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Saucedo-Lucero JO, Falcón-González LS, Ovando Franco M, Revah S. Implementation of a botanical bioscrubber for the treatment of indoor ambient air. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 363:121414. [PMID: 38852418 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
This study explores the effectiveness of a botanical bioscrubber system using Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) in hydroponic setups to mitigate common indoor atmospheric pollutants. Over a 100-day operation, levels of SO2, NO2, O3, TVOC, CO, CO2, PM10, and PM2.5 were monitored, with a significant reduction in carbon-based compounds and particulate matter-. Notably, CO2 and PM2.5 removal efficiencies were significantly correlated with the foliar area, suggesting that the interaction between pollutants and plant leaves plays a crucial role in the phytoremediation process. In contrast, CO, PM10, and TVOC exhibited varied removal efficiencies, hinting the involvement of mechanisms beyond leaf interaction, such as adsorption in irrigation water or root system capture. The absence of significant correlations for PM10 emphasized the need for further investigation into alternative removal processes, potentially mediated by the root system. Overall, our findings suggest that botanical bioscrubbers, particularly those utilizing Golden Pothos, hold promise for indoor air purification through plant-based systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Octavio Saucedo-Lucero
- CIATEC A.C. Centro de Innovación Aplicada en Tecnologías Competitivas, Omega 201, 37545, León, Guanajuato, Mexico.
| | | | - Monserrat Ovando Franco
- Universidad Tecnológica de León, Blvd. Universidad Tecnológica 225, 37670, León, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Sergio Revah
- Departamento de Procesos y Tecnología, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana- Cuajimalpa, Av. Vasco de Quiroga 4871, 05348, Mexico City, Mexico
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2
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Robinson JM, Breed AC, Camargo A, Redvers N, Breed MF. Biodiversity and human health: A scoping review and examples of underrepresented linkages. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 246:118115. [PMID: 38199470 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Mounting evidence supports the connections between exposure to environmental typologies(such as green and blue spaces)and human health. However, the mechanistic links that connect biodiversity (the variety of life) and human health, and the extent of supporting evidence remain less clear. Here, we undertook a scoping review to map the links between biodiversity and human health and summarise the levels of associated evidence using an established weight of evidence framework. Distinct from other reviews, we provide additional context regarding the environment-microbiome-health axis, evaluate the environmental buffering pathway (e.g., biodiversity impacts on air pollution), and provide examples of three under- or minimally-represented linkages. The examples are (1) biodiversity and Indigenous Peoples' health, (2) biodiversity and urban social equity, and (3) biodiversity and COVID-19. We observed a moderate level of evidence to support the environmental microbiota-human health pathway and a moderate-high level of evidence to support broader nature pathways (e.g., greenspace) to various health outcomes, from stress reduction to enhanced wellbeing and improved social cohesion. However, studies of broader nature pathways did not typically include specific biodiversity metrics, indicating clear research gaps. Further research is required to understand the connections and causative pathways between biodiversity (e.g., using metrics such as taxonomy, diversity/richness, structure, and function) and health outcomes. There are well-established frameworks to assess the effects of broad classifications of nature on human health. These can assist future research in linking biodiversity metrics to human health outcomes. Our examples of underrepresented linkages highlight the roles of biodiversity and its loss on urban lived experiences, infectious diseases, and Indigenous Peoples' sovereignty and livelihoods. More research and awareness of these socioecological interconnections are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake M Robinson
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.
| | - Andrew C Breed
- Epidemiology and One Health Section, Department of Agriculture, Water, and the Environment, Canberra, ACT, Australia; School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, Qld, Australia
| | | | - Nicole Redvers
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Martin F Breed
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
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3
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Gherasim A, Lee AG, Bernstein JA. Impact of Climate Change on Indoor Air Quality. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 2024; 44:55-73. [PMID: 37973260 DOI: 10.1016/j.iac.2023.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Climate change may affect the quality of the indoor environment through heat and mass transfer between indoors and outdoors: first by a direct response to global warming itself and related extreme weather phenomena and second by indirect actions taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that can lead to increased concentrations of indoor air contaminants. Therefore, both indoor and outdoor air pollution contribute to poor indoor air quality in this context. Exposures to high concentrations of these pollutants contribute to inflammatory respiratory diseases. Climate change adaptation and mitigation measures could minimize these risks and bring associated health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Gherasim
- ALYATEC Environmental Exposure Chamber, 1 Place de l'Hôpital, Strasbourg, France
| | - Alison G Lee
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Jonathan A Bernstein
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 231 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA.
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4
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Shen X, Sun Q, Mosey G, Ma J, Wang L, Ge M. Benchmark of plant-based VOCs control effect for indoor air quality: Green wall case in smith campus at Harvard University. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:166269. [PMID: 37579805 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
The emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from interior materials can significantly impact people's health and daily activities, necessitating effective management. In the construction of the interior built environment, plants serve as a suitable means to enhance air quality. They not only function as ecological living materials for air purification and VOCs removal but are also valued for their aesthetic appeal. However, often the emphasis in designing green infrastructure is placed more on the aesthetics of planting design rather than considering plants' ecological properties. This research examines the ability of 12 plant species used in the interior green wall design at Harvard University's Smith Center as a case study to decompose and absorb VOCs through experimental studies. By integrating ecological properties and key factors such as spatial and budget constraints into the design process, this research explores the potential of using an algorithmic model to select plant species capable of reducing interior VOC pollution in green wall design. The significance of this study lies in its contribution to indoor environmental health and environmental management practices through providing a potential plant selection model and suggesting a relevant workflow for interior planting design with the goal of controlling VOC emissions. By leveraging the knowledge gained from experiments on the VOC removal abilities of selected plant species, this study offers a valuable resource for practitioners seeking to create innovative indoor air cleaning and decontamination technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiwei Shen
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89154, the, United States.
| | - Qingqing Sun
- Appalachian State University, 287 Rivers St., Boone, NC 28608, the, United States.
| | - Grant Mosey
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89154, the, United States
| | - Junhong Ma
- College of Material Science and Engineering, Northeast Forestry University, 26 Hexing Road, Harbin, China.
| | - Ling Wang
- School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
| | - Mengting Ge
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 290 College Ave. Blacksburg, VA 2406, United States.
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5
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Matheson S, Fleck R, Lockwood T, Gill RL, Irga PJ, Torpy FR. Fuelling phytoremediation: gasoline degradation by green wall systems-a case study. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:118545-118555. [PMID: 37917253 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30634-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
The capacity for indoor plants including green wall systems to remove specific volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is well documented in the literature; however under realistic settings, indoor occupants are exposed to a complex mixture of harmful compounds sourced from various emission sources. Gasoline vapour is one of the key sources of these emissions, with several studies demonstrating that indoor occupants in areas surrounding gasoline stations or with residentially attached garages are exposed to far higher concentrations of harmful VOCs. Here we assess the potential of a commercial small passive green wall system, commercially named the 'LivePicture Go' from Ambius P/L, Australia, to drawdown VOCs that comprise gasoline vapour, including total VOC (TVOC) removal and specific removal of individual speciated VOCs over time. An 8-h TVOC removal efficiency of 42.45% was achieved, along with the complete removal of eicosane, 1,2,3-trimethyl-benzene, and hexadecane. Further, the green wall also effectively reduced concentrations of a range of harmful benzene derivatives and other VOCs. These results demonstrate the potential of botanical systems to simultaneously remove a wide variety of VOCs, although future research is needed to improve upon and ensure efficiency of these systems over time and within practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Matheson
- Plants and Environmental Quality Research Group (PEQR), School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia.
| | - Robert Fleck
- Plants and Environmental Quality Research Group (PEQR), School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Thomas Lockwood
- Hyphenated Mass Spectrometry Laboratory (HyMaS), School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Raissa L Gill
- Plants and Environmental Quality Research Group (PEQR), School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
- Productive Coasts, Climate Change Cluster, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Peter J Irga
- Plants and Environmental Quality Research Group (PEQR), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Fraser R Torpy
- Plants and Environmental Quality Research Group (PEQR), School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
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6
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Vilčeková S, Burdová EK, Kiseľák J, Sedláková A, Mečiarová ĽV, Moňoková A, Doroudiani S. Assessment of indoor environmental quality and seasonal well-being of students in a combined historic technical school building in Slovakia. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:1524. [PMID: 37994965 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-12147-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
One of the major present challenges in the building sector is to construct sustainable and low-energy buildings with a healthy, safe, and comfortable environment. This study is designed to explore long-term impacts of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) parameters in a historic technical school building on the health and comfort of students. The main objective is to identify environmental problems in schools and to direct public policy towards the enhancement of in-service historic buildings. The collected data on five consecutive days in various seasons from five different classrooms indicate allergy in 45% and asthma in 10% of students. Environmental factors, such as temperature, draught, noise, or light, affected 51% of students' attention. Low temperature, unpleasant air, noise, and draught were found to be the most frequent concerns for students. The lowest temperature was measured during spring at 17.6 °C, the lowest humidity of 21.1% in winter, the largest CO2 amount in the air in autumn at 2041 ppm level, and the greatest total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) as 514 µg/m3. The experimental and statistical analysis results suggest the necessity of a comprehensive restoration of the building with a focus on enhancement of IEQ as well as replacement of old non-standard materials. An effective ventilation system is also necessary. The building requires major renovations to preserve its historic features while safeguarding the well-being and comfort of students and staff. Further research is needed on acoustics, lighting, and energy factors as well as the health effects of old building materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Vilčeková
- Faculty of Civil Engineering, Institute of Sustainable and Circular Construction, Technical University of Košice, Vysokoškolská 4, 042 00, Košice, Slovak Republic
| | - Eva Krídlová Burdová
- Faculty of Civil Engineering, Institute of Sustainable and Circular Construction, Technical University of Košice, Vysokoškolská 4, 042 00, Košice, Slovak Republic
| | - Jozef Kiseľák
- Faculty of Science, Institute of Mathematics, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University, Jesenná 5, 04001, Košice, Slovak Republic
| | - Anna Sedláková
- Faculty of Civil Engineering, Institute of Architectural Engineering, Technical University of Košice, Vysokoškolská 4, 042 00, Košice, Slovak Republic
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Liu CW, Tsutsui H. Sample-to-answer sensing technologies for nucleic acid preparation and detection in the field. SLAS Technol 2023; 28:302-323. [PMID: 37302751 DOI: 10.1016/j.slast.2023.06.002] [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: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Efficient sample preparation and accurate disease diagnosis under field conditions are of great importance for the early intervention of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. However, in-field preparation of high-quality nucleic acids from various specimens for downstream analyses, such as amplification and sequencing, is challenging. Thus, developing and adapting sample lysis and nucleic acid extraction protocols suitable for portable formats have drawn significant attention. Similarly, various nucleic acid amplification techniques and detection methods have also been explored. Combining these functions in an integrated platform has resulted in emergent sample-to-answer sensing systems that allow effective disease detection and analyses outside a laboratory. Such devices have a vast potential to improve healthcare in resource-limited settings, low-cost and distributed surveillance of diseases in food and agriculture industries, environmental monitoring, and defense against biological warfare and terrorism. This paper reviews recent advances in portable sample preparation technologies and facile detection methods that have been / or could be adopted into novel sample-to-answer devices. In addition, recent developments and challenges of commercial kits and devices targeting on-site diagnosis of various plant diseases are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Wei Liu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Hideaki Tsutsui
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
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8
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de Vries S, Hermans T, Langers F. Effects of indoor plants on office workers: a field study in multiple Dutch organizations. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1196106. [PMID: 37457080 PMCID: PMC10346441 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1196106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In the period 2019-2020, the effect of plants in the workspace on (a) the physical indoor climate, (b) the perception of the workspace by office workers, and (c) their health, well-being and functioning was investigated in nine organizations. This paper reports the outcomes of the latter part. A conceptual model describing the short-term, medium and long-term effect of plants on people was formulated, containing 18 outcome variables. A "Before After Control Impact" quasi-experimental research design was used. A control workspace and an intervention workspace were selected in each of the organizations. A pre-measurement was conducted in both. Correlational analyses, based on the pre-measurements in all organizations and workspaces, confirmed the associations proposed by the conceptual model to a large extent. After placing plants in the intervention workspace, a maximum of two post-intervention measurements were conducted (due to COVID-19 not in all nine organizations), the last one at least 4 months after the introduction of the plants. Overall significant effects were found on complaints about dry air (fewer), the sense of privacy (higher), the attractiveness of the workspace (higher), satisfaction with the workspace (greater) and having a health-related complaint, especially when at work (fewer). The first three effects were already observed in the analyses only including the first post-measurement. The latter two effects only showed up in the analyses including two post-measurements. No direct effect of the plants could be demonstrated on the 13 other outcome variables. The observed effects mainly concern outcome variables that are positioned at the beginning of the proposed causal chain, starting with plants and ending with mental health, absenteeism and job satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sjerp de Vries
- Wageningen Environmental Research (WENR), Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
- Cultural Geography Group (GEO), Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Tia Hermans
- Wageningen Environmental Research (WENR), Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Fransje Langers
- Wageningen Environmental Research (WENR), Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
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9
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Guo K, Yan L, He Y, Li H, Lam SS, Peng W, Sonne C. Phytoremediation as a potential technique for vehicle hazardous pollutants around highways. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 322:121130. [PMID: 36693585 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
With the synchronous development of highway construction and the urban economy, automobiles have entered thousands of households as essential means of transportation. This paper reviews the latest research progress in using phytoremediation technology to remediate the environmental pollution caused by automobile exhaust in recent years, including the prospects for stereoscopic forestry. Currently, most automobiles on the global market are internal combustion vehicles using fossil energy sources as the primary fuel, such as gasoline, diesel, and liquid or compressed natural gas. The composition of vehicle exhaust is relatively complex. When it enters the atmosphere, it is prone to a series of chemical reactions to generate various secondary pollutants, which are very harmful to human beings, plants, animals, and the eco-environment. Despite improving the automobile fuel quality and installing exhaust gas purification devices, helping to reduce air pollution, the treatment costs of these approaches are expensive and cannot achieve zero emissions of automobile exhaust pollutants. The purification of vehicle exhaust by plants is a crucial way to remediate the environmental pollution caused by automobile exhaust and improve the environment along the highway by utilizing the ecosystem's self-regulating ability. Therefore, it has become a global trend to use phytoremediation technology to restore the automobile exhaust pollution. Now, there is no scientific report or systematic review about how plants absorb vehicle pollutants. The screening and configuration of suitable plant species is the most crucial aspect of successful phytoremediation. The mechanisms of plant adsorption, metabolism, and detoxification are reviewed in this paper to address the problem of automobile exhaust pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang Guo
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center for Biomass Value-added Products, School of Forestry, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Lijun Yan
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center for Biomass Value-added Products, School of Forestry, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Yifeng He
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center for Biomass Value-added Products, School of Forestry, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Hanyin Li
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center for Biomass Value-added Products, School of Forestry, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Su Shiung Lam
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries (AKUATROP), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia; Center for Transdisciplinary Research, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
| | - Wanxi Peng
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center for Biomass Value-added Products, School of Forestry, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China.
| | - Christian Sonne
- Aarhus University, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark; Sustainability Cluster, School of Engineering, University of Petroleum & Energy Studies, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248007, India
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10
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Kumar R, Verma V, Thakur M, Singh G, Bhargava B. A systematic review on mitigation of common indoor air pollutants using plant-based methods: a phytoremediation approach. AIR QUALITY, ATMOSPHERE, & HEALTH 2023; 16:1-27. [PMID: 37359395 PMCID: PMC10005924 DOI: 10.1007/s11869-023-01326-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Environmental pollution, especially indoor air pollution, has become a global issue and affects nearly all domains of life. Being both natural and anthropogenic substances, indoor air pollutants lead to the deterioration of the ecosystem and have a negative impact on human health. Cost-effective plant-based approaches can help to improve indoor air quality (IAQ), regulate temperature, and protect humans from potential health risks. Thus, in this review, we have highlighted the common indoor air pollutants and their mitigation through plant-based approaches. Potted plants, green walls, and their combination with bio-filtration are such emerging approaches that can efficiently purify the indoor air. Moreover, we have discussed the pathways or mechanisms of phytoremediation, which involve the aerial parts of the plants (phyllosphere), growth media, and roots along with their associated microorganisms (rhizosphere). In conclusion, plants and their associated microbial communities can be key solutions for reducing indoor air pollution. However, there is a dire need to explore advanced omics technologies to get in-depth knowledge of the molecular mechanisms associated with plant-based reduction of indoor air pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghawendra Kumar
- Floriculture Laboratory, Agrotechnology Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)–Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT), Post Box No 6, Palampur, 176 061 (HP) India
| | - Vipasha Verma
- Floriculture Laboratory, Agrotechnology Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)–Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT), Post Box No 6, Palampur, 176 061 (HP) India
| | - Meenakshi Thakur
- Floriculture Laboratory, Agrotechnology Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)–Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT), Post Box No 6, Palampur, 176 061 (HP) India
| | - Gurpreet Singh
- Floriculture Laboratory, Agrotechnology Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)–Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT), Post Box No 6, Palampur, 176 061 (HP) India
| | - Bhavya Bhargava
- Floriculture Laboratory, Agrotechnology Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)–Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT), Post Box No 6, Palampur, 176 061 (HP) India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002 India
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11
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Matheson S, Fleck R, Irga PJ, Torpy FR. Phytoremediation for the indoor environment: a state-of-the-art review. RE/VIEWS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND BIO/TECHNOLOGY 2023; 22:249-280. [PMID: 36873270 PMCID: PMC9968648 DOI: 10.1007/s11157-023-09644-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Poor indoor air quality has become of particular concern within the built environment due to the time people spend indoors, and the associated health burden. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) off-gassing from synthetic materials, nitrogen dioxide and harmful outdoor VOCs such benzene, toluene, ethyl-benzene and xylene penetrate into the indoor environment through ventilation and are the main contributors to poor indoor air quality with health effects. A considerable body of literature over the last four decades has demonstrate the removal of gaseous contaminants through phytoremediation, a technology that relies on plant material and technologies to remediate contaminated air streams. In this review we present a state-of-the-art on indoor phytoremediation over the last decade. Here we present a review of 38 research articles on both active and passive phytoremediation, and describe the specific chemical removal efficiency of different systems. The literature clearly indicates the efficacy of these systems for the removal of gaseous contaminants in the indoor environment, however it is evident that the application of phytoremediation technologies for research purposes in-situ is currently significantly under studied. In addition, it is common for research studies to assess the removal of single chemical species under controlled conditions, with little relevancy to real-world settings easily concluded. The authors therefore recommend that future phytoremediation research be conducted both in-situ and on chemical sources of a mixed nature, such as those experienced in the urban environment like petroleum vapour, vehicle emissions, and mixed synthetic furnishings off-gassing. The assessment of these systems both in static chambers for their theoretical performance, and in-situ for these mixed chemical sources is essential for the progression of this research field and the widespread adoption of this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Matheson
- Plants and Environmental Quality Research Group, Faculty of Science, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, NSW 2007 Australia
| | - R. Fleck
- Plants and Environmental Quality Research Group, Faculty of Science, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, NSW 2007 Australia
| | - P. J. Irga
- Plants and Environmental Quality Research Group, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - F. R. Torpy
- Plants and Environmental Quality Research Group, Faculty of Science, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, NSW 2007 Australia
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12
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Liao L, Du M. Associations between Greenspaces and Individual Health: A Longitudinal Study in China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13353. [PMID: 36293933 PMCID: PMC9602607 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Using a longitudinal survey in China, this study identifies the effect of greenspaces on individual health in the aspects of self-rated health, mental health, feeling physical discomfort, and being hospitalized. The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) is used to measure the greenery cover of each city, and findings show that higher NDVI leads to the improvement of personal self-rated health status, and it also decreases the probability of being hospitalized, having symptoms of physical discomfort, and being lost in bad mood. The positive health effect of NDVI in the city is much more significant and larger for the middle-aged, the elderly, and the low-educated. The evidence of the three possible channels through which the NDVI of each city shows a positive correlation with individual physical and mental health is found. The increased NDVI in the city encourages residents to foster healthier habits (e.g., decreasing smoking or drinking, increasing sleeping hours), improves air quality and reduces air pollution in each city, and promotes the social cohesion of people, and so the health status of residents is enhanced. This study implies that increasing greenspaces in the city is an effective strategy to improve social welfare and residents' health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Liao
- School of Public Finance and Taxation, Guangdong University of Finance and Economics, Guangzhou 510320, China
- Center for the People’s Fiscal Development, Guangdong University of Finance and Economics, Guangzhou 510320, China
| | - Minzhe Du
- School of Economics and Management, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
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Michels N, Debra G, Mattheeuws L, Hooyberg A. Indoor nature integration for stress recovery and healthy eating: A picture experiment with plants versus green color. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 212:113643. [PMID: 35688224 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
AIM Urbanized environments may stimulate unhealthy food choices and stress. Several theories explain that exposure to green nature can counter these stress effects. Since we spend most time indoors, integrating nature in the interior could be a promising health promotion tool. Hence, we tested whether the beneficial effect of nature for stress recovery is also present in indoor settings via the use of plants or green colors, and whether it is applicable on eating behavior as a new outcome. METHODS The 92 participants (18-30y, 16% men) were divided into four groups. Each viewed a 6-min slideshow with room pictures containing either green plants, green objects, greyscale plants or greyscale objects to allow distinction between color- and plant-effects. Group differences were tested for the perceived restorativeness scale, psychological recovery and eating behavior. To allow psychological recovery testing, participants were exposed to a stressor before the picture slideshow via the Trier Social Stress Test. The change of self-reports (stress, positive and negative affect) and psychophysiology (heart rate and vagal-induced heart rate variability RMSSD) post-slideshow versus pre-slideshow was checked. Eating behavior outcomes included change in hunger, craving, and food choice (for fruits, vegetables and snacks). RESULTS From the four picture sets, the green plants pictures were reported as most mentally restorative and appeared most beneficial for post-stressor recovery of positive affect, but not for negative affect or stress recovery. The green plants group also had higher preference for vegetables and lower preference or craving for (unhealthy) snacks. Those significant group differences were mainly due to the presence of plants and only occasionally due to the green color. CONCLUSION Indoor green plant pictures were associated with higher mental restorativeness and healthier food choices. Integrating plants in the interior seems to be a relevant health promotion approach, while applying green colors seems less relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Michels
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Belgium; Department of Developmental, Personality and Social Psychology, Ghent University, Belgium.
| | - Gillian Debra
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Belgium; Department of Developmental, Personality and Social Psychology, Ghent University, Belgium
| | - Louise Mattheeuws
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Belgium
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Khalifa AA, Khan E, Akhtar MS. Phytoremediation of indoor formaldehyde by plants and plant material. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOREMEDIATION 2022; 25:493-504. [PMID: 35771032 DOI: 10.1080/15226514.2022.2090499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Formaldehyde evolves from various household items and is of environmental and public health concern. Removal of this contaminant from the indoor air is of utmost importance and currently, various practices are in the field. Among these practices, indoor plants are of particular importance because they help in controlling indoor temperature, moisture, and oxygen concentration. Plants and plant materials studied for the purpose have been reviewed hereunder. The main topics of the review are, mechanism of phytoremediation, plants and their benefits, plant material in formaldehyde remediation, and airtight environmental and health issues. Future research in the field is also highlighted which will help new researches to plan for the remediation of formaldehyde in indoor air. The remediation capacity of several plants has been tabulated and compared, which gives easy access to assess various plants for remediation of the target pollutant. Challenges and issues in the phytoremediation of formaldehyde are also discussed.Novelty statement: Phytoremediation is a well-known technique to mitigate various organic and inorganic pollutants. The technique has been used by various researchers for maintaining indoor air quality but its efficiency under real-world conditions and human activities is still a question and is vastly affected relative to laboratory conditions. Several modifications in the field are in progress, here in this review article we have summarized and highlighted new directions in the field which could be a better solution to the problem in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abeer Ahmed Khalifa
- Environment and Sustainable Development Program, College of Science, University of Bahrain, Sakhir, Bahrain
- Department of Architecture and Interior Design, College of Engineering, University of Bahrain, Isa Town, Bahrain
| | - Ezzat Khan
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, University of Bahrain, Sakhir, Bahrain
- Department of Chemistry, University of Malakand, Chakdara, Pakistan
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Han KT, Ruan LW, Liao LS. Effects of Indoor Plants on Human Functions: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analyses. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19127454. [PMID: 35742700 PMCID: PMC9224521 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19127454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The influences of indoor plants on people have been examined by only three systematic reviews and no meta-analyses. The objective of this study was therefore to investigate the effects of indoor plants on individuals’ physiological, cognitive, health-related, and behavioral functions by conducting a systematic review with meta-analyses to fill the research gap. The eligibility criteria of this study were (1) any type of participants, (2) any type of indoor plants, (3) comparators without any plants or with other elements, (4) any type of objective human function outcomes, (5) any type of study design, and (6) publications in either English or Chinese. Records were extracted from the Web of Science (1990–), Scopus (1970–), WANFANG DATA (1980–), and Taiwan Periodical Literature (1970–). Therefore, at least two databases were searched in English and in Chinese—two of the most common languages in the world. The last search date of all four databases was on 18 February 2021. We used a quality appraisal system to evaluate the included records. A total of 42 records was included for the systematic review, which concluded that indoor plants affect participants’ functions positively, particularly those of relaxed physiology and enhanced cognition. Separate meta-analyses were then conducted for the effects of the absence or presence of indoor plants on human functions. The meta-analyses comprised only 16 records. The evidence synthesis showed that indoor plants can significantly benefit participants’ diastolic blood pressure (−2.526, 95% CI −4.142, −0.909) and academic achievement (0.534, 95% CI 0.167, 0.901), whereas indoor plants also affected participants’ electroencephalography (EEG) α and β waves, attention, and response time, though not significantly. The major limitations of this study were that we did not include the grey literature and used only two or three records for the meta-analysis of each function. In brief, to achieve the healthy city for people’s health and effective functioning, not only are green spaces needed in cities, but also plants are needed in buildings.
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Jing W, Yang C, Luo S, Lin X, Tang M, Zheng R, Lian D, Luo X. One-Pot Method to Synthesize Silver Nanoparticle-Modified Bamboo-Based Carbon Aerogels for Formaldehyde Removal. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14050860. [PMID: 35267682 PMCID: PMC8912511 DOI: 10.3390/polym14050860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study demonstrated a freeze-drying-carbonization method to synthesize silver nanoparticle-modified bamboo-based carbon aerogels to remove formaldehyde. The bamboo-based carbon aerogel (BCA) has the advantages of controllable pore size and rich oxygen-containing groups, which can provide a good foundation for surface modification. BCA can greatly enhance the purification of formaldehyde by loading silver nanoparticles. The maximum adsorption capacity of 5% Ag/BCA for formaldehyde reached 42 mg/g under 25 ppm formaldehyde concentration, which is 5.25 times more than that of BCA. The relevant data were fitted by the Langmuir model and the pseudo 2nd-order model and good results were obtained, indicating that chemical absorption occurred between the carbonyl of formaldehyde and the hydroxyl of BCA. Therefore, silver nanoparticle-modified bamboo-based carbon aerogels play a positive role in the selective removal of formaldehyde. Silver nanoparticles promoted the activation of oxygen and strengthened the effect of BCA on HCHO adsorption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxiang Jing
- Engineering Research Center of Biomass Materials, Ministry of Education, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621002, China; (W.J.); (X.L.)
- Yibin Industrial Academy of Forestry and Bamboo, Yibin 644005, China; (C.Y.); (M.T.); (R.Z.); (D.L.)
| | - Chai Yang
- Yibin Industrial Academy of Forestry and Bamboo, Yibin 644005, China; (C.Y.); (M.T.); (R.Z.); (D.L.)
| | - Shuang Luo
- Sichuan Tea College, Yibin University, Yibin 644000, China;
| | - Xiaoyan Lin
- Engineering Research Center of Biomass Materials, Ministry of Education, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621002, China; (W.J.); (X.L.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Min Tang
- Yibin Industrial Academy of Forestry and Bamboo, Yibin 644005, China; (C.Y.); (M.T.); (R.Z.); (D.L.)
| | - Renhong Zheng
- Yibin Industrial Academy of Forestry and Bamboo, Yibin 644005, China; (C.Y.); (M.T.); (R.Z.); (D.L.)
| | - Dongming Lian
- Yibin Industrial Academy of Forestry and Bamboo, Yibin 644005, China; (C.Y.); (M.T.); (R.Z.); (D.L.)
| | - Xuegang Luo
- Engineering Research Center of Biomass Materials, Ministry of Education, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621002, China; (W.J.); (X.L.)
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Particulate Matter (PM) Adsorption and Leaf Characteristics of Ornamental Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) Cultivars and Two Common Indoor Plants (Hedera helix L. and Epipremnum aureum Lindl. & Andre). HORTICULTURAE 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/horticulturae8010026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Particulate matter (PM) is a serious threat to human health, climate, and ecosystems. Furthermore, owing to the combined influence of indoor and outdoor particles, indoor PM can pose a greater threat than urban PM. Plants can help to reduce PM pollution by acting as biofilters. Plants with different leaf characteristics have varying capacities to capture PM. However, the PM mitigation effects of plants and their primary factors are unclear. In this study, we investigated the PM adsorption and leaf characteristics of five ornamental sweet potato (Ipomea batatas L.) cultivars and two common indoor plants (Hedera helix L. and Epipremnum aureum Lindl. & Andre) exposed to approximately 300 μg m−3 of fly ash particles to assess the factors influencing PM adsorption on leaves and to understand the effects of PM pollution on the leaf characteristics of plants. We analyzed the correlation between PM adsorption and photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (gs), transpiration rate (Tr), leaf area (LA), leaf width/length ratio (W/L), stomatal density (SD), and stomatal pore size (SP). A Pearson’s correlation analysis and a principal component analysis (PCA) were used to evaluate the effects of different leaf characteristics on PM adsorption. The analysis indicated that leaf gas exchange factors, such as Pn and Tr, and morphological factors, such as W/L and LA, were the primary parameters influencing PM adsorption in all cultivars and species tested. Pn, Tr, and W/L showed a positive correlation with PM accumulation, whereas LA was negatively correlated.
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Guard-Cell-Specific Expression of Phototropin2 C-Terminal Fragment Enhances Leaf Transpiration. PLANTS 2021; 11:plants11010065. [PMID: 35009069 PMCID: PMC8747280 DOI: 10.3390/plants11010065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Phototropins (phot1 and phot2) are plant-specific blue light receptors that mediate chloroplast movement, stomatal opening, and phototropism. Phototropin is composed of the N-terminus LOV1 and LOV2 domains and the C-terminus Ser/Thr kinase domain. In previous studies, 35-P2CG transgenic plants expressing the phot2 C-terminal fragment–GFP fusion protein (P2CG) under the control of 35S promoter showed constitutive phot2 responses, including chloroplast avoidance response, stomatal opening, and reduced hypocotyl phototropism regardless of blue light, and some detrimental growth phenotypes. In this study, to exclude the detrimental growth phenotypes caused by the ectopic expression of P2C and to improve leaf transpiration, we used the PHOT2 promoter for the endogenous expression of GFP-fused P2C (GP2C) (P2-GP2C) and the BLUS1 promoter for the guard-cell-specific expression of GP2C (B1-GP2C), respectively. In P2-GP2C plants, GP2C expression induced constitutive phototropin responses and a relatively dwarf phenotype as in 35-P2CG plants. In contrast, B1-GP2C plants showed the guard-cell-specific P2C expression that induced constitutive stomatal opening with normal phototropism, chloroplast movement, and growth phenotype. Interestingly, leaf transpiration was significantly improved in B1-GP2C plants compared to that in P2-GP2C plants and WT. Taken together, this transgenic approach could be applied to improve leaf transpiration in indoor plants.
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Morphological and Chemical Evaluations of Leaf Surface on Particulate Matter2.5 (PM2.5) Removal in a Botanical Plant-Based Biofilter System. PLANTS 2021; 10:plants10122761. [PMID: 34961230 PMCID: PMC8708160 DOI: 10.3390/plants10122761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Particulate matter has been increasing worldwide causing air pollution and serious health hazards. Owing to increased time spent indoors and lifestyle changes, assessing indoor air quality has become crucial. This study investigated the effect of watering and drought and illumination conditions (constant light, light/dark cycle, and constant dark) on particulate matter2.5 (PM2.5) removal and surface characterization of leaf in a botanical plant-based biofilter system. Using Ardisia japonica and Hedera helix as experimental plants in the plant-based biofilter system, PM2.5, volatile organic carbon, and CO2, as the evaluators of indoor air quality, were estimated using a sensor. Morphological and chemical changes of the leaf surface (i.e., roughness and wax) associated with PM2.5 removal were characterized via scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The highest PM2.5 removal efficiency, stomata closure, high leaf roughness, and wax layer were observed under drought with constant light condition. Consequently, PM2.5 removal was attributed to the combined effect of leaf roughness and wax by adsorption rather than stomatal uptake. These results suggest that operating conditions of indoor plant-based biofilter system such as watering (or drought) and illumination may be applied as a potential strategy for enhancing PM2.5 removal.
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Byber K, Radtke T, Norbäck D, Hitzke C, Imo D, Schwenkglenks M, Puhan MA, Dressel H, Mutsch M. Humidification of indoor air for preventing or reducing dryness symptoms or upper respiratory infections in educational settings and at the workplace. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2021; 12:CD012219. [PMID: 34891215 PMCID: PMC8664457 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012219.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Indoor exposure to dry air during heating periods has been associated with dryness and irritation symptoms of the upper respiratory airways and the skin. The irritated or damaged mucous membrane poses an important entry port for pathogens causing respiratory infections. OBJECTIVES To determine the effectiveness of interventions that increase indoor air humidity in order to reduce or prevent dryness symptoms of the eyes, the skin and the upper respiratory tract (URT) or URT infections, at work and in educational settings. SEARCH METHODS The last search for all databases was done in December 2020. We searched Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL (Cochrane Library), PsycINFO, Web of Science, Scopus and in the field of occupational safety and health: NIOSHTIC-2, HSELINE, CISDOC and the In-house database of the Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University of Zurich. We also contacted experts, screened reference lists of included trials, relevant reviews and consulted the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP). SELECTION CRITERIA We included controlled studies with a parallel group or cross-over design, quasi-randomised studies, controlled before-and-after and interrupted time-series studies on the effects of indoor air humidification in reducing or preventing dryness symptoms and upper respiratory tract infections as primary outcomes at workplace and in the educational setting. As secondary outcomes we considered perceived air quality, other adverse events, sick leave, task performance, productivity and attendance and costs of the intervention. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently screened titles, abstracts and full texts for eligibility, extracted data and assessed the risks of bias of included studies. We synthesised the evidence for the primary outcomes 'dry eye', 'dry nose', 'dry skin', for the secondary outcome 'absenteeism', as well as for 'perception of stuffiness' as the harm-related measure. We assessed the certainty of evidence using the GRADE system. MAIN RESULTS We included 13 studies with at least 4551 participants, and extracted the data of 12 studies with at least 4447 participants. Seven studies targeted the occupational setting, with three studies comprising office workers and four hospital staff. Three of them were clustered cross-over studies with 846 participants (one cRCT), one parallel-group controlled trial (2395 participants) and three controlled before-and-after studies with 181 participants. Five studies, all CTs, with at least 1025 participants, addressing the educational setting, were reported between 1963 and 1975, and in 2018. In total, at least 3933 (88%) participants were included in the data analyses. Due to the lack of information, the results of the risk of bias assessment remained mainly unclear and the assessable risks of bias of included studies were considered as predominantly high. Primary outcomes in occupational setting: We found that indoor air humidification at the workplace may have little to no effect on dryness symptoms of the eye and nose (URT). The only cRCT showed a significant decrease in dry eye symptoms among working adults (odds ratio (OR) 0.54, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.37 to 0.79) with a low certainty of the evidence. The only cluster non-randomised cross-over study showed a non-significant positive effect of humidification on dryness nose symptoms (OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.42) with a low certainty of evidence. We found that indoor air humidification at the workplace may have little and non-significant effect on dryness skin symptoms. The pooled results of two cluster non-RCTs showed a non-significant alleviation of skin dryness following indoor air humidification (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.33 to 1.32) with a low certainty of evidence. Similarly, the pooled results of two before-after studies yielded no statistically significant result (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.33 to 1.47) with very low certainty of evidence No studies reported on the outcome of upper respiratory tract infections. No studies conducted in educational settings investigated our primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes in occupational setting: Perceived stuffiness of the air was increased during the humidification in the two cross-over studies (OR 2.18, 95% CI 1.47 to 3.23); (OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.10 to 2.61) with low certainty of evidence. Secondary outcomes in educational setting: Based on different measures and settings of absenteeism, four of the six controlled studies found a reduction in absenteeism following indoor air humidification (OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.45 to 0.65; OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.15 to 0.96; proportion 4.63% versus 5.08%). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Indoor air humidification at the workplace may have little to no effect on dryness symptoms of the eyes, the skin and the URT. Studies investigating illness-related absenteeism from work or school could only be summarised narratively, due to different outcome measures assessed. The evidence suggests that increasing humidification may reduce the absenteeism, but the evidence is very uncertain. Future RCTs involving larger sample sizes, assessing dryness symptoms more technically or rigorously defining absenteeism and controlling for potential confounders are therefore needed to determine whether increasing indoor air humidity can reduce or prevent dryness symptoms of the eyes, the skin, the URT or URT infections at work and in educational settings over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Byber
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Radtke
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dan Norbäck
- Department of Medical Science, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Christine Hitzke
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David Imo
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Schwenkglenks
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Milo A Puhan
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Holger Dressel
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Margot Mutsch
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Diener A, Mudu P. How can vegetation protect us from air pollution? A critical review on green spaces' mitigation abilities for air-borne particles from a public health perspective - with implications for urban planning. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 796:148605. [PMID: 34271387 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Air pollution causes the largest death toll among environmental risks globally, but interventions to purify ambient air remain inadequate. Vegetation and green spaces have shown reductive effects on air-borne pollutants concentrations, especially of particulate matter (PM). Guidance on green space utilisation for air quality control remains scarce, however, as does its application in practise. To strengthen the foundation for research and interventions, we undertook a critical review of the state of science from a public health perspective. We used inter-disciplinary search strategies for published reviews on green spaces and air pollution in key scientific databases. Using the PRISMA checklist, we systematically identified reviews with quantitative analyses. For each of the presented PM mitigation mechanisms, we conducted additional searches focused on the most recent articles published between 2016 and early 2021. The included reviews differentiate three mitigation mechanisms of green spaces for PM: deposition, dispersion and modification. The most studied mechanism is deposition, particularly measures of mass and settling velocity of PM on plant leaves. We consolidate how green space setups differ by scale and context in their potentials to reduce peak exposures, stationary (point) or mobile (line) pollution sources, and the potentially most harmful PM components. The assessed findings suggest diverse optimisation options for green space interventions, particularly concerning plant selection, spatial setup, ventilation and maintenance - all alongside the consideration of supplementary vegetation effects like on temperature or water. Green spaces' reductive effects on air-borne PM concentrations are considerable, multi-mechanistic and varied by scale, context and vegetation characteristics. Such effect-modifying factors must be considered when rethinking public space design, as accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Weak linkages amid involved disciplines motivate the development of a research framework to strengthen health-oriented guidance. We conclude on an urgent need for an integrated and risk-based approach to PM mitigation through green space interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnt Diener
- European Centre for Environment and Health, Regional Office for Europe, World Health Organization, Platz der Vereinten Nationen 1, 53113 Bonn, North-Rhine Westphalia, Germany; Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University of Düsseldorf, Gurlittstr 55/II, 40223 Düsseldorf, North-Rhine Westphalia, Germany.
| | - Pierpaolo Mudu
- Department of Public Health, Environmental and Social Determinants of Health, World Health Organization, Avenue Appia 20, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; European Centre for Environment and Health, Regional Office for Europe, World Health Organization, Platz der Vereinten Nationen 1, 53113 Bonn, North-Rhine Westphalia, Germany
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Yap HS, Roberts AC, Luo C, Tan Z, Lee EH, Thach TQ, Kwok KW, Car J, Soh CK, Christopoulos G. The importance of air quality for underground spaces: An international survey of public attitudes. INDOOR AIR 2021; 31:2239-2251. [PMID: 34096640 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Space is a resource that is constantly being depleted, especially in mega-cities. Underground workspaces (UGS) are increasingly being included in urban plans and have emerged as an essential component of vertical cities. While progress had been made on the engineering aspects associated with the development of high-quality UGS, public attitudes toward UGS as work environments (ie, the public's design concerns with UGS) are relatively unknown. Here, we present the first large-scale study examining preferences and attitudes toward UGS, surveying close to 2000 participants from four cities in three continents (Singapore, Shanghai, London, and Montreal). Contrary to previous beliefs, air quality (and not lack of windows) is the major concern of prospective occupants. Windows, temperature, and lighting emerged as additional important building performance aspects for UGS. Early adopters (ie, individuals more willing to accept UGS and thus more likely to be the first occupants) across all cities prioritized air quality. Present results suggest that (perceived) air quality is a key building performance aspect for UGS that needs to be communicated to prospective occupants as this will improve their attitudes and views toward UGS. This study highlights the importance of indoor air quality for the public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Shan Yap
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Culture Science Innovations, Nanyang Business School, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Decision, Environmental and Organizational Neuroscience Lab, Nanyang Business School, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Adam C Roberts
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Culture Science Innovations, Nanyang Business School, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Decision, Environmental and Organizational Neuroscience Lab, Nanyang Business School, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- ETH Zurich, Future Resilient Systems, Singapore-ETH Centre, Singapore
| | - Chengwen Luo
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Zheng Tan
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Eun Hee Lee
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Culture Science Innovations, Nanyang Business School, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Decision, Environmental and Organizational Neuroscience Lab, Nanyang Business School, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, Malaysia, Malaysia
| | - Thuan-Quoc Thach
- Center for Population Health Sciences, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kian Woon Kwok
- School of Social Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Josip Car
- Center for Population Health Sciences, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, England
| | - Chee-Kiong Soh
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - George Christopoulos
- Culture Science Innovations, Nanyang Business School, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Decision, Environmental and Organizational Neuroscience Lab, Nanyang Business School, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Academy of Neuroscience for Architecture (ANFA), San Diego, CA, USA
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Li S, Lu S, Xu X, Zhao N, Li A, Xu L. How human mega-events influence urban airborne PM 2.5 pollution: A systematic review and meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 281:117009. [PMID: 33813194 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Air pollution caused by PM2.5 particles is a critical issue for public health that adversely affects people living in urban cities. Short-term Mega-events such as international meetings, sports tournaments, and traditional festivals can profoundly influence the local air quality. However, the extent of these influences and their role in improving or deteriorating the local air quality is still unclear. By collecting relative research from 75 publications based on more than 37 cities worldwide, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis. We calculated the log response ratio (RR) of the treatment (during) and control periods (before and after) of the Mega-events. The short-term policy control measures enacted during the Mega-Events consisting of meetings caused a significant decline (by -44.06%) in the ambient PM2.5 concentration. The mean daily PM2.5 concentration reduced from more than 100.00 μg/m3 before the events to 60.39 μg/m3, which is below the WHO (World Health Organization) interim target - 1 (75 μg/m3). On the contrary, setting off fireworks during the festival increased the ambient PM2.5 concentrations by 89.57% on average, with a mean daily value of 254.22 μg/m3. The variations in the effects of all event types on the air quality were primarily influenced by the background PM2.5 concentrations, with a negative correlation throughout. Moreover, the impact of events with policy control measures was also influenced by the year of the event, level of control, and location (suburban/urban) of the monitoring sites. Our findings provide evidence of the potential of human intervention on PM2.5 pollution reduction. We further highlight the crucial role of background pollution level in implementing policies during the Mega-events, which can benefit the environmental governance of developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoning Li
- Beijing Academy of Forestry and Pomology Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China; Beijing Yanshan Forest Ecosystem Observation and Research Station, Beijing, 100093, China
| | - Shaowei Lu
- Beijing Academy of Forestry and Pomology Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China; Beijing Yanshan Forest Ecosystem Observation and Research Station, Beijing, 100093, China
| | - Xiaotian Xu
- Beijing Academy of Forestry and Pomology Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China; Beijing Yanshan Forest Ecosystem Observation and Research Station, Beijing, 100093, China.
| | - Na Zhao
- Beijing Academy of Forestry and Pomology Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China; Beijing Yanshan Forest Ecosystem Observation and Research Station, Beijing, 100093, China
| | - Ai Li
- Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110000, China
| | - Lan Xu
- Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110000, China
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Current State of Indoor Air Phytoremediation Using Potted Plants and Green Walls. ATMOSPHERE 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos12040473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Urban civilization has a high impact on the environment and human health. The pollution level of indoor air can be 2–5 times higher than the outdoor air pollution, and sometimes it reaches up to 100 times or more in natural/mechanical ventilated buildings. Even though people spend about 90% of their time indoors, the importance of indoor air quality is less noticed. Indoor air pollution can be treated with techniques such as chemical purification, ventilation, isolation, and removing pollutions by plants (phytoremediation). Among these techniques, phytoremediation is not given proper attention and, therefore, is the focus of our review paper. Phytoremediation is an affordable and more environmentally friendly means to purify polluted indoor air. Furthermore, studies show that indoor plants can be used to regulate building temperature, decrease noise levels, and alleviate social stress. Sources of indoor air pollutants and their impact on human health are briefly discussed in this paper. The available literature on phytoremediation, including experimental works for removing volatile organic compound (VOC) and particulate matter from the indoor air and associated challenges and opportunities, are reviewed. Phytoremediation of indoor air depends on the physical properties of plants such as interfacial areas, the moisture content, and the type (hydrophobicity) as well as pollutant characteristics such as the size of particulate matter (PM). A comprehensive summary of plant species that can remove pollutants such as VOCs and PM is provided. Sources of indoor air pollutants, as well as their impact on human health, are described. Phytoremediation and its mechanism of cleaning indoor air are discussed. The potential role of green walls and potted-plants for improving indoor air quality is examined. A list of plant species suitable for indoor air phytoremediation is proposed. This review will help in making informed decisions about integrating plants into the interior building design.
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Jiang Q, Xu Y, Chen M, Meng Q, Zhang C. Modification of the
wood‐plastic
composite for enhancement of formaldehyde clearance and the
3D
printing application. J Appl Polym Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/app.49683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Jiang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai China
| | - Yifan Xu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai China
| | - Mingliang Chen
- Shanghai Aerospace System Engineering Institute Shanghai China
| | - Qinghua Meng
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai China
| | - Chongyin Zhang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Specialized Polymer Materials for Aerospace Shanghai Aerospace Equipments Manufacturer Co., Ltd Shanghai China
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