiyun District Qi De Road in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510440, China
| | - Xiaowei Ma
- Department of Public Health Emergency Response, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Baiyun District Qi De Road in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510440, China.
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105
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Roskams M, Haynes B. Environmental demands and resources: a framework for understanding the physical environment for work. FACILITIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1108/f-07-2020-0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the extent to which Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) theory (Demerouti et al., 2001; Bakker and Demerouti, 2017) is an appropriate conceptual framework for understanding the physical environment for work.
Design/methodology/approach
A conceptual analysis of the multidisciplinary workplace literature was performed to assess the core propositions of JD-R theory as they relate to the workplace environment.
Findings
The analysis confirms that the workplace environment can be viewed as a composite of environmental demands (which instigate a health impairment process) and environmental resources (which trigger an engagement process). Employees proactively try to improve the suitability of their workspace through environmental crafting, motivated by minimising demands and maximising resources.
Originality/value
The application of JD-R theory to the workplace environment fills a gap in the literature for a framework which captures the dynamic nature of the employee-workplace relationship.
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106
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Rai S, Singh DK, Kumar A. Microbial, environmental and anthropogenic factors influencing the indoor microbiome of the built environment. J Basic Microbiol 2021; 61:267-292. [PMID: 33522603 DOI: 10.1002/jobm.202000575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
A built environment is a human-made environment providing surroundings for human occupancy, activities, and settlement. It is supposed to safeguard humans from all undesirable and harmful pollutants; however, indoor concentrations of some pollutants are much greater than that of the outdoors. Bioaerosols infiltrate from the outdoors in addition to many indoor sources of bioaerosols including the use of various chemicals as well as activities like cooking, smoking, cleaning, or even normal movement. They are also associated with a number of serious health concerns. Various ecological factors associated with the generation, the persistence as well as the dispersal of these microbial components of indoor bioaerosols, are discussed in this review, that have not been considered all together till now. The factors like microbial taxa, environmental factors, and anthropogenic activities (human occupancy, activities, and impact of urbanization) are addressed in the review. Effects of both indoor environmental factors like architectural design, lighting, ventilation, temperature, humidity, indoor/outdoor ratio, particulate matter, indoor chemistry as well as outdoor environmental factors like geography, seasons, and meteorology on the microbial concentrations have been discussed. Efforts are underway to design selective pressures for microbes to create a healthy symbiotic built microbiome as the "right" indoor microbiome is a "healthy" indoor microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandhya Rai
- Department of Zoology, Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Dileep K Singh
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Amod Kumar
- Department of Zoology, Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
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107
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Hachem M, Loizeau M, Saleh N, Momas I, Bensefa-Colas L. Short-term association of in-vehicle ultrafine particles and black carbon concentrations with respiratory health in Parisian taxi drivers. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 147:106346. [PMID: 33388565 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Professional drivers are exposed inside their vehicles to high levels of air pollutants due to the considerable time they spend close to motor vehicle emissions. Little is known about ultrafine particles (UFP) or black carbon (BC) adverse respiratory health effects compared to the regulated pollutants. OBJECTIVES We aimed to study the short-term associations between UFP and BC concentrations inside vehicles and (1) the onset of mucosal irritation and (2) the acute changes in lung function of Parisian taxi drivers during a working day. METHODS An epidemiological study was carried out on 50 taxi drivers in Paris. UFP and BC were measured inside their vehicles with DiSCmini® and microAeth®, respectively. On the same day, the frequency and the severity of nose, eye, and throat irritations were self-reported by each participant and a spirometry test was performed before and after the work shift. Multivariate analysis was used to evaluate the associations between in-taxis UFP and BC concentrations and mucosal irritation and lung function, after adjustment for potential confounders. RESULTS In-taxis UFP concentrations ranged from 17.9 to 37.9 × 103 particles/cm3 and BC concentrations from 2.2 to 3.9 μg/m3, during a mean of 9 ± 2 working hours. Significant dose-response relationships were observed between in-taxis UFP concentrations and both nasal irritation and lung function. The increase of in-taxis UFP (for an interquartile range of 20 × 103 particles/cm3) was associated to an increase in nasal irritation (adjusted OR = 6.27 [95% CI: 1.02 to 38.62]) and to a reduction in forced expiratory flow at 25-75% by -7.44% [95% CI: -12.63 to -2.24], forced expiratory volume in one second by -4.46% [95% CI: -6.99 to -1.93] and forced vital capacity by -3.31% [95% CI: -5.82 to -0.80]. Such associations were not found with BC. Incident throat and eye irritations were not related to in-vehicle particles exposure; however, they were associated with outdoor air quality (estimated by the Atmo index) and in-vehicle humidity, respectively. CONCLUSION To our knowledge, our study is the first to show a significant association, within a short-period of time, between in and vehicle UFP exposure and acute respiratory effects in professional drivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Hachem
- Paris University, CRESS - INSERM UMR_1153, INRAE, HERA team, Paris, France; Lebanese University, Faculty of Public Health, Pharmacoepidemiology Surveillance Unit, CERIPH, Fanar, Lebanon
| | - Maxime Loizeau
- Paris University, CRESS - INSERM UMR_1153, INRAE, HERA team, Paris, France; Hôtel-Dieu Hospital, APHP. Centre - Paris University, Department of Occupational and Environmental Diseases, Paris, France
| | - Nadine Saleh
- Lebanese University, Faculty of Public Health, Pharmacoepidemiology Surveillance Unit, CERIPH, Fanar, Lebanon; Lebanese University, Faculty of Public Health II, INSPECT-LB, Fanar, Lebanon
| | - Isabelle Momas
- Paris University, CRESS - INSERM UMR_1153, INRAE, HERA team, Paris, France.
| | - Lynda Bensefa-Colas
- Paris University, CRESS - INSERM UMR_1153, INRAE, HERA team, Paris, France; Hôtel-Dieu Hospital, APHP. Centre - Paris University, Department of Occupational and Environmental Diseases, Paris, France
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108
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Readiness Assessment of Green Building Certification Systems for Residential Buildings during Pandemics. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13020460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
One of the consequences of COVID-19 pandemic is the momentum it has created for global changes affecting various aspects of daily lives. Among these, green building certification systems (GBCSs) should not be left behind as significant potential modifications may be required to ensure their versatility for residential buildings due to the new pandemic reality. The present study aims to evaluate the readiness of chosen GBCSs for a proper assessment of existing residential housing sustainability in a post-pandemic world. Based on a literature review of the state-of-the-art data sources and round table discussions, the present study proposes a particular set of sustainability indicators covering special sustainability requirements under pandemic conditions. Then, those indicators are used to evaluate the readiness of selected GBCSs (BREEAM, LEED, WELL, CASBEE) to meet new pandemic-resilient requirements based on their responses to the indicators. The assessment shows that none of the reviewed GBCSs are fully ready to cover all the proposed indicators. GBCSs have differing focuses on particular sustainability pillars, which also affected their responses to pandemic-resilient categories. For instance, WELL rating system successfully responded to the health and safety category, whereas LEED showed better preparedness in terms of environmental efficiency. BREEAM and CASBEE systems have a more evenly distributed attention to all three pandemic-resilient categories (Health & Safety, Environmental Resources Consumption, and Comfort) with an accent on the Comfort category. On a specific note, all GBCSs are insufficiently prepared for waste and wastewater management. In the future, GBCSs should be modified to better adapt to pandemic conditions, for which the current work may provide a basis. As an alternative, brand new standards can be created to face newly arising and evolving post-pandemic requirements.
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109
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Biometric Data as Real-Time Measure of Physiological Reactions to Environmental Stimuli in the Built Environment. ENERGIES 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/en14010232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The physiological and cognitive effects of environmental stimuli from the built environment on humans have been studied for more than a century, over short time frames in terms of comfort, and over long-time frames in terms of health and wellbeing. The strong interdependence of objective and subjective factors in these fields of study has traditionally involved the necessity to rely on a number of qualitative sources of information, as self-report variables, which however, raise criticisms concerning their reliability and precision. Recent advancements in sensing technology and data processing methodologies have strongly contributed towards a renewed interest in biometric data as a potential high-precision tool to study the physiological effects of selected stimuli on humans using more objective and real-time measures. Within this context, this review reports on a broader spectrum of available and advanced biosensing techniques used in the fields of building engineering, human physiology, neurology, and psychology. The interaction and interdependence between (i) indoor environmental parameters and (ii) biosignals identifying human physiological response to the environmental stressors are systematically explored. Online databases ScienceDirect, Scopus, MDPI and ResearchGate were scanned to gather all relevant publications in the last 20 years, identifying and listing tools and methods of biometric data collection, assessing the potentials and drawbacks of the most relevant techniques. The review aims to support the introduction of biomedical signals as a tool for understanding the physiological aspects of indoor comfort in the view of achieving an improved balance between human resilience and building resilience, addressing human indoor health as well as energetic and environmental building performance.
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110
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Gao W, Tu R, Li H, Fang Y, Que Q. In the Subtropical Monsoon Climate High-Density City, What Features of the Neighborhood Environment Matter Most for Public Health? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17249566. [PMID: 33371262 PMCID: PMC7767275 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17249566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Urbanization and climate change have been rapidly occurring globally. Evidence-based healthy city development is required to improve living quality and mitigate the adverse impact of the outdoor neighborhood environment on public health. Taking Guangzhou as an example to explore the association of neighborhood environment and public health and preferably to offer some implications for better future city development, we measured ten environmental factors (temperature (T), wind-chill index (WCI), thermal stress index (HSI), relative humidity (RH), average wind speed (AWS), negative oxygen ions (NOI), PM2.5, luminous flux (LF), and illuminance (I)) in four seasons in four typical neighborhoods, and the SF-36 health scale was employed to assess the physical and mental health of neighborhood residents in nine subscales (health transition(HT), physiological functions (PF), general health status (GH), physical pain (BP), physiological functions (RP), energy vitality (VT), mental health (MH), social function (SF), and emotional functions (RE)). The linear mixed model was used in an analysis of variance. We ranked the different environmental factors in relation to aspects of health and weighted them accordingly. Generally, the thermal environment had the greatest impact on both physical and mental health and the atmospheric environment and wind environment had the least impact on physical health and mental health, respectively. In addition, the physical health of the resident was more greatly affected by the environment than mental health. According to the results, we make a number of strategic suggestions for the renewal of the outdoor neighborhood environment in subtropical monsoon climate high-density cities and provide a theoretical basis for improving public health through landscape architecture at the neighborhood scale.
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111
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Wylie ADL, Abbatt JPD. Heterogeneous Ozonolysis of Tetrahydrocannabinol: Implications for Thirdhand Cannabis Smoke. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:14215-14223. [PMID: 33147000 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c03728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Thirdhand smoke (THS) deposits to surfaces following smoking events and is a source of chemical exposure to humans. However, the evolution of THS in indoor environments is not well understood. Cannabis THS is a chemically distinct and prevalent form of THS, which has not been studied. The heterogeneous reaction of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a major component of cannabis smoke, with ozone was examined as a pure compound and within cannabis smoke. Oxidative decay via ozonolysis and product formation were monitored by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Epoxide, dicarbonyl, and secondary ozonide THC reaction products were detected from both pure THC and cannabis experiments, with the product ratios dependent on relative humidity. The observed reaction kinetics for loss of THC on glass and cotton surfaces are consistent with a relatively short loss lifetime, which will be strongly dependent on the film thickness, ozone mixing ratio, and ozone reactivity of the surface substrate. The low volatility of THC and its oxidation products suggest that their contributions to thirdhand cannabis smoke will be less significant than the role that nicotine plays in thirdhand tobacco smoke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron D L Wylie
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Jonathan P D Abbatt
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
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112
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López de León LR, Deaton KE, Junkin J, Deshusses MA. Capillary microbioreactors for VOC vapor treatment: Impacts of operating conditions. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 258:127286. [PMID: 32544811 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Micro-capillary bioreactors (1 mm ID, 10 cm long) were investigated for the biodegradation of toluene vapors as a model volatile organic compound (VOC). The intended application is the removal of VOCs from indoor air, when such microbioreactor is coupled with a microconcentrator that intermittently delivers high concentrations of VOCs to the bioreactor for effective treatment. The effects of key operating conditions were investigated. Specifically, gas film and liquid film mass transfer coefficients were determined for different gas and liquid velocities. Both mass transfer coefficients increased with gas or liquid velocity, respectively, and the overall gas-liquid mass transfer was dominated by the liquid-side resistance. Experiments with the microbioreactors focused on the effects of gas velocity, liquid velocity and mineral medium renewal rate on the treatment of toluene vapors at different inlet concentrations. The best performance in terms of toluene removal and mineralization to CO2 was obtained when the gas and liquid velocity ratio was close to one and achieving Taylor or slug flow pattern. Sustained treatment over extended periods of time with toluene elimination capacities ranging from 4000 to over 9000 g m-3 h-1 were obtained, which is orders of magnitude greater than conventional biofilters and biotrickling filters. Biological limitations generally played a more important role than mass transfer limitation. Continuous mineral medium supply at a high rate (10 h liquid retention time) enabled pH control and provided ample nutrient supply and therefore resulted in better toluene elimination and mineralization. Overall, these studies helped select the most suitable conditions for high performance and sustained operation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis R López de León
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, 127C Hudson Hall; Box 90287, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708-0287, USA
| | - Kelsey E Deaton
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, 127C Hudson Hall; Box 90287, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708-0287, USA
| | - Jared Junkin
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, 127C Hudson Hall; Box 90287, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708-0287, USA
| | - Marc A Deshusses
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, 127C Hudson Hall; Box 90287, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708-0287, USA.
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113
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Samaranayake LP, Fakhruddin KS, Ngo HC, Chang JWW, Panduwawala C. The effectiveness and efficacy of respiratory protective equipment (RPE) in dentistry and other health care settings: a systematic review. Acta Odontol Scand 2020; 78:626-639. [PMID: 32881590 DOI: 10.1080/00016357.2020.1810769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The global pandemic of coronavirus disease-19, caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is the latest hazard facing healthcare workers (HCW) including dental care workers (DCW). It is clear that the major mode of SARS-CoV-2 transmission is the airborne route, through inhalation of virus-infested aerosols and droplets. Several respiratory protection equipment (RPE), including masks, face shields/visors, and respirators, are available to obviate facial and conjunctival contamination by microbes. However, as their barrier value against microbial inhalation has not been evaluated, we systematically reviewed the data on the effectiveness and efficacy of facemasks and respirators, including protective eyewear, with particular emphasis on dental healthcare. MATERIAL AND METHODS PubMed, MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, and Embase databases were searched between 01January 1990 and 15 May 2020. RESULTS Of 310 identified English language records, 21 were included as per eligibility criteria. In clinical terms, wearing layered, face-fitting masks/respirators and protective-eyewear can limit the spread of infection among HCWs. Specifically, combined interventions such as a face mask and a face shield, better resist bioaerosol inhalation than either alone. The prolonged and over-extended use of surgical masks compromise their effectiveness. CONCLUSIONS In general, RPE is effective as a barrier protection against aerosolized microbes in healthcare settings. But their filtration efficacy is compromised by the (i) inhalant particle size, (ii) airflow dynamics, (iii) mask-fit factor, (iv) period of wear, (v) 'wetness' of the masks, and (vi) their fabrication quality. The macro-data presented here should inform policy formulation on RPE wear amongst HCWs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hien Chi Ngo
- School of Dentistry, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Jeffrey Wen Wei Chang
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Chamila Panduwawala
- Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
- Department Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
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114
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Li S, Yang Z, Hu D, Cao L, He Q. Understanding building-occupant-microbiome interactions toward healthy built environments: A review. FRONTIERS OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & ENGINEERING 2020; 15:65. [PMID: 33145119 PMCID: PMC7596174 DOI: 10.1007/s11783-020-1357-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Built environments, occupants, and microbiomes constitute a system of ecosystems with extensive interactions that impact one another. Understanding the interactions between these systems is essential to develop strategies for effective management of the built environment and its inhabitants to enhance public health and well-being. Numerous studies have been conducted to characterize the microbiomes of the built environment. This review summarizes current progress in understanding the interactions between attributes of built environments and occupant behaviors that shape the structure and dynamics of indoor microbial communities. In addition, this review also discusses the challenges and future research needs in the field of microbiomes of the built environment that necessitate research beyond the basic characterization of microbiomes in order to gain an understanding of the causal mechanisms between the built environment, occupants, and microbiomes, which will provide a knowledge base for the development of transformative intervention strategies toward healthy built environments. The pressing need to control the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in indoor environments highlights the urgency and significance of understanding the complex interactions between the built environment, occupants, and microbiomes, which is the focus of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Li
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996 USA
| | - Zhiyao Yang
- Lyles School of Civil Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907 USA
| | - Da Hu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996 USA
| | - Liu Cao
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996 USA
| | - Qiang He
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996 USA
- Institute for a Secure & Sustainable Environment, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996 USA
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Ichiura H, Seike T, Kozu A. Acetaldehyde gas removal by a nylon film-TiO 2 composite sheet prepared on a paper surface using interfacial polymerization and electrostatic interactions. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 256:127143. [PMID: 32473469 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In this study, preparation of a nylon film-TiO2 composite sheet with both physical durability under UV irradiation and TiO2 photocatalysis functionality was investigated. First, a nylon film was directly prepared on paper by interfacial polymerization using ethylenediamine and terephthaloyl chloride in a cyclohexane-chloroform mixture (3:1, v/v). Next, the nylon-coated paper was treated with tetraethyl orthosilicate and 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane to prepare polysiloxane on its surface. This was followed by fixation of TiO2 powder via electrostatic interactions with the polysiloxane. Although nylon films on paper usually decompose under TiO2 photocatalysis, the nylon film-TiO2 composite sheets prepared using 0.5%-1.0% (w/v) TiO2 did not decompose under photocatalysis. The residual rate of strength of the sheet remained at almost 100% after 240 h, which could be attributed to protection of the sheet by the polysiloxane layer. The nylon film was fibrous and could effectively adsorb acetaldehyde gas. All of the nylon film-TiO2 composite sheets prepared using 0.5%-5.0% TiO2 photocatalytically removed acetaldehyde under UV irradiation and no acetaldehyde gas was detected after 240-300 min. These results show the nylon film-TiO2 composite sheet can effectively remove acetaldehyde gas by photocatalysis and adsorption and could be applied to removal of volatile organic compounds in indoor air.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideaki Ichiura
- Faculty of Agriculture, Kochi University, 200 Monobe-Otsu, Nankoku, Kochi, 783-8502, Japan.
| | - Takenori Seike
- Faculty of Agriculture, Kochi University, 200 Monobe-Otsu, Nankoku, Kochi, 783-8502, Japan
| | - Ayako Kozu
- Faculty of Agriculture, Kochi University, 200 Monobe-Otsu, Nankoku, Kochi, 783-8502, Japan
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116
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Hoseinzadeh E, Safoura Javan, Farzadkia M, Mohammadi F, Hossini H, Taghavi M. An updated min-review on environmental route of the SARS-CoV-2 transmission. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2020; 202:111015. [PMID: 32800237 PMCID: PMC7346818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
The risk of newly emerging diseases is constantly present in a world where changes occur significantly in climatic, commercial, and ecological conditions, in addition to the development of biomedical investigations in new situations. An epidemic respiratory disease instigated by a new coronavirus was initially identified in and has resulted in the current global dissemination. This viral strain and its related disease has been termed "SARS-CoV-2" and "coronavirus disease 2019" (abbreviated "COVID-19" or "2019-nCoV"), respectively, which is transmitted simply between individuals. The World Health Organization (WHO) announced the COVID-19 outburst as a pandemic on March 11, which necessitates a cooperative endeavour globally for mitigating the spread of COVID-19. The absence of previous, and minimum present-day information, particularly concerning the path of contagion have precluded the control of this disease. The present article, therefore, describes the SARS-CoV-2 paths of contagion such as drinking water, solid waste, sewer water, ambient air, and the rest of emerging likely paths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edris Hoseinzadeh
- Student Research Committee, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran.
| | - Safoura Javan
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran.
| | - Mahdi Farzadkia
- Research Center for Environmental Health Technology, Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Farshid Mohammadi
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Shahid Beheshti Hospital, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
| | - Hooshyar Hossini
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Mahmoud Taghavi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Social Development & Health Promotion Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran.
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On the Optimal Indoor Air Conditions for SARS-CoV-2 Inactivation. An Enthalpy-Based Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17176083. [PMID: 32825607 PMCID: PMC7504028 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17176083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In the CoViD-19 pandemic, the precautionary approach suggests that all possible measures should be established and implemented to avoid contagion, including through aerosols. For indoor spaces, the virulence of SARS-CoV-2 could be mitigated not only via air changes, but also by heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems maintaining thermodynamic conditions possibly adverse to the virus. However, data available in literature on virus survival were never treated aiming to this. In fact, based on comparisons in terms of specific enthalpy, a domain of indoor comfort conditions between 50 and 60 kJ/kg is found to comply with this objective, and an easy-to-use relationship for setting viable pairs of humidity and temperature using a proper HVAC plant is proposed. If confirmed via further investigations on this research path, these findings could open interesting scenarios on the use of indoor spaces during the pandemic.
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118
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Humidity prevents the exercise-induced formation of hydrogen peroxide and nitrite in exhaled breath condensate in recreational cyclists. Eur J Appl Physiol 2020; 120:2339-2348. [PMID: 32772245 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-020-04456-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aerobic exercise affects the respiratory redox-state. The influence of different relative humidity (RH) levels on the formation of respiratory reactive chemical species associated with redox-state altered by exercise has been poorly explored. Our aim was to evaluate the effect of two different RH conditions (40% vs. 90%) on the concentration of hydrogen peroxide and nitrite in exhaled breath condensate ([H2O2]EBC and [NO2-]EBC) and spirometry parameters in recreational cyclists. METHODS Sixteen men and women (12/4) (mean age ± SD: 23.5 ± 2.2 years) completed 60-min of cycling at 166.3 ± 26.9 watts (70% of maximum load of [Formula: see text]-max. test, 49.3 ± 7.6 mL·min-1·kg-1) at random 40%-RH and 90%-RH conditions separated by 7 days. The two-way RM-ANOVA test was applied to compare [H2O2]EBC, [NO2-]EBC, [NO2-]EBC/[NO2-]Plasma at rest and 80-min post-exercise (80-post); and spirometry parameters at rest, 20-post and 80-post. RESULTS The interaction of factors (humidity × time) was significant in [H2O2]EBC, [NO2-]EBC, [NO2-]EBC/[NO2-]Plasma (p = 0.005, p = 0.030, p = 0.043, respectively). At 40%-RH conditions, the same parameters were higher in 80-post than at rest (p < 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.014, respectively). At the same time, the [H2O2]EBC and [NO2-]EBC/[NO2-]Plasma were higher in 40%-RH than 90%-RH (p = 0.010, p < 0.001, respectively). The interaction was significant in FEV1 (p = 0.013) and FEF25-75% (p = 0.023), but not in FEV1/FVC (p = 0.362). At 80-post, the changes are kept in 90%-RH (p < 0.001), diminishing in 40%-RH being similar to rest. CONCLUSION In recreational cyclists, 90%-RH prevents the increase of hydrogen peroxide and nitrite in exhaled breath condensate samples observed at 40%-RH and prolonging the bronchodilation until 80-post cycling exercise.
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119
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The Grass Is Always Greener on My Side: A Field Experiment Examining the Home Halo Effect. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12166335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Wood-burning pollution is a severe problem in southern Chile, where every winter, people are exposed to unhealthy ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations. Urban air quality is a major concern for health officials, but public awareness campaigns tend to focus on outdoor hazards. Our understanding of how residents are exposed and perceive air pollution risks in their homes remains incomplete. This study explores the ability of participants to perceive indoor air quality. We collected data on 81 households, combining perceptions of air quality with objective measurements of PM2.5. Residents’ evaluations of air quality were systematically compared to inspectors’ evaluations in order to examine the home halo effect. We found that residents tended to overestimate air quality in their homes. We discuss how our data supported the existence of a home halo effect, but also point out the possibility that individuals’ ability to perceive air quality in indoor spaces is limited by other factors.
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120
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Vornanen-Winqvist C, Järvi K, Andersson MA, Duchaine C, Létourneau V, Kedves O, Kredics L, Mikkola R, Kurnitski J, Salonen H. Exposure to indoor air contaminants in school buildings with and without reported indoor air quality problems. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 141:105781. [PMID: 32417615 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Reported indoor air quality (IAQ) complaints are common even in relatively new or renovated school buildings in Finland. However, detecting the causes for complaints with commonly used indoor air measurements is difficult. This study presents data on perceived and measured IAQ in six comprehensive school buildings in Finland. The aim of this study was to discover the possible differences of perceived and measured IAQ between schools with reported IAQ complaints and schools without reported IAQ complaints. The initial categorisation of schools with ('problematic schools') and without ('comparison schools') complaints was ensured via a validated indoor climate survey and a recently developed online questionnaire, which were completed by 186 teachers and 1268 students from the six schools. IAQ measurements of physical parameters, gaseous pollutants, particulate matter and bioaerosols were conducted in four problematic school buildings (26 classrooms) and two comparison school buildings (12 classrooms). Using air sampling as well as exhaust air filters and classroom settled dust to detect the presence of elevated concentrations of airborne cultivable microbes and pathogenic, toxigenic and mycoparasitic Trichoderma strains were the most indicative methods in distinguishing problematic schools from comparison schools. Other IAQ-related measurements did not detect clear differences between problematic and comparison schools, as the concentration levels were very low. The results indicate that the complaints reported by occupants could have been related to excess moisture or mould problems that had not been found or repaired. Ventilation pressure condition investigations and simultaneous exhaust and supply air filter dust culture should be addressed precisely in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kati Järvi
- Aalto University, Department of Civil Engineering, PO Box 12100, FI-00076 Aalto, Finland
| | - Maria A Andersson
- Aalto University, Department of Civil Engineering, PO Box 12100, FI-00076 Aalto, Finland
| | - Caroline Duchaine
- Université Laval, Département de Biochimie, de Microbiologie et de Bio-informatique, 2325, rue de l'Université, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada; Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, 2725, chemin Sainte-Foy, Québec G1V 4G5, Canada
| | - Valérie Létourneau
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, 2725, chemin Sainte-Foy, Québec G1V 4G5, Canada
| | - Orsolya Kedves
- University of Szeged, Faculty of Science and Informatics, Department of Microbiology, Közép fasor 52, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - László Kredics
- University of Szeged, Faculty of Science and Informatics, Department of Microbiology, Közép fasor 52, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Raimo Mikkola
- Aalto University, Department of Civil Engineering, PO Box 12100, FI-00076 Aalto, Finland
| | - Jarek Kurnitski
- Aalto University, Department of Civil Engineering, PO Box 12100, FI-00076 Aalto, Finland; Tallinn University of Technology, Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Ehitajate tee 5, 19086 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Heidi Salonen
- Aalto University, Department of Civil Engineering, PO Box 12100, FI-00076 Aalto, Finland
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121
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Clements N, Binnicker MJ, Roger VL. Indoor Environment and Viral Infections. Mayo Clin Proc 2020; 95:1581-1583. [PMID: 32753132 PMCID: PMC7395586 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2020.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Clements
- Well Living Lab, Rochester, Minnesota; Mayo Clinic, College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Matthew J Binnicker
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Véronique L Roger
- Well Living Lab, Rochester, Minnesota; Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota; Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.
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122
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Guo XJ, Zhang H, Zeng YP. Transmissibility of COVID-19 in 11 major cities in China and its association with temperature and humidity in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. Infect Dis Poverty 2020; 9:87. [PMID: 32650838 PMCID: PMC7348130 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-020-00708-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The new coronavirus disease COVID-19 began in December 2019 and has spread rapidly by human-to-human transmission. This study evaluated the transmissibility of the infectious disease and analyzed its association with temperature and humidity to study the propagation pattern of COVID-19. METHODS In this study, we revised the reported data in Wuhan based on several assumptions to estimate the actual number of confirmed cases considering that perhaps not all cases could be detected and reported in the complex situation there. Then we used the equation derived from the Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Recovered (SEIR) model to calculate R0 from January 24, 2020 to February 13, 2020 in 11 major cities in China for comparison. With the calculation results, we conducted correlation analysis and regression analysis between R0 and temperature and humidity for four major cities in China to see the association between the transmissibility of COVID-19 and the weather variables. RESULTS It was estimated that the cumulative number of confirmed cases had exceeded 45 000 by February 13, 2020 in Wuhan. The average R0 in Wuhan was 2.7, significantly higher than those in other cities ranging from 1.8 to 2.4. The inflection points in the cities outside Hubei Province were between January 30, 2020 and February 3, 2020, while there had not been an obvious downward trend of R0 in Wuhan. R0 negatively correlated with both temperature and humidity, which was significant at the 0.01 level. CONCLUSIONS The transmissibility of COVID-19 was strong and importance should be attached to the intervention of its transmission especially in Wuhan. According to the correlation between R0 and weather, the spread of disease will be suppressed as the weather warms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Jing Guo
- Institute of Public Safety Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084 People’s Republic of China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Institute of Public Safety Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi-Ping Zeng
- Institute of Public Safety Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084 People’s Republic of China
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Guo XJ, Zhang H, Zeng YP. Transmissibility of COVID-19 in 11 major cities in China and its association with temperature and humidity in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. Infect Dis Poverty 2020; 9:87. [PMID: 32650838 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-17715/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The new coronavirus disease COVID-19 began in December 2019 and has spread rapidly by human-to-human transmission. This study evaluated the transmissibility of the infectious disease and analyzed its association with temperature and humidity to study the propagation pattern of COVID-19. METHODS In this study, we revised the reported data in Wuhan based on several assumptions to estimate the actual number of confirmed cases considering that perhaps not all cases could be detected and reported in the complex situation there. Then we used the equation derived from the Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Recovered (SEIR) model to calculate R0 from January 24, 2020 to February 13, 2020 in 11 major cities in China for comparison. With the calculation results, we conducted correlation analysis and regression analysis between R0 and temperature and humidity for four major cities in China to see the association between the transmissibility of COVID-19 and the weather variables. RESULTS It was estimated that the cumulative number of confirmed cases had exceeded 45 000 by February 13, 2020 in Wuhan. The average R0 in Wuhan was 2.7, significantly higher than those in other cities ranging from 1.8 to 2.4. The inflection points in the cities outside Hubei Province were between January 30, 2020 and February 3, 2020, while there had not been an obvious downward trend of R0 in Wuhan. R0 negatively correlated with both temperature and humidity, which was significant at the 0.01 level. CONCLUSIONS The transmissibility of COVID-19 was strong and importance should be attached to the intervention of its transmission especially in Wuhan. According to the correlation between R0 and weather, the spread of disease will be suppressed as the weather warms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Jing Guo
- Institute of Public Safety Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Institute of Public Safety Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yi-Ping Zeng
- Institute of Public Safety Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, People's Republic of China
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Super hygroscopic nanofibrous membrane-based moisture pump for solar-driven indoor dehumidification. Nat Commun 2020; 11:3302. [PMID: 32620818 PMCID: PMC7335200 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-17118-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Desiccants play vital roles in dehumidification and atmospheric water harvesting; however, current desiccants have mediocre hygroscopicity, limited recyclability, and high energy consumption. Herein, we report a wood-inspired moisture pump based on electrospun nanofibrous membrane for solar-driven continuous indoor dehumidification. The developed moisture pump with multilayer wood-like cellular networks and interconnected open channels is composed of a desiccant layer and a photothermal layer. The desiccant layer exhibits an unprecedented moisture absorption capacity of 3.01 g g-1 at 90% relative humidity (RH), fast moisture absorption and transport rates, enabling atmospheric water harvesting. The photothermal layer shows a high solar absorption of 93%, efficient solar thermal conversion, and good moisture permeability, thus promoting water evaporation. The moisture pump efficiently reduces the indoor relative humidity to a comfort level (40‒60% RH) under one-sun illumination. This work opens the way to develop new-generation, high-performance nanofibrous membrane-based desiccants for energy-efficient humidity control and atmospheric water harvesting.
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125
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Nazaroff WW, Weschler CJ. Indoor acids and bases. INDOOR AIR 2020; 30:559-644. [PMID: 32233033 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Numerous acids and bases influence indoor air quality. The most abundant of these species are CO2 (acidic) and NH3 (basic), both emitted by building occupants. Other prominent inorganic acids are HNO3 , HONO, SO2 , H2 SO4 , HCl, and HOCl. Prominent organic acids include formic, acetic, and lactic; nicotine is a noteworthy organic base. Sources of N-, S-, and Cl-containing acids can include ventilation from outdoors, indoor combustion, consumer product use, and chemical reactions. Organic acids are commonly more abundant indoors than outdoors, with indoor sources including occupants, wood, and cooking. Beyond NH3 and nicotine, other noteworthy bases include inorganic and organic amines. Acids and bases partition indoors among the gas-phase, airborne particles, bulk water, and surfaces; relevant thermodynamic parameters governing the partitioning are the acid-dissociation constant (Ka ), Henry's law constant (KH ), and the octanol-air partition coefficient (Koa ). Condensed-phase water strongly influences the fate of indoor acids and bases and is also a medium for chemical interactions. Indoor surfaces can be large reservoirs of acids and bases. This extensive review of the state of knowledge establishes a foundation for future inquiry to better understand how acids and bases influence the suitability of indoor environments for occupants, cultural artifacts, and sensitive equipment.
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Affiliation(s)
- William W Nazaroff
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Charles J Weschler
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- International Centre for Indoor Environment and Energy, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
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127
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Alsaad H, Voelker C. Performance evaluation of ductless personalized ventilation in comparison with desk fans using numerical simulations. INDOOR AIR 2020; 30:776-789. [PMID: 32255221 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The performance of ductless personalized ventilation (DPV) was compared to the performance of a typical desk fan since they are both stand-alone systems that allow the users to personalize their indoor environment. The two systems were evaluated using a validated computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model of an office room occupied by two users. To investigate the impact of DPV and the fan on the inhaled air quality, two types of contamination sources were modeled in the domain: an active source and a passive source. Additionally, the influence of the compared systems on thermal comfort was assessed using the coupling of CFD with the comfort model developed by the University of California, Berkeley (UCB model). Results indicated that DPV performed generally better than the desk fan. It provided better thermal comfort and showed a superior performance in removing the exhaled contaminants. However, the desk fan performed better in removing the contaminants emitted from a passive source near the floor level. This indicates that the performance of DPV and desk fans depends highly on the location of the contamination source. Moreover, the simulations showed that both systems increased the spread of exhaled contamination when used by the source occupant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayder Alsaad
- Department of Building Physics, Bauhaus-Universität Weimar, Weimar, Germany
| | - Conrad Voelker
- Department of Building Physics, Bauhaus-Universität Weimar, Weimar, Germany
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128
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Ben Hassen H, Ayari N, Hamdi B. A home hospitalization system based on the Internet of things, Fog computing and cloud computing. INFORMATICS IN MEDICINE UNLOCKED 2020; 20:100368. [PMID: 32537483 PMCID: PMC7282767 DOI: 10.1016/j.imu.2020.100368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the world has witnessed a significant increase in the number of elderly who often suffer from chronic diseases, and has witnessed in recent months a major spread of the new coronavirus (COVID-19), which has led to thousands of deaths, especially among the elderly and people who suffer from chronic diseases. Coronavirus has also caused many problems in hospitals, where these are no longer able to accommodate a large number of patients. This virus has also begun to spread between medical and paramedical teams, and this causes a major risk to the health of patients staying in hospitals. To reduce the spread of the virus and maintain the health of patients who need a hospital stay, home hospitalization is one of the best possible solutions. This paper proposes a home hospitalization system based on the Internet of Things (IoT), Fog computing, and Cloud computing, which are among the most important technologies that have contributed to the development of the healthcare sector in a significant way. These systems allow patients to recover and receive treatment in their homes and among their families, where patient health and the hospitalization room environmental state are monitored, to enable doctors to follow the hospitalization process and make recommendations to patients and their supervisors, through monitoring units and mobile applications developed for this purpose. The results of evaluation have shown great acceptance of this system by patients and doctors alike. A home hospitalization system based on the Internet of Things (IoT), Fog computing and Cloud computing, has been proposed. An environmental sensing unit and a vital signs sensing unit were developed. Mobile applications have been developed for doctors, nurses, patients, and their relatives. The proposed home hospitalization system was evaluated by patients and doctors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hafedh Ben Hassen
- University of Monastir, Electronic & Microelectronics' LAB, Faculty of Sciences of Monastir, Monastir, 5000, Tunisia.,University of Monastir, Department of Electrical Engineering, National Engineering School of Monastir, Monastir, 5000, Tunisia
| | - Nadia Ayari
- University of Monastir, Electronic & Microelectronics' LAB, Faculty of Sciences of Monastir, Monastir, 5000, Tunisia
| | - Belgacem Hamdi
- University of Monastir, Electronic & Microelectronics' LAB, Faculty of Sciences of Monastir, Monastir, 5000, Tunisia.,University of Sousse, Higher Institute of Applied Science and Technology of Sousse, Sousse, 4000, Tunisia
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129
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Objective Church Environment Audits and Attendee Perceptions of Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Supports within the Church Setting. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17103598. [PMID: 32443819 PMCID: PMC7277806 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17103598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Interventions in faith-based settings are increasingly popular, due to their effectiveness for improving attendee health outcomes and behaviors. Little past research has examined the important role of the church environment in individual-level outcomes using objective environmental audits. This study examined associations between the objectively measured physical church environment and attendees' perceptions of physical activity (PA) and healthy eating (HE) supports within the church environment, self-efficacy for PA and HE, and self-reported PA and HE behaviors. Data were collected via church audits and church attendee surveys in 54 churches in a rural, medically underserved county in South Carolina. Multi-level regression was used to analyze associations between the church environment and outcomes. Physical elements of churches were positively related to attendees' perceptions of church environment supports for PA (B = 0.03, 95% CI = 0.01, 0.05) and HE (B = 0.05, 95% CI = 0.01, 0.09) and there was a significant interaction between perceptions of HE supports and HE church environment. Self-efficacy and behaviors for PA and HE did not show an association with the church environment. Future research should establish a temporal relationship between the church environment and these important constructs for improving health. Future faith-based interventions should apply infrastructure changes to the church environment to influence important mediating constructs to health behavior.
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130
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordan Lauc
- University of Zagreb Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry & Genos Glycoscience Research Laboratory, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Alemka Markotić
- Clinics for Infective Diseases, Dr. Fran Mihaljević, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivan Gornik
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Clinical Hospital Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dragan Primorac
- St Catharine Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia.,Medical School REGIOMED, Coburg, Germany
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131
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Idarraga MA, Guerrero JS, Mosle SG, Miralles F, Galor A, Kumar N. Relationships Between Short-Term Exposure to an Indoor Environment and Dry Eye (DE) Symptoms. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E1316. [PMID: 32370240 PMCID: PMC7290742 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9051316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Air composition influences Dry Eye (DE) symptoms as demonstrated by studies that have linked the outdoor environment to DE. However, there is insufficient data on the effect of short-term exposure to indoor environments on DE symptoms. We conducted a prospective experimental research, in which an older building served as an experimental site, and a newer building served as the control site. Indoor air quality was monitored in both buildings. One-hundred-and-ninety-four randomly selected individuals were interviewed in the afternoon exiting the buildings and de-identified responses were recorded. Self-reported DE symptoms were modeled with respect to experimental and control buildings, adjusting for potential confounders. The experimental site had 2-fold higher concentration of airborne particulate matter (24,436 vs. 12,213 ≥ 0.5 µm/ft3) and microbial colonies (1066 vs. 400/m3), as compared to the control building. DE symptoms were reported by 37.5% of individuals exiting the experimental and 28.4% exiting the control building. In the univariate analysis, subjects exiting the experimental building were 2.21× more likely to report worsening of DE symptoms since morning compared to the control building (p < 0.05). When adjusting for confounders, including a history of eye allergy, subjects from the experimental building were 13.3× more likely to report worsening of their DE symptoms (p < 0.05). Our findings suggest that short-term exposure to adverse indoor environmental conditions, specifically air pollution and bioaerosols, has an acutely negative impact on DE symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A. Idarraga
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (M.A.I.); (J.S.G.)
| | - Juan S. Guerrero
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (M.A.I.); (J.S.G.)
| | - Samantha G. Mosle
- Environmental Health Division, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (S.G.M.); (F.M.); (N.K.)
| | - Frank Miralles
- Environmental Health Division, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (S.G.M.); (F.M.); (N.K.)
| | - Anat Galor
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (M.A.I.); (J.S.G.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Miami Veterans Administration Medical Center, Miami, FL 33125, USA
| | - Naresh Kumar
- Environmental Health Division, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (S.G.M.); (F.M.); (N.K.)
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132
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Simon V, Uitterhaegen E, Robillard A, Ballas S, Véronèse T, Vilarem G, Merah O, Talou T, Evon P. VOC and carbonyl compound emissions of a fiberboard resulting from a coriander biorefinery: comparison with two commercial wood-based building materials. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:16121-16133. [PMID: 32100217 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-08101-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Indoor air quality is a major public health issue. It is related to the choice of construction materials and associated with VOC emissions. Two wood-based commercial panels were tested: a medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and a chipboard (CH), and they were compared to a material produced from a coriander biorefinery (COR). Indicators chosen to compare the materials were physical properties (density, bending properties, surface hardness, thickness swelling, and water absorption) and VOC emissions. Emissions were evaluated in an environmental chamber at 23 °C, 31 °C, and 36 °C, and during 28 days. Carbonyl emissions on day 1 at 23 °C were 74, 146, and 35 μg m-2 h-1, respectively, for MDF, CH, and COR. Terpenic emissions were 12, 185, and 37 μg m-2 h-1, respectively. Higher temperature resulted in higher emissions which decreased over time, except for formaldehyde. VOC emissions depended largely on material and temperature. Formaldehyde emission was 300 to 600 times lower for coriander boards (< 0.2 μg m-2 h-1), making them significantly more environmentally friendly materials in comparison with MDF and chipboard. These results highlight the interest of coriander by-products as raw materials for producing fiberboards with low impact on indoor air quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Simon
- Laboratoire de Chimie Agro-industrielle, LCA, Université de Toulouse, INRA-INP, Toulouse, France.
| | - Evelien Uitterhaegen
- Laboratoire de Chimie Agro-industrielle, LCA, Université de Toulouse, INRA-INP, Toulouse, France
| | - Anaïs Robillard
- Laboratoire de Chimie Agro-industrielle, LCA, Université de Toulouse, INRA-INP, Toulouse, France
| | - Stéphane Ballas
- Ovalie Innovation, 2 Rue Marguerite Duras, 32000, Auch, France
| | | | - Gérard Vilarem
- Laboratoire de Chimie Agro-industrielle, LCA, Université de Toulouse, INRA-INP, Toulouse, France
| | - Othmane Merah
- Laboratoire de Chimie Agro-industrielle, LCA, Université de Toulouse, INRA-INP, Toulouse, France
| | - Thierry Talou
- Laboratoire de Chimie Agro-industrielle, LCA, Université de Toulouse, INRA-INP, Toulouse, France
| | - Philippe Evon
- Laboratoire de Chimie Agro-industrielle, LCA, Université de Toulouse, INRA-INP, Toulouse, France
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133
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Energy-Saving Potential of Extending Temperature Set-Points in a VRF Air-Conditioned Building. ENERGIES 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/en13092160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Building energy savings and occupant thermal comfort are the main issues in building technology. As such, the development of energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems and the control strategies of HVAC systems are emerging as important topics in the HVAC industry. Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems have efficient energy performance, so the use of VRF systems in buildings is increasing. However, most studies on VRF systems focus on improving mechanical efficiency, with few studies on energy-efficient control while satisfying the thermal comfort of occupants. The goal is to estimate the energy-saving potential of adjusting the temperature set-points and dead-band (range) in VRF air-conditioned building. To do so, we analyzed the influence of control strategies of a VRF system on human thermal comfort and energy consumption using a simulation method. The results showed that energy consumption can be reduced by 25.4% for predicted mean vote (PMV)-based control and 27.0% for the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) comfort range control compared with the typical set-point temperature control of a VRF system. The indoor thermal environments of the analyzed control strategies are controlled in the thermal comfort range, which is based on a PMV at ±0.5. Compared with the typical set-point control, PMV and ASHRAE comfort range-based control reduced the operation time of the compressor in the VRF system.
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134
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Abstract
Context of the research: Research is increasingly carried out to take into account the social behavior of residents, the type of industry located in the area, and perceived preference for the place of residence. The quality of life in urban space is increasingly seen as a problem of cooperation between various stakeholders. These studies not only identify factors and sources of odor emissions, but also serve as the basis for creating systems to alert people living in areas adjacent to industrial areas or harmful and unpleasant industrial emissions. In recent years, environmental issues, particularly unpleasant sensory experiences, have been one of the most important acceptance criteria. Aim of the article: The aim of the study is to assess the impact of odor nuisance in the south-eastern part of Kraków (Płaszów) on the residents’ decision to leave their place of residence. In particular, the research goal was achieved to indicate which of the unpleasant odors may cause a change of residence, as well as to assess the degree of their impact on the decision to move, taking into account the social and demographic characteristics of residents. New in the article: The novelty of the work was the finding out of the residents’ opinions about the quality of life by accepting the place of residence, taking into account the aspect of odor nuisance. Previous studies on odor nuisance have focused on the emission of odors from individual plants. A novelty of this research is its implementation in an urban area, in which numerous industrial plants are located, with various odors emitted. Research methodology: To assess odor nuisance, a measuring tool developed in accordance with VDI 3883 guidelines was used, based on the latest research results on odor and noise nuisance. The questionnaire was developed based on German experience. Conclusions from the research: The data obtained as a result of the research allow us to state that specific smells are so burdensome that they may cause the necessity to leave the place of residence, because the respondents feel various unpleasant smells that have an adverse impact upon the quality of life that they perceive. A possible need for relocation of domiciles out of the current place of residence due to unpleasant smells would affect the perceptible, specific level of grief—the greater it is, the more attached the residents are to their current place of residence.
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135
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Karahan A, Budak Ertürk E, Uğurlu Z, Ünlü H, Akovalı N, Tepe A, Özhan Elbaş N. Factors Affecting the Thermal Comfort of Perioperative Personnel in the OR. AORN J 2020; 111:333-344. [PMID: 32128769 DOI: 10.1002/aorn.12963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Thermal comfort is an important component of any work setting and can be difficult to achieve in the complex OR environment. This comparative descriptive study sought to identify factors affecting the thermal comfort of perioperative personnel in the OR (N = 68). Researchers used the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers Thermal Sensation Scale and researcher-developed surveys to collect data. The mean reported thermal comfort level was -0.44 (standard deviation 1.3), which is within acceptable parameters. Factors affecting thermal comfort were gender, professional role, and wearing additional clothing. Additionally, participants who complained about temperature or ventilation were less likely to report thermal comfort levels in the normal range. Health care facility leaders should consider the comfort needs of perioperative personnel when making purchasing decisions about ventilation systems and surgical clothing; however, they also should consider other factors (eg, surgeon comfort, permeability of protective clothing to blood and other body fluids).
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136
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Horve PF, Lloyd S, Mhuireach GA, Dietz L, Fretz M, MacCrone G, Van Den Wymelenberg K, Ishaq SL. Building upon current knowledge and techniques of indoor microbiology to construct the next era of theory into microorganisms, health, and the built environment. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2020; 30:219-235. [PMID: 31308484 PMCID: PMC7100162 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-019-0157-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 06/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/30/2019] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
In the constructed habitat in which we spend up to 90% of our time, architectural design influences occupants' behavioral patterns, interactions with objects, surfaces, rituals, the outside environment, and each other. Within this built environment, human behavior and building design contribute to the accrual and dispersal of microorganisms; it is a collection of fomites that transfer microorganisms; reservoirs that collect biomass; structures that induce human or air movement patterns; and space types that encourage proximity or isolation between humans whose personal microbial clouds disperse cells into buildings. There have been recent calls to incorporate building microbiology into occupant health and exposure research and standards, yet the built environment is largely viewed as a repository for microorganisms which are to be eliminated, instead of a habitat which is inexorably linked to the microbial influences of building inhabitants. Health sectors have re-evaluated the role of microorganisms in health, incorporating microorganisms into prevention and treatment protocols, yet no paradigm shift has occurred with respect to microbiology of the built environment, despite calls to do so. Technological and logistical constraints often preclude our ability to link health outcomes to indoor microbiology, yet sufficient study exists to inform the theory and implementation of the next era of research and intervention in the built environment. This review presents built environment characteristics in relation to human health and disease, explores some of the current experimental strategies and interventions which explore health in the built environment, and discusses an emerging model for fostering indoor microbiology rather than fearing it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick F Horve
- Biology and the Built Environment Center, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | - Savanna Lloyd
- Biology and the Built Environment Center, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | - Gwynne A Mhuireach
- Biology and the Built Environment Center, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | - Leslie Dietz
- Biology and the Built Environment Center, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | - Mark Fretz
- Institute for Health and the Built Environment, University of Oregon, Portland, OR, 97209, USA
| | - Georgia MacCrone
- Biology and the Built Environment Center, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | - Kevin Van Den Wymelenberg
- Biology and the Built Environment Center, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
- Institute for Health and the Built Environment, University of Oregon, Portland, OR, 97209, USA
| | - Suzanne L Ishaq
- Biology and the Built Environment Center, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA.
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137
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Relationships between Exposure to Bioaerosols, Moldy Surface and Symptoms in French Mold-Damaged Homes. ATMOSPHERE 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos11030223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Air quality in homes is a major concern in Europe, where people spend most of their time indoors. According to the World Health Organization, numerous houses are subject to dampness that can lead to mold growth, with associated health and economic consequences. Our goal was to characterize the human exposure to bioaerosols in French mold-damaged houses but also to study the effects of these bioaerosols as suffered by the inhabitants of these houses. A global approach including both field study and laboratory experimentation was used to investigate 48 mold-damaged homes. Among a wide fungal diversity, 101 viable species, Aspergillus versicolor, Penicillium chrysogenum and P. crustosum were observed as recurrent species and could be used as microbial indicators of indoor air quality. Statistical analyses highlighted a relationship between the concentrations of these recurrent molds and the levels of surface contamination by molds in homes. Fever, cough, dyspnea, flu-like symptoms were observed with several fungal strains (A. versicolor, P. chrysogenum and P. crustosum) or in relation to moldy odor. Relationships between particles of 2 to 15 µm diameter and headaches and dizziness were also observed. In our study, we identified a cutaneous effect (itching) in relationship to the airborne concentration of A. versicolor.
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138
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Wen Y, Leng J, Shen X, Han G, Sun L, Yu F. Environmental and Health Effects of Ventilation in Subway Stations: A Literature Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17031084. [PMID: 32046319 PMCID: PMC7037944 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17031084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Environmental health in subway stations, a typical type of urban underground space, is becoming increasingly important. Ventilation is the principal measure for optimizing the complex physical environment in a subway station. This paper narratively reviews the environmental and health effects of subway ventilation and discusses the relevant engineering, environmental, and medical aspects in combination. Ventilation exerts a notable dual effect on environmental health in a subway station. On the one hand, ventilation controls temperature, humidity, and indoor air quality to ensure human comfort and health. On the other hand, ventilation also carries the potential risks of spreading air pollutants or fire smoke through the complex wind environment as well as produces continuous noise. Assessment and management of health risks associated with subway ventilation is essential to attain a healthy subway environment. This, however, requires exposure, threshold data, and thereby necessitates more research into long-term effects, and toxicity as well as epidemiological studies. Additionally, more research is needed to further examine the design and maintenance of ventilation systems. An understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms and aerodynamic characteristics of various pollutants can help formulate ventilation strategies to reduce pollutant concentrations. Moreover, current comprehensive underground space development affords a possibility for creating flexible spaces that optimize ventilation efficiency, acoustic comfort, and space perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueming Wen
- School of Architecture, Future Underground Space Institute, Southeast University, Nanjing 210019, Jiangsu, China; (Y.W.); (G.H.); (L.S.); (F.Y.)
| | - Jiawei Leng
- School of Architecture, Future Underground Space Institute, Southeast University, Nanjing 210019, Jiangsu, China; (Y.W.); (G.H.); (L.S.); (F.Y.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-025-83790760
| | - Xiaobing Shen
- School of Public Health, Station and Train Health Institute, Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing 210019, Jiangsu, China;
| | - Gang Han
- School of Architecture, Future Underground Space Institute, Southeast University, Nanjing 210019, Jiangsu, China; (Y.W.); (G.H.); (L.S.); (F.Y.)
| | - Lijun Sun
- School of Architecture, Future Underground Space Institute, Southeast University, Nanjing 210019, Jiangsu, China; (Y.W.); (G.H.); (L.S.); (F.Y.)
| | - Fei Yu
- School of Architecture, Future Underground Space Institute, Southeast University, Nanjing 210019, Jiangsu, China; (Y.W.); (G.H.); (L.S.); (F.Y.)
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139
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Abstract
What is an adequate school building nowadays and which amount of technology does it need? How high is the indoor comfort in terms of thermal, visual, hygienic, and acoustical comfort? Are there technical aspects that stand out to other solutions? How do users feel and act in the buildings? For this purpose, the Chair compared, in total, twelve selected modern, older, and renovated school buildings from different building age groups. For the comparison, it was essential to intensively analyze each of the twelve schools. This included visiting the schools, talking with the participating architects, specialist planners, builders, and school managers, procuring and analyzing planning documents and, where available, publications and reports, performing simulations and measurements in the classrooms, and surveying the buildings’ users. The predominant energy demand in schools is the energy expenditure for heating and cooling the air, especially for heating the air in the winter. Nevertheless, it turns out that from a purely energy-focused perspective, mechanical ventilation cannot be justified. It is also evident that transmission heat losses play a negligible role in school construction, which is why the “passive house” as a goal for renovations must be called into question.
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140
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Indoor Environmental Quality Analysis for Optimizing Energy Consumptions Varying Air Ventilation Rates. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12020482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The energy refurbishment of the existing building heritage is one of the pillars of Italian energy policy. Aiming for energy efficiency and energy saving in end uses, there are wide and diversified improvement strategies, which include interventions on the building envelope and Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, with the introduction of renewable energy sources. The research aims at evaluating the building energy consumptions and Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ), varying the airflow rates handled by the HVAC system. A Case Study (the Aula Magna of a university building) is analysed; an in-situ monitoring campaign was carried out to evaluate the trend of some environmental parameters that are considered to be significant when varying the external airflow rates handled by the HVAC system. Additionally, dynamic simulations were carried out, with the aim of evaluating the energy savings coming from the airflow rates reduction. The results of this case study highlight the opportunity to achieve significant energy savings, with only slight variations in IEQ; a 50% reduction in airflow rate would decrease energy consumption by up to 45.2%, while increasing the carbon dioxide concentration from 545 ppm to 655 ppm, while the Particulate Matter and Total Volatile Organic Compounds increase is insignificant.
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141
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Razjouyan J, Lee H, Gilligan B, Lindberg C, Nguyen H, Canada K, Burton A, Sharafkhaneh A, Srinivasan K, Currim F, Ram S, Mehl MR, Goebel N, Lunden M, Bhangar S, Heerwagen J, Kampschroer K, Sternberg EM, Najafi B. Wellbuilt for wellbeing: Controlling relative humidity in the workplace matters for our health. INDOOR AIR 2020; 30:167-179. [PMID: 31663168 PMCID: PMC6973066 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/27/2019] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
This study offers a new perspective on the role of relative humidity in strategies to improve the health and wellbeing of office workers. A lack of studies of sufficient participant size and diversity relating relative humidity (RH) to measured health outcomes has been a driving factor in relaxing thermal comfort standards for RH and removing a lower limit for dry air. We examined the association between RH and objectively measured stress responses, physical activity (PA), and sleep quality. A diverse group of office workers (n = 134) from four well-functioning federal buildings wore chest-mounted heart rate variability monitors for three consecutive days, while at the same time, RH and temperature (T) were measured in their workplaces. Those who spent the majority of their time at the office in conditions of 30%-60% RH experienced 25% less stress at the office than those who spent the majority of their time in drier conditions. Further, a correlational study of our stress response suggests optimal values for RH may exist within an even narrower range around 45%. Finally, we found an indirect effect of objectively measured poorer sleep quality, mediated by stress responses, for those outside this range.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javad Razjouyan
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Ambulatory Motion Performance (iCAMP)Michael E. DeBakey Department of SurgeryBaylor College of MedicineHoustonTXUSA
- Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical CenterHoustonTXUSA
| | - Hyoki Lee
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Ambulatory Motion Performance (iCAMP)Michael E. DeBakey Department of SurgeryBaylor College of MedicineHoustonTXUSA
| | | | - Casey Lindberg
- College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape ArchitectureUArizona Institute on Place, Wellbeing & PerformanceUniversity of ArizonaTucsonAZUSA
- HKS, Inc.DallasTXUSA
| | - Hung Nguyen
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Ambulatory Motion Performance (iCAMP)Michael E. DeBakey Department of SurgeryBaylor College of MedicineHoustonTXUSA
| | | | - Alex Burton
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of ArizonaTucsonAZUSA
| | - Amir Sharafkhaneh
- Pulmonary, Critical Medicine and Sleep MedicineDepartment of MedicineBaylor College of MedicineHoustonTXUSA
| | - Karthik Srinivasan
- Center for Business Intelligence and AnalyticsUniversity of ArizonaTucsonAZUSA
| | - Faiz Currim
- Center for Business Intelligence and AnalyticsUniversity of ArizonaTucsonAZUSA
| | - Sudha Ram
- Center for Business Intelligence and AnalyticsUniversity of ArizonaTucsonAZUSA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Esther M. Sternberg
- University of Arizona Institute on Place, Wellbeing & PerformanceAndrew Weil Center for Integrative MedicineUniversity of ArizonaTucsonAZUSA
| | - Bijan Najafi
- Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical CenterHoustonTXUSA
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142
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Effect of thermal control of dry fomites on regulating the survival of human pathogenic bacteria responsible for nosocomial infections. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0226952. [PMID: 31881059 PMCID: PMC6934310 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We monitored the survival of human pathogenic bacteria [Escherichia coli (ATCC), extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing E. coli (Clinical isolate), New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase-producing E. coli (clinical isolate), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC)] on dry materials (vinyl chloride, aluminum, plastic, stainless steel) at distinct temperatures (room temperature or 15°C–37°C). These bacteria favored a lower temperature for their prolonged survival on the dry fomites, regardless of the material type. Interestingly, when mixed with S. aureus, E. coli survived for a longer time at a lower temperature. Cardiolipin, which can promote the survival of S. aureus in harsh environments, had no effect on maintaining the survival of E. coli. Although the trends remained unchanged, adjusting the humidity from 40% to 60% affected the survival of bacteria on dry surfaces. Scanning electron microscopic analysis revealed no morphological differences in these bacteria immediately before or after one day of dry conditions. In addition, ATP assessment, a method used to visualize high-touch surfaces in hospitals, was not effective at monitoring bacterial dynamics. A specialized handrail device fitted with a heater, which was maintained at normal human body core temperature, successfully prohibited the prolonged survival of bacteria [Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC), E. coli (ATCC), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC), S. aureus (ATCC), Acinetobacter baumannii (clinical isolate), and Serratia marcescens (clinical isolate)], with the exception of spore-forming Bacillus subtilis (from our laboratory collection) and the yeast-like fungus Candida albicans (from our laboratory collection)] on dry surfaces. Taken together, we concluded that the tested bacteria favor lower temperatures for their survival in dry environments. Therefore, the thermal control of dry fomites has the potential to control bacterial survival on high-touch surfaces in hospitals.
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143
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Design and Operation of Constructions: A Healthy Living Environment-Parametric Studies and New Solutions. SUSTAINABILITY 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/su11236824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The problem of the environment in the inhabited area, in particular of the hygienic-sanitary comfort, are current topics of concern for the builders. The interest of the authors meets the requirements of the tenant. In general, it seems that the cause of the hygienic-sanitary discomfort of the inhabited environment would be the faulty execution of the construction or an inconsistent architectural conception; the current paper presents several factors that cause this discomfort, the tenant being just one of them. The result of faulty operation/utilization of living spaces is inadmissible for those who live there, both materially and with repercussions on their health. Additionally, this paper demonstrates the deficiency of the existing energy performance certificate. The results of our research offer real solutions in eliminating, solving, and correcting the hygienic-sanitary discomfort of the environment inside the buildings; this can be achieved by designing, executing and operating spaces correctly, adequately and optimally, ensuring a healthy environment. The authors propose to improve the norms of protection of the built environment, by modifying the related energy performance legislation/certificate; moreover, new and real practical solutions have been suggested by the authors for the prevention and remediation of hygienic-sanitary discomfort.
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144
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Damanhuri AAM, Subki ASA, Hariri A, Tee BT, Fauadi MHFM, Hussin MSF, Mustafa MSS. Comparative study of selected indoor concentration from selective laser sintering process using virgin and recycled polyamide nylon (PA12). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1088/1755-1315/373/1/012014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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145
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Zong H, Liu Y, Wang Q, Liu ML, Chen H. Usage patterns and comfort of gardens: a seasonal survey of internal garden microclimate in the aged care homes of Chengdu City. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2019; 63:1181-1192. [PMID: 31256252 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-019-01733-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
An increasing number of Chinese elders trade family care for institutional elder care, which poses an acute challenge due to the enormous number of elders. The internal garden of care homes is often the only green space supplied for the elderly. To elucidate the microclimate status of these internal gardens, three microclimate parameters (air temperature (Ta), relative humidity (RH), and solar radiation (SR) were measured in the gardens of eight care homes for the aged in Chengdu City (for 2015 and 2016). The results confirmed that all gardens showed effects of seasonal cooling (from 1.0 ± 0.7 to 2.00 ± 0.8 °C), humidification (from 2.8 ± 1.4 to 4.9 ± 2.0%), and weakening of solar radiation (from 52.3 ± 36.3 to 254.4 ± 124.1 w/m2). Even small internal gardens (130-4000 m2) could yield cooling effects in four seasons. Among garden subareas, the weakest SR, the lowest Ta, and the highest RH were all found in the rest area. Correlation analysis demonstrated that only in summer, the green coverage ratio of the garden significantly affected the microclimate. The observation showed that an average of 29.98% of the elderly used these internal gardens per day. The period of 8:00 am to 10:00 am was the elderly's favorite time to use the gardens. More than 68% of elders preferred to sit in the rest area. Thermal/humidity/radiation sensation votes indicated that the garden microclimate partially deviated from elders' comfortable levels, particularly in winter. The rest area showed the worst comfort level for the elders. A warmer, more humid, and more sun-exposed garden should be supplied to the elderly. Several greening strategies are proposed to improve the garden microclimate for the well-being of the elderly in the care homes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Zong
- Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Yin Liu
- Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mei-Lin Liu
- Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Han Chen
- Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
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146
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Branco PTBS, Alvim-Ferraz MCM, Martins FG, Sousa SIV. Quantifying indoor air quality determinants in urban and rural nursery and primary schools. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 176:108534. [PMID: 31220738 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Poor indoor air quality can adversely affect children's health, comfort and school performance, but existing literature on quantifying indoor air pollutants (IAP) determinants' in nursery and primary schools is limited. Following previous studies, this study mainly aimed to quantify determinants of selected IAP, in nursery and primary schools from both urban and rural sites, accounting for seasonal variations. In 101 indoor microenvironments (classrooms, bedrooms and canteens) from 25 nursery and primary schools, CO2, CO, HCOH, NO2, O3, total volatile organic compounds, PM1, PM2.5, PM10, total suspended particles (TSP), and meteorological/comfort parameters were continuously sampled (occupancy and background levels), from at least 24 h to 9 consecutive days (not simultaneously) in each studied room; in some cases weekend was also considered. Children faced thermal discomfort and inadequate humidity, respectively in 60.1% and 44.1% of the studied classrooms. They were also exposed to high levels of IAP, namely PM2.5 and CO2 respectively in 69.0% and 41.3% of the studied classrooms, mostly in urban sites, depending on season and on occupancy and activity patterns (different amongst age groups). As PM2.5 and CO2 were the major concerning IAP, multivariate linear regression models were built to quantify (explained variability and relative importance) their main determinants, in both occupancy and non-occupancy (background) periods. Models for occupancy periods showed higher explained variability (R2 = 0.64, 0.57 and 0.47, respectively, for CO2, PM2.5 and PM10) than for non-occupancy. Besides background concentrations (43.5% of relative importance), relative humidity (21.1%), flooring material (17.0%), heating (6.7%) and age group of the occupants (5.3%), adjusted for season of sampling (6.4%) were predictors in CO2 occupancy model. In the cases of PM2.5 and PM10 occupancy concentrations, besides background concentrations (71.2% and 67.2% of relative importance, respectively for PM2.5 and PM10), type of school management (8.8% and 15.2%) and flooring material (13.9% and 13.9%), adjusted for season of sampling (6.1% and 3.8%), were the main predictors. These findings support the need of mitigation measures to reduce IAP levels, and prevention actions to avoid children's exposure. Reducing the time spent indoors in the same microenvironment by doing more and/or longer breaks, improving ventilation and cleaning actions, and avoiding or making a better maintenance hardwood flooring materials, chalkboard use and VOC emitting materials, are practices that should be implemented and their impacts quantified.
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Affiliation(s)
- P T B S Branco
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - M C M Alvim-Ferraz
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - F G Martins
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - S I V Sousa
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal.
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147
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Abstract
Earth-based building materials are increasingly valued in green design for their low embodied energy, humidity-buffering ability, and thermal stability. These materials perform well in warm dry climates, but greater understanding of long-term durability is needed for successful adoption in colder and/or wetter climates. The presence of stabilizers dramatically improves resistance to surface erosion from wind and rain, compared to unstabilized adobe and cob counterparts, and the influences of soil composition, fiber type, and diverse binders, on rain and wind surface erosion have been investigated in detail. Frost and freeze-thaw resistance, however, have been less well-studied, despite strong interest in stabilized earth materials in northern North America, Europe, and Asia. In particular, recent studies have relied on a widespread misunderstanding of the mechanism by which frost damage occurs in porous materials that will impede efforts to create valid models for material design and improvement. In addition, the influence of radiative thermal stresses on wall surfaces has been overlooked in favor of focus on ambient air temperatures. Here, we apply contemporary understanding of cracking by segregated ice growth to develop a macroscopic damage index that enables comparison between performance of different materials subject to different weather patterns. An examination of predicted damage patterns for two stabilized earth building materials and two conventional materials in twelve cities over two time periods reveals the dominant factors that govern frost vulnerability. We find that the frost resilience of earth building materials is comparable to that of the conventional materials we examined, and that assessments that neglect expected variations in water content by assuming full saturation are likely to yield misleading results. Over recent years, increased winter temperatures in several cities we examined predict reduced material vulnerability to frost damage, but we also find that accompanying increases in humidity levels have made some cities much more vulnerable.
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148
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de Araujo Lima-Filho LM, Mariano Bayer F. Kumaraswamy control chart for monitoring double bounded environmental data. COMMUN STAT-SIMUL C 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/03610918.2019.1635159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Fábio Mariano Bayer
- Departamento de Estatística and LACESM, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
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149
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Nynäs P, Vilpas S, Kankare E, Karjalainen J, Lehtimäki L, Numminen J, Tikkakoski A, Kleemola L, Uitti J. Observational cross-sectional study on Symptoms Associated to Moisture DAmage at Workplace: the SAMDAW study protocol. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e026485. [PMID: 31243032 PMCID: PMC6597744 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-026485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Moisture damage (MD) exposure at work has been shown to increase the risk of new onset asthma and exacerbation of asthma. However, most of the studies in this field have been questionnaire studies. A small proportion of MD-exposed workers are diagnosed with asthma. Many patients with MD exposure at work referred to secondary healthcare report intermittent hoarseness, loss of voice or difficulty to inhale, referring to functional or organic problems of the larynx. For accurate treatment, proper differential diagnostics is paramount. We present an ongoing observational study in which we describe the prevalence of respiratory, voice and other symptoms related to MD at work in patients referred to secondary healthcare. Case-control setting will be used to evaluate the frequencies of the background factors, bronchial hyperreactivity and laryngeal findings. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The study sample consists of patients with workplace MD exposure and associated respiratory tract and/or voice symptoms referred to Tampere University Hospital. The clinical tests conducted to the study patients included comprehensive lung function tests, laboratory and skin prick tests, imaging and clinical evaluation by specialists of respiratory medicine, oto-rhino-laryngology and phoniatrics. The exposure assessment was performed by an occupational physician. The study patients filled out a questionnaire on previous illnesses and other background factors, which for comparison was also sent to 1500 Finnish-speaking people in the same hospital district randomly selected by the Finnish Population Information System. To explore how common laryngeal disorders and voice symptoms are in general, a part of the tests will be conducted to 50 asymptomatic volunteers. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The regional ethics committee of Tampere University Hospital approved the study. All study subjects gave their written informed consent, which is required also from the controls. The results will be communicated locally and internationally as conference papers and journal articles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia Nynäs
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Sarkku Vilpas
- Department of Phoniatrics, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Elina Kankare
- Department of Phoniatrics, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jussi Karjalainen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Allergy Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Lauri Lehtimäki
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Allergy Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jura Numminen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Allergy Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Antti Tikkakoski
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Leenamaija Kleemola
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jukka Uitti
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Tampere, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
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150
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Santangelo PE, Santunione G, Muscio A. Experimental methodology for quantitative assessment of heat-wrap thermal transient behavior. Med Eng Phys 2019; 69:72-84. [PMID: 31147201 DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2019.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Among the numerous thermotherapy methods, heat wraps have been largely used over the last 2 decades as a self-administered practice for pain relief. Therefore, understanding their performance has become instrumental within the healthcare industry. However, the majority of the available studies have been focused on in vivo clinical performance, whereas a standardized, quantitative approach to evaluate and compare the various heat-wrap types against each other is lacking. An experimental methodology is proposed to carry out a comparative assessment between heat wraps in terms of their transient thermal behavior. A simple setup was developed to measure wrap/substrate interface temperature trend. The approach was validated by a preliminary infrared-thermography assessment and statistical analysis on the extensive dataset acquired on commercial heat-wrap types for low-back and neck pain relief. The heat-release trend was found to be qualitatively similar over all the investigated types, consisting of rapid growth, stationary phase, decay and end of the reactions. A set of parameters is also proposed to summarize heat-wrap thermal performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo E Santangelo
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria "Enzo Ferrari", Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10, 41125 Modena, Italy.
| | - Giulia Santunione
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria "Enzo Ferrari", Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Alberto Muscio
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria "Enzo Ferrari", Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia, Via P. Vivarelli 10, 41125 Modena, Italy
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