1
|
Yan S, Liu Q, Liu Z, Liu R, Xing K, Zhang M, Zhang X, Xu J, Jia Q, Gao W, Liu X, Xing D. Gel-confined fabrication of fully bio-based filtration membrane for green capture and rapid detection of airborne microbes. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 670:417-427. [PMID: 38772258 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.05.105] [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: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Air filtration has become a desirable route for collecting airborne microbes. However, the potential biotoxicity and sterilization of current air filtration membranes often lead to undesired inactivation of captured microbes, which greatly limits microbial non-traumatic transfer and recovery. Herein, we report a gel-confined phase separation strategy to rationally fabricate a fully bio-based filtration membrane (SGFM) using soluble soybean polysaccharide and gelatin. The versatile SGFM features fascinating honeycomb micro-nano architecture and hierarchical interconnected porous structures for microbial capture, and achieves a lower pressure drop, higher interception efficiency (99.3%), and superior microbial survivability than commercial gelatin filtration membranes. Particularly, the water-dissolvable SGFM can greatly simplify the elution and extraction process after bioaerosol sampling, thereby bringing about maximum sample transfer and vigorous recovery of collected microbes. Meanwhile, green capture coupled with ATP bioluminescence endows the SGFM with rapid and quantitative detection capability for airborne microbes. This work may pave the way for designing green protocols for the detection of bioaerosols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saisai Yan
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Qing Liu
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Zhanjie Liu
- Qingdao Haier Biomedical Co., Ltd., Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Rundong Liu
- Qingdao Haier Biomedical Co., Ltd., Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Kunyue Xing
- University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Miao Zhang
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xinyi Zhang
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Junlin Xu
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Qiuzhi Jia
- Qingdao Haier Biomedical Co., Ltd., Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Wensheng Gao
- Qingdao Haier Biomedical Co., Ltd., Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xinlin Liu
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Dongming Xing
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China; School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Anigilaje EA, Nasir ZA, Walton C. Exposure to benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) at Nigeria's petrol stations: a review of current status, challenges and future directions. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1295758. [PMID: 38590813 PMCID: PMC11000709 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1295758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction In Nigeria, because of increasing population, urbanization, industrialization, and auto-mobilization, petrol is the most everyday non-edible commodity, and it is the leading petroleum product traded at the proliferating Nigeria's petrol stations (NPSs). However, because of inadequate occupational health and safety (OHS) regulatory measures, working at NPSs exposes petrol station workers (PSWs) to a large amount of hazardous benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) compounds. Methods Studies on BTEX exposures among Nigerian PSWs are scarce. Thus, constraints in quantifying the health risks of BTEX limit stakeholders' ability to design practical risk assessment and risk control strategies. This paper reviews studies on the OHS of Nigerian PSWs at the NPSs. Results Although knowledge, attitude, and practices on OHS in NPSs vary from one Nigeria's study setting to another, generally, safety practices, awareness about hazards and personal protective equipment (PPE), and the use of PPE among PSWs fell below expectations. Additionally, air quality at NPSs was poor, with a high content of BTEX and levels of carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, particulate matter, and formaldehyde higher than the World Health Organization guideline limits. Discussion Currently, regulatory bodies' effectiveness and accountability in safeguarding OHS at NPSs leave much to be desired. Understanding the OHS of NPSs would inform future initiatives, policies, and regulations that would promote the health and safety of workers at NPSs. However, further studies need to be conducted to describe the vulnerability of PSWs and other Nigerians who are occupationally exposed to BTEX pollution. More importantly, controlling air pollution from hazardous air pollutants like BTEX is an essential component of OHS and integral to attaining the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3, 7, and 11.
Collapse
|
3
|
Braggion A, Dugerdil A, Wilson O, Hovagemyan F, Flahault A. Indoor Air Quality and COVID-19: A Scoping Review. Public Health Rev 2024; 44:1605803. [PMID: 38273885 PMCID: PMC10810127 DOI: 10.3389/phrs.2023.1605803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic has been a major public health concern for the past 3 years. Scientific evidence on the relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and indoor air quality still needs to be demonstrated. This scoping review aims to study the association between air quality indoors and COVID-19. Methods: A scoping review analyzing the association between indoor air quality and epidemiological outcomes was conducted. Papers published between 1 January 2020 and 31 October 2022 were included. Hospital settings were excluded from the study. Results: Eight relevant articles met the inclusion criteria. Indoor settings included workplaces, schools, restaurants, and public transport. Types of ventilation used to improve indoor air quality were dilution methods (opening windows) and mechanical systems with or without filtration or purifier. CO2 sensors were employed in one study. All the studies showed a positive association between indoor air quality and its improvement and epidemiological indicators. Conclusion: The findings of this scoping review indicate that indoor air quality, which can be improved with ventilation methods, may reduce the risk of developing COVID-19. Ventilation could thus be viewed as a possible effective mitigating method.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Axelle Braggion
- Institut de Santé Globale, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Genève, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Adeline Dugerdil
- Institut de Santé Globale, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Genève, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Olwen Wilson
- Institut de Santé Globale, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Genève, Geneva, Switzerland
- School of Public Policy, London School of Economics, London, United Kingdom
| | - Francesca Hovagemyan
- Institut de Santé Globale, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Genève, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Antoine Flahault
- Institut de Santé Globale, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Genève, Geneva, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Aydede Y, Ditzen J. Identifying the regional drivers of influenza-like illness in Nova Scotia, Canada, with dominance analysis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10114. [PMID: 37344569 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37184-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The spread of viral pathogens is inherently a spatial process. While the temporal aspects of viral spread at the epidemiological level have been increasingly well characterized, the spatial aspects of viral spread are still understudied due to a striking absence of theoretical expectations of how spatial dynamics may impact the temporal dynamics of viral populations. Characterizing the spatial transmission and understanding the factors driving it are important for anticipating local timing of disease incidence and for guiding more informed control strategies. Using a unique data set from Nova Scotia, Canada, the objective of this study is to apply a new novel method that recovers a spatial network of the influenza-like viral spread where the regions in their dominance are identified and ranked. We, then, focus on identifying regional predictors of those dominant regions. Our analysis uncovers 18 key regional drivers among 112 regions, each distinguished by unique community-level vulnerability factors such as demographic and economic characteristics. These findings offer valuable insights for implementing targeted public health interventions and allocating resources effectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jan Ditzen
- Free University of Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Baselga M, Alba JJ, Schuhmacher AJ. Impact of needle-point bipolar ionization system in the reduction of bioaerosols in collective transport. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 855:158965. [PMID: 36162581 PMCID: PMC9500091 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Baselga
- Institute for Health Research Aragon (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Juan J Alba
- Institute for Health Research Aragon (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Alberto J Schuhmacher
- Institute for Health Research Aragon (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; Fundación Agencia Aragonesa para la Investigación y el Desarrollo (ARAID), 50018 Zaragoza, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Regan DP, Fong C, Bond ACS, Desjardins C, Hardcastle J, Hung SH, Holmes AP, Schiffman JD, Maginnis MS, Howell C. Improved Recovery of Captured Airborne Bacteria and Viruses with Liquid-Coated Air Filters. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:50543-50556. [PMID: 36331290 PMCID: PMC10028737 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c14754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed the importance of the detection of airborne pathogens. Here, we present composite air filters featuring a bioinspired liquid coating that facilitates the removal of captured aerosolized bacteria and viruses for further analysis. We tested three types of air filters: commercial polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which is well known for creating stable liquid coatings, commercial high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, which are widely used, and in-house-manufactured cellulose nanofiber mats (CNFMs), which are made from sustainable materials. All filters were coated with omniphobic fluorinated liquid to maximize the release of pathogens. We found that coating both the PTFE and HEPA filters with liquid improved the rate at which Escherichia coli was recovered using a physical removal process compared to uncoated controls. Notably, the coated HEPA filters also increased the total number of recovered cells by 57%. Coating the CNFM filters did not improve either the rate of release or the total number of captured cells. The most promising materials, the liquid-coated HEPA, filters were then evaluated for their ability to facilitate the removal of pathogenic viruses via a chemical removal process. Recovery of infectious JC polyomavirus, a nonenveloped virus that attacks the central nervous system, was increased by 92% over uncoated controls; however, there was no significant difference in the total amount of genomic material recovered compared to that of controls. In contrast, significantly more genomic material was recovered for SARS-CoV-2, the airborne, enveloped virus, which causes COVID-19, from liquid-coated filters. Although the amount of infectious SARS-CoV-2 recovered was 58% higher, these results were not significantly different from uncoated filters due to high variability. These results suggest that the efficient recovery of airborne pathogens from liquid-coated filters could improve air sampling efforts, enhancing biosurveillance and global pathogen early warning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P Regan
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Maine, 5737 Jenness Hall, Orono, Maine04469, United States
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, 42 Stodder Hall, Orono, Maine04469, United States
| | - ChunKi Fong
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, 42 Stodder Hall, Orono, Maine04469, United States
| | - Avery C S Bond
- Department of Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Maine, 320 Hitchner Hall, Orono, Maine04469, United States
| | - Claudia Desjardins
- Department of Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Maine, 320 Hitchner Hall, Orono, Maine04469, United States
| | - Justin Hardcastle
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, 42 Stodder Hall, Orono, Maine04469, United States
| | - Shao-Hsiang Hung
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts01003-9303, United States
| | - Andrew P Holmes
- Cooperative Extension, University of Maine, 17 Godfrey Drive, Orono, Maine04473, United States
| | - Jessica D Schiffman
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts01003-9303, United States
| | - Melissa S Maginnis
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, 42 Stodder Hall, Orono, Maine04469, United States
- Department of Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Maine, 320 Hitchner Hall, Orono, Maine04469, United States
| | - Caitlin Howell
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Maine, 5737 Jenness Hall, Orono, Maine04469, United States
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, 42 Stodder Hall, Orono, Maine04469, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ibrahim F, Samsudin EZ, Ishak AR, Sathasivam J. Hospital indoor air quality and its relationships with building design, building operation, and occupant-related factors: A mini-review. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1067764. [PMID: 36424957 PMCID: PMC9679624 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1067764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Indoor air quality (IAQ) has recently gained substantial traction as the airborne transmission of infectious respiratory disease becomes an increasing public health concern. Hospital indoor environments are complex ecosystems and strategies to improve hospital IAQ require greater appreciation of its potentially modifiable determinants, evidence of which are currently limited. This mini-review updates and integrates findings of previous literature to outline the current scientific evidence on the relationship between hospital IAQ and building design, building operation, and occupant-related factors. Emerging evidence has linked aspects of building design (dimensional, ventilation, and building envelope designs, construction and finishing materials, furnishing), building operation (ventilation operation and maintenance, hygiene maintenance, access control for hospital users), and occupants' characteristics (occupant activities, medical activities, adaptive behavior) to hospital IAQ. Despite the growing pool of IAQ literature, some important areas within hospitals (outpatient departments) and several key IAQ elements (dimensional aspects, room configurations, building materials, ventilation practices, adaptive behavior) remain understudied. Ventilation for hospitals continues to be challenging, as elevated levels of carbon monoxide, bioaerosols, and chemical compounds persist in indoor air despite having mechanical ventilation systems in place. To curb this public health issue, policy makers should champion implementing hospital IAQ surveillance system for all areas of the hospital building, applying interdisciplinary knowledge during the hospital design, construction and operation phase, and training of hospital staff with regards to operation, maintenance, and building control manipulation. Multipronged strategies targeting these important determinants are believed to be a viable strategy for the future control and improvement of hospital IAQ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farha Ibrahim
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, Malaysia
- Training Management Division, Ministry of Health, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Ely Zarina Samsudin
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Razali Ishak
- Centre for Environmental Health and Safety, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Jeyanthini Sathasivam
- Public Health Division, Johor Health State Department, Ministry of Health, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Harris P, Harris-Roxas B, Prior J, Morrison N, McIntyre E, Frawley J, Adams J, Bevan W, Haigh F, Freeman E, Hua M, Pry J, Mazumdar S, Cave B, Viliani F, Kwan B. Respiratory pandemics, urban planning and design: A multidisciplinary rapid review of the literature. CITIES (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 127:103767. [PMID: 35663146 PMCID: PMC9150858 DOI: 10.1016/j.cities.2022.103767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 is the most recent respiratory pandemic to necessitate better knowledge about city planning and design. The complex connections between cities and pandemics, however challenge traditional approaches to reviewing literature. In this article we adopted a rapid review methodology. We review the historical literature on respiratory pandemics and their documented connections to urban planning and design (both broadly defined as being concerned with cities as complex systems). Our systematic search across multidisciplinary databases returned a total of 1323 sources, with 92 articles included in the final review. Findings showed that the literature represents the multi-scalar nature of cities and pandemics - pandemics are global phenomena spread through an interconnected world, but require regional, city, local and individual responses. We characterise the literature under ten themes: scale (global to local); built environment; governance; modelling; non-pharmaceutical interventions; socioeconomic factors; system preparedness; system responses; underserved and vulnerable populations; and future-proofing urban planning and design. We conclude that the historical literature captures how city planning and design intersects with a public health response to respiratory pandemics. Our thematic framework provides parameters for future research and policy responses to the varied connections between cities and respiratory pandemics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Harris
- Centre for Health Equity Training, Research & Evaluation (CHETRE), Part of the UNSW Australia Research Centre for Primary Health Care & Equity, A Unit of Population Health, South Western Sydney Local Health District, NSW Health, A member of the Ingham Institute, Liverpool Hospital, Locked Bag 7103, Liverpool BC, NSW 1871, Australia
| | | | - Jason Prior
- Institute for Sustainable Futures, UTS, Australia
| | - Nicky Morrison
- Institute for Culture and Society, University of Western Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Jane Frawley
- Centre of Public and Population Health Research, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, UTS, Australia
| | - Jon Adams
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine (ARCCIM), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, UTS, Australia
| | | | - Fiona Haigh
- Centre for Health Equity Training, Research & Evaluation (CHETRE), Part of the UNSW Australia Research Centre for Primary Health Care & Equity, A Unit of Population Health, South Western Sydney Local Health District, NSW Health, A member of the Ingham Institute, Liverpool Hospital, Locked Bag 7103, Liverpool BC, NSW 1871, Australia
| | - Evan Freeman
- South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, NSW Health, Australia
| | - Myna Hua
- South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, NSW Health, Australia
| | - Jennie Pry
- South Western Sydney Local Health District, NSW Health, Australia
| | - Soumya Mazumdar
- South Western Sydney Local Health District, NSW Health, Australia
| | | | | | - Benjamin Kwan
- Sleep Medicine, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Treglia M, Pallocci M, Ricciardi Tenore G, Castellani P, Pizzuti F, Bianco G, Passalacqua P, De Luca L, Zanovello C, Mazzuca D, Gratteri S, Messineo A, Quintavalle G, Marsella LT. Legionella and Air Transport: A Study of Environmental Contamination. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19138069. [PMID: 35805725 PMCID: PMC9265378 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19138069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: There is growing interest in the public health and transport sectors in research into exposure to biological hazards, considering not only the risks arising from inter-human contagion, but also those related to exposure to the flight environment itself. The aim of this paper is to report data from an investigation into the water and air-conditioning systems of commercial aircraft for the presence of Legionella contamination, with a total of 645 water samples taken during the period 2007−2021. Methods: The investigation involved 126 aircraft of six different commercial aircraft types: MD80, Airbus A320 F, Embraer 175/190, AIRBUS A330, Boeing 767 and Boeing 777. Water samples were taken from the water systems (toilet taps, galley and boilers). Each sample was preliminarily subjected to an evaluation of the following parameters: temperature, pH and residual chlorine. The ScanVit® Legionella kit was used for bacteria detection and enumeration. Results: Samples were considered positive if the number of colony-forming units/liter (CFU/L) was >100. For the entire observation period, 45% of the investigated aircraft tested positive. Regarding the overall number of samples analyzed, 68.4% (441/645) were below 100 CFU/L, and thus within the limits allowed by the Italian Guidelines. Conclusions: Water system contamination with Legionella in the air transport field is a real public health issue that should not be underestimated given the heavy passenger traffic. Infection should be considered an occupational risk to which crew members are exposed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michele Treglia
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.T.); (P.P.); (L.D.L.); (C.Z.); (A.M.); (L.T.M.)
| | - Margherita Pallocci
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.T.); (P.P.); (L.D.L.); (C.Z.); (A.M.); (L.T.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Giorgio Ricciardi Tenore
- APSSP-Prevention, Safety & Health Association, Velletri, 00049 Rome, Italy; (G.R.T.); (P.C.); (F.P.); (G.B.)
| | - Paola Castellani
- APSSP-Prevention, Safety & Health Association, Velletri, 00049 Rome, Italy; (G.R.T.); (P.C.); (F.P.); (G.B.)
| | - Fabrizio Pizzuti
- APSSP-Prevention, Safety & Health Association, Velletri, 00049 Rome, Italy; (G.R.T.); (P.C.); (F.P.); (G.B.)
| | - Giovanna Bianco
- APSSP-Prevention, Safety & Health Association, Velletri, 00049 Rome, Italy; (G.R.T.); (P.C.); (F.P.); (G.B.)
| | - Pierluigi Passalacqua
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.T.); (P.P.); (L.D.L.); (C.Z.); (A.M.); (L.T.M.)
| | - Lucilla De Luca
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.T.); (P.P.); (L.D.L.); (C.Z.); (A.M.); (L.T.M.)
| | - Claudia Zanovello
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.T.); (P.P.); (L.D.L.); (C.Z.); (A.M.); (L.T.M.)
| | - Daniela Mazzuca
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (D.M.); (S.G.)
| | - Santo Gratteri
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (D.M.); (S.G.)
| | - Agostino Messineo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.T.); (P.P.); (L.D.L.); (C.Z.); (A.M.); (L.T.M.)
| | | | - Luigi Tonino Marsella
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.T.); (P.P.); (L.D.L.); (C.Z.); (A.M.); (L.T.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Numerical Investigation on the Droplet Dispersion inside a Bus and the Infection Risk Prediction. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12125909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 can be easily transmitted to passengers by inhaling exhaled droplets from the infected person in a bus. Therefore, studying droplet dispersion would provide further insight into the mechanism of virus transmission and predict the risk of infection among passengers on a bus. In this research, a bus equipped with air-conditioning was employed as the research object. To determine the dispersion path, concentration distribution, and escape time of the droplets, computational fluid dynamic (CFD) was applied to simulate the flow field and the droplets’ dispersion. The effect of the air supply rate, the location of vents, and the location of infected persons on the dispersion were discussed. Based on the distribution of droplets in the cabin calculated by CFD, a superposition method was used to determine the number of virus particles inhaled by every individual passenger over a four-hour journey. Then, infection risk was assessed by the Wells-Riley equation for all the passengers in the cabin after the whole journey. The results show that the distribution of droplets in the cabin is greatly influenced by the location of the infected person, and the airflow pattern is highly associated with the air supply rate and the location of vents. The infection risk of passengers located at the droplet dispersion path and the distance from the infected persons less than 2.2 m is over 10%. The increase in the air supply rate could speed up the spread of the droplets but at the same time, it could reduce the infection risk.
Collapse
|
11
|
Thomas MM, Mohammadi N, Taylor JE. Investigating the association between mass transit adoption and COVID-19 infections in US metropolitan areas. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 811:152284. [PMID: 34902421 PMCID: PMC8662904 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152284] [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: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Urbanization introduces the threat of increased epidemic disease transmission resulting from crowding on mass transit. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, which has directly led to over 600,000 deaths in the US as of July 2021, triggered mass social distancing policies to be enacted as a key deterrent of widespread infections. Social distancing can be challenging in confined spaces required for transportation such as mass transit systems. Little is published regarding the degree to which mass transit system adoption effects impacted the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic in urban centers. Taking an ecological approach where areal data are the unit of observation, this national-scale study aims to measure the association between the adoption of mass transit and COVID-19 spread through confirmed cases in US metropolitan areas. National survey-based transit adoption measures are entered in negative binomial regression models to evaluate differences between areas. The model results demonstrate that mass transit adoption in US metropolitan areas was associated with the magnitude of outbreaks. Higher incidence of COVID-19 early in the pandemic was associated with survey results conveying higher transit use. Increasing weekly bus transit usage in metropolitan statistical areas by one scaled unit was associated with a 1.38 [95% CI: (1.25, 1.90)] times increase in incidence rate of COVID-19; a one scaled unit increase in weekly train transit usage was associated with an increase in incidence rate of 1.54 [95% CI: (1.42, 2.07)] times. These conclusions should inform early action practices in urban centers with busy transit systems in the event of future infectious disease outbreaks. Deeper understanding of these observed associations may also benefit modeling efforts by allowing researchers to include mathematical adjustments or better explain caveats to results when communicating with decision makers and the public in the crucial early stages of an epidemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael M Thomas
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, 790 Atlantic Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30332, United States.
| | - Neda Mohammadi
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, 790 Atlantic Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30332, United States.
| | - John E Taylor
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, 790 Atlantic Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30332, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yang Y, Wang Y, Tian L, Su C, Chen Z, Huang Y. Effects of purifiers on the airborne transmission of droplets inside a bus. PHYSICS OF FLUIDS (WOODBURY, N.Y. : 1994) 2022; 34:017108. [PMID: 35340683 PMCID: PMC8939553 DOI: 10.1063/5.0081230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
During an airborne infectious disease outbreak, bus passengers can be easily infected by the dispersion of exhaled droplets from an infected passenger. Therefore, measures to control the transport of droplets are necessary, such as a mask or purifier. The current research examined aerosol transport in a bus with air-conditioning. To determine the dispersion path, deposition distribution, and droplet escape time, the computational fluid dynamics were used to predict the flow field and the dispersion of droplets considering the effects of droplet size, location of the infected person, and purifier type. In addition, based on the viability and the number of virus particles in a droplet, the total number of virus particles inhaled by passengers over a 4-h journey was obtained by the superposition method. The Wells-Riley equation was then used to assess the infection risk of the passengers in the bus cabin. The results showed that droplets with a size of 1-20 μm have essentially the same deposition characteristics, and the location of the infected passenger affects the distribution of droplets' transport and the effectiveness of a purifier in removing droplets. A purifier can effectively remove droplets from passengers' coughs and reduce the infection risk of passengers. The performance of the smaller purifiers is not as stable as that of the larger purifiers, and the performance is influenced by the airflow structure where the infected passenger is located.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Linli Tian
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed:. Tel.: 0086-13317136217
| | | | - Zhixin Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Automotive Components, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Yuanyi Huang
- SAIC GM Wuling Automobile Co., Ltd, Liuzhou, Guangxi 545000, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Subbarao SSV, Kadali R. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic lockdown on the public transportation system and strategic plans to improve PT ridership: a review. INNOVATIVE INFRASTRUCTURE SOLUTIONS 2022; 7:97. [PMCID: PMC8601870 DOI: 10.1007/s41062-021-00693-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
The pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused more than 198.03 million confirmed cases around the world, and nearly 31.65 million cases are reported in India as of 1st August 2021. Though it is reported to have originated from one particular place, the COVID-19 is continuously spreading to various countries due to the movement of people in and around the world. For curbing the spread of the COVID-19 virus, many countries have implemented lockdown and restrictions on public mobility (except the essential goods travel) within various zones. Though this lockdown is going to limit the spread of the virus, at the same time it creates an adverse impact on the livelihood of the people and economy of the country. Despite the surge in infections, the governments of different countries have to ease out the lockdown and allow the mobility of people from one place to another place by public transportation (PT) system due to various reasons. Hence, the present study explores the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on the PT system and the post-lockdown policies implemented by various countries to improve the PT ridership. Further, the study also addresses various challenges to operate the PT system and the emergency relief plans proposed by various countries to make the PT system more sustainable by integrating it with active transport modes such as cycling and walking. The discussed ease-out plans might help the policymakers to design a case-specific plan for the effective and safe operation of the PT system post-lockdown.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saladi S. V. Subbarao
- Department of Civil Engineering, Ecole Centrale School of Engineering, Mahindra University, Hyderabad, 500043 Telangana India
| | - Raghuram Kadali
- Department of Civil Engineering, NIT Warangal, Warangal, 506004 Telangana India
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
James K, Thompson C, Chin-Bailey C, Davis KD, Nevins DH, Walters D. COVID-19 related risk perception among taxi operators in Kingston and St. Andrew, Jamaica. JOURNAL OF TRANSPORT & HEALTH 2021; 22:101229. [PMID: 34377665 PMCID: PMC8337287 DOI: 10.1016/j.jth.2021.101229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the Caribbean, all countries have confirmed COVID-19 cases. Considering the high infectivity of the virus, no preexisting immunity to the virus and an associated modest reproductive rate (R0), the high density of persons utilizing public transport is of immense public health concern. Public transport systems may facilitate and accelerate the transmission of the disease. AIM The aim of this study was to assess the COVID-19 related risk perceptions among taxi drivers by virtue of their occupation and the implications for health promotion interventions. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted in May 2020 among 282 taxi drivers in the Kingston and St. Andrew (KSA) metropolitan region in Jamaica. A 28-item anonymized self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data which was subsequently analyzed using SPSS version 20. A risk score was generated and the Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal Wallis tests were used to determine differences in the mean ranks for risk perception score as applicable. A 5% alpha level was utilized in determining statistical significance. RESULTS Risk perception scores ranged from 10 to 21 with a median of 17 (IQR 3.25) and there was no statistically significant difference in the median risk perception score by socio-demographic variables. There was however, a statistically significant positive correlation (Spearman's rho = 0.238, p=<0.001) between risk perception and knowledge. Approximately, 86% of respondents reported that they obtained COVID-19-related information from news reports (traditional media). CONCLUSION Taxi drivers perceive themselves to be at occupationally related risk of COVID-19. Therefore, greater understanding of this issue is paramount as it can aid in the crafting of initiatives that may enhance personal safety of both taxi drivers and commuters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth James
- Department of Community Health and Psychiatry, The University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica
| | - Camelia Thompson
- Department of Community Health and Psychiatry, The University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica
| | - Cameal Chin-Bailey
- Department of Community Health and Psychiatry, The University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica
| | | | - Desmalee Holder Nevins
- Department of Community Health and Psychiatry, The University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica
| | - Dawn Walters
- Department of Community Health and Psychiatry, The University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Leung MHY, Tong X, Bøifot KO, Bezdan D, Butler DJ, Danko DC, Gohli J, Green DC, Hernandez MT, Kelly FJ, Levy S, Mason-Buck G, Nieto-Caballero M, Syndercombe-Court D, Udekwu K, Young BG, Mason CE, Dybwad M, Lee PKH. Characterization of the public transit air microbiome and resistome reveals geographical specificity. MICROBIOME 2021; 9:112. [PMID: 34039416 PMCID: PMC8157753 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-021-01044-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The public transit is a built environment with high occupant density across the globe, and identifying factors shaping public transit air microbiomes will help design strategies to minimize the transmission of pathogens. However, the majority of microbiome works dedicated to the public transit air are limited to amplicon sequencing, and our knowledge regarding the functional potentials and the repertoire of resistance genes (i.e. resistome) is limited. Furthermore, current air microbiome investigations on public transit systems are focused on single cities, and a multi-city assessment of the public transit air microbiome will allow a greater understanding of whether and how broad environmental, building, and anthropogenic factors shape the public transit air microbiome in an international scale. Therefore, in this study, the public transit air microbiomes and resistomes of six cities across three continents (Denver, Hong Kong, London, New York City, Oslo, Stockholm) were characterized. RESULTS City was the sole factor associated with public transit air microbiome differences, with diverse taxa identified as drivers for geography-associated functional potentials, concomitant with geographical differences in species- and strain-level inferred growth profiles. Related bacterial strains differed among cities in genes encoding resistance, transposase, and other functions. Sourcetracking estimated that human skin, soil, and wastewater were major presumptive resistome sources of public transit air, and adjacent public transit surfaces may also be considered presumptive sources. Large proportions of detected resistance genes were co-located with mobile genetic elements including plasmids. Biosynthetic gene clusters and city-unique coding sequences were found in the metagenome-assembled genomes. CONCLUSIONS Overall, geographical specificity transcends multiple aspects of the public transit air microbiome, and future efforts on a global scale are warranted to increase our understanding of factors shaping the microbiome of this unique built environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M H Y Leung
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - X Tong
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - K O Bøifot
- Comprehensive Defence Division, Norwegian Defence Research Establishment FFI, Kjeller, Norway
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - D Bezdan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - D J Butler
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - D C Danko
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - J Gohli
- Comprehensive Defence Division, Norwegian Defence Research Establishment FFI, Kjeller, Norway
| | - D C Green
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - M T Hernandez
- Environmental Engineering Program, College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - F J Kelly
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - S Levy
- HudsonAlpha Institute of Biotechnology, Huntsville, AL, USA
| | - G Mason-Buck
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - M Nieto-Caballero
- Environmental Engineering Program, College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - D Syndercombe-Court
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - K Udekwu
- Department of Aquatic Sciences & Assessment, Swedish University of Agriculture, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - B G Young
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - C E Mason
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- The HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- The WorldQuant Initiative for Quantitative Prediction, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- The Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - M Dybwad
- Comprehensive Defence Division, Norwegian Defence Research Establishment FFI, Kjeller, Norway.
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - P K H Lee
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Henning A, McLaughlin C, Armen S, Allen S. Socio-spatial influences on the prevalence of COVID-19 in central Pennsylvania. Spat Spatiotemporal Epidemiol 2021; 37:100411. [PMID: 33980403 PMCID: PMC7857135 DOI: 10.1016/j.sste.2021.100411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Allison Henning
- Penn State Hershey Medical Center internal medicine and pediatrics, 500 University Dr Hershey, PA 17033, United States.
| | | | - Scott Armen
- Penn State Hershey Medical Center, chief of trauma surgery, fellow of American college of surgeons, American college of chest physicians, society of critical care medicine, United States
| | - Steven Allen
- Penn State Hershey Medical Center, trauma and acute care surgery, United States
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Buitrago ND, Savdie J, Almeida SM, Verde SC. Factors affecting the exposure to physicochemical and microbiological pollutants in vehicle cabins while commuting in Lisbon. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 270:116062. [PMID: 33243542 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.116062] [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: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Commuters are exposed to a variety of physicochemical and microbiological pollutants that can lead to adverse health effects. This study aims to evaluate the indoor air quality (IAQ) in cars, buses and trains in Lisbon, to estimate inhaled doses while commuting and to evaluate the impacts of cleaning and ventilation on the IAQ. Particulate matter with diameter lower than 1, 2.5 and 10 μm (PM1, PM2.5 and PM10), black carbon (BC), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2) volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde (CH2O) and total airborne bacteria and fungi were measured and bacterial isolates were identified. Results showed that the type of ventilation is the main factor affecting the IAQ in vehicle cabins. Under the fan off condition, the concentration of BC was lower, but the concentration of gases such as CO2, CO and VOC tended to accumulate rapidly. When the ventilation was used, the coarse particles were filtered originating the decrease of indoor concentrations. Commuters travelling in trains received the lowest dose for all chemical pollutants, except VOC, mainly because railways are further away from the direct vehicular emissions. Commuters travelling in cars without ventilation received the highest inhaled dose for almost all pollutants despite having the lowest travel duration. Airborne microbiota was highly affected by the occupancy of the vehicles and therefore, the fungi and bacterial loads were higher in trains and buses. Most of the isolated species were human associated bacteria and some of the most abundant species have been linked to respiratory tract infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N D Buitrago
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares (C(2)TN), Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10, 2695-066 Bobadela-LRS, Portugal
| | - J Savdie
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares (C(2)TN), Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10, 2695-066 Bobadela-LRS, Portugal
| | - S M Almeida
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares (C(2)TN), Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10, 2695-066 Bobadela-LRS, Portugal.
| | - S Cabo Verde
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares (C(2)TN), Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10, 2695-066 Bobadela-LRS, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Grydaki N, Colbeck I, Mendes L, Eleftheriadis K, Whitby C. Bioaerosols in the Athens Metro: Metagenetic insights into the PM 10 microbiome in a naturally ventilated subway station. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 146:106186. [PMID: 33126062 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
To date, few studies have examined the aerosol microbial content in Metro transportation systems. Here we characterised the aerosol microbial abundance, diversity and composition in the Athens underground railway system. PM10 filter samples were collected from the naturally ventilated Athens Metro Line 3 station "Nomismatokopio". Quantitative PCR of the 16S rRNA gene and high throughput amplicon sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region was performed on DNA extracted from PM10 samples. Results showed that, despite the bacterial abundance (mean = 2.82 × 105 16S rRNA genes/m3 of air) being, on average, higher during day-time and weekdays, compared to night-time and weekends, respectively, the differences were not statistically significant. The average PM10 mass concentration on the platform was 107 μg/m3. However, there was no significant correlation between 16S rRNA gene abundance and overall PM10 levels. The Athens Metro air microbiome was mostly dominated by bacterial and fungal taxa of environmental origin (e.g. Paracoccus, Sphingomonas, Cladosporium, Mycosphaerella, Antrodia) with a lower contribution of human commensal bacteria (e.g. Corynebacterium, Staphylococcus). This study highlights the importance of both outdoor air and commuters as sources in shaping aerosol microbial communities. To our knowledge, this is the first study to characterise the mycobiome diversity in the air of a Metro environment based on amplicon sequencing of the ITS region. In conclusion, this study presents the first microbial characterisation of PM10 in the Athens Metro, contributing to the growing body of microbiome exploration within urban transit networks. Moreover, this study shows the vulnerability of public transport to airborne disease transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Grydaki
- School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ Essex, UK
| | - I Colbeck
- School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ Essex, UK
| | - L Mendes
- Institute of Nuclear & Radiological Sciences & Technology, Energy & Safety - Environmental Radioactivity Laboratory, N.C.S.R. "Demokritos", Aghia Paraskevi, 15310 Athens, Greece
| | - K Eleftheriadis
- Institute of Nuclear & Radiological Sciences & Technology, Energy & Safety - Environmental Radioactivity Laboratory, N.C.S.R. "Demokritos", Aghia Paraskevi, 15310 Athens, Greece
| | - C Whitby
- School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ Essex, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lou M, Liu S, Gu C, Hu H, Tang Z, Zhang Y, Xu C, Li F. The bioaerosols emitted from toilet and wastewater treatment plant: a literature review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:2509-2521. [PMID: 33098562 PMCID: PMC7585356 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-11297-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The aerosols harboring microorganisms and viruses released from the wastewater system into the air have greatly threatened the health and safety of human beings. The wastewater systems, including toilet and wastewater treatment plant (WWTP), are the major locations of epidemic infections due to the extensive sources of aerosols, as well as multifarious germs and microorganisms. Viruses and microorganisms may transport from both toilet and hospital into municipal pipes and subsequently into WWTP, which accounts for the main source of bioaerosols dispersed in the air of the wastewater system. This review aims to elaborate the generation, transmission, and diffusion processes of bioaerosols at toilet and WWTP. Moreover, the main factors affecting bioaerosol transmission and the corresponding prevention strategies for the airborne and inhaled bioaerosols are also discussed. Collectively, this review highlights the importance of managing bioaerosol occurrence in the wastewater system, which has aroused increasing concern from the public.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Lou
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Shuai Liu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Chunjie Gu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Huimin Hu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Zhengkun Tang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Yaopeng Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Chenye Xu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China.
- State Environmental Science and Engineering Centre for Pollution Treatment and Control in Textile Industry, Shanghai, 201620, China.
| | - Fang Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China.
- State Environmental Science and Engineering Centre for Pollution Treatment and Control in Textile Industry, Shanghai, 201620, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Stawicki SP, Jeanmonod R, Miller AC, Paladino L, Gaieski DF, Yaffee AQ, De Wulf A, Grover J, Papadimos TJ, Bloem C, Galwankar SC, Chauhan V, Firstenberg MS, Di Somma S, Jeanmonod D, Garg SM, Tucci V, Anderson HL, Fatimah L, Worlton TJ, Dubhashi SP, Glaze KS, Sinha S, Opara IN, Yellapu V, Kelkar D, El-Menyar A, Krishnan V, Venkataramanaiah S, Leyfman Y, Saoud Al Thani HA, WB Nanayakkara P, Nanda S, Cioè-Peña E, Sardesai I, Chandra S, Munasinghe A, Dutta V, Dal Ponte ST, Izurieta R, Asensio JA, Garg M. The 2019-2020 Novel Coronavirus (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) Pandemic: A Joint American College of Academic International Medicine-World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine Multidisciplinary COVID-19 Working Group Consensus Paper. J Glob Infect Dis 2020; 12:47-93. [PMID: 32773996 PMCID: PMC7384689 DOI: 10.4103/jgid.jgid_86_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 185] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Revised: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
What started as a cluster of patients with a mysterious respiratory illness in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, was later determined to be coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The pathogen severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a novel Betacoronavirus, was subsequently isolated as the causative agent. SARS-CoV-2 is transmitted by respiratory droplets and fomites and presents clinically with fever, fatigue, myalgias, conjunctivitis, anosmia, dysgeusia, sore throat, nasal congestion, cough, dyspnea, nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea. In most critical cases, symptoms can escalate into acute respiratory distress syndrome accompanied by a runaway inflammatory cytokine response and multiorgan failure. As of this article's publication date, COVID-19 has spread to approximately 200 countries and territories, with over 4.3 million infections and more than 290,000 deaths as it has escalated into a global pandemic. Public health concerns mount as the situation evolves with an increasing number of infection hotspots around the globe. New information about the virus is emerging just as rapidly. This has led to the prompt development of clinical patient risk stratification tools to aid in determining the need for testing, isolation, monitoring, ventilator support, and disposition. COVID-19 spread is rapid, including imported cases in travelers, cases among close contacts of known infected individuals, and community-acquired cases without a readily identifiable source of infection. Critical shortages of personal protective equipment and ventilators are compounding the stress on overburdened healthcare systems. The continued challenges of social distancing, containment, isolation, and surge capacity in already stressed hospitals, clinics, and emergency departments have led to a swell in technologically-assisted care delivery strategies, such as telemedicine and web-based triage. As the race to develop an effective vaccine intensifies, several clinical trials of antivirals and immune modulators are underway, though no reliable COVID-19-specific therapeutics (inclusive of some potentially effective single and multi-drug regimens) have been identified as of yet. With many nations and regions declaring a state of emergency, unprecedented quarantine, social distancing, and border closing efforts are underway. Implementation of social and physical isolation measures has caused sudden and profound economic hardship, with marked decreases in global trade and local small business activity alike, and full ramifications likely yet to be felt. Current state-of-science, mitigation strategies, possible therapies, ethical considerations for healthcare workers and policymakers, as well as lessons learned for this evolving global threat and the eventual return to a "new normal" are discussed in this article.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stanislaw P Stawicki
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA,COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA,Address for correspondence: Dr. Stanislaw P Stawicki, Department of Research and Innovation, St. Luke's University Health Network, 801 Ostrum Street, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA. E-mail:
| | - Rebecca Jeanmonod
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA,COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Andrew C Miller
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA
| | - Lorenzo Paladino
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA,COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - David F Gaieski
- COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Anna Q Yaffee
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA
| | - Annelies De Wulf
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA
| | - Joydeep Grover
- COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Thomas J. Papadimos
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA
| | - Christina Bloem
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA
| | - Sagar C Galwankar
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA,COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Vivek Chauhan
- COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Michael S. Firstenberg
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA,COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Salvatore Di Somma
- COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Donald Jeanmonod
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA,COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Sona M Garg
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA
| | - Veronica Tucci
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA
| | - Harry L Anderson
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA,COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Lateef Fatimah
- COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Tamara J Worlton
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA
| | | | - Krystal S Glaze
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA
| | - Sagar Sinha
- COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Ijeoma Nnodim Opara
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA
| | - Vikas Yellapu
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA
| | - Dhanashree Kelkar
- COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Ayman El-Menyar
- COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Vimal Krishnan
- COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - S Venkataramanaiah
- COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Yan Leyfman
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA
| | | | | | - Sudip Nanda
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA
| | - Eric Cioè-Peña
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA
| | - Indrani Sardesai
- COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Shruti Chandra
- COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Aruna Munasinghe
- COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Vibha Dutta
- COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Silvana Teixeira Dal Ponte
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA
| | - Ricardo Izurieta
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA
| | - Juan A Asensio
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA,COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| | - Manish Garg
- Working Group on International Health Security, The American College of Academic International Academic Medicine, USA,COVID-19 Pandemic Taskforce, World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Beswick A, Bailey C, Crook B, Crouch D, Farrant J, Frost G, Stagg S. Performance Testing of a Venturi-Based Backpack Spray Decontamination System. APPLIED BIOSAFETY 2020; 25:28-40. [PMID: 36033381 PMCID: PMC9134619 DOI: 10.1177/1535676019898299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Introduction The performance of 2 disinfectant chemicals, peracetic acid (PAA) and hypochlorous acid (HOCl), was evaluated using a Venturi-nozzle-based light decontamination system (LDS) for delivery. The atomization equipment combined low-pressure air and disinfectant via a handheld lance, producing a fine, dense aerosol. A range of microorganisms, including Bacillus cereus and Bacillus anthracis (Vollum) spores, were used as test challenges to evaluate chemicals and equipment. Methods The tests undertaken included assessments over fixed and variable exposure times, use of multiple surface materials, and a live agent challenge. Results Over a fixed-time exposure of 60 minutes, aerosolized PAA gave 7- to 8-log reductions of all test challenges, but HOCl was less effective. Material tests showed extensive kill on most surfaces using PAA (≥6-log kill), but HOCl showed more variation (4- to 6-log). Testing using B. anthracis showed measurable PAA induced spore kill inside 5 minutes and >6-log kill at 5 minutes or over. HOCl was less effective. Discussion The results demonstrate the importance of testing decontamination systems against a range of relevant microbiological challenges. Disinfectant efficacy may vary depending on product choice, types of challenge microorganisms, and their position in a treated area. The most effective disinfectants demonstrate biocidal efficacy despite these factors. Conclusion The data confirmed PAA as an effective disinfectant capable of rapidly killing a range of microorganisms, including spores. HOCl was less effective. The LDS system successfully delivered PAA and HOCl over a wide area and could be suitable for a range of frontline biosecurity applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alan Beswick
- Health and Safety Executive, Buxton, Derbyshire, UK
| | | | - Brian Crook
- Health and Safety Executive, Buxton, Derbyshire, UK
| | - David Crouch
- 3M™ United Kingdom PLC, Skelmersdale, Lancashire, UK
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Coleman KK, Nguyen TT, Yadana S, Hansen-Estruch C, Lindsley WG, Gray GC. Bioaerosol Sampling for Respiratory Viruses in Singapore's Mass Rapid Transit Network. Sci Rep 2018; 8:17476. [PMID: 30504827 PMCID: PMC6269463 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-35896-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
As a leading global city with a high population density, Singapore is at risk for the introduction of novel biological threats. This risk has been recently reinforced by human epidemics in Singapore of SARS coronavirus, 2009 pandemic H1N1 influenza A virus, and enterovirus 71. Other major threats to Singapore include MERS-coronavirus and various avian and swine influenza viruses. The ability to quickly identify and robustly track such threats to initiate an early emergency response remains a significant challenge. In an effort to enhance respiratory virus surveillance in Singapore, our team conducted a pilot study employing a noninvasive bioaerosol sampling method to detect respiratory viruses in Singapore's Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) network. Over a period of 52 weeks, 89 aerosol samples were collected during peak MRT ridership hours. Nine (10%) tested positive for adenovirus, four (4.5%) tested positive for respiratory syncytial virus type A, and one (1%) tested positive for influenza A virus using real-time RT-PCR/PCR. To our knowledge, this is the first time molecular evidence for any infectious respiratory agent has been collected from Singapore's MRT. Our pilot study data support the possibility of employing bioaerosol samplers in crowded public spaces to noninvasively monitor for respiratory viruses circulating in communities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristen K Coleman
- Emerging Infectious Diseases Programme, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Tham T Nguyen
- Emerging Infectious Diseases Programme, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Su Yadana
- Emerging Infectious Diseases Programme, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - William G Lindsley
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Gregory C Gray
- Emerging Infectious Diseases Programme, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine and Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Global Health Research Center, Duke Kunshan University, Kunshan, China
| |
Collapse
|