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Sankaewthong S, Miyata K, Horanont T, Xie H, Karnjana J. Mimosa Kinetic Façade: Bio-Inspired Ventilation Leveraging the Mimosa Pudica Mechanism for Enhanced Indoor Air Quality. Biomimetics (Basel) 2023; 8:603. [PMID: 38132542 PMCID: PMC10742052 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics8080603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In light of pressing global health concerns, the significance of indoor air quality in densely populated structures has been emphasized. This research introduces the Mimosa kinetic façade, an innovative design inspired by the adaptive responsiveness of the Mimosa plant to environmental stimuli. Traditional static architectural façades often hinder natural ventilation, leading to diminished air quality with potential health and cognitive repercussions. The Mimosa kinetic façade addresses these challenges by enhancing effective airflow and facilitating the removal of airborne contaminants. This study evaluates the façade's impact on quality of life and its aesthetic contribution to architectural beauty, utilizing the biomimicry design spiral for a nature-inspired approach. Computational simulations and physical tests were conducted to assess the ventilation capacities of various façade systems, with a particular focus on settings in Bangkok, Thailand. The study revealed that kinetic façades, especially certain patterns, provided superior ventilation compared to static ones. Some patterns prioritized ventilation, while others optimized human comfort during extended stays. Notably, the most effective patterns of the kinetic façade inspired by the Mimosa demonstrated a high air velocity reaching up to 12 m/s, in contrast to the peak of 2.50 m/s in single-sided façades (traditional façades). This highlights the kinetic façade's potential to rapidly expel airborne particles from indoor spaces, outperforming traditional façades. The findings underscore the potential of specific kinetic façade patterns in enhancing indoor air quality and human comfort, indicating a promising future for kinetic façades in architectural design. This study aims to achieve an optimal balance between indoor air quality and human comfort, although challenges remain in perfecting this equilibrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukhum Sankaewthong
- Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Nomi 923-1211, Ishikawa, Japan;
- School of Information, Computer and Communication Technology, Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology, Thammasat University, Bangkok 10200, Pathumthani, Thailand;
| | - Kazunori Miyata
- Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Nomi 923-1211, Ishikawa, Japan;
| | - Teerayut Horanont
- School of Information, Computer and Communication Technology, Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology, Thammasat University, Bangkok 10200, Pathumthani, Thailand;
| | - Haoran Xie
- Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Nomi 923-1211, Ishikawa, Japan;
| | - Jessada Karnjana
- National Electronics and Computer Technology Centre (NECTEC), Bangkok 10400, Pathumthani, Thailand;
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Saadatjoo P, Badamchizadeh P, Mahdavinejad M. Towards the new generation of courtyard buildings as a healthy living concept for post-pandemic era. SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND SOCIETY 2023; 97:104726. [PMID: 37360283 PMCID: PMC10284431 DOI: 10.1016/j.scs.2023.104726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 has laid a context for holistic research and practical approaches towards health issues in buildings. This study focuses on one particular residential building type, which is a combination of a modern apartment building with private double-oriented terraces, and a traditional courtyard building. This principle improves several aspects of healthy buildings and contributes to address indoor-outdoor interactions, daylighting, and the use of natural ventilation. The purpose of this study is to determine the factors underlying a particular type of semi-outdoor space within building forms and to explain their microclimatic behavior in buildings. One solid model and twelve porous apartment buildings with different numbers of porous sides, and terrace widths are evaluated using computational fluid dynamics. The k-ε turbulence model is adapted to simulate airflow in and around a four-story building. CFD simulations were validated against the wind-tunnel measurements. Investigations indicated that increasing the number of porous sides reduces the internal mean and maximum ages of air by -15.75 and -36.84%, which means improved ventilation performance. However, it leaves a negative trace on ventilation of the semi-outdoor spaces. Meanwhile, increasing the width of the terraces enhances the ventilation performance by reducing the mean age of air in units, courtyards, and terraces by -20%, -20%, and -9%, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paria Saadatjoo
- Department of Architecture, Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Parinaz Badamchizadeh
- Department of Architecture, Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
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3
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The impact of COVID-19 on visitors' wayfinding within healthcare centers. AIN SHAMS ENGINEERING JOURNAL 2023; 14. [PMCID: PMC9448710 DOI: 10.1016/j.asej.2022.101957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The novel COVID-19 pandemic has caused substantial calamities in developing countries such as Iran, which initially suffered from inadequate infrastructure essential for the pandemic control. Due to the ongoing development of this malady, healthcare centers are recognized as one of the most significant hotspots within public settings so they are directly pertinent to the physical and mental health of visitors. The main objective for conducting the present study is to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the visitors' wayfinding procedure within Qa'em hospital, located in Rasht, northern Iran. The adopted methodology in the present study is based on a comparison between the collected data regarding the wayfinding behavior of visitors before and after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic using mixed methods, namely Space Syntax, gate counting, people following, and semi-structured interviews. The obtained empirical results displayed that visitors were significantly confused and hesitant throughout their wayfinding process after the outbreak of the pandemic. Indeed, spatial accessibility and legibility were not found to be adequate for facilitating the wayfinding of the visitors. Moreover, the requirements for the reconfiguration of furniture layout in the waiting areas, according to the underlying notions of social distancing, became conspicuous as the pragmatic implications for the post-pandemic healthcare centers.
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Song H, Dong Y, Yang J, Zhang X, Nie X, Fan Y. Concentration Characteristics and Correlations with Other Pollutants of Atmospheric Particulate Matter as Affected by Relevant Policies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1051. [PMID: 36673805 PMCID: PMC9858673 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
With the increase in global environmental pollution, it is important to understand the concentration characteristics and correlations with other pollutants of atmospheric particulate matter as affected by relevant policies. The data presented in this paper were obtained at monitoring stations in Xi'an, China, in the years from 2016 to 2020, and the spatial distribution characteristics of the mass and quantity concentrations of particulate matter in the atmosphere, as well as its correlation with other pollutants, were analyzed in depth. The results showed that the annual average concentrations of PM10 and PM2.5 decreased year by year from 2016 to 2020. The annual concentrations of PM2.5 decreased by 20.3 μg/m3, and the annual concentrations of PM10 decreased by 47.3 μg/m3. The days with concentrations of PM10 exceeding the standards decreased by 82 days, with a decrease of 66.7%. The days with concentrations of PM2.5 exceeding the standards decreased by 40 days, with a decrease of 35.4%. The concentration values of PM10 and PM2.5 were roughly consistent with the monthly and daily trends. The change in monthly concentrations was U-shaped, and the change in daily concentrations showed a double-peak behavior. The highest concentrations of particulate matter appeared at about 8:00~9:00 am and 11:00 pm, and they were greatly affected by human activity. The proportion of particles of 0~1.0 μm decreased by 1.94%, and the proportion of particles of 0~2.5 μm decreased by 2.00% from 2016 to 2020. A multivariate linear regression model to calculate the concentrations of the pollutants was established. This study provides a reference for the comprehensive analysis and control of air pollutants in Xi'an and even worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Song
- School of Management, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China
| | - Yuhang Dong
- School of Management, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China
| | - Jiayu Yang
- School of Management, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- School of Resources Engineering, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China
| | - Xingxin Nie
- School of Resources Engineering, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China
| | - Yuesheng Fan
- School of Building Services Science and Engineering, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China
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5
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Torresin S, Ratcliffe E, Aletta F, Albatici R, Babich F, Oberman T, Kang J. The actual and ideal indoor soundscape for work, relaxation, physical and sexual activity at home: A case study during the COVID-19 lockdown in London. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1038303. [PMID: 36643696 PMCID: PMC9835560 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1038303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The period of home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic made the importance of a high-quality surrounding environment even more evident than before. Several studies have been carried out to assess the (negative) impacts of noise on annoyance, particularly whilst working from home (WFH). The present study takes a step further by (1) investigating the positive and negative impacts of the "actual" acoustic environment on a range of activities, i.e., WFH, relaxation, physical, and sexual activities, and (2) identifying the characteristics of an "ideal" indoor soundscape. The study is based on the qualitative analysis of verbal descriptions collected from open-ended questions included in a survey administered in January 2021 to 464 respondents living in London, during the COVID-19 lockdown. The range of impacts in the actual scenario varied from no effect on task execution, to disruption, distraction, concern of disturbing others or being heard. Positive impacts included support of concentration, relaxation, motivation, freedom of sound expression, feeling of being connected to the surroundings and comforted by the presence of others, according to mechanisms described in the study. Negative appraisal could trigger coping strategies (e.g., controlling windows, playing music, wearing headphones) and behavioural changes (e.g., lowering the volume of the voice or music, muting oneself during call, changing workout type) that could in turn limit or enhance the freedom of behaviour, affect or foster wellbeing. Negative impacts were most frequently reported on WFH (by 55% of the participants), followed by relaxation activities (40.6%), sexual activities (30.1%), and home workout (20.1%). The ideal soundscape was described as a quiet, well-sound insulated environment, which guarantees access to positive sounds (i.e., natural sounds, music, urban background), thus resulting in privacy, intimacy, and a place where to express themselves without noise-related constraints. The study complements literature findings on housing design directions in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, by providing further evidence on the impacts of poor sound insulation at home, the potential benefits of nature-based solutions for positive indoor soundscapes, and opportunities for an activity-based design of domestic environments, inclusive of a broader set of home uses and household compositions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Torresin
- Institute for Renewable Energy – Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
- UCL Institute for Environmental Design and Engineering, The Bartlett, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Eleanor Ratcliffe
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Aletta
- UCL Institute for Environmental Design and Engineering, The Bartlett, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rossano Albatici
- Department of Civil, Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | | | - Tin Oberman
- UCL Institute for Environmental Design and Engineering, The Bartlett, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jian Kang
- UCL Institute for Environmental Design and Engineering, The Bartlett, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Becerik-Gerber B, Lucas G, Aryal A, Awada M, Bergés M, Billington S, Boric-Lubecke O, Ghahramani A, Heydarian A, Höelscher C, Jazizadeh F, Khan A, Langevin J, Liu R, Marks F, Mauriello ML, Murnane E, Noh H, Pritoni M, Roll S, Schaumann D, Seyedrezaei M, Taylor JE, Zhao J, Zhu R. The field of human building interaction for convergent research and innovation for intelligent built environments. Sci Rep 2022; 12:22092. [PMID: 36543830 PMCID: PMC9769481 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25047-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Human-Building Interaction (HBI) is a convergent field that represents the growing complexities of the dynamic interplay between human experience and intelligence within built environments. This paper provides core definitions, research dimensions, and an overall vision for the future of HBI as developed through consensus among 25 interdisciplinary experts in a series of facilitated workshops. Three primary areas contribute to and require attention in HBI research: humans (human experiences, performance, and well-being), buildings (building design and operations), and technologies (sensing, inference, and awareness). Three critical interdisciplinary research domains intersect these areas: control systems and decision making, trust and collaboration, and modeling and simulation. Finally, at the core, it is vital for HBI research to center on and support equity, privacy, and sustainability. Compelling research questions are posed for each primary area, research domain, and core principle. State-of-the-art methods used in HBI studies are discussed, and examples of original research are offered to illustrate opportunities for the advancement of HBI research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burcin Becerik-Gerber
- grid.42505.360000 0001 2156 6853Sonny Astani Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Gale Lucas
- grid.42505.360000 0001 2156 6853Institute for Creative Technologies, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Ashrant Aryal
- grid.264756.40000 0004 4687 2082Department of Construction Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, USA
| | - Mohamad Awada
- grid.42505.360000 0001 2156 6853Sonny Astani Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Mario Bergés
- grid.147455.60000 0001 2097 0344Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Sarah Billington
- grid.168010.e0000000419368956Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, USA
| | - Olga Boric-Lubecke
- grid.410445.00000 0001 2188 0957Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, USA
| | - Ali Ghahramani
- grid.4280.e0000 0001 2180 6431Department of the Built Environment, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Arsalan Heydarian
- grid.27755.320000 0000 9136 933XDepartment of Engineering Systems and Environment, Link Lab, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA
| | - Christoph Höelscher
- grid.5801.c0000 0001 2156 2780Department of Humanities, Social and Political Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland ,grid.514054.10000 0004 9450 5164Future Cities Laboratory Global, Singapore ETH Centre, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Farrokh Jazizadeh
- grid.438526.e0000 0001 0694 4940Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, USA
| | - Azam Khan
- Trax.Co, Toronto, Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jared Langevin
- grid.184769.50000 0001 2231 4551Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, USA
| | - Ruying Liu
- grid.42505.360000 0001 2156 6853Sonny Astani Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Frederick Marks
- grid.250671.70000 0001 0662 7144Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, USA
| | - Matthew Louis Mauriello
- grid.33489.350000 0001 0454 4791Department of Computer and Information Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, USA
| | - Elizabeth Murnane
- grid.254880.30000 0001 2179 2404Thayer School of Engineering, Dartmouth College, Hanover, USA
| | - Haeyoung Noh
- grid.168010.e0000000419368956Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, USA
| | - Marco Pritoni
- grid.184769.50000 0001 2231 4551Building Technology and Urban Systems Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, USA
| | - Shawn Roll
- grid.42505.360000 0001 2156 6853Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Davide Schaumann
- grid.6451.60000000121102151Faculty of Architecture and Town Planning, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Mirmahdi Seyedrezaei
- grid.42505.360000 0001 2156 6853Sonny Astani Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - John E. Taylor
- grid.213917.f0000 0001 2097 4943School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, USA
| | - Jie Zhao
- Delos Labs, Delos, USA ,grid.25879.310000 0004 1936 8972Weitzman School of Design, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Runhe Zhu
- grid.42505.360000 0001 2156 6853Sonny Astani Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
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Zhang X, Sun H, Li K, Nie X, Fan Y, Wang H, Ma J. Comparison of the Application of Three Methods for the Determination of Outdoor PM 2.5 Design Concentrations for Fresh Air Filtration Systems in China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph192416537. [PMID: 36554417 PMCID: PMC9779298 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
With the increasing popularity of fresh-air filtration systems, the methods of determining the outdoor PM2.5 design concentration have become more important. However, the monitoring of atmospheric fine particles in China started relatively late, and there are relatively few cities with complete data, with obvious regional differences, which led to many problems in the selection of air filters for fresh-air filtration systems. In this paper, three methods of determining outdoor PM2.5 design concentration were analyzed using the daily average concentration of PM2.5 in 31 provincial capital cities from 2016 to 2020. Six typical cities in different regions were also taken as examples. The advantages and disadvantages of the three existing statistical methods were compared and analyzed, as well as the corresponding differences in the selection of outdoor PM2.5 concentration value on the filter systems. The results showed that the method of mathematical induction was more accurate and reasonable for the calculation of outdoor PM2.5 design concentrations. The local outdoor PM2.5 design concentration could be quickly calculated using the recommended coefficient K and annual average PM2.5 concentration of the region, especially for small and medium-sized cities without monitoring data. However, the recommended coefficient K should be provided based on the specific region, and should be divided into values for strict conditions and normal conditions during use. This would provide a simple and effective way to select the correct air filters for practical engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhang
- School of Resources Engineering, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China
| | - Hao Sun
- School of Resources Engineering, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China
| | - Kaipeng Li
- School of Resources Engineering, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China
| | - Xingxin Nie
- School of Resources Engineering, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China
| | - Yuesheng Fan
- School of Building Services Science and Engineering, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China
| | - Huan Wang
- School of Building Services Science and Engineering, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China
| | - Jingyao Ma
- School of Resources Engineering, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an 710055, China
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Hu CP, Cheng JH. Challenges and Actions of IAQ under COVID-19: A Survey of Taiwanese People's Perception of Epidemic Prevention and Indoor Places Certification. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14942. [PMID: 36429667 PMCID: PMC9690431 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192214942] [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: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 is still spreading around the world, and the pandemic has awakened the public's attention to environmental cleanliness. This article used an online survey for people living in Taiwan, and a total of 1206 valid questionnaires were collected in October 2021. According to the survey results of Taiwanese people's awareness of and needs for epidemic prevention and IAQ, 94.4% of the respondents agreed that maintaining IAQ during the COVID-19 pandemic is very important for prevention. In addition, 95.4% of them also pointed out that the "Clean and Safe" mark certification should be promoted in public places. Finally, this article also uses hierarchical regression to analyze public perceptions of seven indoor places, including elevators, restaurants, dwellings, offices, gyms, kindergartens, and long-term care centers. The results found that: (1) from the perspective of epidemic prevention, improving IAQ through ventilation strategies could prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, and (2) from the perspective of promotion certification, the elevators, restaurants and offices could establish strengthened IAQ, dwellings, gyms and long-term care centers should emphasize the display of IAQ information in entrances and exits, and kindergartens should focus on increasing safety and reducing infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Pei Hu
- Department of Public Administration, Chung Hua University, Hsinchu 30012, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Hsiung Cheng
- Taiwan Indoor Environment Quality Management Association, New Taipei City 23555, Taiwan
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9
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Marmo R, Pascale F, Diana L, Sicignano E, Polverino F. Lessons learnt for enhancing hospital resilience to pandemics: A qualitative analysis from Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DISASTER RISK REDUCTION : IJDRR 2022; 81:103265. [PMID: 36061241 PMCID: PMC9419438 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdrr.2022.103265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has outlined the need to strengthen the resilience of healthcare systems. It has cost millions of human lives and has had indirect health impacts too. Hospital buildings have undergone extensive modifications and adaptations to ensure infection control and prevention measures, and, as it is happened following past epidemics, the COVID-19 experience might change the design of hospital buildings in the future. This paper aims to capitalise on the knowledge developed by the stakeholders directly involved with the hospital response during the pandemic to generate new evidence that will enhance resilience of hospital buildings to pandemics. The research adopted qualitative research methods, namely literature review and interviews with Italian experts including doctors and facility managers to collect data which were analysed through a thematic analysis. The findings include the identification of new needs for hospital buildings and the related actions to be taken or already performed at hospital building and service level which are viable for long term implementation and are aimed at improving hospital resilience to pandemics. The results specify how to improve resilience by means of structural modifications (e.g. placing filter zones among different wards, ensuring the presence of airborne infection isolation rooms at least in the emergency departments), technological changes (e.g. oversizing capacity such as medical gases, information technology improvement for delivering healthcare services remotely), and operational measures (e.g. assessing the risk of infection before admission, dividing acute-care from low-care assets). The needs discussed in this paper substantiate the urge to renovate the Italian healthcare infrastructures and they can be considered useful elements of knowledge for enhancing hospital resilience to pandemics in the extended and in the post-COVID-19 era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Marmo
- Department of Civil Engineering, University of Salerno, 84084, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Federica Pascale
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Anglia Ruskin University, CM1 1SQ, Chelmsford, UK
| | - Lorenzo Diana
- Department of Civil, Building and Environmental Engineering, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Enrico Sicignano
- Department of Civil Engineering, University of Salerno, 84084, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Francesco Polverino
- Department of Civil, Building and Environmental Engineering, University of Naples "Federico II", 80138, Naples, Italy
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10
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Vergerio G, Becchio C. Pursuing occupants' health and well-being in building management: Definition of new metrics based on indoor air parameters. BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT 2022; 223:109447. [PMID: 35937084 PMCID: PMC9339165 DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2022.109447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The spread of COVID-19 has affected the lives of millions of people. Pandemic has made people more sensitive to health issues. In particular, the growing concern for the virus spread in confined spaces has promoted the necessity to improve indoor air quality. Literature is stressing how buildings must be designed and operated pursuing occupants' health and well-being, with a particular attention for indoor air parameters. This poses the challenge of monitoring and assessing these aspects through proper metrics. In this paper the approach towards a multi-step assessment procedure embedding in buildings assessment health and well-being related variables and indicators is elaborated. They are intended to inform a building manager of the potential influence of air conditions on human health and well-being. Moreover, a set of monetary metrics (i.e., impacts) is proposed to translate energy and indoor air related building performances into euros, putting the basis for a comprehensive economic evaluation. The application of the set of proposed metrics to an Italian hotel (i.e., Italian pilot of H2020 MOBISTYLE project), enabled to map some indoor air conditions causing health concerns, and to identify clusters of guests with best and worst indoor air conditions, to be targeted by new management strategies. Despite case study specific limitations, the application exemplified how the methodology can expand the traditional energy-based performance assessment for building management towards indoor air domain and the related economic impacts, with implication on results in terms of overall economic performance of the building from both a private and public perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Vergerio
- TEBE-IEEM Research Group, Energy Department, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi, 24, 10129, Turin, Italy
| | - Cristina Becchio
- TEBE-IEEM Research Group, Energy Department, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi, 24, 10129, Turin, Italy
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11
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Edwin M, Nair MS, Sekhar SJ. A comprehensive review on impacts of COVID-19 in food preservation and cold chain: An approach towards implementing green energy technologies. ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRESS & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY 2022; 41:e13820. [PMID: 35573820 PMCID: PMC9087429 DOI: 10.1002/ep.13820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Technology plays a crucial role in fighting COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic impacts all facets of human life, including food preservation and supply chain. The changes in the food processing and preservation brings changes to the global food choice. In the age of the COVID-19 pandemic scare, the present article explores the framework for food security. It offers insights into food security with a focus on renewable energy to help rural farmers, besides, exploring the possibility of the diffusion of COVID-19 via food chain. This article indicates that the implementation of stand-alone and hybrid renewable energy systems is relatively fresh in food processing, preservation, and transportation chain. Green food preservation may be a revolutionary idea to address the challenges of the future to secure both producers and customers, besides, to improve the attractiveness of the ecological, economic, and creative sectors. This study reveals that the transformation can be achieved from a technological and economic point of view with the key steps to fulfill this goal in a cost-effective manner. The observation also shows a suitable methodology to identify the best energy, economic and environmental scenario towards fulfilling the energy needs in isolated areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Edwin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College of Engineering, NagercoilAnna University Constituent CollegeNagercoilIndia
| | - M. Saranya Nair
- School of Electronics EngineeringVellore Institute of Technology, Chennai CampusChennaiIndia
| | - S. Joseph Sekhar
- Department of Engineering, Shinas College of TechnologyUniversity of Technology and Applied SciencesShinasOman
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12
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Tleuken A, Turkyilmaz A, Sovetbek M, Durdyev S, Guney M, Tokazhanov G, Wiechetek L, Pastuszak Z, Draghici A, Boatca ME, Dermol V, Trunk N, Tokbolat S, Dolidze T, Yola L, Avcu E, Kim J, Karaca F. Effects of the residential built environment on remote work productivity and satisfaction during COVID-19 lockdowns: An analysis of workers' perceptions. BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT 2022; 219:109234. [PMID: 35645453 PMCID: PMC9131446 DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2022.109234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic has forced people to stay home and switch to the remote working mode, which - reportedly - affect job satisfaction and productivity. The present study investigates the relationship between the residential environment and worker's job satisfaction and productivity in the remote working mode during the COVID-19 pandemic. A hypothetical structural equation model (SEM) of the influencing factors is constructed based on a literature review and experts' opinions. A survey-based respondents' opinions (n = 2276) were then used to test and analyze the model. The model results reveal that a residential built environment has an indirect effect on both remote work satisfaction and productivity. However, among all the factors, comfortable space (separate space and ergonomic furniture) is found to be the most important. This study presents the importance of adopting a residential built environment to respond to a crisis like a pandemic in achieving the desired comfort level of remote work. Although this study provides a holistic approach, it also proposes a base for the future country-specific analysis by providing some possible countries' differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aidana Tleuken
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering and Digital Sciences, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Av., Nur-Sultan, 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Ali Turkyilmaz
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering and Digital Sciences, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Av., Nur-Sultan, 010000, Kazakhstan
- Master of Engineering Management Program, Nazarbayev University, Nur-Sultan, 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Magzhan Sovetbek
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering and Digital Sciences, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Av., Nur-Sultan, 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Serdar Durdyev
- Department of Architectural and Engineering Studies, Ara Institute of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Mert Guney
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering and Digital Sciences, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Av., Nur-Sultan, 010000, Kazakhstan
- The Environment & Resource Efficiency Cluster (EREC), Nazarbayev University, Nur-Sultan, 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Galym Tokazhanov
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering and Digital Sciences, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Av., Nur-Sultan, 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Lukasz Wiechetek
- Department of Information Systems and Logistics, Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, Lublin, 5 20-031, Poland
| | - Zbigniew Pastuszak
- Department of Information Systems and Logistics, Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, Lublin, 5 20-031, Poland
| | - Anca Draghici
- Department of Management, Faculty of Management in Production and Transportation, Politehnica University of Timisoara, 14 Remus str., Timisoara, 300191, Romania
| | - Maria Elena Boatca
- Department of Management, Faculty of Management in Production and Transportation, Politehnica University of Timisoara, 14 Remus str., Timisoara, 300191, Romania
| | - Valerij Dermol
- International School for Social and Business Studies, Celje, 3000, Slovenia
| | - Nada Trunk
- International School for Social and Business Studies, Celje, 3000, Slovenia
- University of Primorska, Koper, 6000, Slovenia
| | - Serik Tokbolat
- School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, NG1 4FQ, UK
| | - Tamar Dolidze
- Batumi State Maritime Academy, Batumi, 6010, Georgia
| | - Lin Yola
- School of Strategic and Global Studies, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, 10430, Indonesia
| | - Egemen Avcu
- The Environment & Resource Efficiency Cluster (EREC), Nazarbayev University, Nur-Sultan, 010000, Kazakhstan
- Ford Otosan Ihsaniye Automotive Vocational School, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, 41650, Turkey
| | - Jong Kim
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering and Digital Sciences, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Av., Nur-Sultan, 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Ferhat Karaca
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering and Digital Sciences, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Av., Nur-Sultan, 010000, Kazakhstan
- The Environment & Resource Efficiency Cluster (EREC), Nazarbayev University, Nur-Sultan, 010000, Kazakhstan
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13
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Risk Assessment and Prevention Strategy of Virus Infection in the Context of University Resumption. BUILDINGS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/buildings12060806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The risk assessment system of virus infection probability and the prevention measures for virus transmission are keys to controlling epidemics. In the context of university resumption, this study identifies the risk elements in terms of the mechanism of virus transmission. The effect of two recognized effective measures, i.e., occupancy constraints and ventilation intervention, on the infection risk are quantified and compared using the improved Wells–Riley model. Considering the priority of these two measures, the controlling quantity are determined, and the optimal schemes are proposed based on the targeted infection risk. The results show that the effect of reducing infection risk by constraining occupancy within 25% of all public campus buildings is better than that achieved by increasing the ventilation rate alone. If the ventilation system of the building type is operated by occupiers, it is a priority to prevent the risk of virus infection by restricting occupancy and ensuring the distance between occupants, while if the ventilation system of the building type is centrally controlled, it is a priority to increase the ventilation rate and then limit the occupancy rate during peak periods to 75%.
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14
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Danquah E, Asiamah N. Associations between physical work environment, workplace support for health, and presenteeism: a COVID-19 context. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2022; 95:1807-1816. [PMID: 35570224 PMCID: PMC9108018 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-022-01877-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Objective Presenteeism has, in a larger sense, been viewed as a negative behaviour, although a limited body of studies suggests and reports its positive implications in an organizational context. This study assessed the association between the physical work environment (PWE) and presenteeism as well as the moderating influence of workplace support for health (WSH) on this relationship. Methods This study adopted the cross-sectional design alongside a sensitivity analysis and techniques against common methods bias. The study population was employees of private and public organizations in Accra, Ghana. A total of 590 employees participated in the study and hierarchical linear regression was used to present the results. Results PWE had a positive relationship with presenteeism (β = 0.15; t = 3.04; p < 0.05), which means that higher presenteeism was associated with larger PWE scores. WSH positively moderated the relationship between PWE and presenteeism (β = 0.23; t = 4.84; p < 0.001). Conclusions Organizations with more satisfactory work environments may serve as preferred protective places for employees during a pandemic, more so within organizations with higher WSH. Interventions rolled out to improve PWE and to provide WSH can attenuate the potential negative influences of presenteeism on individual health and organizational productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emelia Danquah
- Department of Procurement and Supply Science, Koforidua Technical University, Koforidua, Eastern Region Ghana
- Department of Health Promotion, Africa Centre for Epidemiology, P. O. Box AN 16284, Accra Ghana, Accra North, Ghana
| | - Nestor Asiamah
- Division of Interdisciplinary Research and Practice, School of Health and Social Care, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ UK
- Department of Health Promotion, Africa Centre for Epidemiology, P. O. Box AN 16284, Accra Ghana, Accra North, Ghana
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15
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Su Y, Cheng H, Wang Z, Wang L. Impacts of the COVID-19 lockdown on building energy consumption and indoor environment: A case study in Dalian, China. ENERGY AND BUILDINGS 2022; 263:112055. [PMID: 35370351 PMCID: PMC8959662 DOI: 10.1016/j.enbuild.2022.112055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Restricting social distancing is an effective means of controlling the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in a sharp drop in the utilization of commercial buildings. However, the specific changes in the operating parameters are not clear. This study aims to quantify the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns on commercial building energy consumption and the indoor environment, including correlation analysis. A large green commercial building in Dalian, China's only country to experience five lockdowns, has been chosen. We compared the performance during the lockdown to the same period last year. The study found that the first lockdown caused a maximum 63.5% drop in monthly energy consumption, and the second lockdown was 55.2%. The energy consumption per unit area in 2020 dropped by 55.4% compared with 2019. In addition, during the lockdown, the compliance rate of indoor thermal environment increased by 34.7%, and indoor air quality was 9.5%. These findings could partly explain the short-term and far-reaching effects of the lockdown on the operating parameters of large commercial buildings. Humans are likely to coexist with COVID-19 for a long time, and commercial buildings have to adapt to new energy and health demands. Effective management strategies need to be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Su
- School of Architecture & Fine Art, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Haoyuan Cheng
- School of Architecture & Fine Art, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, China
| | - Linwei Wang
- China Merchants Shekou Holdings Northeast Corporation, China
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16
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Zhenjing G, Chupradit S, Ku KY, Nassani AA, Haffar M. Impact of Employees' Workplace Environment on Employees' Performance: A Multi-Mediation Model. Front Public Health 2022; 10:890400. [PMID: 35646787 PMCID: PMC9136218 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.890400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined the impact of workplace environment on employee task performance under the mediating role of employee commitment and achievement-striving ability. For this purpose, data were collected from the academic staff under a cross-sectional research design, and they were approached through convenience sampling technique. As per recommendations of established sample size criteria, we distributed a sum of 420 questionnaires among the respondents. Among these distributed questionnaires, only 330 were received back. The returned questionnaires were checked for missing and incomplete responses and after discarding the missing responses useable responses were 314 which were used for the data analysis. Data had been analyzed through structural equation modeling (SEM) by using Smart PLS 3. The SEM was done based on measurement models and structural models. The results indicated that a positive work environment had the power to improve employee performance. Similarly, a positive work environment also improved the employee commitment level and achievement-striving ability significantly. Both employee commitment and achievement-striving ability also improved employee performance. While in the case of mediation, it had also been observed that workplace environment triggered employee commitment and employee achievement-striving ability which further improved employee performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gu Zhenjing
- Institute for Cultural Industries, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Supat Chupradit
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Kuo Yen Ku
- Program in Leisure Industry Management, Commercial College, Chinese Culture University, Taipei City, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: Kuo Yen Ku
| | - Abdelmohsen A. Nassani
- Department of Management, College of Business Administration, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Haffar
- Department of Management, Birmingham Business School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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17
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Bangwal D, Suyal J, Kumar R. Hotel building design, occupants' health and performance in response to COVID 19. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT 2022; 103:103212. [PMID: 35400787 PMCID: PMC8979788 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhm.2022.103212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
In the COVID-19 pandemic, the employee realized the importance of a healthy workplace. A healthy workplace provides natural protection against respiratory disease and reduces exposure to viruses. Therefore, the current COVID-19 pandemic should be a wake-up call to understand the importance of building design and a dress rehearsal for future challenges because building-based prevention and control measures have become one of the most significant ways of fighting against the epidemic. This study investigates the role of hotel building design in employee health and performance during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study covered the LEED-certified hotel building in India. The formulated Hypothesis was tested empirically by the structural equation modeling (SEM) for determining the potential of the hotel building design. It was obtained from the study that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the hotel building design of the hospitality industry had a more significant influence on employee performance, followed by employee health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Bangwal
- School of Business, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Energy acres, UPES, Kandoli, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248007, India
| | - Jyotsana Suyal
- UIPS, Uttranchal University, Prem Nagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248007, India
| | - Rupesh Kumar
- School of Business, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Energy acres, UPES, Kandoli, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248007, India
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18
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Analysis of the Energy Efficiency of Le Corbusier’s Dwellings: The Cité Frugès, an Opportunity to Reuse Garden Cities Designed for Healthy and Working Life. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14084537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This paper looks at the energy efficiency of the Cité Frugès in Pessac, designed in 1924 by Le Corbusier. Many of the innovations introduced by the Modern movement, such as flat roofs, large windows and solar protection elements, are still evident in the way architecture is carried out today. Most of these contributions were implemented in the Cité Frugès. The aim is to evaluate the architectural design criteria that most influenced the energy performance of Le Corbusier’s works, and to analyse the improvement that could be achieved by energy rehabilitation. The methodology used consisted of a systematised study of the five dwellings designed by Le Corbusier. For the modelling and calculation of their energy performance the “Líder–Calener unified tool” was used for evaluation, under the standards of compliance with European regulations for nearly zero energy consumption buildings. Energy parameters, such as thermal transmittance, solar gains and overall annual energy demand, were tested. The results obtained provide information on energy performance and allow for the analysis of possible energy refurbishment alternatives. The analysis of the results makes it possible to identify and qualitatively and quantitatively assess the limitations of the most relevant architectural and construction aspects in relation to energy efficiency and to draw up an energy map of the Cité Frugès in Pessac.
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19
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A Biophilic Design Approach for Improved Energy Performance in Retrofitting Residential Projects. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14073776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
The existing building stock is recognised as a major contributor to total energy consumption and related carbon emissions around the globe. There is increased attention on the retrofit of existing building stock, especially residential buildings, as a way of curbing energy consumption and carbon emissions. Within this context, human nature connectedness (HNC) has the potential of further amplifying the benefits of sustainable buildings both from an energy conservation practice and tangible improvements to users’ satisfaction, health, and wellbeing. This study attempts to show a case study of the potential of using HNC through the adoption of biophilic design principles to improve a residential building performance. A terrace house located in Sydney, NSW, was used as a case study and proposed retrofit scenarios were simulated with DesignBuilder® and Rhinoceros/Grasshopper with a view of improved daylighting, thermal comfort, and energy consumption. The building performance is improved in terms of daylighting, thermal comfort, and reduced energy consumption, additionally enhancing HNC.
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20
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Latest Trends in Pollutant Accumulations at Threatening Levels in Energy-Efficient Residential Buildings with and without Mechanical Ventilation: A Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063538. [PMID: 35329223 PMCID: PMC8951331 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Improving the energy efficiency of buildings is a major target in developed countries toward decreasing their energy consumption and CO2 emissions. To meet this target, a large number of countries have established energy codes that require buildings to be airtight. While such a retrofitting approach has improved health outcomes in areas with heavy traffic, it has worsened the health outcomes in Nordic countries and increased the risk of lung cancer in areas with high levels of radon emissions. This review highlights the importance of adapting the characteristics of energy-efficient residential buildings to the location, age, and health of inhabitants to guarantee healthy indoor pollutant levels. The implementation of mechanical ventilation in new energy-efficient buildings has solved some of these problems; however, for others, a decrease in the level of outdoor pollutants was still required in order to achieve a good indoor air quality. A good balance between the air exchange rate and the air humidity level (adapted to the location) is key to ensuring that exposure to the various pollutants that accumulate inside energy-efficient buildings is low enough to avoid affecting inhabitants′ health. Evidence of the protective effect of mechanical ventilation should be sought in dwellings where natural ventilation allows pollutants to accumulate to threatening levels. More studies should be carried out in African and Asian countries, which, due to their rapid urbanization, use massive volumes of unproven/unrated building materials for fast-track construction, which are frequent sources of formaldehyde and VOC emissions.
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21
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Abstract
China promptly took the leading step to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, producing the first scientific guidelines assuming health above energy consumption and significantly changing HVAC/AHU operation. The research intended to fulfill the gap by measuring the impact of the guidelines on energy use intensity, CO2 emissions, and energy operation costs related to workplaces. The guidelines are long-term sector and industry trends following occupants’ health and safety concerns, and today they are applied to nursing homes. The research extended the study to post-COVID-19 scenarios by crossing those settings with published reports on telework predictions. The methodology resorts to Building Energy Simulation software to assess the Chinese standard large office building on 8 climate zones and 17 subzones between pre- and post-COVID-19 scenarios under those guidelines. The outcomes suggest an upward trend in energy use intensity (11.70–12.46%), CO2 emissions (11.13–11.76%), and costs (9.37–9.89%) for buildings located in “warm/mixed” to “subarctic” climates, especially in colder regions with high heating demands. On the other hand, the figures for “very hot” to “hot/warm” climates lower the energy use intensity (14.76–15.47%), CO2 emissions (9%), and costs (9.64–9.77%).
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22
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Practitioners’ Perspective on the Prevalent Water Quality Management Practices for Legionella Control in Large Buildings in the United States. WATER 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/w14040663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Managing building water systems is complicated by the need to maintain hot water temperatures high enough to control the growth of Legionella spp. while minimizing the risk of scalding. This study assessed water quality management practices in large buildings in the United States. Surveys conducted with building water quality managers found that more than 85% of buildings have hot water temperatures that are consistent with scald risk mitigation guidelines (i.e., <122 °F/50 °C). However, nearly two thirds and three quarters of buildings do not comply with the common temperature guidance for opportunistic pathogen control, i.e., water heater setpoint > 140 °F (60 °C) and recirculation loop > 122 °F (50 °C), respectively; median values for both setpoint and recirculation loop temperatures are 10 °F (6 °C) or more below temperatures recommended for opportunistic pathogen control. These observations suggest that many buildings are prone to Legionella spp. risk. The study also found that 27% of buildings do not comply with guidelines for time to equilibrium hot water temperature, over 33% fail to monitor temperature in the recirculation loop, more than 70% fail to replace or disinfect showerheads, more than 40% lack a written management plan, and only a minority conduct any monitoring of residual disinfectant levels or microbiological quality. Given the rise in Legionellosis infections in recent years, coupled with highlighted water quality concerns because of prolonged water stagnation in plumbing, such as in buildings closed due to COVID-19, current management practices, which appear to be focused on scald risk, may need to be broadened to include greater attention to control of opportunistic pathogens. To accomplish this, there is a need for formal training and resources for facility managers.
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23
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Park JY, Mistur E, Kim D, Mo Y, Hoefer R. Toward human-centric urban infrastructure: Text mining for social media data to identify the public perception of COVID-19 policy in transportation hubs. SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND SOCIETY 2022; 76:103524. [PMID: 34751239 PMCID: PMC8566222 DOI: 10.1016/j.scs.2021.103524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has made transportation hubs vulnerable to public health risks. In response, policies using nonpharmaceutical interventions have been implemented, changing the way individuals interact within these facilities. However, the impact of building design and operation on policy efficacy is not fully discovered, making it critical to investigate how these policies are perceived and complied in different building spaces. Therefore, we investigate the spatial drivers of user perceptions and policy compliance in airports. Using text mining, we analyze 103,428 Google Maps reviews of 64 major hub airports in the US to identify representative topics of passenger concerns in airports (i.e., Staff, Shop, Space, and Service). Our results show that passengers express having positive experiences with Staff and Shop, but neutral or negative experiences with Service and Space, which indicates how building design has impacted policy compliance and the vulnerability of health crises. Furthermore, we discuss the actual review comments with respect to 1) spatial design and planning, 2) gate assignment and operation, 3) airport service policy, and 4) building maintenance, which will construct the foundational knowledge to improve the resilience of transportation hubs to future health crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- June Young Park
- Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, USA
| | - Evan Mistur
- Department of Public Affairs and Planning, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, USA
| | - Donghwan Kim
- NBBJ, Architectural Design Firm, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Yunjeong Mo
- Department of Construction Management, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Richard Hoefer
- School of Social Work, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, USA
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24
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Li C, Tang H, Wang J, Zhong Z, Li J, Wang H. Field study to characterize customer flow and ventilation rates in retail buildings in Shenzhen, China. BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT 2021; 197:107837. [PMID: 36568495 PMCID: PMC9758042 DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2021.107837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Reduction of the customers' exposure risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in the retail buildings, i.e., supermarkets and small shops where residents purchase daily necessities is of prime importance during pandemic. In this study, the main influencing factors of the exposure risk of SARS-CoV-2, namely the occupant density, dwell time, and fresh air volume per person, were on-sited measured in 5 supermarkets and 21 small shops in Shenzhen, China. The small shops with an occupant area per person of 4.7 m2/per presented a more crowded environment than the supermarkets with an occupant area per person of 18.8 m2/per. The average dwell time of customers in the supermarkets linearly increased with the floor area and its probability distribution was fitted well by the Gamma distribution with a shape parameter of 3.0. The average dwell time of customers in the supermarkets was relatively longer than the combination of five types of small shops. In addition, the measured average outdoor air change rate of the small shops by natural ventilation was 10.7 h-1, while that of the supermarkets by mechanical ventilation was only 0.7 h-1. Correspondingly, the CO2 concentration in the small shops was 100-150 ppm lower than the supermarkets. The small shops provided an average fresh air volume per person of 216 m3/(h·per), far exceeding the supermarkets with a value of 95 m3/(h·per).
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunying Li
- School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Haida Tang
- School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Jingwei Wang
- School of Architecture, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China
| | - Zhitao Zhong
- School of Architecture, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China
| | - Jiaxiong Li
- Faculty of Innovation and Design, City University of Macau, Macau, 999078, China
| | - Huan Wang
- School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
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