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Park DY, Han SH, Park DJ, Park B, Jeon J. Fine dust inflow paths and heating load variation based on field measurement of air tightness in two Korean schools. Heliyon 2024; 10:e26284. [PMID: 38390057 PMCID: PMC10882030 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the effects of fine dust reduction, as well as the energy load reduction in association with the improvement plans by measuring the airtightness and indoor and outdoor fine dust concentrations in middle and high school classrooms and by identifying the fine dust inflow paths. The air tightness and indoor and outdoor fine dust concentrations were measured at two schools, and the paths of outdoor fine dust inflow were identified for an extensive analysis of the effects of fine dust reduction and the energy load reduction in association with improvement plans. Air tightness in the classroom at school A and B was improved by 32.26% and 38.58% with sealing, respectively. Analyzing the outdoor air inflow paths at school B according to the variation in air tightness, the probability of outdoor air inflow increased in the following order from the highest to the lowest: corridor windows, corridor doors, exterior windows, supply and exhaust units. For the rate of reduction in heating load, the highest rate was shown to be 27% at school A with improved air tightness at the exterior windows and 32% at school B with improved air tightness at the interior doors. This is expected to be reflected in the selection of equipment such as heat pumps and show cost-saving effects such as capacity reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doo Yong Park
- Building Energy Research Center, KCL(Korea Conformity Laboratories), Seoul, 06711, South Korea
| | - Seung Hyeon Han
- Building Energy Research Center, KCL(Korea Conformity Laboratories), Seoul, 06711, South Korea
| | - Duk Joon Park
- Building Energy Research Center, KCL(Korea Conformity Laboratories), Seoul, 06711, South Korea
| | - Beungyong Park
- Department of Building and Plant Engineering, Hanbat National University, Daejeon 34158, South Korea
| | - Jisoo Jeon
- Building Energy Research Center, KCL(Korea Conformity Laboratories), Seoul, 06711, South Korea
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2
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Lucas REC, da Silva LB, de Souza EL, Leite WKDS, da Silva JMN. Influence of environmental variables on students' cognitive performance in indoor higher education environments. Work 2024:WOR220055. [PMID: 38427517 DOI: 10.3233/wor-220055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Educational environments can have environmental conditions that are incompatible with the needs of students, compromising their well-being and affecting their performance. OBJECTIVE To identify the environmental variables that influence the performance of university students and measure this influence through an experiment in indoor environments. METHODS The study applied an experimental methodology for three consecutive days in seven educational environments located in different regions of Brazil, measuring the environ-mental conditions, the students' perception of the environment, and their cognitive performance. The impact of environmental variables and environmental perception on student performance was analyzed using Generalized Linear Models and a Structural Equation Model. RESULTS Students who took the test at air temperatures between 22.4°C and 24.7°C had a 74.20% chance of performing better than those outside this range. Air temperatures between 26.2°C and 29°C were associated with an 86% chance of taking less time to complete the test. High illuminance levels increased the chance of taking longer to answer the test by 41.7%. CONCLUSIONS Three environmental variables (relative humidity, lighting and air temperature) and two perceptual dimensions (light and thermal perception) directly influence student performance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luiz Bueno da Silva
- Department of Production Engineering, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
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Wang L, Gao K, Li W, Lu L. Research progress on the characteristics, sources, and environmental and potential health effects of water-soluble organic compounds in atmospheric particulate matter. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:11472-11489. [PMID: 38198085 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31723-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Water-soluble organic compounds (WSOCs) have received extensive attention due to their indistinct chemical components, complex sources, negative environmental impact, and potential health effects. To the best of our knowledge, until now, there has been no comprehensive review focused on the research progress of WSOCs. This paper reviewed the studies on chemical constituent and characterization, distribution condition, sources, environmental impact, as well as the potential health effects of WSOCs in the past 13 years. Moreover, the main existing challenges and directions for the future research on WSOCs were discussed from several aspects. Because of the complex composition of WSOCs and many unknown individual components that have not been detected, there is still a need for the identification and quantification of WSOCs. As modern people spend more time in indoor environments, it is meaningful to fill the gaps in the component characteristics and sources of indoor WSOCs. In addition, although in vitro cell experiments have shown that WSOCs could induce cellular oxidative stress and trigger the inflammatory response, the corresponding mechanisms of action need to be further explored. The current population epidemiology research of WSOCs is missing. Prospectively, we propose to conduct a comprehensive and simultaneous analysis strategy for concentration screening, source apportionment, potential health effects, and action mechanisms of WSOCs based on high throughput omics coupled with machine learning simulation and prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linxiao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Beijing On Regional Air Pollution Control, Department of Environmental Science, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Gao
- Key Laboratory of Beijing On Regional Air Pollution Control, Department of Environmental Science, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wei Li
- Key Laboratory of Beijing On Regional Air Pollution Control, Department of Environmental Science, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, People's Republic of China
| | - Liping Lu
- Key Laboratory of Beijing On Regional Air Pollution Control, Department of Environmental Science, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, People's Republic of China
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, Center of Excellence for Environmental Safety and Biological Effects, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, People's Republic of China
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Kureshi RR, Thakker D, Mishra BK, Barnes J. From Raising Awareness to a Behavioural Change: A Case Study of Indoor Air Quality Improvement Using IoT and COM-B Model. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:3613. [PMID: 37050669 PMCID: PMC10098860 DOI: 10.3390/s23073613] [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: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The topic of indoor air pollution has yet to receive the same level of attention as ambient pollution. We spend considerable time indoors, and poorer indoor air quality affects most of us, particularly people with respiratory and other health conditions. There is a pressing need for methodological case studies focusing on informing households about the causes and harms of indoor air pollution and supporting changes in behaviour around different indoor activities that cause it. The use of indoor air quality (IAQ) sensor data to support behaviour change is the focus of our research in this paper. We have conducted two studies-first, to evaluate the effectiveness of the IAQ data visualisation as a trigger for the natural reflection capability of human beings to raise awareness. This study was performed without the scaffolding of a formal behaviour change model. In the second study, we showcase how a behaviour psychology model, COM-B (Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation-Behaviour), can be operationalised as a means of digital intervention to support behaviour change. We have developed four digital interventions manifested through a digital platform. We have demonstrated that it is possible to change behaviour concerning indoor activities using the COM-B model. We have also observed a measurable change in indoor air quality. In addition, qualitative analysis has shown that the awareness level among occupants has improved due to our approach of utilising IoT sensor data with COM-B-based digital interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rameez Raja Kureshi
- School of Computer Science, University of Hull, Kingston upon Hull HU6 7RX, UK; (R.R.K.); (B.K.M.)
| | - Dhavalkumar Thakker
- School of Computer Science, University of Hull, Kingston upon Hull HU6 7RX, UK; (R.R.K.); (B.K.M.)
| | - Bhupesh Kumar Mishra
- School of Computer Science, University of Hull, Kingston upon Hull HU6 7RX, UK; (R.R.K.); (B.K.M.)
| | - Jo Barnes
- Air Quality Management Resource Centre, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK;
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5
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Determining ventilation strategies to relieve health symptoms among school occupants. FACILITIES 2023. [DOI: 10.1108/f-10-2021-0101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Purpose
Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) contributing to occupants’ health symptoms is a universal, typically ventilation-related, problem in schools. In cold climates, low-cost strategies to improve IAQ in a naturally ventilated school are rare since conventional methods, such as window opening, are often inappropriate. This paper aims to present an investigation of strategies to relieve health symptoms among school occupants in naturally ventilated school in Finland.
Design/methodology/approach
A case study approach is adopted to thoroughly investigate the process of generating the alternatives of ventilation redesign in a naturally ventilated school where there have been complaints of health symptoms. First, the potential sources of the occupants’ symptoms are identified. Then, the strategies aiming to reduce the symptoms are compared and evaluated.
Findings
In a naturally ventilated school, health symptoms that are significantly caused by insufficient ventilation can be potentially reduced by implementing a supply and exhaust ventilation system. Alternatively, it is possible to retain the natural ventilation with reduced number of occupants. The selected strategy would depend considerably on the desired number of users, the budget and the possibilities to combine the redesign of ventilation with other refurbishment actions. Furthermore, the risk of poorer indoor air caused by the refurbishment actions must also be addressed and considered.
Practical implications
This study may assist municipal authorities and school directors in decisions concerning improvement of classroom IAQ and elimination of building-related symptoms. This research provides economic aspects of alternative strategies and points out the risks related to major refurbishment actions.
Originality/value
Since this study presents a set of features related to indoor air that contribute to occupants’ health as well as matters to be considered when aiming to decrease occupants’ symptoms, it may be of assistance to municipal authorities and practitioners in providing a healthier indoor environment for pupils and teachers.
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Akteruzzaman M, Rahman MA, Rabbi FM, Asharof S, Rofi MM, Hasan MK, Muktadir Islam MA, Khan MAR, Rahman MM, Rahaman MH. The impacts of cooking and indoor air quality assessment in the southwestern region of Bangladesh. Heliyon 2023; 9:e12852. [PMID: 36711262 PMCID: PMC9880388 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e12852] [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: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The main objective of this study is to assess the impacts of cooking and indoor air quality (IAQ) in the southwestern region of Bangladesh. Here we report and compare the IAQ in considering a total of eight kitchens and living rooms of four selected households (HHs) in Jashore city and suburb area, the southwest district of Bangladesh. Air quality parameters, such as particulate matter (PM2.5) and volatile organic compounds (VOC), were assessed continuously for 24 h. In addition, Carbon dioxide (CO2) was evaluated in different phases during the study period. PM2.5, VOC, and CO2 levels were ranged from 18.52 to 207 μg/m3, 7.95-35.66 ppm, and 1061-2459 mg/m3, respectively, in the indoor cooking HHs. Conversely, while the average concentration was found between 20.63 and 23.72 μg/m3 PM2.5, 11.18-12.36 ppm VOC, and 1097-1747 mg/m3 CO2 in the outdoor cooking HHs. A significant increase in CO2 due to kitchen activities (cooking, frying, boiling) was observed that ranged between 5 and 77% compared to the background level. The calculated range of toxicity potential (TP) values was between 0.8 and 8.3 for PM2.5 in the HHs. In most of the observations, PM2.5, VOC, and CO2 exceed the standard values. The study reports that well ventilation systems and clean fuel use significantly reduce the indoor air contaminants level. Our study offers new insights about the IAQ of the southwest region of Bangladesh, particularly for suburbs and urban setups, and provides a background for further study, and decision-making. It will serve as a reference for the formulation and implementation of policies to improve air quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Akteruzzaman
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Alinur Rahman
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Fahim Muntasir Rabbi
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Sohely Asharof
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Mahi Muzammel Rofi
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Kamrul Hasan
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Abdul Muktadir Islam
- Department of Chemistry, Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST), Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - M. Azizur R. Khan
- Department of Chemistry, Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST), Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Mahfuzur Rahman
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Hasibur Rahaman
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh,Corresponding author.
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Tracing of Heavy Metals Embedded in Indoor Dust Particles from the Industrial City of Asaluyeh, South of Iran. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19137905. [PMID: 35805563 PMCID: PMC9265302 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19137905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Assessment of indoor air quality is especially important, since people spend substantial amounts of time indoors, either at home or at work. This study analyzes concentrations of selected heavy metals in 40 indoor dust samples obtained from houses in the highly-industrialized Asaluyeh city, south Iran in spring and summer seasons (20 samples each). Furthermore, the health risk due to exposure to indoor air pollution is investigated for both children and adults, in a city with several oil refineries and petrochemical industries. The chemical analysis revealed that in both seasons the concentrations of heavy metals followed the order of Cr > Ni > Pb > As > Co > Cd. A significant difference was observed in the concentrations of potential toxic elements (PTEs) such as Cr, As and Ni, since the mean (±stdev) summer levels were at 60.2 ± 9.1 mg kg−1, 5.6 ± 2.7 mg kg−1 and 16.4 ± 1.9 mg kg−1, respectively, while the concentrations were significantly lower in spring (17.6 ± 9.7 mg kg−1, 3.0 ± 1.7 mg kg−1 and 13.5 ± 2.4 mg kg−1 for Cr, As and Ni, respectively). Although the hazard index (HI) values, which denote the possibility of non-carcinogenic risk due to exposure to household heavy metals, were generally low for both children and adults (HI < 1), the carcinogenic risks of arsenic and chromium were found to be above the safe limit of 1 × 10−4 for children through the ingestion pathway, indicating a high cancer risk due to household dust in Asaluyeh, especially in summer.
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8
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A Review of Field Measurement Studies on Thermal Comfort, Indoor Air Quality and Virus Risk. ATMOSPHERE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos13020191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
People spend up to 90% of their time indoors where they continuously interact with the indoor environment. Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ), and in particular thermal comfort, Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), and acoustic and visual comfort, have proven to be significant factors that influence the occupants’ health, comfort, productivity and general well-being. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted the need for real-life experimental data acquired through field measurement studies to help us understand and potentially control the impact of IEQ on the occupants’ health. In this context, there was a significant increase over the past two decades of field measurement studies conducted all over the world that analyse the IEQ in various indoor environments. In this study, an overview of the most important factors that influence the IAQ, thermal comfort, and the risk of virus transmission is first presented, followed by a comprehensive review of selected field measurement studies from the last 20 years. The main objective is to provide a broad overview of the current status of field measurement studies, to identify key characteristics, common outcomes, correlations, insights, as well as gaps, and to serve as the starting point for conducting future field measurement studies.
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9
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Comparative Modelling Analysis of Air Pollutants, PM2.5 and Energy Efficiency Using Three Ventilation Strategies in a High-Rise Building: A Case Study in Suzhou, China. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13158453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the ventilation efficiency and energy performance of three ventilation strategies—an all-air system (AAS), a radiant panel system with a displacement ventilation system (DPS), and a radiant panel system with a decentralized ventilation system (DVS). The research analyzed the indoor air quality (IAQ) in a high-rise building based on the building’s height, the air handling unit (AHU) location, air infiltration rate, outdoor air pollution rate, seasonal change, and air filter efficiency. The results indicated that the AAS had the best performance in terms of IAQ in the high-rise building in winter; however, the AAS also had the highest annual energy demand. For the same conditions, the DVS consumed less energy but had the worst performance in maintaining a satisfactory IAQ. Considering energy consumption, it is worth developing the DVS further to improve ventilation performance. By applying a double-filter system on the lower floors in a high-rise building, the DVS’s ventilation performance was dramatically improved while at the same time consuming less energy than the original DPS and AAS. The application of DVS can also minimize the negative effect of the infiltration rate on indoor air quality (IAQ) in a building, which means that the DVS can better maintain IAQ within a healthy range for a more extended period. Moreover, it was found that the DVS still had a substantial potential for saving energy during the season when the outdoor air was relatively clean. Hence, it is highly recommended that the DVS is used in high-rise buildings.
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10
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Chen C, Liu S, Dong W, Song Y, Chu M, Xu J, Guo X, Zhao B, Deng F. Increasing cardiopulmonary effects of ultrafine particles at relatively low fine particle concentrations. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 751:141726. [PMID: 32889464 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Ultrafine particles (UFPs) are of concern because of their high pulmonary deposition efficiency. However, present control measures are generally targeted at fine particles (PM2.5), with little effect on UFPs. The health effects of UFPs at different PM2.5 concentrations may provide a basic for controlling UFPs but remain unclear in polluted areas. School children spend the majority of their time in the classrooms. This study investigated the different short-term effects of indoor UFPs on school children in Beijing, China when indoor PM2.5 concentrations exceeded or satisfied the recently published Chinese standard for indoor PM2.5. Cardiopulmonary functions of 48 school children, of whom 46 completed, were measured three times. Indoor PM2.5 and UFPs were monitored in classrooms on weekdays. Measurements were separated into two groups according to the abovementioned standard. Mixed-effect models were used to explore the health effects of the air pollutants. Generally, UFP-associated effects on children's cardiopulmonary function persisted even at relatively low PM2.5 concentrations, especially on heart rate variability indices. The risks associated with high PM2.5 concentrations are well-known, but the effects of UFPs on children's cardiopulmonary function deserve more attention even when PM2.5 has been controlled. UFP control and standard setting should therefore be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen
- Department of Building Science, School of Architecture, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Shan Liu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Wei Dong
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yi Song
- Institute of Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Mengtian Chu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Junhui Xu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xinbiao Guo
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Bin Zhao
- Department of Building Science, School of Architecture, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Indoor Air Quality Evaluation and Control, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| | - Furong Deng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
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11
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Che W, Li ATY, Frey HC, Tang KTJ, Sun L, Wei P, Hossain MS, Hohenberger TL, Leung KW, Lau AKH. Factors affecting variability in gaseous and particle microenvironmental air pollutant concentrations in Hong Kong primary and secondary schools. INDOOR AIR 2021; 31:170-187. [PMID: 32731301 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
School-age children are particularly susceptible to exposure to air pollutants. To quantify factors affecting children's exposure at school, indoor and outdoor microenvironmental air pollutant concentrations were measured at 32 selected primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong. Real-time PM10 , PM2.5 , NO2, and O3 concentrations were measured in 76 classrooms and 23 non-classrooms. Potential explanatory factors related to building characteristics, ventilation practice, and occupant activities were measured or recorded. Their relationship with indoor measured concentrations was examined using mixed linear regression models. Ten factors were significantly associated with indoor microenvironmental concentrations, together accounting for 74%, 61%, 46%, and 38% of variations observed for PM2.5 , PM10 , O3, and NO2 microenvironmental concentrations, respectively. Outdoor concentration is the single largest predictor for indoor concentrations. Infiltrated outdoor air pollution contributes to 90%, 70%, 75%, and 50% of PM2.5 , PM10 , O3, and NO2 microenvironmental concentrations, respectively, in classrooms during school hours. Interventions to reduce indoor microenvironmental concentrations can be prioritized in reducing ambient air pollution and infiltration of outdoor pollution. Infiltration factors derived from linear regression models provide useful information on outdoor infiltration and help address the gap in generalizable parameter values that can be used to predict school microenvironmental concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenwei Che
- Division of Environment and Sustainability, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Alison T Y Li
- Division of Environment and Sustainability, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Henry Christopher Frey
- Division of Environment and Sustainability, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Kimberly Tasha Jiayi Tang
- Division of Environment and Sustainability, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Li Sun
- Division of Environment and Sustainability, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Peng Wei
- Division of Environment and Sustainability, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Md Shakhaoat Hossain
- Division of Environment and Sustainability, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tilman Leo Hohenberger
- Division of Environment and Sustainability, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - King Wai Leung
- Division of Environment and Sustainability, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Alexis K H Lau
- Division of Environment and Sustainability, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
- Institute for the Environment, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
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12
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Integrated Evaluation of Indoor Particulate Exposure: The VIEPI Project. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12229758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Despite the progress made in recent years, reliable modeling of indoor air quality is still far from being obtained. This requires better chemical characterization of the pollutants and airflow physics included in forecasting tools, for which field observations conducted simultaneously indoors and outdoors are essential. The project “Integrated Evaluation of Indoor Particulate Exposure” (VIEPI) aimed at evaluating indoor air quality and exposure to particulate matter (PM) of humans in workplaces. VIEPI ran from February 2016 to December 2019 and included both numerical simulations and field campaigns carried out in universities and research environments located in urban and non-urban sites in the metropolitan area of Rome (Italy). VIEPI focused on the role played by micrometeorology and indoor airflow characteristics in determining indoor PM concentration. Short- and long-term study periods captured diurnal, weekly, and seasonal variability of airflow and PM concentration. Chemical characterization of PM10, including the determination of elements, ions, elemental carbon, organic carbon, and bioaerosol, was also carried out. Large differences in the composition of PM10 were detected between inside and outside as well as between different periods of the day and year. Indoor PM composition was related to the presence of people, to the season, and to the ventilation regime.
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Indoor Air Quality Levels in Schools: Role of Student Activities and No Activities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17186695. [PMID: 32938001 PMCID: PMC7559628 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17186695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
This work describes a methodology for the definition of indoor air quality monitoring plans in schools and above all to improve the knowledge and evaluation of the indoor concentration levels of some chemical pollutants. The aim is to guide interventions to improve the health of students and exposed staff connected with the activities carried out there. The proposed methodology is based on the simultaneous study of chemical (indoor/outdoor PM2.5, NO2, CO2) and physical (temperature, humidity) parameters by means of automatic analyzers coupled with gaseous compounds (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes, formaldehyde and NO2) sampled by denuders. The important novelty is that all the data were collected daily in two different situations, i.e., during school activities and no-school activities, allowing us to evaluate the exposure of each student or person. The different behaviors of all the measured pollutants during the two different situations are reported and commented on. Finally, a statistical approach will show how the investigated compounds are distributed around the two components of combustion processes and photochemical reactions.
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Were FH, Wafula GA, Lukorito CB, Kamanu TK. Levels of PM 10 and PM 2.5 and Respiratory Health Impacts on School-Going Children in Kenya. J Health Pollut 2020; 10:200912. [PMID: 32874768 PMCID: PMC7453813 DOI: 10.5696/2156-9614-10.27.200912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The respiratory system of children is vulnerable to exposure to particulate matter (PM) with a diameter of less than 2.5 and 10 μm (PM2.5 and PM10) or even lower. OBJECTIVE This study assessed PM10 and PM2.5 levels and respiratory health impacts on children in schools located in an industrialized suburb in Kenya. METHOD The PM10 and PM2.5 levels were sampled from five public primary schools in Athi River Township and a control school during the wet and dry seasons. Outdoor and classroom samples were collected concurrently on an 8-hour mean during school hours on two consecutive days in each school and analyzed using gravimetric techniques. Five hundred and seventy-eight (n = 578) pupils aged 9-14 years from these schools were also evaluated for symptoms of respiratory illnesses and lung function using a questionnaire and spirometric method, respectively, during the same periods. RESULTS Indoor median PM10 levels (μg/m3) ranged from 60.8-269.1 and 52.8-232.3 and PM2.5 values (μg/m3) of 17.7-52.4 and 28.5-75.5 during the dry and wet seasons, respectively. The control classrooms had significantly (p <0.05) lower median PM10 levels (μg/m3) of 5.2 and 4.2, and PM2.5 levels (μg/m3) of 3.5 and 3.0 during the respective seasons. Nearly all the classrooms in Athi River schools had PM2.5 and PM10 median levels that exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended levels. The indoor-to-outdoor ratios varied from 0.35-1.40 and 0.80-2.40 for PM10 and 0.30-0.80 and 0.80-1.40 for PM2.5 during the dry and wet seasons, respectively, suggesting higher levels in the classrooms during the wet season. The relative risk (RR) and odds ratio (OR) presented higher prevalence of respiratory diseases following PM exposure in all the Athi River schools than the control during the dry and wet seasons. At 95% CI, the RR and OR showed strong associations between high PM10 and PM2.5 levels and lung function deficits and vice versa. The association was more prevalent during the wet season. CONCLUSIONS The study calls for effective indoor air management programs in school environments to reduce PM exposure and respiratory health impacts. PARTICIPANT CONSENT Obtained. ETHICS APPROVAL The research permit and approvals were obtained from the University of Nairobi/Kenyatta National Hospital Ethics and Research Committee (KNH-UoN ERC Reference: P599/08/2016) and the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (Reference: NACOSTI/P/18/4268/25724). COMPETING INTERESTS The authors declare no competing financial interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faridah Hussein Were
- Department of Chemistry, College of Biological and Physical Sciences, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Godfrey Angoe Wafula
- Department of Chemistry, College of Biological and Physical Sciences, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Cromwel Busolo Lukorito
- Department of Meteorology, College of Biological and Physical Sciences, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Timothy K.K. Kamanu
- School of Mathematics, College of Biological and Physical Sciences, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
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Chen RY, Ho KF, Chang TY, Hong GB, Liu CW, Chuang KJ. In-vehicle carbon dioxide and adverse effects: An air filtration-based intervention study. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 723:138047. [PMID: 32217390 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.138047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Drowsiness is considered a potential risk for traffic accidents. Exposure to high carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in vehicles may result in unpleasant feeling, fatigue, drowsiness or lethargy among drivers and passengers. However, little is known about whether reducing CO2 levels in vehicles by air filtration can relieve adverse effects among human subjects during driving. We recruited a panel of 84 healthy participants to drive a vehicle equipped with a CO2 filtration system for 1 h on a coastal road in a Northern Taiwan rural area. The operation modes of the CO2 filtration system, including fresh air from open windows without a CO2 filtration system (Control-mode), fresh air from an air conditioning (AC) system with closed windows and a false CO2 filtration system in operation (Off-mode) or a true CO2 filtration system in operation (On-mode), were examined. The repeated measurements of heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), CO2, total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs), particulate matter ≤2.5 μm in aerodynamic diameter (PM2.5) and a simple question about drowsiness were obtained for each participant in three different modes. We found that decreased HR, systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) and increased drowsiness were associated with increased levels of in-vehicle CO2. The effects of in-vehicle CO2 on adverse effects were highest in the Off-mode during driving. In the On-mode, the participants showed slight decreases in HR, SBP and DBP and slight increases in drowsiness. We concluded that the utilization of a CO2 filtration system can reduce in-vehicle CO2 levels and modify the effect of in-vehicle CO2 on HR, BP and drowsiness among human subjects during driving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruey-Yu Chen
- School of Public Health, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kin-Fai Ho
- The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ta-Yuan Chang
- Department of Occupational Safety and Health, College of Public Health, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Gui-Bing Hong
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Wei Liu
- Department of Information Management, St. Mary's Junior College of Medicine, Nursing and Management, Yilan, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Jen Chuang
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.
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16
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Assessment of Air Quality in School Environments in Hanoi, Vietnam: A Focus on Mass-Size Distribution and Elemental Composition of Indoor-Outdoor Ultrafine/Fine/Coarse Particles. ATMOSPHERE 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos11050519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Indoor and outdoor ultrafine, accumulation mode, and coarse fractions collected at two preschools (S1 and S2) in Hanoi capital, Vietnam were characterized in terms of mass-size distribution and elemental composition to identify major emission sources. The sampling campaigns were performed simultaneously indoors and outdoors over four consecutive weeks at each school. Indoor average concentrations of CO2 and CO at both schools were below the limit values recommended by American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (1000 ppm for CO2) and World Health Organization (7 mg/m3 for CO). Indoor concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 at S1 and S2 were strongly influenced by the presence of children and their activities indoors. The indoor average concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 were 49.4 µg/m3 and 59.7 µg/m3 at S1, while those values at S2 were 7.9 and 10.8 µg/m3, respectively. Mass-size distribution of indoor and outdoor particles presented similar patterns, in which ultrafine particles accounted for around 15–20% wt/wt while fine particles (PM2.5) made up almost 80% wt/wt of PM10. PM2.5–10 did not display regular shapes while smaller factions tended to aggregate to form clusters with fine structures. Oxygen (O) was the most abundant element in all fractions, followed by carbon (C) for indoor and outdoor particles. O accounted for 36.2% (PM0.5–1) to 42.4% wt/wt (PM0.1) of indoor particles, while those figures for C were in the range of 14.5% (for PM0.1) to 18.1% (for PM1–2.5). Apart from O and C, mass proportion of other major and minor elements (Al, Ca, Cr, Fe , K, Mg, Si, Ti) could make up to 50%, whereas trace elements (As, Bi, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, La, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Rb, Sb, Se, Sn, Sr, and Zn) accounted for less than 0.5% of indoor and outdoor airborne particles. There were no significant indoor emission sources of trace and minor elements. Traffic significantly contributed to major and trace elements at S1 and S2.
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Tran VV, Park D, Lee YC. Indoor Air Pollution, Related Human Diseases, and Recent Trends in the Control and Improvement of Indoor Air Quality. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E2927. [PMID: 32340311 PMCID: PMC7215772 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17082927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Indoor air pollution (IAP) is a serious threat to human health, causing millions of deaths each year. A plethora of pollutants can result in IAP; therefore, it is very important to identify their main sources and concentrations and to devise strategies for the control and enhancement of indoor air quality (IAQ). Herein, we provide a critical review and evaluation of the major sources of major pollutant emissions, their health effects, and issues related to IAP-based illnesses, including sick building syndrome (SBS) and building-related illness (BRI). In addition, the strategies and approaches for control and reduction of pollutant concentrations are pointed out, and the recent trends in efforts to resolve and improve IAQ, with their respective advantages and potentials, are summarized. It is predicted that the development of novel materials for sensors, IAQ-monitoring systems, and smart homes is a promising strategy for control and enhancement of IAQ in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinh Van Tran
- Department of BioNano Technology, Gachon University, 1342 Seongnam-Daero, Sujeong-Gu, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-do 13120, Korea;
- Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, Da Nang 550000, Vietnam
| | - Duckshin Park
- Korea Railroad Research Institute (KRRI), 176 Cheoldobakmulkwan-ro, Uiwang-si 16105, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Young-Chul Lee
- Department of BioNano Technology, Gachon University, 1342 Seongnam-Daero, Sujeong-Gu, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-do 13120, Korea;
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Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Emissions from a Personal Care Polymer-Based Item: Simulation of the Inhalation Exposure Scenario Indoors under Actual Conditions of Use. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12072577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Polymer-based items may release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and odors indoors, contributing to the overall VOC inhalation exposure for end users and building occupants. The main objective of the present study is the evaluation of short-term inhalation exposure to VOCs due to the use of a personal care polymer-based item, namely, one of three electric heating bags, through a strategic methodological approach and the simulation of a ‘near-to-real’ exposure scenario. Seventy two-hour test chamber experiments were first performed to characterize VOC emissions with the items on ‘not-heating mode’ and to derive related emission rates. The polyester bag was revealed to be responsible for the highest emissions both in terms of total VOC and naphthalene emissions (437 and 360 µg/m3, respectively), compared with the other two bags under investigation. Complementary investigations on ‘heating mode’ and the simulation of the exposure scenario inside a 30 m3 reference room allowed us to highlight that the use of the polyester bag in the first life-cycle period could determine a naphthalene concentration (42 µg/m3) higher than the reference Lowest Concentration of Interest (LCI) value (10 µg/m3) reported in European evaluation schemes. The present study proposes a strategic methodological approach highlighting the need for the simulation of a realistic scenario when potential hazards for human health need to be assessed.
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19
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Assessment of Daily Personal PM2.5 Exposure Level According to Four Major Activities among Children. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/app10010159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Particulate matters less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter (PM2.5), whose concentration has increased in Korea, has a considerable impact on health. From a risk management point of view, there has been interest in understanding the variations in real-time PM2.5 concentrations per activity in different microenvironments. We analyzed personal monitoring data collected from 15 children aged 6 to 11 years engaged in different activities such as commuting in a car, visiting a commercial building, attending an education institute, and resting inside home from October 2018 to March 2019. The fraction of daily mean exposure duration per activity was 72.7 ± 18.7% for resting inside home, 27.2 ± 14.4% for attending an education institute, and 11.5 ± 9.6% and 5.3 ± 5.9% for visiting a commercial building, commuting in a car, respectively. Daily median (interquartile range) PM2.5 exposure amount was 88.9 (55.9–159.7) μg in houses and that in education buildings was 43.3 (22.9–55.6) μg. Real-time PM2.5 exposure levels varied by person and time of day (p-value < 0.05). This study demonstrated that our real-time personal monitoring and data analysis methodologies were effective in detecting polluted microenvironments and provided a potential person-specific management strategy to reduce a person’s exposure level to PM2.5.
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20
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Li YC, Tseng WC, Hsieh NH, Chen SC. Assessing the seasonality of occupancy number-associated CO 2 level in a Taiwan hospital. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:16422-16432. [PMID: 30980378 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-05084-3] [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: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This study enabled the assessment of indoor CO2 levels and evaluated the relationship between occupancy numbers with CO2 levels in a Taiwan hospital. The measurements were conducted over four seasons for five working days (Monday to Friday), with sampling conducted simultaneously from 09:00 am to 5:00 pm and across six locations (for spatial variability): hall (H), registration and cashier (RC), waiting area (WA), occupational therapy room (OT), physical therapy room (PT), and outdoors (O). Based on the analysis, three of the five indoor sampling sites showed significant differences in seasonal CO2 concentrations (p < 0.0001). Based on our result, the physical therapy room had the highest level of CO2 concentration that exceeded the IAQ standard in Taiwan Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in all seasons, in that the number of occupants contributing to nearly 40% of the variation in CO2 measured. Our results also showed that the indoor/outdoor (I/O) ratios of CO2 concentration for all locations and seasons exceeded 1 in ~ 100% of those locations. The median I/O ratio at sites WA and OT was 2.37 and 2.08 during four seasons, respectively. The highest median I/O ratio was found at site PT, with a calculated range of 2.69 in spring to 3.90 in fall. The highest correlation of occupancy number and CO2 concentration also occurred in PT which correlation coefficients were estimated at 0.47, 0.65, 0.63, and 0.40 in spring, summer, fall, and winter. The findings of the present study can be used to understand occupancy number and its effect on CO2 levels in a hospital environment, as well as the effect of time of day (Monday to Friday) on the number of patients admitted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Chen Li
- Department of Public Health, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, 40201, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Department of Infection Control Center, Yuan Rung Hospital, Changhua, 51045, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Wen-Chang Tseng
- Department of Public Health, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, 40201, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Nan-Hung Hsieh
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77845, USA
| | - Szu-Chieh Chen
- Department of Public Health, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, 40201, Taiwan, Republic of China.
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40201, Taiwan, Republic of China.
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21
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Investigation and Evaluation of Winter Indoor Air Quality of Primary Schools in Severe Cold Weather Areas of China. ENERGIES 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/en12091602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The indoor air quality (IAQ) in classrooms has attracted more and more attention. Unfortunately, there is limited information relating to IAQ in the primary schools in severe cold weather areas of China. In this study, a field investigation on the IAQ of a primary school of Shenyang in northeast China was carried out by physical measurements and questionnaire surveys. The carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration in selected classrooms was continuously measured for a week, and the corresponding ventilation rate was calculated. Meanwhile, the perceptions of the IAQ, the purpose and the comfort degree of window opening have also been recorded from 106 pupils, aged 9–12. The results indicate the ventilation rate is considerably inadequate in about 99% of the class time due to the low frequency of window opening. The average daily CO2 concentration in these classrooms is 1510–3863 ppm, which is far higher than the recommended value of 1000 ppm. Most pupils understand that the purpose of opening windows in winter is to improve air quality. However, there are big differences between the measurement results and subjective judgments of indoor air quality. Contrary to the high measured CO2 concentration, around 70% pupils consider the air fresh, and only 3.7% pupils are dissatisfied and even very dissatisfied with IAQ in their classroom. It is necessary to change the existing manual window opening mode, because the pupils’ subjective judgment affects the window opening behavior.
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22
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Othman M, Latif MT, Matsumi Y. The exposure of children to PM 2.5 and dust in indoor and outdoor school classrooms in Kuala Lumpur City Centre. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2019; 170:739-749. [PMID: 30583285 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2018.12.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
It is important to assess indoor air quality in school classrooms where the air quality may significantly influence school children's health and performance. This study aims to determine the concentrations of PM2.5 and dust chemical compositions in indoor and outdoor school classroom located in Kuala Lumpur City Centre. The PM2.5 concentration was measured from 19th September 2017-16th February 2018 using an optical PM2.5 sensor. Indoor and outdoor dust was also collected from the school classrooms and ion and trace metal concentrations were analysed using ion chromatography (IC) and inductively couple plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) respectively. This study showed that the average indoor and outdoor 24 h PM2.5 was 11.2 ± 0.45 µg m-3 and 11.4 ± 0.44 µg m-3 respectively. The 8 h PM2.5 concentration ranged between 3.2 and 28 µg m-3 for indoor and 3.2 and 19 µg m-3 for outdoor classrooms. The highest ion concentration in indoor dust was Ca2+ with an average concentration of 38.5 ± 35.0 µg g-1 while for outdoor dust SO42- recorded the highest ion concentration with an average concentration of 30.6 ± 9.37 µg g-1. Dominant trace metals in both indoor and outdoor dust were Al, Fe and Zn. Principle component analysis-multiple linear regression (PCA-MLR) demonstrated that the major source of indoor dust was road dust (69%), while soil dominated the outdoor dust (74%). Health risk assessment showed that the hazard quotient (HQ) value for non-carcinogenic trace metals was < 1 while the total cancer risk (CR) value for carcinogenic elements was below the acceptable limit for both indoor and outdoor dust through dermal and inhalation pathways, but not the ingestion pathway. This study suggests indoor contributions of PM2.5 concentrations are due to the activities of the school children while the compositions of indoor and outdoor dust are greatly influenced by the soil/earth source plus industrial and traffic contribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murnira Othman
- School of Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Mohd Talib Latif
- School of Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Yutaka Matsumi
- Institute for Space-Earth Environment Research, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
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Azuma K, Kagi N, Yanagi U, Osawa H. Effects of low-level inhalation exposure to carbon dioxide in indoor environments: A short review on human health and psychomotor performance. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2018; 121:51-56. [PMID: 30172928 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.08.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 08/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/25/2018] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Scientific literature and documents pertaining to the effects of inhalation exposure to carbon dioxide (CO2) on human health and psychomotor performance were reviewed. Linear physiological changes in circulatory, cardiovascular, and autonomic systems on exposure to CO2 at concentrations ranging from 500 to 5000 ppm were evident. Human experimental studies have suggested that short-term CO2 exposure beginning at 1000 ppm affects cognitive performances including decision making and problem resolution. Changes in autonomic systems due to low-level exposure to CO2 may involve these effects. Further research on the long-term effects of low-level CO2 exposure on the autonomic system is required. Numerous epidemiological studies indicate an association between low-level exposure to CO2 beginning at 700 ppm and building-related symptoms. Respiratory symptoms have been indicated in children exposed to indoor CO2 concentrations higher than 1000 ppm. However, other indoor comorbid pollutants are possibly involved in such effects. In the context of significant linear increase of globally ambient CO2 concentration caused by anthropogenic activities and sources, reducing indoor CO2 levels by ventilation with ambient air represents an increase in energy consumption in an air-conditioned building. For the efficient energy control of CO2 intruding a building from ambient air, the rise of atmospheric CO2 concentration needs to be urgently suppressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Azuma
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Behavioral Science, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama 589-8511, Japan; Department of Environmental Health, National Institute of Public Health, Wako 351-0197, Japan.
| | - Naoki Kagi
- Department of Mechanical and Environmental Informatics, Graduate School of Information Science and Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan; Department of Environmental Health, National Institute of Public Health, Wako 351-0197, Japan.
| | - U Yanagi
- Department of Architecture, School of Architecture, Kogakuin University, Tokyo 163-8677, Japan; Department of Environmental Health, National Institute of Public Health, Wako 351-0197, Japan.
| | - Haruki Osawa
- Department of Environmental Health, National Institute of Public Health, Wako 351-0197, Japan.
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24
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Assessment of Energy Sustainable Operations on a Historical Building. The Dante Alighieri High School in Florence. SUSTAINABILITY 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/su10062054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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