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Mansor AA, Abdullah S, Ahmad AN, Ahmed AN, Zulkifli MFR, Jusoh SM, Ismail M. Indoor air quality and sick building syndrome symptoms in administrative office at public university. DIALOGUES IN HEALTH 2024; 4:100178. [PMID: 38665133 PMCID: PMC11043824 DOI: 10.1016/j.dialog.2024.100178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is an illness among workers linked to time spent in a building. This study aimed to investigate the Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and symptoms of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) among administrative office workers. The IAQ parameters consist of ventilation performance indicators, and physical and chemical parameters were measured using specified instruments for three days during weekdays. The SBS symptoms were assessed by a questionnaire adopted from the Industry Code of Practice of Indoor Air Quality (ICOP-IAQ) 2010 among 19 employees from the office in East Coast Malaysia. Relationship between past symptoms and present symptoms which are draught (past symptoms) with feeling heavy headed (present symptoms) (r = 0.559, p < 0.05), room temperature too high (past symptoms) was highly correlated with feeling heavy headed (present symptoms) (r = 0.598, p < 0.01) and cough (present symptoms) (r = 0.596, p < 0.01). Room temperature (past symptoms) has a positive medium relationship with cough (present symptoms) (r = 0.477, p < 0.05) and scaling itching scalp or ears (present symptoms) has a relationship between stuffy bad air (r = 0.475, p < 0.05) and dry air (r = 0.536, p < 0.05). There was a significant association between RH with drowsiness (χ2 = 7.090, p = 0.049) and dizziness (χ2 = 7.090, p = 0.049). The association was found between temperature and SBS symptoms between temperature with headache (χ2 = 7.574, p = 0.051), feeling heavy-headed (χ2 = 8.090, p = 0.046), and skin rash itchiness (χ2 = 7.451, p = 0.044). Air movement also showed a positive association with symptoms of feeling heavy-headed (x2 = 8.726, p = 0.021). PM10 has positive significance with SBSS which are feeling heavy-headed (χ2 = 7.980, p = 0.023), and eyer's irritation (χ2 = 7.419, p = 0.038). The conclusion of this study showed that there were positive significant between temperature and relative humidity toward SBSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amalina Abu Mansor
- Institute of Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, 21030, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Samsuri Abdullah
- Institute of Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, 21030, Terengganu, Malaysia
- Faculty of Ocean Engineering Technology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 20130, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Aimi Nursyahirah Ahmad
- Institute of Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, 21030, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Ali Najah Ahmed
- School of Engineering and Technology, Sunway University, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya 47500, Malaysia
| | | | - Suriani Mat Jusoh
- Faculty of Ocean Engineering Technology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 20130, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Marzuki Ismail
- Institute of Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, 21030, Terengganu, Malaysia
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 20130, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
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Nezis I, Biskos G, Eleftheriadis K, Fetfatzis P, Popovicheva O, Kalantzi OI. Indoor and outdoor air quality in street corner kiosks in a large metropolitan area. Heliyon 2024; 10:e31340. [PMID: 38813153 PMCID: PMC11133902 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Poor air quality in workplaces constitutes a great concern on human health as a good fraction of our time is spent at work. In Greece, very unique workplaces are the street corner kiosks, which are freestanding boxes placed on sidewalks next to city streets and vehicular traffic, where one can find many consumer goods. As such, its employees are exposed to both outdoor and indoor air pollutants. Very few studies have examined the occupational exposure of kiosk workers to air pollutants, and thus the magnitude of this unique indoor and outdoor exposure remains unknown. The objective of this study is to investigate and compare the levels of indoor and outdoor particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), ultrafine particles (UFPs) and black carbon (BC) in different kiosks located in Athens, Greece, in urban-traffic and urban-background environments. Continuous measurements of the above-mentioned pollutants were carried out on a 24-h basis over 7 consecutive days at three kiosks from September to October 2019. Indoor PM10 concentrations in the urban kiosk ranged from 19.0 to 44.0 μg/m3, PM2.5 values ranged from 14.0 to 33.0 μg/m3, whereas BC concentrations ranged from 1.2 to 7.0 μg/m3 and UFPs from almost 9.5 to 47.0 × 103 pt/cm3. Outdoor PM10 and PM2.5 measurements ranged from 29.0 to 59.0 μg/m3 and from 22.0 to 39.0 μg/m3, respectively. BC outdoor concentrations ranged from 1.1 to 2.2 μg/m3. The mean hazard quotient (HQ) for PM10 (4.9) and PM2.5 (4.7) among all participants was >1. The health risk of exposure to PM10 and PM2.5 was found to be at moderate hazard levels, although in some cases we observed HQ values higher than 10 due to high PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations in the kiosks. Overall our study indicates that people working at kiosks can be exposed to very high concentrations on particulate pollution depending on a number of factors including the traffic that strongly depends on location and the time of the day.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Nezis
- Department of Environment, University of the Aegean, Mytilene, 81100, Greece
| | - George Biskos
- Climate and Atmosphere Research Center, The Cyprus Institute, Nicosia, 2121, Cyprus
- Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft University of Technology, Delft, 2628-CN, the Netherlands
| | | | - Prodromos Fetfatzis
- Environmental Radioactivity Laboratory, N.C.S.R. “Demokritos”, 15310, Ag. Paraskevi, Greece
- Department of Industrial Design and Production Engineering, University of West Attica, 12243, Egaleo- Athens, Greece
| | - Olga Popovicheva
- Institute of Nuclear Physics, Moscow State University, 119991, Moscow, Russia
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Dlamini M, Msolo L, Ehi Ebomah K, Nontongana N, Ifeanyi Okoh A. A systematic review on the incidence of influenza viruses in wastewater matrices: Implications for public health. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0291900. [PMID: 38662758 PMCID: PMC11045120 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Influenza viruses pose a significant public health threat, necessitating comprehensive surveillance strategies to enhance early detection and preventive measures. This systematic review investigates the incidence of influenza viruses in wastewater matrices, aiming to elucidate the potential implications for public health. The study synthesizes existing literature, employing rigorous inclusion criteria to identify relevant studies conducted globally. The essence of the problem lies in the gaps of traditional surveillance methods, which often rely on clinical data and may underestimate the true prevalence of influenza within communities. Wastewater-based epidemiology offers a novel approach to supplementing these conventional methods, providing a broader and more representative assessment of viral circulation. This review systematically examines the methodologies employed in the selected studies, including virus concentration techniques and molecular detection methods, to establish a standardized framework for future research. Our findings reveal a consistent presence of influenza viruses in diverse wastewater matrices across different geographic locations and seasons. Recommendations for future research include the standardization of sampling protocols, improvement of virus concentration methods, and the integration of wastewater surveillance into existing public health frameworks. In conclusion, this systematic review contributes to the understanding of influenza dynamics in wastewater matrices, offering valuable insights for public health practitioners and policymakers. Implementation of wastewater surveillance alongside traditional methods can enhance the resilience of public health systems and better prepare communities for the challenges posed by influenza outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mbasa Dlamini
- SAMRC Microbial Water Quality Monitoring Centre, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Applied and Environmental Microbiology Research Group (AEMREG), University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
| | - Luyanda Msolo
- SAMRC Microbial Water Quality Monitoring Centre, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Applied and Environmental Microbiology Research Group (AEMREG), University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
| | - Kingsley Ehi Ebomah
- SAMRC Microbial Water Quality Monitoring Centre, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Applied and Environmental Microbiology Research Group (AEMREG), University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
| | - Nolonwabo Nontongana
- SAMRC Microbial Water Quality Monitoring Centre, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Applied and Environmental Microbiology Research Group (AEMREG), University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
| | - Anthony Ifeanyi Okoh
- SAMRC Microbial Water Quality Monitoring Centre, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Applied and Environmental Microbiology Research Group (AEMREG), University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
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Zhou W, Yang M, Yu X, Peng Y, Fan C, Xu D, Xiao Q. Enhancing thermal comfort prediction in high-speed trains through machine learning and physiological signals integration. J Therm Biol 2024; 121:103828. [PMID: 38604115 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2024.103828] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems in high-speed trains (HST) are responsible for consuming approximately 70% of non-operational energy sources, yet they frequently fail to ensure provide adequate thermal comfort for the majority of passengers. Recent advancements in portable wearable sensors have opened up new possibilities for real-time detection of occupant thermal comfort status and timely feedback to the HVAC system. However, since occupant thermal comfort is subjective and cannot be directly measured, it is generally inferred from thermal environment parameters or physiological signals of occupants within the HST compartment. This paper presents a field test conducted to assess the thermal comfort of occupants within HST compartments. Leveraging physiological signals, including skin temperature, galvanic skin reaction, heart rate, and ambient temperature, we propose a Predicted Thermal Comfort (PTC) model for HST cabin occupants and establish an intelligent regulation model for the HVAC system. Nine input factors, comprising physiological signals, individual physiological characteristics, compartment seating, and ambient temperature, were formulated for the PTS model. In order to obtain an efficient and accurate PTC prediction model for HST cabin occupants, we compared the accuracy of different subsets of features trained by Machine Learning (ML) models of Random Forest, Decision Tree, Vector Machine and K-neighbourhood. We divided all the predicted feature values into four subsets, and did hyperparameter optimisation for each ML model. The HST compartment occupant PTC prediction model trained by Random Forest model obtained 90.4% Accuracy (F1 macro = 0.889). Subsequent sensitivity analyses of the best predictive models were then performed using SHapley Additive explanation (SHAP) and data-based sensitivity analysis (DSA) methods. The development of a more accurate and operationally efficient thermal comfort prediction model for HST occupants allows for precise and detailed feedback to the HVAC system. Consequently, the HVAC system can make the most appropriate and effective air supply adjustments, leading to improved satisfaction rates for HST occupant thermal comfort and the avoidance of energy wastage caused by inaccurate and untimely predictive feedback.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Traffic Safety on Track (Central South University), Ministry of Education, School of Traffic & Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410075, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Key Technology for Rail Traffic Safety, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China.
| | - Mingzhi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Traffic Safety on Track (Central South University), Ministry of Education, School of Traffic & Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410075, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Key Technology for Rail Traffic Safety, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China.
| | - Xiaoyan Yu
- Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Humboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Yong Peng
- Key Laboratory of Traffic Safety on Track (Central South University), Ministry of Education, School of Traffic & Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410075, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Key Technology for Rail Traffic Safety, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China; National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Safety Technology for Rail Vehicle, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China.
| | - Chaojie Fan
- Key Laboratory of Traffic Safety on Track (Central South University), Ministry of Education, School of Traffic & Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410075, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Key Technology for Rail Traffic Safety, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China.
| | - Diya Xu
- Key Laboratory of Traffic Safety on Track (Central South University), Ministry of Education, School of Traffic & Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410075, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Key Technology for Rail Traffic Safety, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China.
| | - Qiang Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Traffic Safety on Track (Central South University), Ministry of Education, School of Traffic & Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410075, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Key Technology for Rail Traffic Safety, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China.
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Christoforou R, Pallubinsky H, Burgholz TM, El-Mokadem M, Bardey J, Rewitz K, Müller D, Schweiker M. Influences of Indoor Air Temperatures on Empathy and Positive Affect. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:323. [PMID: 38541322 PMCID: PMC10969910 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21030323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
The consequences of climate change are already visible, and yet, its effect on psychosocial factors, including the expression of empathy, affect, and social disconnection, is widely unknown. Outdoor conditions are expected to influence indoor conditions. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of indoor air temperature during work hours on empathy, positive and negative affect, and social disconnection. Participants (N = 31) were exposed, in a cross-over design, to two thermal conditions in a simulated office environment. Questions on empathy and social disconnection were administered before and after the exposure to each condition, while affect was measured throughout the day. Subjective thermal sensation and objective measures of mean skin temperature were considered. The results indicated a significant difference in empathy (F(1, 24) = 5.37, p = 0.03, with an η2 = 0.126) between conditions. Participants reported increases in empathy after exposure to the warm condition compared to the cool condition, in which reductions in empathy were reported. Although the same pattern was observed for positive affect, the difference was smaller and the results were not significant. Thermal sensation had a significant effect on changes in empathy too (F(1, 54) = 7.015, p = 0.01, with an R2 = 0.115), while mean skin temperature had no effect on empathy (F(1, 6) = 0.53, p = 0.89, with an R2 = 0.81). No effects were observed for positive and negative affect and social disconnection. Longitudinal studies are needed to support these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rania Christoforou
- Healthy Living Spaces Lab, Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Hannah Pallubinsky
- Healthy Living Spaces Lab, Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Department of Nutrition and Movement Sciences, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, 6211 KL Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Tobias Maria Burgholz
- Institute for Energy Efficient Buildings and Indoor Climate, E.ON Energy Research Center, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Heinz Trox Wissenschafts gGmbH, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Mahmoud El-Mokadem
- Institute for Energy Efficient Buildings and Indoor Climate, E.ON Energy Research Center, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Janine Bardey
- Healthy Living Spaces Lab, Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Heinz Trox Wissenschafts gGmbH, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Kai Rewitz
- Institute for Energy Efficient Buildings and Indoor Climate, E.ON Energy Research Center, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Dirk Müller
- Institute for Energy Efficient Buildings and Indoor Climate, E.ON Energy Research Center, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Heinz Trox Wissenschafts gGmbH, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Marcel Schweiker
- Healthy Living Spaces Lab, Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
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Wolkoff P. Indoor air humidity revisited: Impact on acute symptoms, work productivity, and risk of influenza and COVID-19 infection. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2024; 256:114313. [PMID: 38154254 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2023.114313] [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: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Recent epidemiological and experimental findings reconfirm that low indoor air humidity (dry air) increases the prevalence of acute eye and airway symptoms in offices, result in lower mucociliary clearance in the airways, less efficient immune defense, and deteriorate the work productivity. New epidemiological and experimental research also support that the environmental conditions for the risk of infection of influenza and COVID-19 virus is lowest in the Goldilocks zone of 40-60% relative humidity (RH) by decrease of the airways' susceptibility, which can be elevated by particle exposure. Furthermore, low RH increases the generation of infectious virus laden aerosols exhaled from infected people. In general, elevation of the indoor air humidity from dry air increases the health of the airways concomitantly with lower viability of infectious virus. Thus, the negative effects of ventilation with dry outdoor air (low absolute air humidity) should be assessed according to 1) weakened health and functionality of the airways, 2) increased viability and possible increased transmissibility of infectious virus, and 3) evaporation of virus containing droplets to dry out to droplet nuclei (also possible at high room temperature), which increases their floating time in the indoor air. The removal of acid-containing ambient aerosols from the indoor air by filtration increases pH, viability of infectious viruses, and the risk of infection, which synergistically may further increase by particle exposure. Thus, the dilution of indoor air pollutants and virus aerosols by dry outdoor air ventilation should be assessed and compared with the beneficial health effects by control of the center zone of 40-60% RH, an essential factor for optimal functionality of the airways, and with the additional positive impact on acute symptoms, work productivity, and reduced risk of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peder Wolkoff
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Denmark.
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Andrup L, Krogfelt KA, Stephansen L, Hansen KS, Graversen BK, Wolkoff P, Madsen AM. Reduction of acute respiratory infections in day-care by non-pharmaceutical interventions: a narrative review. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1332078. [PMID: 38420031 PMCID: PMC10899481 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1332078] [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: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Children who start in day-care have 2-4 times as many respiratory infections compared to children who are cared for at home, and day-care staff are among the employees with the highest absenteeism. The extensive new knowledge that has been generated in the COVID-19 era should be used in the prevention measures we prioritize. The purpose of this narrative review is to answer the questions: Which respiratory viruses are the most significant in day-care centers and similar indoor environments? What do we know about the transmission route of these viruses? What evidence is there for the effectiveness of different non-pharmaceutical prevention measures? Design Literature searches with different terms related to respiratory infections in humans, mitigation strategies, viral transmission mechanisms, and with special focus on day-care, kindergarten or child nurseries, were conducted in PubMed database and Web of Science. Searches with each of the main viruses in combination with transmission, infectivity, and infectious spread were conducted separately supplemented through the references of articles that were retrieved. Results Five viruses were found to be responsible for ≈95% of respiratory infections: rhinovirus, (RV), influenza virus (IV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), coronavirus (CoV), and adenovirus (AdV). Novel research, emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggests that most respiratory viruses are primarily transmitted in an airborne manner carried by aerosols (microdroplets). Conclusion Since airborne transmission is dominant for the most common respiratory viruses, the most important preventive measures consist of better indoor air quality that reduces viral concentrations and viability by appropriate ventilation strategies. Furthermore, control of the relative humidity and temperature, which ensures optimal respiratory functionality and, together with low resident density (or mask use) and increased time outdoors, can reduce the occurrence of respiratory infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Andrup
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Karen A Krogfelt
- Department of Science and Environment, Molecular and Medical Biology, PandemiX Center, Roskilde University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Lene Stephansen
- Gladsaxe Municipality, Social and Health Department, Gladsaxe, Denmark
| | | | | | - Peder Wolkoff
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne Mette Madsen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Sarkhoshkalat M, Nasab MA, Yari MR, Tabatabaee SS, Ghavami V, Joulaei F, Sarkhosh M. Assessment of UV radiation effects on airborne mucormycetes and bacterial populations in a hospital environment. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2708. [PMID: 38302627 PMCID: PMC10834397 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53100-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Infections, such as mucormycosis, often result from inhaling sporangiospore present in the environment. Surprisingly, the extent of airborne Mucormycetes sporangiospore concentrations remains inadequately explored. This study aimed to assess the influence of UV radiation on microbial populations and Mucormycetes spore levels within a hospital environment in northern Iran. A comprehensive dataset comprising 298 air samples collected from both indoor and outdoor settings was compiled. The culture was conducted using Blood Agar and Dichloran Rose Bengal Chloramphenicol (DRBC) culture media, with Chloramphenicol included for fungal agents and Blood Agar for bacterial. Before UV treatment, the average count of Mucormycetes ranged from 0 to 26.4 ± 25.28 CFU m-3, fungal agents from 2.24 ± 3.22 to 117.24 ± 27.6 CFU m-3, and bacterial agents from 29.03 ± 9.9 to 359.37 ± 68.50 CFU m-3. Following UV irradiation, the averages were as follows: Mucormycetes ranged from 0 to 7.85 ± 6.8 CFU m-3, fungal agents from 16.58 ± 4.79 to 154.98 ± 28.35 CFU m-3, and bacterial agents from 0.38 ± 0.65 to 43.92 ± 6.50 CFU m-3. This study, notably marks the pioneering use of UV light to mitigate Mucormycetes spore counts and bacterial agents in northeastern Iran, contributing to the advancement of environmental health and safety practices in hospital settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahdi Ahmadi Nasab
- Student Research Committee, Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Yari
- Student Research Committee, Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Saeed Tabatabaee
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Department of Management Sciences and Health Economics, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Vahid Ghavami
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Joulaei
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maryam Sarkhosh
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Hanna F, Alameddine I, Zaraket H, Alkalamouni H, El-Fadel M. Airborne influenza virus shedding by patients in health care units: Removal mechanisms affecting virus transmission. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0290124. [PMID: 37878553 PMCID: PMC10599543 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we characterize the distribution of airborne viruses (influenza A/B) in hospital rooms of patients with confirmed infections. Concurrently, we monitored fine particulate matter (PM2.5 & PM10) and several physical parameters including the room air exchange rate, temperature, and relative humidity to identify corresponding correlations with virus transport and removal determinants. The results continue to raise concerns about indoor air quality (IAQ) in healthcare facilities and the potential exposure of patients, staff and visitors to aerosolized viruses as well as elevated indoor PM levels caused by outdoor sources and/or re-suspension of settled particles by indoor activities. The influenza A virus was detected in 42% of 33 monitored rooms, with viruses detectible up to 1.5 m away from the infected patient. Active coughing was a statistically significant variable that contributed to a higher positive rate of virus detection in the collected air samples. Viral load across patient rooms ranged between 222 and 5,760 copies/m3, with a mean of 820 copies/m3. Measured PM2.5 and PM10 levels exceeded IAQ daily exposure guidelines in most monitored rooms. Statistical and numerical analyses showed that dispersion was the dominant viral removal pathway followed by settling. Changes in the relative humidity and the room's temperature were had a significant impact on the viral load removal. In closure, we highlight the need for an integrated approach to control determinants of IAQ in patients' rooms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis Hanna
- Department of Civil Infrastructure & Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, Khalifa University, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & Architecture, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ibrahim Alameddine
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & Architecture, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hassan Zaraket
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology & Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Habib Alkalamouni
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology & Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mutasem El-Fadel
- Department of Civil Infrastructure & Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, Khalifa University, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & Architecture, American University of Beirut, Lebanon
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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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11
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Yang Z, Zhou W, Xu G, Li X, Yang M, Xiao Q, Fan C, Peng Y. The analysis and optimization of thermal sensation of train drivers under occupational thermal exposure. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1164817. [PMID: 37361169 PMCID: PMC10288136 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1164817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Prolonged exposure of train drivers to thermal discomfort can lead to occupational safety and health (OSH) risks, causing physical and mental injuries. Traditional method of treating human skin as a wall surface fail to observe accurate skin temperature changes or obtain human thermal comfort that adapts to the thermal environment. Methods This study employs the Stolwijk human thermal regulation model to investigate and optimize the thermal comfort of train drivers. To minimize the time-consuming design optimization, a pointer optimization algorithm based on radial basis function (RBF) approximation was utilized to optimize the train cab ventilation system design and enhance drivers' thermal comfort. The train driver thermal comfort model was developed using Star-CCM+ and 60 operating conditions were sampled using an Optimal Latin Hypercube Design (Opt LHD). Results and Discussion We analyzed the effects of air supply temperature, air supply volume, air supply angle, solar radiation intensity and solar altitude angle on the local thermal sensation vote (LTSV) and overall thermal sensation vote (OTSV) of the train driver. Finally, the study obtained the optimal air supply parameters for the Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) in the train cabin under extreme summer conditions, effectively improving the thermal comfort of the driver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeyun Yang
- Key Laboratory of Traffic Safety on Track of Ministry of Education, School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Technical Research Department, CRRC Industrial Research Institute (Qingdao) Co., Ltd., Qingdao, China
| | - Wenjun Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Traffic Safety on Track of Ministry of Education, School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Gang Xu
- Technical Research Department, CRRC Industrial Research Institute (Qingdao) Co., Ltd., Qingdao, China
| | - Xinkang Li
- Technical Research Department, CRRC Industrial Research Institute (Qingdao) Co., Ltd., Qingdao, China
| | - Mingzhi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Traffic Safety on Track of Ministry of Education, School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiang Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Traffic Safety on Track of Ministry of Education, School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chaojie Fan
- Key Laboratory of Traffic Safety on Track of Ministry of Education, School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yong Peng
- Key Laboratory of Traffic Safety on Track of Ministry of Education, School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Balboni E, Filippini T, Rothman KJ, Costanzini S, Bellino S, Pezzotti P, Brusaferro S, Ferrari F, Orsini N, Teggi S, Vinceti M. The influence of meteorological factors on COVID-19 spread in Italy during the first and second wave. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 228:115796. [PMID: 37019296 PMCID: PMC10069087 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The relation between meteorological factors and COVID-19 spread remains uncertain, particularly with regard to the role of temperature, relative humidity and solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation. To assess this relation, we investigated disease spread within Italy during 2020. The pandemic had a large and early impact in Italy, and during 2020 the effects of vaccination and viral variants had not yet complicated the dynamics. We used non-linear, spline-based Poisson regression of modeled temperature, UV and relative humidity, adjusting for mobility patterns and additional confounders, to estimate daily rates of COVID-19 new cases, hospital and intensive care unit admissions, and deaths during the two waves of the pandemic in Italy during 2020. We found little association between relative humidity and COVID-19 endpoints in both waves, whereas UV radiation above 40 kJ/m2 showed a weak inverse association with hospital and ICU admissions in the first wave, and a stronger relation with all COVID-19 endpoints in the second wave. Temperature above 283 K (10 °C/50 °F) showed a strong non-linear negative relation with COVID-19 endpoints, with inconsistent relations below this cutpoint in the two waves. Given the biological plausibility of a relation between temperature and COVID-19, these data add support to the proposition that temperature above 283 K, and possibly high levels of solar UV radiation, reduced COVID-19 spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Balboni
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Section of Public Health, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Health Physics Unit, Modena Policlinico University Hospital, Modena, Italy
| | - Tommaso Filippini
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Section of Public Health, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sofia Costanzini
- Department of Engineering 'Enzo Ferrari', University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Stefania Bellino
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizio Pezzotti
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvio Brusaferro
- Presidency, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy; Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | | | - Nicola Orsini
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sergio Teggi
- Department of Engineering 'Enzo Ferrari', University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Vinceti
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Section of Public Health, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
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13
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Li NF, Huang SM, Liang CH. Entropy and exergy analysis of a hollow fiber membrane humidifier. Sep Purif Technol 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2023.123470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
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14
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López LR, Dessì P, Cabrera-Codony A, Rocha-Melogno L, Kraakman B, Naddeo V, Balaguer MD, Puig S. CO 2 in indoor environments: From environmental and health risk to potential renewable carbon source. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 856:159088. [PMID: 36181799 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In the developed world, individuals spend most of their time indoors. Poor Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) has a wide range of effects on human health. The burden of disease associated with indoor air accounts for millions of premature deaths related to exposure to Indoor Air Pollutants (IAPs). Among them, CO2 is the most common one, and is commonly used as a metric of IAQ. Indoor CO2 concentrations can be significantly higher than outdoors due to human metabolism and activities. Even in presence of ventilation, controlling the CO2 concentration below the Indoor Air Guideline Values (IAGVs) is a challenge, and many indoor environments including schools, offices and transportation exceed the recommended value of 1000 ppmv. This is often accompanied by high concentration of other pollutants, including bio-effluents such as viruses, and the importance of mitigating the transmission of airborne diseases has been highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic. On the other hand, the relatively high CO2 concentration of indoor environments presents a thermodynamic advantage for direct air capture (DAC) in comparison to atmospheric CO2 concentration. This review aims to describe the issues associated with poor IAQ, and to demonstrate the potential of indoor CO2 DAC to purify indoor air while generating a renewable carbon stream that can replace conventional carbon sources as a building block for chemical production, contributing to the circular economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- L R López
- LEQUiA, Institute of Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, carrer Maria Aurelia Capmany 69, Girona, Spain.
| | - P Dessì
- LEQUiA, Institute of Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, carrer Maria Aurelia Capmany 69, Girona, Spain
| | - A Cabrera-Codony
- LEQUiA, Institute of Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, carrer Maria Aurelia Capmany 69, Girona, Spain
| | - L Rocha-Melogno
- ICF, 2635 Meridian Parkway Suite 200, Durham, NC 27713, United States
| | - B Kraakman
- Jacobs Engineering, Templey Quay 1, Bristol BAS1 6DG, UK; Institute of Sustainable Processes, University of Valladolid, Dr. Mergelina s/n., 47011 Valladolid, Spain
| | - V Naddeo
- Sanitary Environmental Engineering Division, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - M D Balaguer
- LEQUiA, Institute of Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, carrer Maria Aurelia Capmany 69, Girona, Spain
| | - S Puig
- LEQUiA, Institute of Environment, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, carrer Maria Aurelia Capmany 69, Girona, Spain
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15
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Yu L, Zhou T, Shao M, Zhang T, Wang J, Ma Y, Xu S, Chen Y, Zhu J, Pan F. The role of meteorological factors in suicide mortality in Wuhu, a humid city along the Yangtze River in Eastern China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:9558-9575. [PMID: 36057060 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-22832-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
As the climate continues to change, suicide is becoming more frequent. In this study, absolute humidity (AH) was included for the first time and Wuhu, a typical subtropical city along the Yangtze River, was taken as the research object to explore the impact of suicide death risk on meteorological factors. The daily meteorological factors and suicide mortality data of Wuhu city from 2014 to 2020 were collected. Guided by structural equation model (SEM), a time series analysis method combining distributed lag nonlinear model (DLNM) and generalized additive model (GAM) was adopted. To investigate the correlation among different populations, we stratified age and gender at different meteorological levels. A total of 1259 suicide deaths were collected in Wuhu. The results indicated that exceedingly low and low levels of AH short-term exposure increased suicide mortality, with the maximum effect occurring at lag 14 for both levels of exposure, when the relative risk (RR) was 1.131 (95% CI: 1.030, 1.242) and 1.065 (95% CI: 1.006, 1.127), respectively. Exposure to exceedingly high and exceedingly low levels of temperature mean (T mean) also increased suicide mortality, with maximum RR values of 1.132 (lag 14, 95% CI: 1.015, 1.263) and 1.203 (lag 0, 95% CI: 1.079, 1.340), sequentially. As for diurnal temperature range (DTR), low-level exposure decreased the risk of suicide, while high-level exposure increased this risk, with RR values of 0.955 (lag 0, 95% CI: 0.920, 0.991, minimum) and 1.060 (lag 0, 95% CI: 1.018, 1.104, maximum), sequentially. Stratified analysis showed that AH and DTR increased the suicide death risk in male and elderly people, while the risk effect of T mean have no effect on young people only. In summary, male and elderly people appear to be more vulnerable to adverse weather effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingxiang Yu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, China
- The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui Province, China
| | - Tingting Zhou
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, China
- The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui Province, China
| | - Ming Shao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, China
- The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui Province, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, China
- The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui Province, China
| | - Jinian Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, China
- The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui Province, China
| | - Yubo Ma
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, China
- The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui Province, China
| | - Shanshan Xu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, China
- The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui Province, China
| | - Yuting Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, China
- The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui Province, China
| | - Jiansheng Zhu
- Wuhu Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuhu, Anhui Province, China
| | - Faming Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, China.
- The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui Province, China.
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16
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Rodríguez D, Urbieta IR, Velasco Á, Campano-Laborda MÁ, Jiménez E. Assessment of indoor air quality and risk of COVID-19 infection in Spanish secondary school and university classrooms. BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT 2022; 226:109717. [PMID: 36313012 PMCID: PMC9595429 DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2022.109717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Despite the risk of transmission of SARS-CoV-2, Spanish educational centers were reopened after six months of lockdown. Ventilation was mostly adopted as a preventive measure to reduce the transmission risk of the virus. However, it could also affect indoor air quality (IAQ). Therefore, here we evaluate the ventilation conditions, COVID-19 risk, and IAQ in secondary school and university classrooms in Toledo (central Spain) from November 2020 to June 2021. Ventilation was examined by monitoring outdoor and indoor CO2 levels. CO2, occupancy and hygrothermal parameters, allowed estimating the relative transmission risk of SARS-CoV-2 (Alpha and Omicron BA.1), H r, under different scenarios, using the web app COVID Risk airborne . Additionally, the effect of ventilation on IAQ was evaluated by measuring indoor/outdoor (I/O) concentration ratios of O3, NO2, and suspended particulate matter (PM). University classrooms, particularly the mechanically ventilated one, presented better ventilation conditions than the secondary school classrooms, as well as better thermal comfort conditions. The estimated H r for COVID-19 ranged from intermediate (with surgical masks) to high (no masks, teacher infected). IAQ was generally good in all classrooms, particularly at the university ones, with I/O below unity, implying an outdoor origin of gaseous pollutants, while the source of PM was heterogeneous. Consequently, controlled mechanical ventilation systems are essential in educational spaces, as well as wearing well-fitting FFP2-N95 masks indoors is also highly recommended to minimize the transmission risk of COVID-19 and other airborne infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Rodríguez
- Departamento de Química Física, Facultad de Ciencias Ambientales y Bioquímica, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM), Avenida Carlos III s/n, 45071, Toledo, Spain
| | - Itziar R Urbieta
- Departamento de Ciencias Ambientales, Facultad de Ciencias Ambientales y Bioquímica, UCLM, Avenida Carlos III s/n, 45071, Toledo, Spain
| | - Ángel Velasco
- Departamento de Ciencias Ambientales, Facultad de Ciencias Ambientales y Bioquímica, UCLM, Avenida Carlos III s/n, 45071, Toledo, Spain
| | - Miguel Ángel Campano-Laborda
- Instituto Universitario de Arquitectura y Ciencias de la Construcción, Escuela Técnica Superior de Arquitectura, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Elena Jiménez
- Departamento de Química Física, Facultad de Ciencias y Tecnologías Químicas, UCLM, Avda. Camilo José Cela 1B, 13071, Ciudad Real, Spain
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17
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p-Type PVA/MWCNT-Sb 2Te 3 Composites for Application in Different Types of Flexible Thermoelectric Generators in Combination with n-Type PVA/MWCNT-Bi 2Se 3 Composites. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14235130. [PMID: 36501527 PMCID: PMC9738794 DOI: 10.3390/polym14235130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
This work is devoted to the fabrication of p-type polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based flexible thermoelectric composites using multiwall carbon nanotubes-antimony telluride (MWCNT-Sb2Te3) hybrid filler, the study of the thermoelectrical and mechanical properties of these composites, and the application of these composites in two types (planar and radial) of thermoelectric generators (TEG) in combination with the previously reported PVA/MWCNT-Bi2Se3 flexible thermoelectric composites. While the power factors of PVA/MWCNT-Sb2Te3 and PVA/MWCNT-Bi2Se3 composites with 15 wt.% filler were found to be similar, the PVA/MWCNT-Sb2Te3 composite with 25 wt.% filler showed a ~2 times higher power factor in comparison with the PVA/MWCNT-Bi2Se3 composites with 30 wt.% filler, which is attributed to its reduced electrical resistivity. In addition, developed PVA/MWCNT-Sb2Te3 composites showed a superior mechanical, electrical, and thermoelectric stability during 100 consequent bending cycles down to a 3 mm radius, with insignificant fluctuations of the resistance within 0.01% of the initial resistance value of the not bent sample. Demonstrated for the first time, 2-leg TEGs composed from p-type PVA/MWCNT-Sb2Te3 and n-type PVA/MWCNT-Bi2Se3 composites showed a stable performance under different external loads and showed their potential for applications involving low temperature gradients and power requirements in the range of nW.
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18
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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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Justo Alonso M, Moazami TN, Liu P, Jørgensen RB, Mathisen HM. Assessing the indoor air quality and their predictor variable in 21 home offices during the Covid-19 pandemic in Norway. BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT 2022; 225:109580. [PMID: 36097587 PMCID: PMC9452402 DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2022.109580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
In this study, concentrations of pollutants: formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO2), and total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) and parameters: indoor room temperature and relative humidity (RH) were measured in 21 home offices for at least one week in winter in Trondheim, Norway. Eleven of these were measured again for the same duration in summer. Potentially explanatory variables of these parameters were collected, including building and renovation year, house type, building location, trickle vent status, occupancy, wood stove, floor material, pets, RH, and air temperature. The association between indoor air pollutants and their potential predictor variables was analyzed using generalized estimation equations to determine the significant parameters to control pollutants. Significantly seasonal differences in concentrations were observed for CO2 and formaldehyde, while no significant seasonal difference was observed for TVOC. For TVOC and formaldehyde, trickle vent, RH, and air temperature were among the most important predictor variables. Although higher concentrations of CO2 were measured in cases where the trickle vent was closed, the most important predictor variables for CO2 were season, RH, and indoor air temperature. The formaldehyde concentrations were higher outside working hours but mostly below health thresholds recommendations; for CO2, 11 of the measured cases had indoor concentrations exceeding 1000 ppm in 10% of the measured time. For TVOC, the concentrations were above the recommended values by WHO in 73% of the cases. RH was generally low in winter. The temperature was generally kept over the recommended level of 22-24 °C during working hours.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Justo Alonso
- Department of Energy and Process Engineering, NTNU, Kolbjørn Hejes v 1B, Trondheim, Norway
| | - T N Moazami
- Department of Industrial Economics and Technology Management, NTNU, Sem Sælands vei 5, Trondheim, Norway
| | - P Liu
- Department: Architecture, Materials and Structures SINTEF Community, Høgskoleringen 13, Trondheim, Norway
| | - R B Jørgensen
- Department of Industrial Economics and Technology Management, NTNU, Sem Sælands vei 5, Trondheim, Norway
| | - H M Mathisen
- Department of Energy and Process Engineering, NTNU, Kolbjørn Hejes v 1B, Trondheim, Norway
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Yu L, Zhu J, Shao M, Wang J, Ma Y, Hou K, Li H, Zhu J, Fan X, Pan F. Relationship between meteorological factors and mortality from respiratory diseases in a subtropical humid region along the Yangtze River in China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:78483-78498. [PMID: 35697982 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-21268-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
As the health impacts of climate change take on a more serious form, this study for the first time investigates the effect of meteorological factors on the risk of death from respiratory diseases (RD) in Wuhu, a representative city along the Yangtze River in subtropical humid region. Daily meteorological element data and RD deaths in Wuhu City were collected from 2014 to 2020. Time series analysis was conducted using distributed lagged nonlinear model (DLNM) combined with generalized additive model (GAM), and stratified by age and gender. In 7 years, a total of 8016 RD death cases were collected in Wuhu, China. The results demonstrated that the maximum impacts of short-term exposure to exceedingly low temperatures mean (Tmean) were at lag 9, with the maximum relative risk (RR) of 1.044 (lag 1, 95% CI: 1.001, 1.098). The risk of exceedingly high Tmean reached its maximum at lag 0 (RR = 1.070, 95% CI: 1.018, 1.125). Low relative humidity (RH) was negatively associated with the risk of RD death, with the lowest RR values occurring at lag 12 (RR = 0.987, 95% CI: 0.975, 0.999). No significant correlation was found for diurnal temperature range (DTR). Stratified analysis showed that Tmean exposure remained statistically significant for male, female and elderly, while RH and DTR only seemed to increase the mortality risk in the young. In a word, short-term exposure to extreme temperatures may increase the RD mortality risk in the population, and young people needed to be aware that exposure to exceedingly high RH and DTR also increased the risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingxiang Yu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, China
- The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
| | - Junjun Zhu
- Wuhu Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuhu, Anhui Province, China
| | - Ming Shao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, China
- The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
| | - Jinian Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, China
- The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
| | - Yubo Ma
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, China
- The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
| | - Kai Hou
- Department of Landscape Architecture, School of Art, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, No. 13, Yanta Road, Xi'an, 710055, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Huijun Li
- Department of Landscape Architecture, School of Art, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, No. 13, Yanta Road, Xi'an, 710055, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jiansheng Zhu
- Wuhu Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuhu, Anhui Province, China
| | - Xiaoyun Fan
- Department of Geriatric Respiratory and Critical Care, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Number 218, Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
| | - Faming Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui Province, China.
- The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China.
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21
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Assessment of Indoor Air Quality for Group-Housed Macaques (Macaca spp.). Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12141750. [PMID: 35883296 PMCID: PMC9311621 DOI: 10.3390/ani12141750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is strongly associated with animal health and wellbeing. To identify possible problems of the indoor environment of macaques (Macaca spp.), we assessed the IAQ. The temperature (°C), relative humidity (%) and concentrations of inhalable dust (mg/m3), endotoxins (EU/m3), ammonia (ppm) and fungal aerosols were measured at stationary fixed locations in indoor enclosures of group-housed rhesus (Macaca mulatta) and cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis). In addition, the personal exposure of caretakers to inhalable dust and endotoxins was measured and evaluated. Furthermore, the air circulation was assessed with non-toxic smoke, and the number of times the macaques sneezed was recorded. The indoor temperature and relative humidity for both species were within comfortable ranges. The geometric mean (GM) ammonia, dust and endotoxin concentrations were 1.84 and 0.58 ppm, 0.07 and 0.07 mg/m3, and 24.8 and 6.44 EU/m3 in the rhesus and cynomolgus macaque units, respectively. The GM dust concentrations were significantly higher during the daytime than during the nighttime. Airborne fungi ranged between 425 and 1877 CFU/m3. Personal measurements on the caretakers showed GM dust and endotoxin concentrations of 4.2 mg/m3 and 439.0 EU/m3, respectively. The number of sneezes and the IAQ parameters were not correlated. The smoke test revealed a suboptimal air flow pattern. Although the dust, endotoxins and ammonia were revealed to be within accepted human threshold limit values (TLV), caretakers were exposed to dust and endotoxin levels exceeding existing occupational reference values.
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22
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Afful AE, Osei Assibey Antwi ADD, Ayarkwa J, Acquah GKK. Impact of improved indoor environment on recovery from COVID-19 infections: a review of literature. FACILITIES 2022. [DOI: 10.1108/f-02-2022-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to explore the impact of the indoor environment on recovery from COVID-19 infections. Extant literature on the impact of the four key themes of the indoor environment (indoor air quality, indoor thermal quality, daylighting and visual comfort, and acoustic comfort) on COVID-19 infection and recovery rates were reviewed.
Design/methodology/approach
Data collection for this study was based on extant literature within the Scopus database and scoped to a time frame of 2020–2021 because the topical issue of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) and its impact on COVID-19 arose in the wake of the pandemic. In total, 224 documents were systematically desk reviewed from various journals.
Findings
The study identified that air pollutants such as PM2.5 and PM10 as well as air-conditioned places, low ambient temperatures, poor ventilation and no views of the outdoor environment were deteriorating factors for COVID-19 patients. On the other hand, proper ventilation, the use of air cleaners, views of the outdoor environment and allowance for ample daylighting were improvement factors for COVID-19 patients. The inter-relationship of the various concepts was presented in an ontology chart.
Practical implications
As COVID-19 still exists and keeps evolving, this study provides suggestions to industry professionals, especially health-care Facility Managers, to create a post-pandemic environment focusing on the IEQ and finding long-term and reliable solutions for the well-being of occupants. Adaptability is crucial. New, creative technology solutions are being introduced daily, but it is up to the facility managers and health-care professionals to analyse and specify the most cost- and outcome-effective technologies for their facility.
Originality/value
The study brought to light the pivotal role of the indoor environment on the health and well-being of occupants, particularly in the contraction, spread, prevention and control of infectious diseases such as COVID-19.
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A Wireless Indoor Environmental Quality Logger Processing the Indoor Global Comfort Index. SENSORS 2022; 22:s22072558. [PMID: 35408175 PMCID: PMC9003421 DOI: 10.3390/s22072558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Indoor environmental quality (IEQ) has a high-level of impact on one’s health and productivity. It is widely accepted that IEQ is composed of four categories: thermal comfort, indoor air quality (IAQ), visual comfort, and acoustic comfort. The main physical parameters that primarily represent these comfort categories can be monitored using sensors. To this purpose, the article proposes a wireless indoor environmental quality logger. In the literature, global comfort indices are often assessed objectively (using sensors) or subjectively (through surveys). This study adopts an integrated approach that calculates a predicted indoor global comfort index (P-IGCI) using sensor data and estimates a real perceived indoor global comfort index (RP-IGCI) based on questionnaires. Among the 19 different tested algorithms, the stepwise multiple linear regression model minimized the distance between the two comfort indices. In the case study involving a university classroom setting—thermal comfort and indoor air quality were identified as the most relevant IEQ elements from a subjective point of view. The model also confirms this findings from an objective perspective since temperature and CO2 merge as the measured physical parameters with the most impacts on overall comfort.
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K B, K SB. The Strategy of Workforce Management Based on Risk Assessment of Manual Handling Work with Suitability of Work Environment in Makasar Industrial Area, Indonesia. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.8433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: A good work environment suitability has a major impact on health and safety, and it encourages a more productive workforce. When it is incompatible with labor, it can lead to unintended impacts and various risks.
AIM: We aimed to investigate the strategy of workforce management based on risk assessment of manual handling work with suitability of work environment in Makasar industrial area, Indonesia.
METHODS: Twenty three workforce samples are selected from Makassar Industrial Area (KIMA), Indonesia. The risk of manual handling work is assessed based on the suitability of the work environment to the workforce’s response using Guttman scale, in which the answer YES = 1 means there is a risk, while the answer NO = 0 means there is no risk. However, the scales are the reproducibility coefficient ≥ 0.90 and scalability coefficient ≥0.60, and Guttman scale score is calculated from Tn = total answers of “YES” for the KPI in the scale. Meanwhile, the SWOT-4Q is used to analyze the strategy of industry supervisor samples.
RESULTS: For the workforce, eight of nine risk assessments do not show risk, and only “high vibration intensity in the workplace,” with a percentage of 78.26%, affects the excessive condition. The strategy used by the supervisors in quadrant I is in accordance with the strength of the risk assessment and has a great opportunity to reduce risk. The management maximally exploits the big opportunity of the manual handling work.
CONCLUSIONS: The results showed that most of the workforce did not experience the risk of manual handling work with the suitability of the work environment. In addition, industrial supervisors should implement a growth strategy because they can enlarge the industry by taking advantage of the advantages of manual handling work to maximize the exploitation of large manual handling work opportunities.
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25
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Association between Particulate Matter Pollution Concentration and Hospital Admissions for Hypertension in Ganzhou, China. Int J Hypertens 2022; 2022:7413115. [PMID: 35223092 PMCID: PMC8872648 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7413115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and respirable particulate matter (PM10) are two major air pollutants with toxic effects on the cardiovascular system. Hypertension, as a chronic noncommunicable cardiovascular disease, is also a risk factor for several diseases. We applied generalized linear models with a quasi-Poisson link to assess the effect of air pollution exposure on the number of daily admissions for patients with hypertension. In addition, we established a two-pollutant model to evaluate PM2.5 and PM10 hazard effect stability by adjusting the other gaseous pollutants. Results showed that during the study period, 24 h mean concentrations of ambient PM2.5 and PM10 at 38.17 and 59.84 μg/m3, respectively, and a total of 2,611 hypertension hospital admissions were recorded. Air pollution concentrations significantly affected the number of hospitalizations for hypertension approximately 2 months after exposure. For each 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 and PM10 in single-pollutant models, the number of hospitalizations for hypertension increased by 7.92% (95% CI: 5.48% to 10.42%) and 4.46% (95% CI: 2.86% to 5.65%), respectively, at the lag day with the strongest effect. NO2, O3, CO, and SO2 had different significant effects on the number of hospitalizations over the same time period, and PM2.5 and PM10 still showed robust significant effects after adjustment of gas pollutants through a two-pollutant model. These findings may contribute to a better understanding of the health effects of ambient particulate matter.
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26
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High Water Adsorption MOFs with Optimized Pore‐Nanospaces for Autonomous Indoor Humidity Control and Pollutants Removal. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202112097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
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27
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Chen J, Mai J, Wang C, Lin Y, Miao D, Lin Y, Babar AA, Wang X, Yu J, Ding B. Biomimetic Aligned Micro-/Nanofibrous Composite Membranes with Ultrafast Water Transport and Evaporation for Efficient Indoor Humidification. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:1983-1993. [PMID: 34958189 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c20193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Humidifying membranes with ultrafast water transport and evaporation play a vital role in indoor humidification that improves personal comfort and industrial productivity in daily life. However, commercial nonwoven (NW) humidifying membranes show mediocre humidification capability owing to limited wicking capacity, low water absorption, and relatively less water evaporation. Herein, we report a biomimetic micro-/nanofibrous composite membrane with a highly aligned fibrous structure using a humidity-induced electrospinning technique for high-efficiency indoor humidification. Surface wettability and roughness are also tailored to achieve a high degree of superhydrophilicity by embedding hydrophilic silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) into the fiber matrix. The synergistic effect of the highly aligned fibrous structure and surface wettability endows composite membranes with ultrafast water transport and evaporation. Strikingly, the composite membrane exhibits an outstanding wicking height of 19.5 cm, a superior water absorption of 497.7%, a fast evaporation rate of 0.34 mL h-1, and a relatively low air pressure drop of 14.4 Pa, thereby achieving a remarkable humidification capacity of 514 mL h-1 (57% higher than the commercial NW humidifying membrane). The successful synthesis of this biomimetic micro-/nanofibrous composite membrane provides new insights into the development of micro-/nanofibrous humidifying membranes for personal health and comfort as well as industrial production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingxiu Chen
- Innovation Center for Textile Science and Technology, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Jianzhang Mai
- Guangdong Midea Refrigeration Equipment Co., Ltd., Foshan, Guangdong 528311, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Innovation Center for Textile Science and Technology, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yanyan Lin
- Innovation Center for Textile Science and Technology, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Dongyang Miao
- Innovation Center for Textile Science and Technology, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yongqiang Lin
- Qing Yuan Polytechnic, Qingyuan, Guangdong 511510, China
| | - Aijaz Ahmed Babar
- Innovation Center for Textile Science and Technology, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
- Textile Engineering Department, Mehran University or Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro 76060, Pakistan
| | - Xianfeng Wang
- Innovation Center for Textile Science and Technology, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
- College of Textiles Science and Engineering, Wuhan Textile University, Wuhan 430073, China
| | - Jianyong Yu
- Innovation Center for Textile Science and Technology, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Bin Ding
- Innovation Center for Textile Science and Technology, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
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28
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Indoor Air Quality and Health Outcomes in Employees Working from Home during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Pilot Study. ATMOSPHERE 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos12121665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Indoor air quality (IAQ) has a substantial impact on public health. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, more employees have worked remotely from home to minimize in-person contacts. This pilot study aims to measure the difference in workplace IAQ before and during the pandemic and its impact on employees’ health. The levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and total volatile organic chemicals (tVOC) were measured in the employees’ offices before the COVID-19 pandemic and at homes while working from home during the pandemic using Foobot air monitors. The frequencies of six sick building syndrome (SBS) symptoms were evaluated at each period of monitoring. The result showed PM2.5 levels in households while working from home were significantly higher than in offices while working at the office for all participants (p < 0.05). The PM2.5 levels in all households exceeded the health-based annual mean standard (12 µg/m3), whereas 90% of offices were in compliance. The tVOC levels were all below the standard (500 µg/m3). We also found a higher frequency of SBS symptoms were observed while working from home as the IAQ was worse at home. This study suggested that working from home might have a detrimental health impact due to poor IAQ and providing interventions to remote employees should be considered.
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29
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Zhu NX, Wei ZW, Chen CX, Xiong XH, Xiong YY, Zeng Z, Wang W, Jiang JJ, Fan YN, Su CY. High Water Adsorption MOFs with Optimized Pore-Nanospaces for Autonomous Indoor Humidity Control and Pollutants Removal. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 61:e202112097. [PMID: 34779556 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202112097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The indoor air quality is of prime importance for human daily life and health, for which the adsorbents like zeolites and silica-gels are widely used for air dehumidification and harmful gases capture. Herein, we develop a pore-nanospace post-engineering strategy to optimize the hydrophilicity, water-uptake capacity and air-purifying ability of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with long-term stability, offering an ideal candidate with autonomous multi-functionality of moisture control and pollutants sequestration. Through variant tuning of organic-linkers carrying hydrophobic and hydrophilic groups in the pore-nanospaces of prototypical UiO-67, a moderately hydrophilic MOF (UiO-67-4Me-NH2 -38 %) with high thermal, hydrolytic and acid-base stability is screened out, featuring S-shaped water sorption isotherms exactly located in the recommended comfortable and healthy ranges of relative humidity for indoor ventilation (45 %-65 % RH) and adverse health effects minimization (40-60 % RH). Its exceptional attributes of water-uptake working capacity/efficiency, contaminants removal, recyclability and regeneration promise a great potential in confined indoor environment application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neng-Xiu Zhu
- MOE Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, Lehn Institute of Functional Materials, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Zhang-Wen Wei
- MOE Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, Lehn Institute of Functional Materials, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Cheng-Xia Chen
- MOE Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, Lehn Institute of Functional Materials, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Xiao-Hong Xiong
- MOE Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, Lehn Institute of Functional Materials, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Yang-Yang Xiong
- MOE Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, Lehn Institute of Functional Materials, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Zheng Zeng
- MOE Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, Lehn Institute of Functional Materials, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Wei Wang
- MOE Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, Lehn Institute of Functional Materials, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Ji-Jun Jiang
- MOE Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, Lehn Institute of Functional Materials, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Ya-Nan Fan
- MOE Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, Lehn Institute of Functional Materials, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Cheng-Yong Su
- MOE Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, Lehn Institute of Functional Materials, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China.,State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
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30
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A Field Study on Thermal Comfort and Cooling Load Demand Optimization in a Tropical Climate. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su132212425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Energy consumption to cool an indoor environment is a substantial part of total energy end-use, particularly in a tropical climate with high energy demand for cooling. To improve energy efficiency, cooling systems can be optimized using a variety of neutral indoor temperatures to maintain a balance between an occupant’s thermal comfort and cooling energy demand. This explanatory study investigated the thermal quality and cooling energy demand of a Platinum-certified office building in the tropical climate of Malaysia. The investigation aimed to suggest a balance between occupant thermal comfort and cooling energy demand. The thermal investigation includes an objective field measurement that implements environmental equipment to monitor thermal quality and a subjective occupant’s thermal feedback using a questionnaire survey. To calculate cooling energy demand, the total equivalent temperature difference method (TETD) is applied. The results suggested an occupant’s cooling sensation of around 24 °C, with no significant difference concerning age and gender. Cooling load calculation indicated a 36% energy reduction by increasing air temperature to 26 °C, for occupants to feel thermally comfortable in a tropical climate. These findings contribute to improving sustainable energy policies, sustainable construction, and thermal comfort improvement for a tropical climate.
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