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Cesnik S, Rodríguez GH, Coclite AM, Bergmann A. Structural Colored Based Humidity Sensor Consisting of High Resolution 3D Printed Photonic Crystal Coated with Ultrathin Responsive Hydrogels. Macromol Rapid Commun 2024:e2400111. [PMID: 38749490 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202400111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Today, humidity sensors have become an integral part of the daily lives. In particular, humidity sensors using an electronic measuring principle have become the standard. Although these sensors have proven to be a stable measurement method, they have some disadvantages, such as their long response time or the danger of using them in explosive environments. This work introduces photonic crystals as an alternative optical measurement approach. The novel technology of ultra-fast two-photon polymerisation printing is combined with a thin-film deposition process, namely iCVD. This allows to print large area high-precision 3D templates, which are subsequently coated with a humidity responsive hydrogel thin film (p(HEMA) of 20 nm.The limits of 2PP technology are being pushed allowing the production ofs table and periodic large-area 3D structures. The flexible customization of hydrogels for ambient conditions make them exceptionally promising for a wide range of sensing applications. Additionally, optical methods for measuring humidity seem to be an excellent alternative to overcome the limitations for current state of the art humidity sensors. The optical detection of changes in ambient air humidity is achieved by observing color changes of the printed structure within the visible wavelength range.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Cesnik
- Graz University of Technology, Institute of Electrical Measurement and Sensor Systems, Inffeldgasse 33 / I, Graz, 8010, Austria
| | | | - Anna Maria Coclite
- Graz University of Technology, Institute of Solid State Physics, Petersgasse 16, Graz, 8010, Austria
| | - Alexander Bergmann
- Graz University of Technology, Institute of Electrical Measurement and Sensor Systems, Inffeldgasse 33 / I, Graz, 8010, Austria
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2
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Abusharha A, Pearce EI, Alsaqar A, Fagehi R, Afsar T, Razak S. Efficacy of hydroxypropyl-guar drops in improving tear film index and ocular surface dynamics using two treatment methods under a controlled desiccating environment. Int Ophthalmol 2024; 44:175. [PMID: 38615085 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-024-03122-9] [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] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to assess the efficacy of hp-guar eye drops on tear film index and ocular surface dynamics under desiccating conditions using protection and relief treatment modalities. METHODOLOGY The 12 normal, non-dry eye participants were subjected to adverse environmental conditions using a Controlled Environment Chamber (CEC) where the relative humidity (RH) was 5% and the ambient temperature was 21 °C. The participants were screened for ocular symptoms, tear osmolarity, ocular surface temperature (OST), tear production using the Ocular Surface Disease Index questionnaire (OSDI), OcuSense TearLab Osmometer, FLIR System ThermaCAM P620, and Schirmer strips. Tear production was calculated by the Tear Function Index test (TFI). RESULTS The mean tear film osmolarity decreased significantly from 296 mOsm/L at 40% RH to 285 mOsm/L at 5% RH (p = 0.01). Conflicting responses were seen for osmolarity in protection and relief. Mean tear osmolarity was significantly higher in the protection method in comparison to the relief method (p = 0.005). The mean TFI increased from 557 at 40% to 854 at 5% (p = 0.02). A significant increase in TFI was observed in the relief method in comparison with both 40% (p = 0.001) and 5% (p = 0.04). In the relief method, the mean TFI score went up to 1139 when hp-guar was installed. A significant improvement in ocular comfort was experienced in both the protection (p = 0.041) and relief (p = 0.010) methods at 5% RH. The instillation of hp-guar drops in the relief method resulted in a significant reduction in OST. The mean OST dropped to 33.01 ºC, significantly lower than the recorded OST for both normal (p = 0.040) and dry (p = 0.014) environmental conditions. CONCLUSION Hp-guar drops significantly improve tear film parameters under a desiccating environment, however, tear film parameters respond differently to the management modalities. In the protection method, tear film osmolarity was protected against a dry environment, while in the relief mode, an improvement in tear production and a decrease in ocular surface temperature were seen. Hp-guar performance could be maximized for the management of exposure to adverse environments by using a treatment protocol that targets the most affected parameters in each group of patients. Using CEC has the potential to provide researchers with a readily available method to evaluate the efficiency of tear supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Abusharha
- Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, 12372, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - E Ian Pearce
- Department of Vision Science, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, 70 Cowcaddence Road, Glasgow, G4 0BA, UK
| | - Ali Alsaqar
- Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, 12372, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raied Fagehi
- Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, 12372, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tayyaba Afsar
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, 12372, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Suhail Razak
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, 12372, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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Volf C, Martiny K, Andersen M, Engberg Pallesen B. Indoor environmental quality in schools: NOTECH solution vs. standard solution. F1000Res 2024; 12:560. [PMID: 38618018 PMCID: PMC11016168 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.130633.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In many Danish schools, the indoor environmental quality (IEQ) is challenged and studies document a poor IEQ in a majority of existing schools. Municipalities cannot afford comprehensive renovations and expensive mechanical ventilation solutions, hence public schools often suffer from poor indoor environment conditions. This study tests a new façade based, demand-controlled ventilation solution called NOTECH in the renovation of school. The study tests NOTECH vs. existing mechanical ventilation solution, comparing performance of both solutions at Skovbrynet Skole in Denmark. Methods The project investigates the effect of the NOTECH solution in a primary school classroom, comparing it to a similar classroom with conventional, mechanical ventilation. Methodically, indoor environmental quality and energy performance is monitored in the two identical classrooms during one school year 2018 - 2019. Results The results show that both systems keep the conditions within acceptable limits and CO2 levels below 1000 ppm, which is the requirement according to the Danish Building Regulations. In terms of costs, the NOTECH system has a lower overall cost than the mechanical ventilation system, with total estimated costs for installation, heating, electricity and maintenance amounting to approximately 35% of the mechanical system's costs. Finally, the results show that the NOTECH solution has a smaller embedded CO2 footprint for building materials, reducing the estimated carbon load by 95% compared to the mechanical ventilation solution. Conclusions While the performance of the both systems complies to the Danish Building Regulations, the indoor environmental quality between systems differs significantly. Results showing a higher air-temperature and lower relative air-humidity in the classroom with mechanical ventilation during winter and lower CO 2 levels in the mechanically ventilated classroom during winter and summer. Costs for implementation, energy consumption for heating and CO 2 footprint for building materials are significantly lower for the NOTECH solution, compared to the mechanical solution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Volf
- NID-Group, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, 2000, Denmark
| | - Klaus Martiny
- NID-Group, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, 2000, Denmark
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4
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Dimitroulopoulou S, Dudzińska MR, Gunnarsen L, Hägerhed L, Maula H, Singh R, Toyinbo O, Haverinen-Shaughnessy U. Indoor air quality guidelines from across the world: An appraisal considering energy saving, health, productivity, and comfort. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 178:108127. [PMID: 37544267 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108127] [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: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Buildings are constructed and operated to satisfy human needs and improve quality of life. Good indoor air quality (IAQ) and thermal comfort are prerequisites for human health and well-being. For their provision, buildings often rely on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, which may lead to higher energy consumption. This directly impacts energy efficiency goals and the linked climate change considerations. The balance between energy use, optimum IAQ and thermal comfort calls for scientifically solid and well-established limit values for exposures experienced by building occupants in indoor spaces, including homes, schools, and offices. The present paper aims to appraise limit values for selected indoor pollutants reported in the scientific literature, and to present how they are handled in international and national guidelines and standards. The pollutants include carbon dioxide (CO2), formaldehyde (CH2O), particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and radon (Rn). Furthermore, acknowledging the particularly strong impact on energy use from HVAC, ventilation, indoor temperature (T), and relative humidity (RH) are also included, as they relate to both thermal comfort and the possibilities to avoid moisture related problems, such as mould growth and proliferation of house dust mites. Examples of national regulations for these parameters are presented, both in relation to human requirements in buildings and considering aspects related to energy saving. The work is based on the Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) guidelines database, which spans across countries and institutions, and aids in taking steps in the direction towards a more uniform guidance for values of indoor parameters. The database is coordinated by the Scientific and Technical Committee (STC) 34, as part of ISIAQ, the International Society of Indoor Air Quality and Climate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lars Gunnarsen
- Department of the Built Environment, Aalborg University, Denmark
| | - Linda Hägerhed
- Department of Resource Recovery and Building Technology, The University of Borås, Sweden
| | - Henna Maula
- Engineering and Business, Construction Industry, Built Environment Research Group, Turku University of Applied Sciences, Finland
| | - Raja Singh
- Department of Architecture, School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, India, ISAC CBEP, New Delhi & Tathatara Foundation, India
| | - Oluyemi Toyinbo
- Civil Engineering Research Unit, The University of Oulu, Finland
| | - Ulla Haverinen-Shaughnessy
- Civil Engineering Research Unit, The University of Oulu, Finland; Indoor Air Program, The University of Tulsa, USA.
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5
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Alves M, Asbell P, Dogru M, Giannaccare G, Grau A, Gregory D, Kim DH, Marini MC, Ngo W, Nowinska A, Saldanha IJ, Villani E, Wakamatsu TH, Yu M, Stapleton F. TFOS Lifestyle Report: Impact of environmental conditions on the ocular surface. Ocul Surf 2023; 29:1-52. [PMID: 37062427 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2023.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Environmental risk factors that have an impact on the ocular surface were reviewed and associations with age and sex, race/ethnicity, geographical area, seasonality, prevalence and possible interactions between risk factors are reviewed. Environmental factors can be (a) climate-related: temperature, humidity, wind speed, altitude, dew point, ultraviolet light, and allergen or (b) outdoor and indoor pollution: gases, particulate matter, and other sources of airborne pollutants. Temperature affects ocular surface homeostasis directly and indirectly, precipitating ocular surface diseases and/or symptoms, including trachoma. Humidity is negatively associated with dry eye disease. There is little data on wind speed and dewpoint. High altitude and ultraviolet light exposure are associated with pterygium, ocular surface degenerations and neoplastic disease. Pollution is associated with dry eye disease and conjunctivitis. Primary Sjögren syndrome is associated with exposure to chemical solvents. Living within a potential zone of active volcanic eruption is associated with eye irritation. Indoor pollution, "sick" building or house can also be associated with eye irritation. Most ocular surface conditions are multifactorial, and several environmental factors may contribute to specific diseases. A systematic review was conducted to answer the following research question: "What are the associations between outdoor environment pollution and signs or symptoms of dry eye disease in humans?" Dry eye disease is associated with air pollution (from NO2) and soil pollution (from chromium), but not from air pollution from CO or PM10. Future research should adequately account for confounders, follow up over time, and report results separately for ocular surface findings, including signs and symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Alves
- Department of Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology, University of Campinas Campinas, Brazil.
| | - Penny Asbell
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Memphis, Memphis, USA
| | - Murat Dogru
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Giuseppe Giannaccare
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Cantanzaro, Italy
| | - Arturo Grau
- Department of Ophthalmology, Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Darren Gregory
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, USA
| | - Dong Hyun Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | | | - William Ngo
- School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Anna Nowinska
- Clinical Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Ian J Saldanha
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Edoardo Villani
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Eye Clinic, San Giuseppe Hospital, IRCCS Multimedica, Milan, Italy
| | - Tais Hitomi Wakamatsu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Paulista School of Medicine, São Paulo Hospital, Federal University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mitasha Yu
- Sensory Functions, Disability and Rehabilitation Unit, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Fiona Stapleton
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Butman JL, Thomson RJ, Geiger FM. Unanticipated Hydrophobicity Increases of Squalene and Human Skin Oil Films Upon Ozone Exposure. J Phys Chem B 2022; 126:9417-9423. [PMID: 36331532 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.2c04849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The C-H and O-H oscillators on the surfaces of thin films of human-derived skin oil and squalene are probed under ambient conditions (300 K, 1 atm total pressure, 40% RH) using second-order vibrational spectroscopy and contact angle goniometry before and after exposure to ppb amounts of ozone. Skin oil and squalene are found to produce different vibrational sum frequency generation spectra in the C-H stretching region, while exposure to ozone results in surface spectra for both materials that is consistent with a loss of C-H oscillators. The measured contact angles show that the hydrophobicity of the films increases following exposure to ozone, consistent with the reduction in C═C···H2O ("πH") bonding interactions that is expected from C═C double bond loss due to ozonolysis and indicating that the polar functional groups formed point toward the films' interiors. Implications for heterogeneous indoor chemistry are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana L Butman
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Regan J Thomson
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Franz M Geiger
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
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7
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Azuma K, Kagi N, Yanagi U, Kim H, Osawa H. A longitudinal study on the effects of hygro-thermal conditions and indoor air pollutants on building-related symptoms in office buildings. INDOOR AIR 2022; 32:e13164. [PMID: 36437678 DOI: 10.1111/ina.13164] [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] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
We conducted a longitudinal epidemiological study for over 1 year in Tokyo and Osaka, Japan, beginning June 2015, to examine the association between indoor environmental factors and building-related symptoms (BRSs) in office workers. Data were obtained from 483 subjects (225 females and 258 males) in 24 office rooms in 11 office buildings. Environmental monitoring was conducted for hygro-thermal conditions and carbon dioxide and sampling was performed for indoor air pollutants. Questionnaires were concurrently administered to collect information on participants' perceptions of their comfort and health and the conditions of the work environments. Multivariable analyses revealed that upper respiratory symptoms were significantly correlated with a decrease in both relative [odds ratio (OR): 0.77; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.62-0.95; p = 0.014] and absolute humidity (OR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.81-0.97; p = 0.008). Statistically, significant evidence was found that average relative humidity of <38% (OR: 2.68; 95% CI: 1.36-5.27; p = 0.004) showed the most significant association with increased risk of upper respiratory symptoms. Air concentrations of carbon dioxide showed no significant correlation with BRSs at mean concentrations <1000 ppm in most buildings surveyed. Most indoor air pollutant concentrations were relatively low or lower than the values set by indoor air quality guidelines and the values of thresholds for sensory irritation. Air concentrations of indoor air pollutants showed no significant correlation with BRSs. Our data emphasize the importance of appropriate humidity control during low humidity in winter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Azuma
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Behavioral Science, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Environmental Health, National Institute of Public Health, Wako, Saitama, Japan
| | - Naoki Kagi
- Department of Environmental Health, National Institute of Public Health, Wako, Saitama, Japan
- Department of Architecture and Building Engineering, School of Environment and Society, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - U Yanagi
- Department of Environmental Health, National Institute of Public Health, Wako, Saitama, Japan
- Department of Architecture, School of Architecture, Kogakuin University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hoon Kim
- Department of Environmental Health, National Institute of Public Health, Wako, Saitama, Japan
| | - Haruki Osawa
- Department of Environmental Health, National Institute of Public Health, Wako, Saitama, Japan
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8
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Trpevska-Shekerinov N, Petrushevska A, Gjoshevska-Dashtevska E, Shekerinov T, Nivichka-Kjaeva J. Dry eye disease and risks of urban air pollution – literature review. Arch Public Health 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/aph.2022.6061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Air pollution has a major impact on health, and it particularly affects the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and the eyes. The ocular effects of chronic, long-term exposure to high levels of air pollution are still unclear. The increase in air pollution levels can be associated with an increase in the instability of the tear film. The aim of this paper is to evaluate and discuss the available data about chronic eye diseases in regions with high air pollution. Furthermore, the review also offers a certain understanding of the link between chronic dry eye disease (DED) and air pollution. Materials and methods: Specific keywords (dry eye, air pollution, and urban) were used to search the medical databases of PubMed and Medline. This research technique led to obtaining 103 papers, dating from 1995 to 2021. Out of those, 15 were used as the basis of this paper. Results: The pathophysiological mechanisms of oxidative stress and ocular surface inflammation involve the selective binding of environmental agents to ocular surface membrane receptors, leading to the activation of proinflammatory signaling pathways with changes in the extracellular stromal matrix and consequent occurrence of inflammation of the ocular surface with epithelial defects. Conclusions: Dry eye disease, pollution, and eye allergy overlap, but their presentations can be different. Future advancements in monitoring technology and the development of modern, non-invasive diagnostic methods will help prove the link between air pollutants and DED. The points should be aimed at preventing the global risks of antigenic stimulation of "urban eye".
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The Influence of Transient Changes in Indoor and Outdoor Thermal Comfort on the Use of Outdoor Space by Older Adults in the Nursing Home. BUILDINGS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/buildings12070905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Recently, the requirements regarding the environment of nursing homes are high, because the elderly are a vulnerable group with limited adaptive capacity to respond to transient environmental change. This paper presents a field investigation on the influence of transient thermal comfort changes between the indoor and outdoor spaces (i.e., air temperature (Ta), solar radiation (SR), relative humidity (RH), wind speed (WS), and the thermal comfort indices of Universal Thermal Index (UTCI)) on the willingness of the elderly to use outdoor spaces of the Wanxia nursing home of Chengdu City. Results indicated that, in summer, the mean UTCI values of indoor and corridor spaces corresponded to the level of moderate heat stress, while those of road and garden corresponded to the strong heat stress level. Road and garden spaces even showed moderate heat stress in spring. Approximately 28.93% (139) of the elderly living here used outdoor spaces every day. The morning period (from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.) was the elderly’s favorited period for using outdoor spaces in seasons. The microclimatic transient differences between indoor and outdoor spaces ranged from 0.47 °C to 2.93 °C (|ΔTa|), from 86.09 W/m2 to 206.76 W/m2 (|ΔSR|), from 5.29% to 14.76% (ΔRH), from 0.01 m/s to 0.07 m/s (|ΔWS|), and from 0.25 °C to 2.25 °C (ΔUTCI). These big microclimate differences could cause enormous health risks for the elderly in the process of indoor and outdoor space conversion. The minimal transient change occurred between corridors and indoors. Pearson correlation analysis indicated ΔTa and ΔRH between indoor and outdoor spaces were the primary meteorological factors that influenced the elderly’s willing to use outdoor spaces. The elderly preferred to live in a constant Ta and RH environment. Only when the ΔTa and ΔRH are small enough to resemble a steady-state (ΔUTCI ≤ 0.5 °C), ΔWS and ΔSI could affect the elderly’s choice of using outdoor space. Optimal design strategies were put forward for reducing the transient differences between indoor and outdoor microclimates to inspire the elderly to use outdoor spaces safely, including improving outdoor canopy coverage and indoor mechanical ventilation.
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10
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Salthammer T, Morrison GC. Temperature and indoor environments. INDOOR AIR 2022; 32:e13022. [PMID: 35622714 DOI: 10.1111/ina.13022] [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] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
From the thermodynamic perspective, the term temperature is clearly defined for ideal physical systems: A unique temperature can be assigned to each black body via its radiation spectrum, and the temperature of an ideal gas is given by the velocity distribution of the molecules. While the indoor environment is not an ideal system, fundamental physical and chemical processes, such as diffusion, partitioning equilibria, and chemical reactions, are predictably temperature-dependent. For example, the logarithm of reaction rate and equilibria constants are proportional to the reciprocal of the absolute temperature. It is therefore possible to have non-linear, very steep changes in chemical phenomena over a relatively small temperature range. On the contrary, transport processes are more influenced by spatial temperature, momentum, and pressure gradients as well as by the density, porosity, and composition of indoor materials. Consequently, emergent phenomena, such as emission rates or dynamic air concentrations, can be the result of complex temperature-dependent relationships that require a more empirical approach. Indoor environmental conditions are further influenced by the thermal comfort needs of occupants. Not only do occupants have to create thermal conditions that serve to maintain their core body temperature, which is usually accomplished by wearing appropriate clothing, but also the surroundings must be adapted so that they feel comfortable. This includes the interaction of the living space with the ambient environment, which can vary greatly by region and season. Design of houses, apartments, commercial buildings, and schools is generally utility and comfort driven, requiring an appropriate energy balance, sometimes considering ventilation but rarely including the impact of temperature on indoor contaminant levels. In our article, we start with a review of fundamental thermodynamic variables and discuss their influence on typical indoor processes. Then, we describe the heat balance of people in their thermal environment. An extensive literature study is devoted to the thermal conditions in buildings, the temperature-dependent release of indoor pollutants from materials and their distribution in the various interior compartments as well as aspects of indoor chemistry. Finally, we assess the need to consider temperature holistically with regard to the changes to be expected as a result of global emergencies such as climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tunga Salthammer
- Department of Material Analysis and Indoor Chemistry, Fraunhofer WKI, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Glenn C Morrison
- Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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11
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Xu Q, Goh HC, Mousavi E, Nabizadeh Rafsanjani H, Varghese Z, Pandit Y, Ghahramani A. Towards Personalization of Indoor Air Quality: Review of Sensing Requirements and Field Deployments. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 22:3444. [PMID: 35591133 PMCID: PMC9104953 DOI: 10.3390/s22093444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
As humans spend more time indoors, ensuring acceptable indoor air quality (IAQ) through ubiquitous sensing systems has become a necessity. Although extensive studies have been conducted on the IAQ sensing systems, a holistic review of the performance and deployment of Ubiquitous IAQ Sensing (UIAQS) systems with associated requirements in IAQ sensing standards is still lacking. In this study, we first reviewed IAQ pollutants and other IAQ-related factors and the associated requirements in the prominent IAQ sensing standards. We found that while non-pollutant factors are influential on occupants' perception of IAQ and their satisfaction, they do not have evaluation metrics in the IAQ standards. Then, we systematically reviewed field studies on UIAQS technologies in the literature. Specific classes of information were recorded and analyzed further. We found that the majority of the UIAQS systems did not meet the requirements of the prominent IAQ sensing standards and identified four primary research gaps. We concluded that a new holistic and personalized approach that incorporates UIAQS measurements and subjective feedback is needed. This study provides valuable insights for researchers and policymakers to better improve UIAQS technologies by developing personalized IAQ sensors and sensing standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Xu
- Department of the Built Environment, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore; (Q.X.); (H.C.G.)
| | - Hui Ci Goh
- Department of the Built Environment, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore; (Q.X.); (H.C.G.)
| | - Ehsan Mousavi
- Department of Construction Science and Management, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA;
| | | | - Zubin Varghese
- Trane Technologies PLC Engineering & Technology Centre, Bangalore 560029, India; (Z.V.); (Y.P.)
| | - Yogesh Pandit
- Trane Technologies PLC Engineering & Technology Centre, Bangalore 560029, India; (Z.V.); (Y.P.)
| | - Ali Ghahramani
- Department of the Built Environment, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore; (Q.X.); (H.C.G.)
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12
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Spent Coffee Grounds as Building Material for Non-Load-Bearing Structures. MATERIALS 2022; 15:ma15051689. [PMID: 35268920 PMCID: PMC8911109 DOI: 10.3390/ma15051689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
The gradual development of government policies for ecological transition in the modern construction sector leads researchers to explore new alternative and low environmental impact materials with a particular focus on bio-sourced materials. In this perspective, the mechanical, thermal insulation, and the sound absorption performances of a spent coffee grounds/potato starch bio-based composite were analyzed for potential application in buildings. Based on thermal conductivity and diffusivity tests, the coffee grounds waste biocomposite was characterized as an insulating material comparable with conventional thermal insulation materials of plant origin. Acoustical tests revealed absorption coefficients in the same range as other conventional materials used in building acoustical comfort. This bio-sourced material presented a sufficient compressive mechanical behavior for non-load-bearing structures and a sufficient mechanical capacity to be shaped into building bricks. Mechanical, thermal, and acoustic performances depend on the moisture environment. The groundwork was laid for an initial reflection on how this composite would behave in two opposite climates: the continental climate of Reims in France and the tropical climate of Belém in Brazil.
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Huang Q, Zheng Y, Zhang C, Wang W, Liao T, Xiao X, Wang J, Wang J. Association between asthma and dry eye disease: a meta-analysis based on observational studies. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e045275. [PMID: 34893481 PMCID: PMC8666867 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-045275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to systematically review the relationship between dry eye disease (DED) and asthma based on published population-based studies. DATA SOURCES PubMed, EMBASE and ISI Web of Science from their inception were searched up to October 2019. STUDY SELECTION Observational studies addressing the association between asthma and DED will be eligible. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Two reviewers independently conducted the data extraction and quality assessment. We used a random-effects model for all analyses. Subgroup analysis according to ethnicity was performed to test the influence of ethnicity on the association. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Six independent studies (a total of 45 215 patients with asthma and 232 864 control subjects) were included in this review and had an average of seven stars by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Our current findings suggest that the prevalence of DED was higher in the asthma group than in the control group (Z=7.42, p<0.00001; OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.20 to 1.38). In the subgroup analysis by ethnicity, Australian, Caucasian and Asian patients with asthma showed an increased risk of DED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qun Huang
- Ophthalmology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yanlin Zheng
- Ophthalmology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Clinical Medical College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Chuantao Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wanjie Wang
- Ophthalmology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Tingting Liao
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xili Xiao
- Ophthalmology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Ophthalmology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Ophthalmology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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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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15
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Hou J, Sun Y, Dai X, Liu J, Shen X, Tan H, Yin H, Huang K, Gao Y, Lai D, Hong W, Zhai X, Norbäck D, Chen Q. Associations of indoor carbon dioxide concentrations, air temperature, and humidity with perceived air quality and sick building syndrome symptoms in Chinese homes. INDOOR AIR 2021; 31:1018-1028. [PMID: 33620091 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The indoor environment influences occupants' health. From March 1, 2018, to February 28, 2019, we continuously monitored indoor temperature (T), relative humidity (RH), and CO2 concentration in bedrooms via an online system in 165 residences that covered all five climate zones of China. Meanwhile, we asked one specific occupant in each home to complete questionnaires about perceived air quality and sick building syndrome (SBS) symptoms at the end of each month. Higher CO2 concentration was significantly associated with a higher percentage of perceived stuffy odor and skin SBS symptoms. Higher relative humidity was associated with higher percentage of perceived moldy odor and humid air, while lower RH was associated with a higher percentage of perceived dry air. Occupants who lived in residences with high RH were less likely to have mucosal and skin SBS symptoms (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 0.73-0.78). However, the benefit of high humidity for perceived dry air and skin dryness symptoms is weaker if there is a high CO2 concentration level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Hou
- Tianjin Key Lab. of Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuexia Sun
- Tianjin Key Lab. of Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xilei Dai
- Tianjin Key Lab. of Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Junjie Liu
- Tianjin Key Lab. of Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiong Shen
- Tianjin Key Lab. of Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hongwei Tan
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haiguo Yin
- School of Building Services Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Kailiang Huang
- Department of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shenyang Jianzhu University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yao Gao
- Shenzhen Institute of Building Research Co., Ltd, Shenzhen, China
| | - Dayi Lai
- Tianjin Key Lab. of Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Architecture, School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weiping Hong
- Tianjin Key Lab. of Indoor Air Environmental Quality Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xinping Zhai
- School of Building Services Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Dan Norbäck
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University and University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Qingyan Chen
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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16
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Factors Affecting Occupants’ Satisfaction in Governmental Buildings: The Case of the Kingdom of Bahrain. BUILDINGS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/buildings11060231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Satisfaction is a very important factor in improving productivity and performance in the work environment. This study aims to investigate the levels of occupants’ satisfaction with the indoor environmental quality (IEQ) in the governmental buildings in the Kingdom of Bahrain and to investigate the impact of occupants’ demographics and building attributes (non-IEQ factors) on these levels. For these purposes, the study used a questionnaire that has 17 indoor environmental quality (IEQ) factors in addition to a group of non-IEQ factors. The questionnaire was distributed by hand or using email to 279 employees in the Bahraini governmental sector. The findings of the study revealed that occupants in the Bahraini governmental buildings are not strongly satisfied with IEQ factors, especially with sound privacy, followed by visual privacy and amount of space, and then noise levels. The findings also showed that for most IEQ factors, men are more satisfied than women are, those who work in enclosed private offices are more satisfied than those who work in open-plan offices, and those who have central air-conditioning at their workplace are more than those who have a wall-mounted air conditioner. The impact of age, nature of work, duration of working in the current building and at the current workstation, weekly working hours, and proximity to the window were also investigated. Accordingly, a group of recommendations was suggested aiming to improve the levels of occupants’ satisfaction.
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17
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Winkler R. MeteoMex: open infrastructure for networked environmental monitoring and agriculture 4.0. PeerJ Comput Sci 2021; 7:e343. [PMID: 33816994 PMCID: PMC7959651 DOI: 10.7717/peerj-cs.343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Air, water, and soil are essential for terrestrial life, but pollution, overexploitation, and climate change jeopardize the availability of these primary resources. Thus, assuring human health and food production requires efficient strategies and technologies for environmental protection. Knowing key parameters such as soil moisture, air, and water quality is essential for smart farming and urban development. The MeteoMex project aims to build simple hardware kits and their integration into current Internet-of-Things (IoT) platforms. This paper shows the use of low-end Wemos D1 mini boards to connect environmental sensors to the open-source platform ThingsBoard. Two printed circuit boards (PCB) were designed for mounting components. Analog, digital and I2C sensors are supported. The Wemos ESP8266 microchip provides WiFi capability and can be programed with the Arduino IDE. Application examples for the MeteoMex aeria and terra kits demonstrate their functionality for air quality, soil, and climate monitoring. Further, a prototype for monitoring wastewater treatment is shown, which exemplifies the capabilities of the Wemos board for signal processing. The data are stored in a PostgreSQL database, which enables data mining. The MeteoMex IoT system is highly scalable and of low cost, which makes it suitable for deployment in agriculture 4.0, industries, and public areas. Circuit drawings, PCB layouts, and code examples are free to download from https://github.com/robert-winkler/MeteoMex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Winkler
- Kuturabi S.A. de C.V., Irapuato, Mexico
- Department of Biotechnology and Biochemistry, CINVESTAV Unidad Irapuato, Irapuato, Mexico
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18
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Abstract
Prolonged and continuous daily use of digital screens, or visual display terminals (VDTs), has become the norm in occupational, educational, and recreational settings. An increased global dependence on VDTs has led to a rise in associated visual complaints, including eye strain, ocular dryness, burning, blurred vision, and irritation, to name a few. The principal causes for VDT-associated visual discomfort are abnormalities with oculomotor/vergence systems and dry eye (DE). This review focuses on the latter, as advances in research have identified symptomology and ocular surface parameters that are shared between prolonged VDT users and DE, particularly the evaporative subtype. Several mechanisms have been implicated in VDT-associated DE, including blink anomalies, damaging light emission from modern devices, and inflammatory changes. The presence of preexisting DE has also been explored as an inciting and exacerbating factor. We review the associations between digital screens and DE, mechanisms of damage, and therapeutic options, hoping to raise awareness of this entity with the goal of reducing the global morbidity and economic impact of screen-associated visual disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divy Mehra
- Surgical Services, Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Anat Galor
- Surgical Services, Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL
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19
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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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20
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Pytel K, Marcinkowska R, Zabiegała B. Investigation of the Dynamism of Nanosized SOA Particle Formation in Indoor Air by a Scanning Mobility Particle Sizer and Proton-Transfer-Reaction Mass Spectrometry. Molecules 2020; 25:E2202. [PMID: 32397186 PMCID: PMC7248949 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25092202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Terpenes are VOCs of particular importance, since they are emitted from a wide range of indoor sources and are considered to be precursors of Secondary Organic Aerosol (SOA) formation. It has been proven that SOA particles, especially nanosized ones, pose a threat to human health. In this research, experiments with the application of an environmental chamber and real-time measurement techniques were carried out to investigate in a complimentary way the formation of monoterpene oxidation products and nanosized SOA particles initiated by monoterpene ozonolysis. Proton-Transfer-Reaction Mass Spectrometry with a Time-Of-Flight analyzer (PTR-TOF-MS) and a Scanning Mobility Particle Sizer (SMPS) were applied to determine in real time the dynamism of the formation of the corresponding terpene ozonolysis products and submicron SOA particles. Results proved that firstly, oxidation products were formed, and then, they underwent nucleation and condensation, forming particles whose diameters grew with time. The oxidation products formed were different depending on the type of terpenes applied. The comparison of the results obtained during the experiments with gaseous standard mixtures and real samples commonly present and used in indoor air revealed that the diversified chemical composition of the emission source had implications for both the particle formation initiated by the oxidation of essential oil components and the chemical reactions occurring via the oxidation process. With the instrumentation utilized, the concentration changes at the level of a few ppbv could be monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Renata Marcinkowska
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdańsk University of Technology, 11/12 Narutowicza Str. 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland; (K.P.); (B.Z.)
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21
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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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22
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Abbatt JPD, Wang C. The atmospheric chemistry of indoor environments. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2020; 22:25-48. [PMID: 31712796 DOI: 10.1039/c9em00386j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Through air inhalation, dust ingestion and dermal exposure, the indoor environment plays an important role in controlling human chemical exposure. Indoor emissions and chemistry can also have direct impacts on the quality of outdoor air. And so, it is important to have a strong fundamental knowledge of the chemical processes that occur in indoor environments. This review article summarizes our understanding of the indoor chemistry field. Using a molecular perspective, it addresses primarily the new advances that have occurred in the past decade or so and upon developments in our understanding of multiphase partitioning and reactions. A primary goal of the article is to contrast indoor chemistry to that which occurs outdoors, which we know to be a strongly gas-phase, oxidant-driven system in which substantial oxidative aging of gases and aerosol particles occurs. By contrast, indoor environments are dark, gas-phase oxidant concentrations are relatively low, and due to air exchange, only short times are available for reactive processing of gaseous and particle constituents. However, important gas-surface partitioning and reactive multiphase chemistry occur in the large surface reservoirs that prevail in all indoor environments. These interactions not only play a crucial role in controlling the composition of indoor surfaces but also the surrounding gases and aerosol particles, thus affecting human chemical exposure. There are rich research opportunities available if the advanced measurement and modeling tools of the outdoor atmospheric chemistry community continue to be brought indoors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan P D Abbatt
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George St., Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada.
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George St., Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada.
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23
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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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24
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Rautiainen P, Hyttinen M, Ruokolainen J, Saarinen P, Timonen J, Pasanen P. Indoor air-related symptoms and volatile organic compounds in materials and air in the hospital environment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2019; 29:479-488. [PMID: 30474394 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2018.1550194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In this case study, hospital workers did suffer from symptoms related to the poor indoor air quality. To investigate reasons for symptoms MM40-survey and house inspection methods were performed. The study consisted of 49 operating rooms and 470 employees. MM-40 survey revealed that over 40% of the staff suffered from skin reactions, over 50% had upper respiratory tract symptoms and 25% suffered headaches. No reason for the staff's symptom could be found in the structural studies of workplaces. The mean air exchange rate of the rooms was 5.51/h. In total 61 materials and 49 indoor air samples were taken. The most frequently found compounds in the material samples were 2-ethyl-1-hexanol and aliphatic hydrocarbons. VOC emissions were high in some of the material samples and they presumably were the one reason for the workers' symptoms observed in some in of the rooms. However, indoor air VOC concentrations were low in most of the cases. According to the linear regression model emissions from flooring material couldn't explain the indoor air concentration of the VOCs. One reason for that was the high ventilation rates of the rooms, which presumably kept VOC levels in indoors low. In addition, VOC concentrations indoors were strongly related to the ongoing healthcare activities in the hospital.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marko Hyttinen
- b Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland , Kuopio , Finland
| | - Joonas Ruokolainen
- b Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland , Kuopio , Finland
| | - Pekka Saarinen
- c Turku University of Applied Sciences, Institute of Occupational Health , Turku , Finland
| | - Jussi Timonen
- d Turku University of Applied Sciences, Mittavat Oy , Pielavesi , Finland
| | - Pertti Pasanen
- b Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland , Kuopio , Finland
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25
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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: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [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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26
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Wang Z, Zhang Y, Wang W, An Q, Tong W. High performance of colorimetric humidity sensors based on minerals. Chem Phys Lett 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cplett.2019.04.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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27
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Investigating the Effects of Stove Emissions on Ocular and Cancer Cells. Sci Rep 2019; 9:1870. [PMID: 30755694 PMCID: PMC6372759 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-38803-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
More than a third of the world’s population relies on solid fuels for cooking and heating, with major health consequences. Although solid fuel combustion emissions are known to increase the prevalence of illnesses such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer, however, their effect on the eyes is underexplored. This study assesses the acute toxicity of solid fuel combustion emissions on healthy ocular cells and a cancer cell line. Three healthy ocular cell lines (corneal, lens, and retinal epithelial cells) and a cancer cell line (Chinese hamster ovary cells) were exposed to liquid and gas phase emissions from applewood and coal combustion. Following the exposure, real-time cell attachment behavior was monitored for at least 120 hours with electrical cell impedance spectroscopy. The viability of the cells, amount of apoptotic cells, and generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were quantified with MTT, ApoTox-Glo, and ROS-Glo H2O2 assays, respectively. The results showed that coal emissions compromised the viability of ocular cells more than applewood emissions. Interestingly, the cancer cells, although their viability was not compromised, generated 1.7 to 2.7 times more ROS than healthy cells. This acute exposure study provides compelling proof that biomass combustion emissions compromise the viability of ocular cells and increase ROS generation. The increased ROS generation was fatal for ocular cells, but it promoted the growth of cancer cells.
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Sahanavin N, Prueksasit T, Tantrakarnapa K. Relationship between PM 10 and PM 2.5 levels in high-traffic area determined using path analysis and linear regression. J Environ Sci (China) 2018; 69:105-114. [PMID: 29941245 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2017.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2016] [Revised: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between PM10 and PM2.5 levels as related to meteorological conditions and traffic flow using both a linear regression analysis and a path analysis. The Particulate matter (PM) samples were collected from Sukhumvit road, Bangkok, Thailand, at both open (104 samples) and covered (92 samples) areas along the road. Fifteen percent of all samples were separated before the statistical models were run and used for model validation. The results from the path analysis were more elaborate than those from the linear regression, thus indicating that meteorological conditions had a direct effect on the particulate levels and that the effects of traffic flow were more variable in open areas. The model also indicated that meteorological conditions had an indirect effect and that traffic flow had a direct effect on particulate levels in covered areas. The model validation results indicated that for open areas, the R2 values were not very different between the path analysis and the linear regression model, but that the path analysis was more accurate than the linear regression model at very low PM concentrations. At high PM concentrations, the path analysis model also had a better fit than did the linear regression, so the predictions from the path analysis model were more accurate than those from the linear regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narut Sahanavin
- Interdisciplinary Program of Environmental Science, Graduate School, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand
| | - Tassanee Prueksasit
- Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Kraichat Tantrakarnapa
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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29
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Indoor air humidity, air quality, and health – An overview. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2018; 221:376-390. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2018.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 277] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Revised: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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30
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Randomized Trial of Desktop Humidifier for Dry Eye Relief in Computer Users. Optom Vis Sci 2017; 94:1052-1057. [DOI: 10.1097/opx.0000000000001136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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31
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Stabile L, Dell'Isola M, Russi A, Massimo A, Buonanno G. The effect of natural ventilation strategy on indoor air quality in schools. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 595:894-902. [PMID: 28432989 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.03.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Revised: 03/02/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2017] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
In order to reduce children's exposure to pollutants in classrooms a proper ventilation strategy need to be adopted. Such strategy is even more important in naturally ventilated schools where the air exchange rate is only based on the manual airing of classrooms. The present work aimed to evaluate the effect of the manual airing strategy on indoor air quality in Italian classrooms. For this aim, schools located in the Central Italy were investigated. Indoor air quality was studied in terms of CO2, particle number and PM concentrations and compared to corresponding outdoor levels. In particular two experimental analyses were performed: i) a comparison between heating and non heating season in different schools; ii) an evaluation of the effect of scheduled airing periods on the dilution of indoor-generated pollutants and the penetration of outdoor-generated ones. In particular, different airing procedures, i.e. different window opening periods (5 to 20min per hour) were imposed and controlled through contacts installed on classroom windows and doors. Results revealed that the airing strategy differently affect the several pollutants detected in indoors depending on their size, origin and dynamics. Longer airing periods may result in reduced indoor CO2 concentrations and, similarly, other gaseous indoor-generated pollutants. Simultaneously, higher ultrafine particle (and other vehicular-related pollutants) levels in indoors were measured due to infiltration from outdoors. Finally, a negligible effect of the manual airing on PM levels in classroom was detected. Therefore, a simultaneous reduction in concentration levels for all the pollutant metrics in classrooms cannot be obtained just relying upon air permeability of the building envelope and manual airing of the classrooms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Stabile
- Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, FR, Italy.
| | - Marco Dell'Isola
- Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, FR, Italy
| | - Aldo Russi
- Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, FR, Italy
| | - Angelamaria Massimo
- Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, FR, Italy
| | - Giorgio Buonanno
- Department of Engineering, University "Parthenope", Naples, Italy; Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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32
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Schulze F, Gao X, Virzonis D, Damiati S, Schneider MR, Kodzius R. Air Quality Effects on Human Health and Approaches for Its Assessment through Microfluidic Chips. Genes (Basel) 2017; 8:E244. [PMID: 28953246 PMCID: PMC5664094 DOI: 10.3390/genes8100244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Air quality depends on the various gases and particles present in it. Both natural phenomena and human activities affect the cleanliness of air. In the last decade, many countries experienced an unprecedented industrial growth, resulting in changing air quality values, and correspondingly, affecting our life quality. Air quality can be accessed by employing microchips that qualitatively and quantitatively determine the present gases and dust particles. The so-called particular matter 2.5 (PM2.5) values are of high importance, as such small particles can penetrate the human lung barrier and enter the blood system. There are cancer cases related to many air pollutants, and especially to PM2.5, contributing to exploding costs within the healthcare system. We focus on various current and potential future air pollutants, and propose solutions on how to protect our health against such dangerous substances. Recent developments in the Organ-on-Chip (OoC) technology can be used to study air pollution as well. OoC allows determination of pollutant toxicity and speeds up the development of novel pharmaceutical drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Schulze
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), German Centre for the Protection of Laboratory Animals (Bf3R), 10589 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Xinghua Gao
- iSmart, Materials Genome Institute, Shanghai University (SHU), Shanghai 201800, China.
| | - Darius Virzonis
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Kaunas University of Technology, 35212 Panevezys, Lithuania.
| | - Samar Damiati
- Department of Biochemistry, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 80203, Saudi Arabia.
- Institute for Synthetic Bioarchitecture, Department of Nanobiotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, 1190 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Marlon R Schneider
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), German Centre for the Protection of Laboratory Animals (Bf3R), 10589 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Rimantas Kodzius
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), German Centre for the Protection of Laboratory Animals (Bf3R), 10589 Berlin, Germany.
- iSmart, Materials Genome Institute, Shanghai University (SHU), Shanghai 201800, China.
- Mathematics and Natural Sciences Department, The American University of Iraq, Sulaimani, Sulaymaniyah 46001, Iraq.
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López-de la Rosa A, Martín-Montañez V, López-Miguel A, Fernández I, Calonge M, González-Méijome JM, González-García MJ. Ocular response to environmental variations in contact lens wearers. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2017; 37:60-70. [PMID: 28030882 DOI: 10.1111/opo.12338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the influence of different indoor environments simulated in an environmental chamber on soft contact lens (CL) wearers. METHODS Fifty-four CL wearers were grouped based on their symptoms while wearing their CLs. Subjects were fitted with two different CL types, conventional hydrogel (Omafilcon A) and silicone hydrogel (comfilcon A), and exposed to two controlled indoor environmental conditions, standard [50% relative humidity (RH), 23°C, 930 mb of atmospheric pressure] and adverse (in-flight air cabin environment: 5% RH, localised air flow, 23°C, 750 mb atmospheric pressure), for 90 min in an environmental chamber, making a total of four visits. Symptoms, tear osmolarity, pre-lens tear breakup time (PLBUT), phenol red thread test, visual acuity, bulbar and limbal hyperaemia, corneal and limbal staining, and CL dehydration were assessed using repeated measures analysis of variance. A linear mixed model was used to analyse the effect of environment, CL type, discomfort-based grouping, and time on blink rate. RESULTS Environment was found to significantly (p ≤ 0.018) affect limbal and bulbar hyperaemia, PLBUT, tear osmolarity, and CL dehydration. Likewise, CL type significantly (p ≤ 0.04) affected nasal and total corneal staining, limbal conjunctival staining, CL dehydration, comfort, and blurred vision. The environment, CL type, and time had significant effects (p ≤ 0.0001) on the blink rate. CONCLUSIONS Ocular surface integrity and blink rate in CL wearers depend on the environment CL users are exposed to, as well as on the soft CL type that they are wearing. Tight control of environmental conditions can contribute to a better understanding of CL-related discomfort.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Itziar Fernández
- Ocular Surface Group, IOBA, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain.,Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Valladolid, Spain
| | - Margarita Calonge
- Ocular Surface Group, IOBA, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain.,Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Valladolid, Spain
| | - José M González-Méijome
- Clinical and Experimental Optometry Research Laboratory, Center of Physics, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - María J González-García
- Ocular Surface Group, IOBA, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain.,Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Valladolid, Spain
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34
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Smith AJ, Fsadni A, Holt G. Indoor living plants’ effects on an office environment. FACILITIES 2017. [DOI: 10.1108/f-09-2016-0088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Purpose
The use of indoor living plants for enhancement of indoor relative humidity and the general environment of a large, modern, open plan office building are studied using a mixed-methods paradigm.
Design/methodology/approach
The quantitative element involved designated experimental and control zones within the building, selected using orientation, user density and users’ work roles criteria. For a period of six months, relative humidity was monitored using data loggers at 30 min intervals, and volatile organic compounds were measured using air sampling. Qualitative “perception data” of the building’s users were collected via a structured questionnaire survey among both experimental and control zones.
Findings
Study findings include that living plants did not achieve the positive effect on relative humidity predicted by (a-priori) theoretical calculations and that building users’ perceived improvements to indoor relative humidity, temperature and background noise levels were minimal. The strongest perceived improvement was for work environment aesthetics. Findings demonstrate the potential of indoor plants to reduce carbon emissions of the [as] built environment through elimination or reduction of energy use and capital-intensive humidification air-conditioning systems.
Originality/value
The study’s practical value lies in its unique application of (mainly laboratory-derived) existing theory in a real-life work environment.
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Mendes A, Papoila AL, Carreiro-Martins P, Aguiar L, Bonassi S, Caires I, Palmeiro T, Ribeiro ÁS, Neves P, Pereira C, Botelho A, Neuparth N, Teixeira JP. The Influence of Thermal Comfort on the Quality of Life of Nursing Home Residents. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2017; 80:729-739. [PMID: 28534713 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2017.1286929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Thermal comfort (TC) parameters were measured in 130 rooms from nursing homes (NH), following ISO 7730:2005 in order to evaluate the influence of winter season TC indices on quality of life (QoL) in older individuals. Mean radiant temperature (mrT), predicted mean vote (PMV) and predicted percent of dissatisfied people (PPD) indices, and the respective measurement uncertainties were calculated using Monte Carlo Method. The WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire was conducted from September 2012 to April 2013, during the winter season TC sampling campaign. Winter PMV and PPD indices showed significant differences between seasons in median values for comfort. There were also significant differences between seasons for air temperature, air velocity, mrT, and relative humidity. The winter PMV index displayed a "slightly cool" [≤-1] to "cool" [≤-2] in thermal sensation scale [-3 to 3]. PPD index reflected this discomfort as evidenced by a high rate of predicted dissatisfied occupants (64%). The influence of winter season TC on older individual QoL results demonstrated that values of PMV above -0.7 had higher mean score of QoL (coefficient estimate: 11.13 units) compared with values of PMV below -0.7. These findings are of relevance to public health and may be useful for understanding NH indoor environment variables thus implementing preventive policies in terms of standards and guidelines for these susceptible populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Mendes
- a Environmental Health Department , National Health , Porto , Portugal
- b Institute of Public Health (ISPUP) , Porto University, EpiUnit - Epidemiology Research Unit , Porto , Portugal
| | - Ana Luísa Papoila
- c CEAUL , NOVA Medical School , Lisbon , Portugal
- d Epidemiology and Statistics Analisys Unit, Research Centre , Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central, EPE , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - Pedro Carreiro-Martins
- d Epidemiology and Statistics Analisys Unit, Research Centre , Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central, EPE , Lisbon , Portugal
- e CEDOC - Respiratory Diseases Research Group , NOVA Medical School , Lisbon , Portugal
- f Serviço de Imunoalergologia, Hospital de Dona Estefânia , Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central , EPE , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - Lívia Aguiar
- a Environmental Health Department , National Health , Porto , Portugal
- b Institute of Public Health (ISPUP) , Porto University, EpiUnit - Epidemiology Research Unit , Porto , Portugal
| | - Stefano Bonassi
- g Unit of Clinical and Molecular Epidemiology , IRCCS San Raffaele , Pisana , Rome , Italy
| | - Iolanda Caires
- e CEDOC - Respiratory Diseases Research Group , NOVA Medical School , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - Teresa Palmeiro
- e CEDOC - Respiratory Diseases Research Group , NOVA Medical School , Lisbon , Portugal
| | | | - Paula Neves
- a Environmental Health Department , National Health , Porto , Portugal
| | - Cristiana Pereira
- a Environmental Health Department , National Health , Porto , Portugal
- b Institute of Public Health (ISPUP) , Porto University, EpiUnit - Epidemiology Research Unit , Porto , Portugal
| | - Amália Botelho
- e CEDOC - Respiratory Diseases Research Group , NOVA Medical School , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - Nuno Neuparth
- e CEDOC - Respiratory Diseases Research Group , NOVA Medical School , Lisbon , Portugal
- f Serviço de Imunoalergologia, Hospital de Dona Estefânia , Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central , EPE , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - João Paulo Teixeira
- a Environmental Health Department , National Health , Porto , Portugal
- b Institute of Public Health (ISPUP) , Porto University, EpiUnit - Epidemiology Research Unit , Porto , Portugal
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Mandin C, Trantallidi M, Cattaneo A, Canha N, Mihucz VG, Szigeti T, Mabilia R, Perreca E, Spinazzè A, Fossati S, De Kluizenaar Y, Cornelissen E, Sakellaris I, Saraga D, Hänninen O, De Oliveira Fernandes E, Ventura G, Wolkoff P, Carrer P, Bartzis J. Assessment of indoor air quality in office buildings across Europe - The OFFICAIR study. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 579:169-178. [PMID: 27866741 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.10.238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The European project OFFICAIR aimed to broaden the existing knowledge regarding indoor air quality (IAQ) in modern office buildings, i.e., recently built or refurbished buildings. Thirty-seven office buildings participated in the summer campaign (2012), and thirty-five participated in the winter campaign (2012-2013). Four rooms were investigated per building. The target pollutants were twelve volatile organic compounds, seven aldehydes, ozone, nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter <2.5μm (PM2.5). Compared to other studies in office buildings, the benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene concentrations were lower in OFFICAIR buildings, while the α-pinene and d-limonene concentrations were higher, and the aldehyde, nitrogen dioxide and PM2.5 concentrations were of the same order of magnitude. When comparing summer and winter, significantly higher concentrations were measured in summer for formaldehyde and ozone, and in winter for benzene, α-pinene, d-limonene, and nitrogen dioxide. The terpene and 2-ethylhexanol concentrations showed heterogeneity within buildings regardless of the season. Considering the average of the summer and winter concentrations, the acetaldehyde and hexanal concentrations tended to increase by 4-5% on average with every floor level increase, and the nitrogen dioxide concentration tended to decrease by 3% on average with every floor level increase. A preliminary evaluation of IAQ in terms of potential irritative and respiratory health effects was performed. The 5-day median and maximum indoor air concentrations of formaldehyde and ozone did not exceed their respective WHO air quality guidelines, and those of acrolein, α-pinene, and d-limonene were lower than their estimated thresholds for irritative and respiratory effects. PM2.5 indoor concentrations were higher than the 24-h and annual WHO ambient air quality guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinne Mandin
- Scientific and Technical Centre for Building (CSTB), Marne-la-Vallée, France.
| | | | | | - Nuno Canha
- Scientific and Technical Centre for Building (CSTB), Marne-la-Vallée, France
| | | | | | - Rosanna Mabilia
- National Research Council, Institute of Atmospheric Pollution Research, Rome, Italy
| | - Erica Perreca
- National Research Council, Institute of Atmospheric Pollution Research, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Yvonne De Kluizenaar
- The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Eric Cornelissen
- The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Delft, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Otto Hänninen
- National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Gabriela Ventura
- Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Management (INEGI), Porto, Portugal
| | - Peder Wolkoff
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Huang C, Wang X, Liu W, Cai J, Shen L, Zou Z, Lu R, Chang J, Wei X, Sun C, Zhao Z, Sun Y, Sundell J. Household indoor air quality and its associations with childhood asthma in Shanghai, China: On-site inspected methods and preliminary results. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2016; 151:154-167. [PMID: 27479712 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2016.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Revised: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 07/25/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Few studies were conducted for associations of home environment with childhood health by on-site inspection in China. During 2013-2014, we conducted a case-control study with home inspection among 454 children (186 asthma children and 268 non-asthma children) in Shanghai, China. In this paper, we detailedly described the inspected methods and analyzed the preliminarily collected data. Except in winter, most residences meet the national standard for indoor temperature and relative humidity. Most living rooms had ≤1000ppm CO2, whereas over half of the child's bedrooms had slightly >1000ppm CO2 during night. Most residences had notably lower than 2500cfu/m3 airborne culturable fungi and ≤100μg/m3 formaldehyde. More than 70% of the child's bedrooms had ≤75μg/m3 PM2.5 and ≤150μg/m3 PM10. Indoor and outdoor concentrations of particulate matters had strong linear correlations (r=0.891-0.922; p-value <0.001). Most differences between cases and controls were not significant with respect to CO2, culturable fungi, formaldehyde, and particulate matters. Before and after adjusted for potential confounders, indoor averaged concentration of CO2 and particulate matters generally had negative associations with childhood history of doctor-diagnosed asthma in spring, summer, and autumn. Only in winter, indoor CO2 concentration was significantly associated with the increased odds of childhood asthma. Our results indicated that air quality among most residences in Shanghai could meet the national standard for indoor air quality in warm seasons; but household air quality and ventilation status in winter should be greatly improved. We suspected that those "unexpected" negative associations could exist due to changes in lifestyle behaviors regarding indoor air quality after the child being diagnosed asthma by a doctor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Huang
- School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueying Wang
- School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Liu
- School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jiao Cai
- School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Shen
- R&B Technology (Shanghai) Company Limited, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhijun Zou
- School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Rongchun Lu
- School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Chang
- School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China; Department of Thermal Energy and Power Engineering, Shandong Jiaotong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaoyang Wei
- School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Chanjuan Sun
- School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhuohui Zhao
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuexia Sun
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jan Sundell
- School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China; Department of Building Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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Ahrentzen S, Erickson J, Fonseca E. Thermal and health outcomes of energy efficiency retrofits of homes of older adults. INDOOR AIR 2016; 26:582-93. [PMID: 26249033 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Accepted: 07/31/2015] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Mitigation of thermal stress and adverse indoor climatic conditions is important to older low-income populations whose age, health, and economic circumstances make them vulnerable to indoor environmental conditions. This research examines whether energy retrofits in affordable housing for older adults can also improve indoor climatic (i.e., temperature, humidity, air infiltration) conditions and whether such improvements correspond with improved health and comfort of residents. An apartment complex for low-income older adults in Phoenix was the study site. In 2010, renovations were undertaken to make it more energy efficient and to replace interior cabinetry, flooring, and paint with materials that had low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Fifty-seven residents from 53 apartment units participated in both baseline (pre-renovation) and 1 year post-renovation data collection trials. Environmental measures included temperature, relative humidity, and air infiltration. Health measures included general health, emotional distress, and sleep. Four questions addressed residents' perceptions of temperature quality. Results demonstrated a 19% reduction in energy consumption following the retrofit. In addition, fixed effects statistical models of the panel data showed significant stabilization of unit temperature from pre-retrofit to 1 year post-retrofit. Reductions in an apartment's temperature extremes of 27.2°C (81°F) and above also corresponded with improvement in occupant's reported health over the same time period, although not with occupant's perceptions of thermal comfort.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ahrentzen
- Shimberg Center for Housing Studies, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - J Erickson
- Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - E Fonseca
- The Elemental Group, Phoenix, AZ, USA
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Al horr Y, Arif M, Katafygiotou M, Mazroei A, Kaushik A, Elsarrag E. Impact of indoor environmental quality on occupant well-being and comfort: A review of the literature. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijsbe.2016.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 311] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Byber K, Flatz A, 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. Hippokratia 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Byber
- University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich; Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine; Rämistrasse 100 Zurich Switzerland 8091
| | - Aline Flatz
- Lausanne University Hospital; Cochrane Switzerland, Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine; Route de la Corniche 10 Lausanne Switzerland CH-1010
| | - Dan Norbäck
- Uppsala University; Department of Medical Science; Uppsala Sweden
| | - Christine Hitzke
- University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich; Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine; Rämistrasse 100 Zurich Switzerland 8091
| | - David Imo
- University of Zurich; Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine; Hirschengraben 84 Zurich Switzerland 8001
| | - Matthias Schwenkglenks
- University of Zurich; Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute; Hirschengraben 84 Zurich Switzerland
| | - Milo A Puhan
- University of Zurich; Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute; Hirschengraben 84 Zurich Switzerland
| | - Holger Dressel
- University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich; Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine; Rämistrasse 100 Zurich Switzerland 8091
| | - Margot Mutsch
- University of Zurich; Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute; Hirschengraben 84 Zurich Switzerland
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Pagel ÉC, Costa Reis N, de Alvarez CE, Santos JM, Conti MM, Boldrini RS, Kerr AS. Characterization of the indoor particles and their sources in an Antarctic research station. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2016; 188:167. [PMID: 26884354 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-016-5172-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Many studies have been carried out on the environmental impact of the research stations on the Antarctic continent. However, the assessment of indoor air quality in these confined environments has been neglected. The main objectives of this study are to investigate the granulometric distribution of the indoor particles in the different compartments of the Brazilian Antarctic Station, to examine the number and mass concentration of the indoor particles, to conduct chemical and morphological analyses of the indoor PM2.5, and to identify the possible sources of the PM. The results showed that Na, K, Cl, Fe, Zn, S and Si were the main elements detected. High levels of black carbon were recorded in the workshop, which may be associated with the use of diesel vehicles. To identify the human activities related to the indoor particle emission in the station, the size distribution of the particles in the living room was monitored for seven consecutive days, during normal station operation. It was possible to identify the influence of individual processes, such as incineration, cooking and the movement of people, upon the particle size number concentration. The indoor/outdoor (I/O) ratio for the total suspended particles (TSP), PM10, PM2.5 and PM1 measured was significantly larger than those reported for urban buildings. In general, the I/O ratio distribution for all the compartments shows peak values between 2.5 and 10 μm, which is often related to human activity, such as cleaning, personnel circulation or clothing surfaces. The maximum I/O ratio at this range varied from 12 to 60. In addition, the compartments affected by combustion processes tend to present a significant number of submicron particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Érica Coelho Pagel
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Fernando Ferrari 514, 29.060-910, Vitória, ES, Brazil.
- Department of Architecture and Urbanism, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Fernando Ferrari 514, 29.060-910, Vitória, ES, Brazil.
| | - Neyval Costa Reis
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Fernando Ferrari 514, 29.060-910, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Cristina Engel de Alvarez
- Department of Architecture and Urbanism, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Fernando Ferrari 514, 29.060-910, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Jane Méri Santos
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Fernando Ferrari 514, 29.060-910, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Melina Moreira Conti
- Instituto Federal do Espírito Santo, IFES, Av. Vitória 1729, 29.040-780, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | | | - Américo Sansigolo Kerr
- Institute of Physics, Universidade de São Paulo, P O Box 66318, 05314-970, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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De Luca A, Santra S, Ghosh R, Ali SZ, Gardner JW, Guha PK, Udrea F. Temperature-modulated graphene oxide resistive humidity sensor for indoor air quality monitoring. NANOSCALE 2016; 8:4565-72. [PMID: 26842731 DOI: 10.1039/c5nr08598e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
In this paper we present a temperature-modulated graphene oxide (GO) resistive humidity sensor that employs complementary-metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) micro-electro-mechanical-system (MEMS) micro-hotplate technology for the monitoring and control of indoor air quality (IAQ). GO powder is obtained by chemical exfoliation, dispersed in water and deposited via ink-jet printing onto a low power micro-hotplate. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) show the typical layered and wrinkled morphology of the GO. Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy indicate that the GO flakes possess a significant number of oxygen containing functional groups (epoxy, carbonyl, hydroxyl) extremely attractive for humidity detection. Electro-thermal characterisation of the micro-hotplates shows a thermal efficiency of 0.11 mW per °C, resulting in a sensor DC power consumption of only 2.75 mW at 50 °C. When operated in an isothermal mode, the sensor response is detrimentally affected by significant drift, hysteretic behaviour, slow response/recovery times and hence poor RH level discrimination. Conversely, a temperature modulation technique coupled with a differential readout methodology results in a significant reduction of the sensor drift, improved linear response with a sensitivity of 0.14 mV per %, resolution below 5%, and a maximum hysteresis of ±5%; response and recovery times equal to 189 ± 49 s and 89 ± 5 s, respectively. These performance parameters satisfy current IAQ monitoring requirements. We have thus demonstrated the effectiveness of integrating GO on a micro-hotplate CMOS-compatible platform enabling temperature modulation schemes to be easily applied in order to achieve compact, low power, low cost humidity IAQ monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- A De Luca
- Department of Engineering, Electrical Engineering Division, University of Cambridge, 9 JJ Thomson Avenue, CB3 0FA, Cambridge, UK.
| | - S Santra
- Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, 721302, India
| | - R Ghosh
- E&ECE Department, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, 721302, India
| | - S Z Ali
- Cambridge CMOS Sensors Ltd, Deanland House, 160 Cowley Road, CB4 0DL, Cambridge, UK
| | - J W Gardner
- Cambridge CMOS Sensors Ltd, Deanland House, 160 Cowley Road, CB4 0DL, Cambridge, UK and School of Engineering, University of Warwick, CV4 7AL, Coventry, UK
| | - P K Guha
- E&ECE Department, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, 721302, India
| | - F Udrea
- Department of Engineering, Electrical Engineering Division, University of Cambridge, 9 JJ Thomson Avenue, CB3 0FA, Cambridge, UK. and Cambridge CMOS Sensors Ltd, Deanland House, 160 Cowley Road, CB4 0DL, Cambridge, UK
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Wolkoff P, Crump DR, Harrison PTC. Pollutant exposures and health symptoms in aircrew and office workers: Is there a link? ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2016; 87:74-84. [PMID: 26641522 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2015.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Revised: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Sensory effects in eyes and airways are common symptoms reported by aircraft crew and office workers. Neurological symptoms, such as headache, have also been reported. To assess the commonality and differences in exposures and health symptoms, a literature search of aircraft cabin and office air concentrations of non-reactive volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and ozone-initiated terpene reaction products were compiled and assessed. Data for tricresyl phosphates, in particular tri-ortho-cresyl phosphate (ToCP), were also compiled, as well as information on other risk factors such as low relative humidity. A conservative health risk assessment for eye, airway and neurological effects was undertaken based on a "worst-case scenario" which assumed a simultaneous constant exposure for 8h to identified maximum concentrations in aircraft and offices. This used guidelines and reference values for sensory irritation for eyes and upper airways and airflow limitation; a tolerable daily intake value was used for ToCP. The assessment involved the use of hazard quotients or indexes, defined as the summed ratio(s) (%) of compound concentration(s) divided by their guideline value(s). The concentration data suggest that, under the assumption of a conservative "worst-case scenario", aircraft air and office concentrations of the compounds in question are not likely to be associated with sensory symptoms in eyes and airways. This is supported by the fact that maximum concentrations are, in general, associated with infrequent incidents and brief exposures. Sensory symptoms, in particular in eyes, appear to be exacerbated by environmental and occupational conditions that differ in aircraft and offices, e.g., ozone incidents, low relative humidity, low cabin pressure, and visual display unit work. The data do not support airflow limitation effects. For ToCP, in view of the conservative approach adopted here and the rareness of reported incidents, the health risk of exposure to this compound in aircraft is considered negligible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peder Wolkoff
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Denmark.
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Angelon-Gaetz KA, Richardson DB, Marshall SW, Hernandez ML. Exploration of the effects of classroom humidity levels on teachers' respiratory symptoms. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2016; 89:729-37. [PMID: 26814540 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-016-1111-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Previous studies indicate that teachers have higher asthma prevalence than other non-industrial worker groups. Schools frequently have trouble maintaining indoor relative humidity (RH) within the optimum range (30-50 %) for reducing allergens and irritants. However, the potential relationship between classroom humidity and teachers' health has not been explored. Thus, we examined the relationship between classroom humidity levels and respiratory symptoms among North Carolina teachers. METHODS Teachers (n = 122) recorded daily symptoms, while data-logging hygrometers recorded classroom RH levels in ten North Carolina schools. We examined effects of indoor humidity on occurrence of symptoms using modified Poisson regression models for correlated binary data. RESULTS The risk of asthma-like symptoms among teachers with classroom RH >50 % for 5 days was 1.27 (95 % Confidence Interval (CI) 0.81, 2.00) times the risk among the referent (teachers with classroom RH 30-50 %). The risk of cold/allergy symptoms among teachers with classroom RH >50 % for 5 days was 1.06 (95 % CI 0.82, 1.37) times the risk among the referent. Low RH (<30 %) for 5 days was associated with increased risk of asthma-like [risk ratio (RR) = 1.26 (95 % CI 0.73, 2.17)] and cold/allergy symptoms [RR = 1.11 (95 % CI 0.90, 1.37)]. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that prolonged exposure to high or low classroom RH was associated with modest (but not statistically significant) increases in the risk of respiratory symptoms among teachers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim A Angelon-Gaetz
- Epidemiology Department, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - David B Richardson
- Epidemiology Department, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Stephen W Marshall
- Epidemiology Department, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Michelle L Hernandez
- Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma, and Lung Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Yoon SY, Bae SH, Shin YJ, Park SG, Hwang SH, Hyon JY, Wee WR. Low Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels Are Associated with Dry Eye Syndrome. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0147847. [PMID: 26807908 PMCID: PMC4726745 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a common tear film and ocular surface disease that results in discomfort, visual disturbance, and tear film instability with potential damage to the ocular surface. Systemic diseases associated with DES include diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, depression, anxiety, thyroid disease, allergic diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic pain syndrome, and hyperlipidemia. Interestingly, it has been found that most of these are associated with low levels of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) or inadequate sunlight exposure. Methods In this cross-sectional data analysis, noninstitutionalized adults aged ≥19 years (N = 17,542) who participated in Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2010–2012 were included. Information regarding duration of sunlight exposure was collected from the survey participants. Serum 25(OH)D and zinc levels were measured. The confounding variables were age, gender, sunlight exposure time, region of residence, obesity, serum 25(OH)D level, diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, depression, thyroid disorder, atopic dermatitis, history of ocular surgery, regular exercise, and walking exercise. Results Mean serum 25(OH)D levels of subjects with and without DES were 16.90 ± 6.0 and 17.52 ± 6.07 (p<0.001). Inadequate sunlight exposure time (odds ratio [OR], 1.554; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.307–1.848), urban residence (OR, 1.669; 95% CI, 1.456–1.913), indoor occupation (OR, 1.578; 95% CI, 1.389–1.814), and low serum 25(OH)D level (OR, 1.158; 95% CI, 1.026–1.308) were the risk factors for DES. After adjusting for age, sex, obesity, diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, depression, thyroid disorder, atopic dermatitis, history of ocular surgery, regular exercise, and occupation, low serum 25(OH)D level (OR, 1.178; 95% CI, 1.010–1.372) and deficient sunlight exposure time (OR, 1.383; 95% CI, 1.094–1.749) were the risk factors for diagnosed DES. Conclusion Low serum 25(OH)D levels and inadequate sunlight exposure are associated with DES in Korean adults. These results suggest that sufficient sunlight exposure or vitamin D supplementation may be useful in DES treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Young Yoon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok Hyun Bae
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Joo Shin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail: ;
| | - Shin Goo Park
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hee Hwang
- Department of Dentistry, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Young Hyon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, Korea
| | - Won Ryang Wee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Davis RE, McGregor GR, Enfield KB. Humidity: A review and primer on atmospheric moisture and human health. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2016; 144:106-116. [PMID: 26599589 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2015.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Revised: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Research examining associations between weather and human health frequently includes the effects of atmospheric humidity. A large number of humidity variables have been developed for numerous purposes, but little guidance is available to health researchers regarding appropriate variable selection. We examine a suite of commonly used humidity variables and summarize both the medical and biometeorological literature on associations between humidity and human health. As an example of the importance of humidity variable selection, we correlate numerous hourly humidity variables to daily respiratory syncytial virus isolates in Singapore from 1992 to 1994. Most water-vapor mass based variables (specific humidity, absolute humidity, mixing ratio, dewpoint temperature, vapor pressure) exhibit comparable correlations. Variables that include a thermal component (relative humidity, dewpoint depression, saturation vapor pressure) exhibit strong diurnality and seasonality. Humidity variable selection must be dictated by the underlying research question. Despite being the most commonly used humidity variable, relative humidity should be used sparingly and avoided in cases when the proximity to saturation is not medically relevant. Care must be taken in averaging certain humidity variables daily or seasonally to avoid statistical biasing associated with variables that are inherently diurnal through their relationship to temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert E Davis
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Virginia, P.O. Box 400123, 291 McCormick Road, Charlottesville, VA 22904-4123, USA.
| | - Glenn R McGregor
- Department of Geography, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, United Kingdom.
| | - Kyle B Enfield
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
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Angelon-Gaetz KA, Richardson DB, Lipton DM, Marshall SW, Lamb B, LoFrese T. The effects of building-related factors on classroom relative humidity among North Carolina schools participating in the 'Free to Breathe, Free to Teach' study. INDOOR AIR 2015; 25:620-30. [PMID: 25515546 PMCID: PMC4470893 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Both high and low indoor relative humidity (RH) directly impact Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), an important school health concern. Prior school studies reported a high prevalence of mold, roaches, and water damage; however, few examined associations between modifiable classroom factors and RH, a quantitative indicator of dampness. We recorded RH longitudinally in 134 North Carolina classrooms (n = 9066 classroom-days) to quantify the relationships between modifiable classroom factors and average daily RH below, within, or above levels recommended to improve school IAQ (30-50% or 30-60% RH). The odds of having high RH (>60%) were 5.8 [95% Confidence Interval (CI): 2.9, 11.3] times higher in classrooms with annual compared to quarterly heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system maintenance and 2.5 (95% CI: 1.5, 4.2) times higher in classrooms with HVAC economizers compared to those without economizers. Classrooms with direct-expansion split systems compared to chilled water systems had 2.7 (95% CI: 1.7, 4.4) times higher odds of low RH (<30%). When unoccupied, classrooms with thermostat setbacks had 3.7 (95% CI: 1.7, 8.3) times the odds of high RH (>60%) of those without setbacks. This research suggests actionable decision points for school design and maintenance to prevent high or low classroom RH. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS This study combines longitudinal measurements of classroom relative humidity with school inspection data from several schools to describe the problem of relative humidity control in schools. Our findings on how maintenance and mechanical factors affect classroom humidity provide suggestions on building operations policies and heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) design considerations that may improve classroom relative humidity control.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Angelon-Gaetz
- Epidemiology Department, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - D B Richardson
- Epidemiology Department, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - D M Lipton
- North Carolina Division of Public Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - S W Marshall
- Epidemiology Department, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - B Lamb
- Maintenance Operations Department, New Hanover County Schools, Wilmington, NC, USA
| | - T LoFrese
- Support Services, Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Bian F, Pelegrino FSA, Pflugfelder SC, Volpe EA, Li DQ, de Paiva CS. Desiccating Stress-Induced MMP Production and Activity Worsens Wound Healing in Alkali-Burned Corneas. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2015. [PMID: 26225631 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.15-16631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the effects of dry eye on ocular surface protease activity and sight threatening corneal complications following ocular surface chemical injury. METHODS C57BL/6 mice were subjected to unilateral alkali burn (AB) with or without concomitant dry eye for 2 or 5 days. Mice were observed daily for appearance of corneal perforation. Whole corneas were harvested and lysed for RNA extraction. Quantitative real-time PCR was performed to measure expression of inflammation cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP). Matrix metalloproteinase-9 activity, gelatinase activity, and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity were evaluated in corneal lysates. Presence of infiltrating neutrophils was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry. RESULTS Eyes subjected to the combined model of AB and dry eye (CM) had 20% sterile corneal perforation rate as soon as 1 day after the initial injury, which increased to 35% by 5 days, delayed wound closure and increased corneal opacity. Increased levels of IL-1β, -6, and MMPs-1, -3, -8, -9, and -13, and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1 (CSCL1) transcripts were found after 2 days in CM compared with AB corneas. Increased MMP-1, -3, -9, and -13 immunoreactivity and gelatinolytic activity were seen in CM corneas compared with AB. Increased neutrophil infiltration and MPO activity was noted in the CM group compared with AB 2 days post injury. CONCLUSIONS Desiccating stress worsens outcome of ocular AB, creating a cytokine and protease storm with greater neutrophil infiltration, increasing the risk of corneal perforation.
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Kamalha E, Zeng Y, Mwasiagi JI, Kyatuheire S. The Comfort Dimension; a Review of Perception in Clothing. J SENS STUD 2013. [DOI: 10.1111/joss.12070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Edwin Kamalha
- College of Textile Science and Engineering; Donghua University; Shanghai 210620 China
- Department of Textile Engineering; Busitema University; Tororo Uganda
| | - Yongchun Zeng
- College of Textile Science and Engineering; Donghua University; Shanghai 210620 China
| | - Josphat I. Mwasiagi
- College of Textile Science and Engineering; Donghua University; Shanghai 210620 China
- IOTEX; Bahir Dar University; Bahir Dar Ethiopia
| | - Salome Kyatuheire
- College of Textile Science and Engineering; Donghua University; Shanghai 210620 China
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