Article
Construction & Building Technology
Mengmeng Wang, Lili Li, Caixia Hou, Xiaotong Guo, Hanliang Fu
Summary: This paper systematically arranges the development of knowledge on SBS through bibliometric analysis, exploring the most influential countries, institutions, journals, scholars, subject categories, and keywords. It also analyzes the development trajectory of SBS knowledge and identifies emerging research trends.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Dusan Licina, Serra Yildirim
Summary: The study compared occupant satisfaction before and after transitioning from non-WELL to WELL certified buildings, showing a significant increase in satisfaction levels in most cases. However, there was no difference in satisfaction with noise and visual comfort, and the satisfaction scores did not meet the 80% standard threshold regardless of certification label.
BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Frederic Dutheil, Audrey Vilmant, Gil Boudet, Martial Mermillod, Francois-Xavier Lesage, Isabelle Jalenques, Guillaume Valet, Jeannot Schmidt, Jean-Baptiste Bouillon-Minois, Bruno Pereira
Summary: This study demonstrated the benefits of using visual analog scales (VAS) for evaluating subjective symptoms of sick building syndrome, showing a dose-response relationship between occupational exposure and symptoms. The findings suggest that subjective symptoms of sick building syndrome are related to occupational exposure and can be reduced after ventilation work.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Maryam Sarkhosh, Ali Asghar Najafpoor, Hosein Alidadi, Jamal Shamsara, Hanieh Amiri, Tittarelli Andrea, Fatemeh Kariminejad
Summary: The study found a high prevalence rate of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) symptoms among office workers, mostly associated with smoking, long working hours, and psychological factors. Volatile Organic Compounds and bacterial contamination were identified as the main influencing factors.
BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Xuemin Sui, Zhongjie Tian, Huitao Liu, Hao Chen, Dong Wang
Summary: This study investigated indoor air quality under different ventilation modes in a new residential building in Xi'an, China. Mechanical ventilation was found to effectively reduce the impact of haze weather on indoor PM2.5 concentration, but the control of CO2 concentration needs improvement. The study provides guidance for the optimization of residential mechanical ventilation systems.
JOURNAL OF BUILDING ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Xue Tian, Yong Cheng, Jian Liu, Zhang Lin
Summary: The study demonstrates that sidewall air supply can provide satisfactory thermal comfort levels up to Category A in ISO 7730 with proper design. The use of double-side supply reduces draft rate by up to 25% and improves energy utilization coefficient and contaminant removal efficiency. Additionally, for single-side supply achieving stratum ventilation, proximity of the supply air jet center to the breathing zone results in higher energy utilization coefficient and contaminant removal efficiency.
SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND SOCIETY
(2021)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Giacomo Tognon, Marco Marigo, Michele De Carli, Angelo Zarrella
Summary: In this paper, a co-simulation approach was applied to evaluate different control strategies for hybrid ventilation systems in terms of energy consumption and infection risk. The results show that increasing natural ventilation hours during the cooling season can significantly reduce energy demand and enhance infection control. Therefore, the hybrid ventilation system has the potential to maintain a healthy indoor environment and reduce energy consumption when properly regulated through suitable control strategies.
JOURNAL OF BUILDING ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Efthymia Tsantaki, Emmanouil Smyrnakis, Theodoros C. Constantinidis, Alexis Benos
Summary: This study assessed the indoor air quality (IAQ), prevalence of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) symptoms, and their contributing risk factors in a university during the economic crisis period in Greece. The most prevalent IAQ complaints were dust and dirt, low room temperature, and varying room temperature. Fatigue was the most frequently reported SBS symptom. Several contributing risk factors were identified, including IAQ discomfort scale, atopy, sleep problems, and exposure to biological and chemical agents.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Naglaa A. Megahed, Ehab M. Ghoneim
Summary: In order to effectively reduce the spread of SARS-CoV-2, it is crucial to emphasize the effectiveness of building design strategies in mitigating threats to occupants. Current research highlights how poor Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) amplifies the effects of airborne viruses, requiring architects' attention and providing solutions. This study presents a conceptual model that integrates engineering controls, design strategies, and air disinfection techniques to achieve better IAQ.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Hong Cheng, Dan Norback, Huilin Zhang, Liu Yang, Baizhan Li, Yinping Zhang, Zhuohui Zhao, Qihong Deng, Chen Huang, Xu Yang, Chan Lu, Hua Qian, Tingting Wang, Ling Zhang, Wei Yu, Juan Wang, Xin Zhang
Summary: The home environment and sick building syndrome (SBS) symptoms in five southern Chinese cities have been studied over time. The study found a decrease in asthma prevalence and an increase in allergic rhinitis. Cockroaches, rats, mice, mosquitoes or flies were identified as consistent biological risk factors for SBS symptoms, while redecoration, buying new furniture, and traffic air pollution were identified as other risk factors.
BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT
(2024)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Ioannis Nezis, George Biskos, Konstantinos Eleftheriadis, Prodromos Fetfatzis, Olga Popovicheva, Nikolay Sitnikov, Olga-Ioanna Kalantzi
Summary: Poor indoor air quality is a significant issue for public and occupational health worldwide, with specific pollutants potentially contributing to Sick Building Syndrome symptoms. A study in a public building in Athens, Greece found associations between PM2.5 and BC concentrations and reported SBS symptoms among employees. Female employees were more likely to report SBS symptoms, particularly nonspecific symptoms.
ATMOSPHERIC POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Loubna Qabbal, Zohir Younsi, Hassane Naji
Summary: This study examined various indoor air pollutants in university buildings using a smart sensor and found that high CO2 levels can lead to discomfort among occupants, while 80% of occupants found indoor air temperatures uncomfortable. The outcomes will be valuable for future indoor air quality guidelines and ventilation design to enhance occupant satisfaction in buildings.
INDOOR AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Thermodynamics
Chih-Hsiang Chien, Meng-Dawn Cheng, Piljae Im, Kashif Nawaz, Brian Fricke, Anthony Armstrong
Summary: As businesses reopen and employees return to work, concerns arise regarding the potential spread of SARS-CoV-2 and its variants through HVAC systems in commercial buildings. This study conducted experiments using synthetic test aerosols to quantify cross-zone aerosol transmission in a model commercial office building. Results showed higher transmission of submicron aerosols compared to micron-sized aerosols. Opening interior doors had a significant impact on aerosol transmission in close proximity to the source, but less impact on distant zones.
INTERNATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS IN HEAT AND MASS TRANSFER
(2022)
Article
Thermodynamics
Chih-Hsiang Chien, Meng-Dawn Cheng, Piljae Im, Kashif Nawaz, Brian Fricke, Anthony Armstrong
Summary: The study evaluated the exposure potential of infectious aerosols containing SARS-CoV-2 in an office building setting using synthetic test aerosols. Through experiments and modeling, the researchers found that the air change rate plays a critical role in aerosol transport in office spaces.
INTERNATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS IN HEAT AND MASS TRANSFER
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Xi Fu, Dan Norback, Qianqian Yuan, Yanling Li, Xunhua Zhu, Jamal Hisham Hashim, Zailina Hashim, Faridah Ali, Qiansheng Hu, Yiqun Deng, Yu Sun
Summary: This study investigated the relationship between Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) symptoms and indoor microbiome, revealing certain bacterial and fungal genera associated with SBS symptoms. The research also found that indoor humidity and visible dampness or mould in classrooms were related to the concentration of potential risk and protective bacteria.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Yu Sun, Yi Meng, Zheyuan Ou, Yanling Li, Mei Zhang, Yang Chen, Zefei Zhang, Xingyi Chen, Peiqiang Mu, Dan Norback, Zhuohui Zhao, Xin Zhang, Xi Fu
Summary: The study revealed a significant increase in the number of observed species in bacterial and fungal communities in classrooms from 2012 to 2019, with drastic changes in microbial community compositions. The temporal microbiome variation was found to be more significant than the spatial variation within the city. Additionally, indoor microorganisms were shown to play a mediating role in the association between environmental characteristics and health effects, indicating the importance of incorporating both biological and chemical exposure in comprehensive exposure assessments.
ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL
(2022)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Wei Liu, Yuexia Sun, Ningrui Liu, Jing Hou, Xinyue Huo, Yuxuan Zhao, Yinping Zhang, Furong Deng, Haidong Kan, Zhuohui Zhao, Chen Huang, Bin Zhao, Xiangang Zeng, Hua Qian, Xiaohong Zheng, Wei Liu, Jinhan Mo, Chanjuan Sun, Chunxiao Su, Zhijun Zou, Hao Li, Jianguo Guo, Zhongming Bu
Summary: China's rapid modernization in the past two decades has brought significant changes in indoor environmental exposures, particularly in the case of phthalates. This study characterizes indoor phthalate exposure and estimates the disease burden associated with indoor phthalate pollution in China from 2000 to 2017. The findings reveal the widespread presence of phthalates, with children having higher exposure levels compared to adults. Dose-response relationships for specific phthalates and health outcomes were established. The study highlights the considerable socioeconomic impact of indoor phthalate exposure in a modernizing society and emphasizes the need for national standards and actions to reduce such exposure.
Review
Construction & Building Technology
Ningrui Liu, Zhongming Bu, Wei Liu, Haidong Kan, Zhuohui Zhao, Furong Deng, Chen Huang, Bin Zhao, Xiangang Zeng, Yuexia Sun, Hua Qian, Jinhan Mo, Chanjuan Sun, Jianguo Guo, Xiaohong Zheng, Louise B. Weschler, Yinping Zhang
Summary: Exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) indoors is believed to be associated with various adverse health effects, but there is a lack of concentration-response (C-R) relationships. This study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to summarize these associations and C-R relationships.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Motoko Takaoka, Kyoko Suzuki, Dan Norback
Summary: This study found that dampness, indoor mould, and window pane condensation in winter may be household risk factors for dermatitis in Japanese junior high school students. Female gender, a history of atopy, new building materials, and indoor environmental humidity were associated with current dermatitis.
INDOOR AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Pengfei Fu, Zhuohui Zhao, Dan Norback, Xin Zhang, Ken Kin Lam Yung
Summary: The causes of sick building syndrome (SBS) are complex and uncertain. This study examined the correlation between indoor environment and SBS in two northern Chinese cities. The results suggest that factors such as location, homeownership, changes in the indoor environment and air quality contribute to different levels of SBS symptoms in Chinese adults.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Xin Zhang, Chan Lu, Yuguo Li, Dan Norback, Padmini Murthy, Radim J. Sram, Qihong Deng
Summary: The rapid increase in food allergies in children may be associated with early-life exposure to high levels of indoor and outdoor air pollution in China. This study suggests that air pollution may be a new route of food sensitization and contributes to the first and second waves of allergy epidemics.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Samali Ayoma Marasinghe, Yuexia Sun, Jing Hou, Pan Wang, Qingnan Zhang, Dan Norback
Summary: Many researchers have used questionnaires to evaluate the relationship between indoor environment and human health, but there is still a lack of research on validating occupants' reported information through home inspections. This study aimed to validate data from a questionnaire survey regarding building characteristics and dampness signs in Tianjin, China. The findings suggest that questionnaire surveys can provide valid and reliable data for technical parameters of the home, but not mostly for visible signs of dampness in the home environment.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Lexiang Wang, Wei Yu, Baizhan Li, Yan Zhang, Jiao Cai, Zhuohui Zhao, Dan Norback, Qihong Deng, Hua Qian, Xin Zhang, Tingting Wang, Ling Zhang, Chen Huang, Xu Yang
Summary: The previous studies have reported inconsistent associations between early residential decoration and childhood allergies and respiratory diseases. A 10-year retrospective observational survey was conducted among preschoolers in three urban districts in Chongqing, China in 2010 and 2019 to investigate the associations between prenatal and postnatal residential decorations and childhood asthma, allergic rhinitis, eczema, wheeze, rhinitis, and pneumonia. The results showed higher proportions of prenatal and postnatal residential decorations in 2010 compared to 2019, and higher prevalences of the studied diseases in 2010 compared to 2019.
BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Xi Fu, Mei Zhang, Yiwen Yuan, Yang Chen, Zheyuan Ou, Zailina Hashim, Jamal Hisham Hashim, Xin Zhang, Zhuohui Zhao, Dan Norback, Yu Sun
Summary: By analyzing dust samples from the cabins of two airlines, one with textile seats and one with leather seats, the study found that the abundances of virulence factors and risk chemicals were significantly higher in textile seat cabins. These factors and chemicals may contribute to a higher risk of respiratory infections and chronic diseases in airline passengers. The study also highlighted the importance of surface material choice in improving passenger health.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Wei Yu, Yan Zhang, Baizhan Li, Yinping Zhang, Chenqiu Du, Zhuohui Zhao, Dan Norback, Jiao Cai, Qihong Deng, Chan Lu, Hua Qian, Xiaohong Zheng, Xin Zhang, Tingting Wang, Ling Zhang, Chen Huang, Yong Mei, Xu Yang
Summary: Building envelope dampness exposure is associated with respiratory and allergic diseases in children, and the health impact varies across multiple cities in China. A longitudinal study conducted in six cities over a decade showed a decline in the proportion of damp residences and the prevalence of respiratory and allergic diseases in preschoolers. However, the risk of asthma and eczema increased in Phase II, indicating concerns about the dampness environment in households.
BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Bin Zhang, Dan Norback, Hong Cheng, Baizhan Li, Yinping Zhang, Zhuohui Zhao, Qihong Deng, Chen Huang, Xu Yang, Chan Lu, Hua Qian, Tingting Wang, Ling Zhang, Wei Yu, Juan Wang, Xin Zhang
Summary: The study investigated the association between dampness in Chinese homes and sick building syndrome (SBS) symptoms and examined the influence of climate, family size, cleaning, and ventilation on dampness, mould, and SBS. The findings revealed that dampness and mould were associated with various SBS symptoms, and a dose-response relationship was observed. A warmer and more humid climate increased the likelihood of dampness, mould, and SBS symptoms, while cleaning and ventilation in the home reduced these issues.
BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Tippawan Prapamontol, Dan Norback, Nathaporn Thongjan, Neeranuch Suwannarin, Kawinwut Somsunun, Pitakchon Ponsawansong, Kesseya Radarit, Sawaeng Kawichai, Warangkana Naksen
Summary: Respiratory infections among school children in Northern Thailand are associated with home and outdoor environment, as well as the dry and wet seasons. Risk factors for respiratory infections include dry season, high outdoor relative humidity, household dampness, indoor mould, and smoke from biomass burning. However, living in a traditional wooden house can reduce the risk.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Yawei Xu, Xiaohong Zheng, Zhuohui Zhao, Hua Qian
Summary: A growing number of studies have shown the association between the indoor residential environment and respiratory and allergic diseases in children. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of these diseases in Chinese children and their correlation with the use of air handling equipment. The results showed a decrease in disease prevalence and an increase in the usage of portable air purifiers and split air conditioners. Using a fresh air system with filters was negatively correlated with children's pneumonia, while the use of portable air purifiers was positively correlated with most diseases' symptoms. The use of split air conditioners showed different correlations with different diseases.
INDOOR AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Mei Zhang, Hao Tang, Yiwen Yuan, Zheyuan Ou, Zhuoru Chen, Yanyi Xu, Xi Fu, Zhuohui Zhao, Yu Sun
Summary: This study is the first to investigate the association between indoor microbiome and metabolites with nasal and oral microbiota using multi-omic approaches. The results showed significant correlations between environmental tobacco smoke exposure and levels of flavonoids and mycotoxins in the indoor environment with nasal and oral microbial composition. Several flavonoids were found to be positively correlated with nasal and oral health, while high carbohydrate/fat food intake and smoke exposure were associated with a decrease in protective microorganisms.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Hong Cheng, Dan Norback, Huilin Zhang, Liu Yang, Baizhan Li, Yinping Zhang, Zhuohui Zhao, Qihong Deng, Chen Huang, Xu Yang, Chan Lu, Hua Qian, Tingting Wang, Ling Zhang, Wei Yu, Juan Wang, Xin Zhang
Summary: The home environment and sick building syndrome (SBS) symptoms in five southern Chinese cities have been studied over time. The study found a decrease in asthma prevalence and an increase in allergic rhinitis. Cockroaches, rats, mice, mosquitoes or flies were identified as consistent biological risk factors for SBS symptoms, while redecoration, buying new furniture, and traffic air pollution were identified as other risk factors.
BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT
(2024)