Comparison of Indoor and Outdoor Total Airborne Bacteria and PM10 Concentrations Based on Occupants in Schools
Indoor air quality (IAQ) significantly affects human health because a poor IAQ can contribute to respiratory diseases. This study compared the total airborne bacteria and PM10 concentrations in indoor and outdoor environments and analyzed their correlation to provide data, improve the IAQ, and propo...
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| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
The Korean Society for Clinical Laboratory Science
2025-06-01
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| Series: | Korean Journal of Clinical Laboratory Science |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://www.kjcls.org/journal/view.html?doi=10.15324/kjcls.2025.57.2.172 |
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| Summary: | Indoor air quality (IAQ) significantly affects human health because a poor IAQ can contribute to respiratory diseases. This study compared the total airborne bacteria and PM10 concentrations in indoor and outdoor environments and analyzed their correlation to provide data, improve the IAQ, and propose management strategies. The total airborne bacteria were collected using an Anderson sampler, cultured on TSA, and analyzed using Gram staining and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry. PM10 concentrations were measured using a DustTrak II aerosol monitor. Sampling lasted 15 minutes per site, and the mean values were calculated. Data analysis was conducted with SPSS software using t-tests and correlation analysis. The airborne bacterial concentrations were significantly higher indoors when occupants were present (P<0.05) and showed a notable difference between indoor and outdoor environments (P=0.013). On the other hand, the PM10 concentrations were similar in indoor and outdoor settings or based on the presence of humans (P>0.05). The correlation between airborne bacteria and PM10 was weak and statistically insignificant. This study highlights the role of human activity in increasing the indoor airborne bacterial concentrations. The accurate classification of suspended bacteria through MALDI-TOF analysis is a meaningful first step in a strategic approach to controlling the adverse health effects of IAQ. |
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| ISSN: | 1738-3544 |