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Norms of Apparent Temperature in Australia
Abstract
The apparent-temperature model has been refined, and is applied to a range of Australian climate data to analyse the diurnal and annual pattern of normal effects of vapour pressure, wind speed and extra (solar and sky) radiation, and to combine these into maps and charts of apparent temperature. Results show that dry-bulb temperature sometimes over or underestimates the total impact of climatic norms by 10K. Equations are presented to enable calculation of direct and diffuse solar radiation in a clear sky at any time and place on earth. Sunshine is commonly the greatest modifier of dry-bulb temperature in Australia. Daily AT typically reaches its normal maximum before dry-bulb temperature, but seasonal variation of AT lags. -Author
... The personal factors are the clothing and the level of physical activity (B. of M. Commonwealth of Australia 2010). There are many methods of combining these factors into a single number to assess the outdoor thermal environment-for example, the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) (B. of M. Commonwealth of Australia 2010), the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) (Jendritzky et al. 2001), the Physiologically Equivalent Temperature (PET) (Honjo 2009) as well as the Apparent Temperature (AT) (Steadman 1994). Another way to assess thermal comfort is to calculate the thermal comfort indices Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) and Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfied (PPD), using the Fanger's method proposed in ISO Standard 7730 (Gameiro da Silva 2013), or the Human Thermal Model (HTM) which can be used for predicting thermal behavior of the human body under both steady-state and transient indoor environment conditions (Holopainen 2012). ...
... In order to validate the software, the simulation results are compared to measurement data collected in 2017 within the framework of the research project "Grün-PlusSchule" (Korjenic 2018), showing a good agreement. Based on these simulation results, the apparent temperature (Steadman 1994) is calculated to assess the impact of façade greening within a typical courtyard of a residential block on human thermal comfort. ...
... The evaluation of the simulation results clearly shows that the apparent temperature (Steadman 1994) in the greened inner courtyard is comparable to that of the adjacent streets and in some cases even higher (see Fig. 15). However, the air temperature, measured in the shadow and without the influence of radiation, is 2 °C below that of the surrounding area (see Fig. 16), which is due to the cooling capacity of the plants and the lower albedo. ...
Background
Increasing urbanization as well as global warming requires an investigation of the influence of different construction methods and ground surfaces on the urban heat island effect (UHI effect). The extent of the influence of the urban structure, the building materials used and their surfaces on the UHI effect can be significantly reduced already in the planning phase using a designated OpenFOAM-based solver “uhiSolver”.
Results
In the first part of this research work, it is shown that inner building details and components can be neglected while still obtaining sufficiently accurate results. For this purpose, the building model was divided into two layers: a surface layer without mass, where the interaction with radiation takes place, and a component layer, which contains all relevant components and cavities of the building represented with mass-averaged material properties. It has become apparent that the three parameters—albedo, heat capacity and thermal resistance—which have a decisive influence on the interaction, have different effects on the component temperatures and the surface temperatures. In the second part of this research work, dynamic 3D computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are performed with uhiSolver for a residential block in Vienna. Comparing the simulation results with measurement data collected on site, it is shown that the simplified assumption of homogeneous material data for building bodies provides very good results for the validation case investigated. However, the influence of the greening measures in the courtyard of the residential block on the air temperature is found to be negligible. Furthermore, it was observed that due to locally higher radiation density, lower air velocities and higher air humidity, the apparent temperature in the courtyard is sometimes perceived to be higher than in the adjacent streets, despite the lower air temperature.
Conclusions
Simplifying the modeling process of the uhiSolver software by reducing the model complexity helps to reduce manual work for setting up appropriate boundary conditions of buildings. Compared to market competitors, good results are obtained for the validation case Kandlgasse presented in this research work, despite the simplifications proposed. Thus, uhiSolver can be used as a robust analytical tool for urban planning.
... In addition, since ambient temperature may not accurately describe the body's perception of outdoor temperature, Steadman (Steadman 1994) introduced apparent temperature (AT) in 1984, a composite biometeorological index that includes ambient temperature, wind speed, and relative humidity, which was believed to be a more objective indicator of the human body's thermal experiences than ambient temperature alone. A growing number of scientists have focused on the impact of different AT exposure during pregnancy on children's health. ...
... In particular, exposure levels to meteorological factors are strongly influenced by monitoring concentrations from nearby monitoring stations, but less influenced by monitoring concentrations from remote monitoring stations (Rivera-González et al. 1995). Then, the AT (°C) was calculated from the ambient temperature, relative humidity, and relative wind speed by the following equations (Steadman 1994): ...
The objective of this study was to explore the impact of maternal AT during pregnancy on childhood asthma and wheezing, as well as the potential effect modifiers in this association. A cross-sectional study was implemented from December 2018 to March 2019 in Jinan to investigate the prevalence of childhood asthma and wheezing among aged 18 months to 3 years. Then, we conducted a case-control study based on population to explore the association between prenatal different AT exposure levels and childhood asthma and wheezing. The association was assessed by generalized additive models and logistic regression models, and stratified analyses were performed to explore potential effect modifiers. A total of 12,384 vaccinated children participated in screening for asthma and wheezing, 236 cases were screened, as well as 1445 controls were randomized. After adjusting for the covariates, childhood asthma and wheezing were significantly associated with cold exposure in the first trimester, with OR 1.731 (95% CI: 1.117–2.628), and cold exposure and heat exposure in the third trimester, with ORs 1.610 (95% CI: 1.030–2.473) and 2.039 (95% CI: 1.343–3.048). In the third trimester, enhanced impacts were found among girls, children whose distance of residence was close to the nearest main traffic road, and children whose parents have asthma. The study indicates that exposure to extreme AT during the first and third trimesters could increase the risk of childhood asthma and wheezing.
... If the analysis is limited to days with maximum temperatures above 30 • C, in Brisbane, the time spent outdoors at higher maximum temperatures actually decreased somewhat. An analogous evaluation for a thermal index, the apparent temperature [33,34], essentially also yielded these results. The same applies if the deviations from the seasonal average values are used instead of the absolute values of the meteorological variables. ...
... Up to a certain optimal driving temperature, the volume of cycling increases with the Apparent Temperature (AT). The AT is a thermal index, which, in addition to the air temperature, takes into account the effect of air humidity and wind speed [33,34]. Beyond the optimal AT, the volume of bicycle use decreases with increasing temperature. ...
Climate-related changes in human sun exposure behavior can be an important influence on future ultraviolet radiation (UVR) related disease risks. In particular, active leisure mobility and leisure activities are more dependent on weather conditions than routine activities. However, the direction and extent of the effects vary. For temperate and cold climates, the available studies provide indications that a possible increase in UVR exposure would primarily result from a reduction in clothing and only secondarily from changes in the time spent outdoors. Existing studies suggest a nonlinear, bell-shaped relationship with threshold value effects for the relationship between outdoor time and thermal conditions. If the local climate is already very warm and there are only minor seasonal differences, there is no statistically significant evidence of changes in behavior. If there is significant warm discomfort, there is a tendency to avoid being outdoors or in the sun. It is not justified to simply transfer and generalize results and conclusions to different climates and seasons and between different leisure activities and forms of active mobility. The geographical context must be considered also in terms of cultures and habits, adaptations , traffic and land use (urban, rural). In addition, changes in behavior can develop differently depending on individual characteristics of people such as heat affinity, leisure type, age and gender. Differentiated analyses are required that take into account and balance opposing effects.
... Apparent temperature (AT) combined ambient temperature, humidity, and wind speed, which can be employed to evaluate the human body reactions to various thermal environments and represent the actual human perception of ambient temperature. Some studies have explored the effects of AT on several health outcomes; nevertheless, only limited evidence exists for the effect modification of AT in air pollution-stroke associations (18). ...
... The AT was calculated by daily mean temperature, relative humidity, and barometric pressure using the following equations (18,22,23): ...
The epidemiological evidence on relationships between air pollution, temperature, and stroke remains inconclusive. Limited evidence is available for the effect modification by apparent temperature, an indicator reflecting reactions to the thermal environment, on short-term associations between air pollution and hospital admissions for stroke. We used a generalized additive model with Poisson regression to estimate the relative risk (RR) of stroke admissions in Shanghai, China, between 2014 and 2016 associated with air pollutants, with subgroup analyses by age, sex, apparent temperature, and season. During the study period, changes in the daily number of stroke admissions per 10 μg/m3 increase in nitrogen dioxide (at lags 0, 1, 0–1, and 0–2) ranged from 1.05 (95% CI: 0.82%, 2.88%) to 2.24% (95% CI: 0.84%, 3.65%). For each 10 μg/m3 increase in sulfur dioxide concentrations at lags 1, 2, 0–1, and 0–2, the RR of daily stroke admissions increased by 3.34 (95% CI: 0.955%, 5.79%), 0.32 (95% CI: −1.97%, 2.67%), 3.33 (95% CI: 0.38%, 6.37%), and 2.86% (95% CI: −0.45%, 6.28%), respectively. The associations of same-day exposure to nitrogen dioxide with stroke admissions remained significant after adjustment for ozone levels. These associations were not modified by sex, age, apparent temperature, or season. More research is warranted to determine whether apparent temperature modifies the associations between air pollution and stroke admissions.
... Wang et al., 2021). There are various approaches to estimating how the weather conditions affect comfort, but apparent temperature is governed by air temperature, humidity, and wind speed (Steadman, 1984(Steadman, , 1994. These are known empirically to affect human thermal comfort (Jacobs et al., 2013), and thresholds have been designed to indicate danger and health risks under extreme heat events (Ho et al., 2016). ...
Apparent temperature (AP) and ground-level aerosol pollution (PM2.5) are important factors in human health, particularly in rapidly growing urban centers in the developing world. We quantify how changes in apparent temperature – that is, a combination of 2 m air temperature, relative humidity, surface wind speed, and PM2.5 concentrations – that depend on the same meteorological factors along with future industrial emission policy may impact people in the greater Beijing region. Four Earth system model (ESM) simulations of the modest greenhouse emissions RCP4.5 (Representative Concentration Pathway), the “business-as-usual” RCP8.5, and the stratospheric aerosol intervention G4 geoengineering scenarios are downscaled using both a 10 km resolution dynamic model (Weather Research and Forecasting, WRF) and a statistical approach (Inter-Sectoral Impact Model Intercomparison Project – ISIMIP). We use multiple linear regression models to simulate changes in PM2.5 and the contributions meteorological factors make in controlling seasonal AP and PM2.5. WRF produces warmer winters and cooler summers than ISIMIP both now and in the future. These differences mean that estimates of numbers of days with extreme apparent temperatures vary systematically with downscaling method, as well as between climate models and scenarios. Air temperature changes dominate differences in apparent temperatures between future scenarios even more than they do at present because the reductions in humidity expected under solar geoengineering are overwhelmed by rising vapor pressure due to rising temperatures and the lower wind speeds expected in the region in all future scenarios. Compared with the 2010s, the PM2.5 concentration is projected to decrease by 5.4 µg m−3 in the Beijing–Tianjin province under the G4 scenario during the 2060s from the WRF downscaling but decrease by 7.6 µg m−3 using ISIMIP. The relative risk of five diseases decreases by 1.1 %–6.7 % in G4, RCP4.5, and RCP8.5 using ISIMIP but has a smaller decrease (0.7 %–5.2 %) using WRF. Temperature and humidity differences between scenarios change the relative risk of disease from PM2.5 such that G4 results in 1 %–3 % higher health risks than RCP4.5. Urban centers see larger rises in extreme apparent temperatures than rural surroundings due to differences in land surface type, and since these are also the most densely populated, health impacts will be dominated by the larger rises in apparent temperatures in these urban areas.
... , v is the wind speed at 10 m height (m/s) and p v is the vapour pressure of air (hPa) and can be computed from Equation (2.33) [91]. ...
... , v is the wind speed at 10 m height (m/s) and p v is the vapour pressure of air (hPa) and can be computed from Equation (2.33) [91]. ...
... , v is the wind speed at 10 m height (m/s) and p v is the vapour pressure of air (hPa) and can be computed from Equation (2.33) [91]. ...
... , v is the wind speed at 10 m height (m/s) and p v is the vapour pressure of air (hPa) and can be computed from Equation (2.33) [91]. ...
... , v is the wind speed at 10 m height (m/s) and p v is the vapour pressure of air (hPa) and can be computed from Equation (2.33) [91]. ...
... Second, soil moisture-heat stress coupling is expected to depend on the adopted heat stress metrics (Mishra et al. 2020) since different metrics weight humidity differently (Sherwood 2018;Buzan and Huber 2020). Compared with other commonly used heat stress metrics such as apparent temperature (Steadman 1984(Steadman , 1994, heat index (Lans P. Rothfusz 1990;Steadman 1979), and WBGT (Yaglou and Minard 1957), is heavily humidity-weighted (Sherwood 2018) which may favor a positive soil moisture-heat stress coupling. To provide a baseline for comparison, we calculate the coupling sensitivity index between soil moisture and heat index (Fig. S6) which places much less weight on humidity compared with (Buzan et al. 2015). ...
Human heat stress depends jointly on atmospheric temperature and humidity. Wetter soils reduce temperature but also raise humidity making the collective impact on heat stress unclear. To better understand these interactions, we use ERA5 reanalysis to examine the coupling between daily average soil moisture and wet-bulb temperature ( T w ) and its seasonal and diurnal cycle at global scale. We identify a global soil moisture- T w coupling pattern with both widespread negative and positive correlations in contrast to the well-established cooling effect of wet soil on dry-bulb temperature. Regions showing positive correlations closely resemble previously identified land-atmosphere coupling hotspots where soil moisture effectively controls surface energy partition. Soil moisture- T w coupling varies seasonally closely tied to monsoon development, and the positive coupling is slightly stronger and more widespread during nighttime. Local-scale analysis demonstrates a nonlinear structure of soil moisture- T w coupling with stronger coupling under relatively dry soils. Hot-days with high T w values show wetter-than-normal soil, anomalous high latent and low sensible heat flux from a cooler surface, and a shallower boundary layer. This supports the hypothesis that wetter soil increases T w by concentrating surface moist enthalpy flux within a shallower boundary layer and reducing free-troposphere air entrainment. We identify areas of particular interest for future studies on the physical mechanisms of soil moisture-heat stress coupling. Our findings suggest that increasing soil moisture might amplify heat stress over large portions of the world including several densely populated areas. These results also raise questions about the effectiveness of evaporative cooling strategies in ameliorating urban heat stress.
... For calculation of AT, a series of equations developed by considering factors such as dry bulb temperature, radiation, wind speed, vapor pressure, heat resistance of clothing and skin were standardized and Eq. (1) was created (Steadman, 1994). Hourly vapor pressure values were calculated using Eq. ...
Understanding heatwave characteristics is crucial for mitigating their adverse effects in ˙
Istanbul, a densely
populated metropolis characterized by a high concentration of buildings, concrete structures, and limited green
spaces. This study aims to develop a methodology for defining heatwaves by identifying appropriate thermal
indicators. Utilizing the Distributed Lag Nonlinear Model (DLNM), this research investigates the complex and
delayed effects of daily mean, maximum, and minimum temperatures, along with seven thermal indices, on daily
mortality rates during the summer months of 2013–2017, leveraging the DLNM approach’s flexibility in
modeling the nonlinear exposure-response relationships. Heatwaves are defined based on the Minimum Mortality Temperature (MMT) and 90th percentile thresholds, and heatwave maps are constructed by their frequency, intensity, duration, and cumulative intensity characteristics. PETmean emerges as the optimal thermal
index, exhibiting the lowest Akaike’s Information Criteria (AIC: 3553) and estimates relative risk (RR) of 1.080
(95% CI: 1.051–1.110) for a 1◦C increase above the 90th percentile. Additionally, Tmean, Tmax, PETmax, and
Tmrtmean indices demonstrate favorable characteristics, with low AIC values and high RR estimates. Notably,
heatwaves are intense and frequent in Çatalca despite low urban land use and abundant forests, but their
duration was short due to fast adaptation capability of the region.
... Nowadays more and more researches are focusing on the climatogenic determinism of desti nation choice and the climatic attractiveness of major tourist areas (Hamilton and Lau, 2005;Maddison, 2001;Lise and Tol, 2002;Scott and Lemieux, 2010). An important place is occupied by works on studying the experience and results of research on the meteorological factor and its parameters from the standpoint of assessing the tourist and recreational potential of various territories, the comfort of the natural landscape environment (Steadman, 1979a(Steadman, , 1979b(Steadman, , 1994. ...
The purpose of the research was to assess the degree of favorableness of the bioclimatic conditions of the territory of Northern Kazakhstan by calculating the tourist climate index (TCI) and analyzing its spatial and temporal variability. Archival, stock materials and data on the main meteorological and climatic indicators for 63 weather stations for the period 1966–2020 were used. The study used methods of mathematical and statistical analysis, GIS technologies. The level of climatic attractiveness varies from "very unfavorable" in the winter months to "comfortable" in the summer. It was determined that the territory of Northern Kazakhstan as a whole is relatively homogeneous in terms of the average annual TCI index (28-38). Depending on the values of the index, 5 categories of climatic attractiveness of the territory of Northern Kazakhstan were identified (comfortable, moderate, neutral, unfavorable, extremely unfavorable). The most favorable conditions for tourist and recreational activities are formed in the summer months in the northeastern and southwestern sectors of the region. Recommendations are given on the spatial placement of tourist and recreational facilities and types of tourist activities in Northern Kazakhstan, taking into account the favorable weather and climatic conditions.
... Average temperature ( o C) was calculated as the mean of maximum and minimum temperatures. Apparent temperature ( o C) was calculated using the Steadman formula [33] incorporating average temperature, humidity, wind speed and atmospheric pressure (hPa). ...
Abstract Background Weather is a potentially important influence on how time is allocated to sleep, sedentary behaviour and physical activity across the 24-h day. Extremes of weather (very hot, cold, windy or wet) can create undesirable, unsafe outdoor environments for exercise or active transport, impact the comfort of sleeping environments, and increase time indoors. This 13-month prospective cohort study explored associations between weather and 24-h movement behaviour patterns. Methods Three hundred sixty-eight adults (mean age 40.2 years, SD 5.9, 56.8% female) from Adelaide, Australia, wore Fitbit Charge 3 activity trackers 24 h a day for 13 months with minute-by-minute data on sleep, sedentary behaviour, light physical activity (LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) collected remotely. Daily weather data included temperature, rainfall, wind, cloud and sunshine. Multi-level mixed-effects linear regression analyses (one model per outcome) were used. Results Ninety thousand eight hundred one days of data were analysed. Sleep was negatively associated with minimum temperature (-12 min/day change across minimum temperature range of 31.2 °C, p = 0.001). Sedentary behaviour was positively associated with minimum temperature (+ 12 min/day, range = 31.2 oC, p = 0.006) and wind speed (+ 10 min/day, range = 36.7 km/h, p
... We chose to use T app as the main exposure variable of interest as it also accounts for the effect of RH and vapour pressure (hPa) along with temperature, thereby better capturing the physiologically 'felt' exposure. An average T app for Puducherry was calculated by combining individual station data with the Steadman's equation [30],as follows: ...
Background
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the leading cause of death worldwide, are sensitive to temperature. In light of the reported climate change trends, it is important to understand the burden of CVDs attributable to temperature, both hot and cold. The association between CVDs and temperature is region-specific, with relatively few studies focusing on low-and middle-income countries. This study investigates this association in Puducherry, a district in southern India lying on the Bay of Bengal, for the first time.
Methods
Using in-hospital CVD mortality data and climate data from the Indian Meteorological Department, we analyzed the association between apparent temperature (Tapp) and in-hospital CVD mortalities in Puducherry between 2011 and 2020. We used a case-crossover model with a binomial likelihood distribution combined with a distributed lag non-linear model to capture the delayed and non-linear trends over a 21-day lag period to identify the optimal temperature range for Puducherry. The results are expressed as the fraction of CVD mortalities attributable to heat and cold, defined relative to the optimal temperature. We also performed stratified analyses to explore the associations between Tapp and age-and-sex, grouped and considered together, and different types of CVDs. Sensitivity analyses were performed, including using a quasi-Poisson time-series approach.
Results
We found that the optimal temperature range for Puducherry is between 30°C and 36°C with respect to CVDs. Both cold and hot non-optimal Tapp were associated with an increased risk of overall in-hospital CVD mortalities, resulting in a U-shaped association curve. Cumulatively, up to 17% of the CVD deaths could be attributable to non-optimal temperatures, with a slightly higher burden attributable to heat (9.1%) than cold (8.3%). We also found that males were more vulnerable to colder temperature; females above 60 years were more vulnerable to heat while females below 60 years were affected by both heat and cold. Mortality with cerebrovascular accidents was associated more with heat compared to cold, while ischemic heart diseases did not seem to be affected by temperature.
Conclusion
Both heat and cold contribute to the burden of CVDs attributable to non-optimal temperatures in the tropical Puducherry. Our study also identified the age-and-sex and CVD type differences in temperature attributable CVD mortalities. Further studies from India could identify regional associations, inform our understanding of the health implications of climate change in India and enhance the development of regional and contextual climate-health action-plans.
... For thermal comfort comparison, the apparent temperature analysis is used. The apparent temperature (AT) is the temperature perceived by the human body from the combined effects of ambient temperature, wind speed, humidity and solar radiation more objectively reflecting the thermal sensations experienced by the human body than temperature alone, especially in highly humid environments [17,18]. The apparent temperature (AT) is a suitable comfort index for climates with high temperatures and humidity. ...
Prior to COVID-19, densely occupied areas were already suspected of making employees sick. Post-COVID-19, there is an urgent need to improve air quality and ventilation standards shall change. However, any changes to ventilation must consider other negative consequences including energy and health and well-being impacts from thermal discomfort and exposure to pollutants. The need for moving away from traditional energy sources and to find alternate energy sources is undoubtedly one of the primary objectives for a sustainable progress to humankind. The design and construction of buildings in hot-humid climates requires high energy consumption typically for air conditioning due to higher thermal loads. A further increase in ventilation rates will have intensive impact in energy consumption and infrastructure loads. This chapter presents the performance of an innovative fully integrated smart ventilation system with low energy consumption. It is all in one ventilating and air conditioning system that provides efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable cooled fresh air for open or enclosed spaces whilst achieving thermal comfort. Based on the application, it consists of multistages that can dehumidify and cool the air to the required comfort level. The system has shown 50–60% reduction in energy consumption compared with conventional systems.
... The emission of thermal radiation in the infrared spectral region is caused by the formation of atoms forming the body at temperatures above absolute zero and returning to the non-excited state, which causes electromagnetic radiation to be emitted in the infrared region. Where the atoms are in the state of continuous excitation to the high levels of the excited level and then return to the level of ground energy state [2][3][4]. Figure 1 shows the structure of electromagnetic rays and its section. The rest of the paper is organized as follows. ...
... Apparent temperature uses Ta, Ur, e and air flow (ws) as parameters (Steadman 1994 ...
Globally extreme weather events are experienced most acutely in cities. While formal settlements can respond to such events, informal settlements are often vulnerable and ill-prepared. Sub-Saharan Africa is rapidly urbanising with informal settlements that require effective climate change adaptation measures. Two climate adaptation strategies for informal dwellings are considered for their success under 2100 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) climate scenarios. Using existing data collected from informal dwellings in South Africa, the findings from a digital simulation study reveal that cool roof paints can currently lower excessive heat stress conditions by 42–63% when applied to high thermal mass dwellings with poorly insulated lightweight corrugated sheeting roofing. However, for the future 2100 climate scenarios this strategy only lowers excessive heat stress conditions by 12–17%. This calls for the development of integrated multifaceted heat stress adaptation strategies for informal settlements in Sub-Saharan Africa. 'Practice relevance' This study assessed heat stress conditions and the application of two financially and practically feasible heat stress adaptation strategies in informal dwellings in South Africa. This involved assessing the efficacy of using cool roof paints and improved thermal insulation under current and future climate change-affected conditions. The findings reveal that Southern African informal dwellings experience extreme heat stress 32% of the time. Predicted climate change-affected conditions will increase heat stress exposure up to 40% over a full year. The study reveals that cool roof paints can improve the performance of uninsulated, low thermal mass homes in temperate climates by lowering heat stress conditions by 42–63%, yet this climate change adaptation strategy is only an interim solution with limited success (12–17% improvement) under future 2100 climate change-affected conditions. As a result multilayered integrated heat amelioration strategies are needed in informal communities.
... T app , a metric that combines temperature and relative humidity, was chosen as the exposure variable, as it ought to represent the 'real-feel' of temperature. T app was calculated using the Steadman equation shown below, where hPa is the vapour pressure [46]. [47], we conducted a time-series analysis to quantify the short-term association between T app and the proportion of admissions due to CVDs. ...
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have a high disease burden both globally and in South Africa. They have also been found to be temperature-sensitive globally. The association between temperature and CVD morbidity has previously been demonstrated, but little is known about it in South Africa. It is important to understand how changes in temperature in South Africa will affect CVD morbidity, especially in rural regions, to inform public health interventions and adaptation strategies. This study aimed to determine the short-term effect of apparent temperature (Tapp) on CVD hospital admissions in Mopani District, Limpopo province, South Africa. A total of 3124 CVD hospital admissions records were obtained from two hospitals from 1 June 2009 to 31 December 2016. Daily Tapp was calculated using nearby weather station measurements. The association was modelled using a distributed lag non-linear model with a negative binomial regression over a 21-day lag period. The fraction of morbidity attributable to non-optimal Tapp, i.e., cold (6–25 °C) and warm (27–32 °C) Tapp was reported. We found an increase in the proportion of admissions due to CVDs for warm and cold Tapp cumulatively over 21 days. Increasing CVD admissions due to warm Tapp appeared immediately and lasted for two to four days, whereas the lag-structure for the cold effect was inconsistent. A proportion of 8.5% (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 3.1%, 13.7%) and 1.1% (95% CI: −1.4%, 3.5%) of the total CVD admissions was attributable to cold and warm temperatures, respectively. Warm and cold Tapp may increase CVD admissions, suggesting that the healthcare system and community need to be prepared in the context of global temperature changes.
... of monitoring stations was relatively concentrated (Fig. 1). The individual exposure level of 3 meteorological factors was calculated based on the daily average value, as well as the dates of conception and delivery. Then, the AT (°C) was calculated from the ambient temperature, relative humidity, and relative wind speed by the following equations (Steadman. 1994): ...
The objective of this study was to explore the impact of maternal AT during pregnancy on childhood asthma and wheezing, as well as the potential effect modifiers in this association. A cross-sectional study was implemented from December 2018 to March 2019 in Jinan to investigate the prevalence of childhood asthma and wheezing among aged 18 months to 3 years. Then, we conducted a case-control study based on population to explore the association between prenatal different AT exposure levels and childhood asthma and wheezing. The association was assessed by generalized additive model and logistic regression model, and stratified analyses were performed to explore potential effect modifiers. A total of 12,384 vaccinated children participated in screening for asthma and wheezing, and 236 cases were screened, as well as 1445 controls were randomized. After adjusting for the covariates, childhood asthma and wheezing was significantly associated with cold exposure in the first trimester, with OR 1.750 (95% CI: 1.145–2.673), and cold exposure and heat exposure in the third trimester, with ORs 1.583 (95% CI: 1.013–2.474) and 2.124 (95% CI: 1.415–3.188). In the third trimester, enhanced impacts were found among girls, children whose distance of residence was close to the nearest main traffic road, children whose mothers never had vitamin D supplementation, and children whose parents have asthma. The study indicates that exposure to extreme AT during the first trimester and the third trimester could increase the risk of childhood asthma and wheezing.
... At a 5 m distance, there is no detectable impact of the green pergola on air temperature. In terms of the apparent (perceived) temperature by Steadman [33], a reduction of about 4 °C can be noticed within the shade of the green pergola compared to the unshaded parts of the terrace, as shown in Figure 25. However, the cooling effect is primarily dominated by the shading effect and less by the evapotranspiration performance of the plants. ...
Strategies to mitigate urban heat islands are a recent issue in the Austrian capital, Vienna. In this study, the uhiSolver-v2106-0.21 software was used to evaluate the summer cooling effects and humidity production of small-scale facade greening and a green pergola located in two schools within the city. Based on on-site measurement data, the study revealed that small-scale greening measures are not able to substantially reduce ambient air temperature. On a hot summer day, at 3 p.m. local time (CEST), the maximum decrease amounted to 0.3 °C at 0.1 m from the facade greening as well as inside the green pergola. As for the apparent (perceived) temperature, a reduction of up to 4 °C was observed under the green pergola compared to the unshaded roof terrace. Hence, the simulation results show that, within urban areas, a significant improvement of thermal comfort in summer can only be achieved through large-scale greenery that provides shade for pedestrians.
... Thermal stress arising from daily T and TWB extremes around Bangkok and Darwin exhibit different characteristics which need to be accommodated in intervention strategies for protection against adverse health effects of high temperature and heatwaves. This is particularly important as maximum temperature rises beyond 35 o C in low humidity, where apparent temperature will increase rather than cool when fans or environmental winds are present (Steadman, 1994). ...
This work examines the diurnal and seasonal variability of near-surface temperature and humidity at several large areas with high population density within the Maritime Continent using the Bureau of Meteorology Atmospheric Regional Reanalysis (BARRA) 12-km-resolution dataset that covers the period 1990–2019. The diurnal cycle is examined in detail, with a key feature being the relatively small diurnal variation of the wet-bulb temperature T WB when compared with the temperature and dewpoint temperature T D . The diurnal variability is strongly modulated by the monsoons with their increased rainfall and cloud cover. The near-surface signals associated with the Madden–Julian oscillation across the domains are relatively weak. Dry and humid temperature extremes are examined for regional and seasonal variability. The dry and moist variable extremes occur at different times of year, but each have spatially coherent structure.
Significance Statement
This paper examines the climatological variations of near-surface temperature and humidity and their extremes in four locations in the “Maritime Continent.” This is important because there are significant variations potentially affecting human and ecosystem health and its resilience to climate change.
... In addition to evaluating a single indicator, there have also been studies on evaluating heat stress through a combination of multiple indicators. Oleson et al. (2013) evaluated the future relationship between urbanization and multiple heat stress indicators, including Heat Index (HI) (Rothfusz, 1990), Apparent Temperature (AT) (Steadman, 1994), Simpli ed Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (sWBGT) (Willett and Sherwood, 2012), Humidex (Masterson and Richardson, 1979) and Discomfort Index (DI) (Epstein and Moran, 2006), which found that AT, HI and Humidex ampli ed the heat stress of future cities by 0.5-1.0°C compared with temperature alone. ...
In this study, the fifth generation ECMWF reanalysis (ERA5) reanalysis datasets and three global climate models (GCMs) were selected as the inputs of the stepwise-clustered heat stress downscaling (SCHSD) method to simulate the future heat stress indices in East China. The heat stress indices included the Heat Index ( HI ), Humidex ( HUMIDEX ) and the simplified Wet Bulb Globe Temperature ( sWBGT ). Three GCMs (i.e., CanESM5, INM-CM4-8 and MPI-ESM1-2-HR) under two Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP245 and SSP585) were input into the SCHSD model to develop downscaled climate projections. To verify the SCHSD model, the reproduction results from three GCMs during the period of 1990–2014 were compared to daily observational data (i.e., HI , HUMIDEX and sWBGT ). The verification results suggest that the coefficient of determination ( R ² ) of the stations in the northern part of East China mostly exceeds 0.8, while the R ² of the stations in the southern part of East China is mostly in the range of 0.6 to 0.8. The projection results suggest that the future heat stress in East China would generally maintain an upward trend from 2021 to 2100. The largest change in heat stress is projected in June under the period of 2021–2100. The results also show that the highest average of days in the danger category is 78.9 in summer under the SSP585 scenario, accounting for 86% of the total summer (June, July and August).
... Apparent temperature, a biometeorological index proposed by Steadman, seems to characterize more objectively the human perception of atmospheric temperature. This index is characterized by a combination of meteorological factors such as ambient temperature, humidity, and, optionally, solar radiation and wind speed [46,47]. A few studies have analyzed the association between apparent temperature and the incidence of ACS, and the results have varied. ...
Purpose of Review
Several studies have found that air pollution and climate change can have an impact on acute coronary syndromes (ACS), the leading cause of death worldwide. We synthesized the latest information about the impact of air pollution and climate change on ACS, the latest data about the pathophysiological mechanisms of meteorological factors and atmospheric pollutants on atherosclerotic disease, and an overall image of air pollution and coronary heart disease in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recent Findings
The variation of meteorological factors in different seasons increased the risk of ACS. Both the increase and the decrease in apparent temperature were found to be risk factors for ACS admissions. It was also demonstrated that exposure to high concentrations of air pollutants, especially particulate matter, increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
Summary
Climate change as well as increased emissions of air pollutants have a major impact on ACS. The industrialization era and the growing population cause a constant increase in air pollution worldwide. Thus, the number of ACS favored by air pollution and the variations in meteorological factors is expected to increase dramatically in the next few years.
... Reflected solar radiation is calculated by defining the albedo of the vernacular building material. These radiation values, initial temperature values, the wind velocity values found in the computational fluid dynamics analysis, and general relative humidity values are then linked using Steadman's Apparent Temperature equation (Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology no date; originally attributed to Steadman 1994). This mathematical model thus generates the data for understanding the environmental effects and spatial consequences of urban block morphologies. ...
... T data result from the elaboration of hourly surface air temperatures, retrieved from the European Centre for Medium-range Weather Forecast ERA5 reanalysis [16] , having a horizontal resolution of ∼31 km from 1979 onwards. Similarly, AT values are calculated from the ERA5 database, following Steadman [26] and Buzan et al. [8] criteria ( Fig. 1 ). ...
This study presents an approach developed to derive a Delayed-Multivariate Exposure-Response Model (D-MERF) useful to assess the short-term influence of temperature on mortality, accounting also for the effect of air pollution (O3 and PM10). By using Distributed, lag non-linear models (DLNM) we explain how city-specific exposure-response functions are derived for the municipality of Rome, which is taken as an example. The steps illustrated can be replicated to other cities while the statistical model presented here can be further extended to other exposure variables. We derive the mortality relative-risk (RR) curve averaged over the period 2004-2015, which accounts for city-specific climate and pollution conditions.
Key aspects of customization are as follows:
● This study reports the steps followed to derive a combined, multivariate exposure-response model aimed at translating climatic and air pollution effects into mortality risk.
● Integration of climate and air pollution parameters to derive RR values.
● A specific interest is devoted to the investigation of delayed effects on mortality in the presence of different exposure factors.
... For the sensitivity analysis, we also investigated the effect of minimum, maximum and apparent temperatures on daily ED visits. 29 Missing values on a specific day were imputed with the average of the measure in that specific year. Weekly data on ILI notifications were taken from the National Health Service Sentinel System (InfluNet). ...
Objectives:
The emergency department (ED) is one of the most critical areas in any hospital. Recently, many countries have seen a rise in the number of ED visits, with an increase in length of stay and a detrimental effect on quality of care. Being able to forecast future demands would be a valuable support for hospitals to prevent high demand, particularly in a system with limited resources where use of ED services for non-urgent visits is an important issue.
Design:
Time-series cohort study.
Setting:
We collected all ED visits between January 2014 and December 2019 in the five larger hospitals in Milan. To predict daily volumes, we used a regression model with autoregressive integrated moving average errors. Predictors included were day of the week and year-round seasonality, meteorological and environmental variables, information on influenza epidemics and festivities. Accuracy of prediction was evaluated with the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE).
Primary outcome measures:
Daily all-cause EDs visits.
Results:
In the study period, we observed 2 223 479 visits. ED visits were most likely to occur on weekends for children and on Mondays for adults and seniors. Results confirmed the role of meteorological and environmental variables and the presence of day of the week and year-round seasonality effects. We found high correlation between observed and predicted values with a MAPE globally smaller than 8.1%.
Conclusions:
Results were used to establish an ED warning system based on past observations and indicators of high demand. This is important in any health system that regularly faces scarcity of resources, and it is crucial in a system where use of ED services for non-urgent visits is still high.
... Within the literature, models including AT and assessing the impact on health of meteorological conditions combined with air pollutants are performed on different Italian and European cities (Analitis et al., 2018). The calculation used derives from Steadman (1994) and Buzan et al. (2015) and follows Eq. (1): ...
Heat and cold temperatures associated with exposure to poor air quality lead to increased mortality. Using a generalized linear model with Poisson regression for overdispersion, this study quantifies the natural-caused mortality burden attributable to heat/cold temperatures and PM10 and O3 air pollutants in Rome and Milan, the two most populated Italian cities. We calculate local-specific mortality relative risks (RRs) for the period 2004–2015 considering the overall population and the most vulnerable age category (≥85 years). Combining a regional climate model with a chemistry-transport model under future climate and air pollution scenarios (RCP2.6 and RCP8.5), we then project mortality to 2050.
Results show that for historical mortality the burden is much larger for cold than for warm temperatures. RR peaks during wintertime in Milan and summertime in Rome, highlighting the relevance of accounting for the effects of air pollution besides that of climate, in particular PM10 for Milan and O3 for Rome. Overall, Milan reports higher RRs while, in both cities, the elderly appear more susceptible to heat/cold and air pollution events than the average population. Two counterbalancing effects shape mortality in the future: an increase associated with higher and more frequent warmer daily temperatures – especially in the case of climate inaction – and a decrease due to declining cold-mortality burden. The outcomes highlight the urgent need to adopt more stringent and integrated climate and air quality policies to reduce the temperature and air pollution combined effects on health.
... The differences in the daily average minimum temperature between plots within the woodland (plots 3-8) and the control plots for each month were also graphically examined. In addition, the difference in apparent temperature between control and sheltered plots was calculated using the method of Steadman (1994). Apparent temperature takes into account temperature, wind speed and relative humidity and is therefore a good measure of a range of microclimatic conditions. ...
The retention of native woodland remnants in agricultural landscapes provides a range of benefits, many of which are linked to the ameliorative effects of trees on local microclimatic conditions. We monitored the reduction in wind speed and extreme temperatures that occurred in and around two native eucalypt woodland remnants in the Tasmanian Midlands and discuss the role of woodland remnants in providing both agricultural and environmental benefits. Monitoring wind speed, temperature and relative humidity every 30 min for over a year showed that an average wind speed reduction of 50% occurred within the woodland remnants as well as higher minimum temperatures by up to 0.5 C. The structural characteristics of the woodland remnants mediated the effects observed, with a 50% reduction in wind speed occurring when there was the equivalent of 20 large trees blocking the wind. This demonstrates that areas with low numbers of trees per hectare can have significant impacts on microclimatic conditions. The microclimatic changes observed will likely benefit agricultural productivity, farm aesthetics and ecological processes.
... Within the literature, models including AT and assessing the impact on health of meteorological conditions combined with air pollutants are performed on different Italian and European cities (Analitis et al., 2018). The calculation used derives from Steadman (1994) and Buzan et al. (2015) and follows Eq. (1): ...
... Compared to the WBGT, the AT also includes the effect of wind into consideration. The formula of AT ( • C) from Steadman (1994) is defined as: ...
One-size-fits-all approach is common in climate-sensitive urban design due to neglecting spatial heterogeneities in urban form and urban climate. This study explores a spatially-varied climate-sensitive urban design based on the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area (GBA). Three thermal indices, the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), the Apparent Temperature (AT), and the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) are used to assess the outdoor thermal environments. The local climate zone (LCZ) classification system is used to map urban form including built and land-cover types. Moreover, incorporating spatial effects, geographically weighted regression (GWR) models are used to account for spatially-varied thermal variations due to urban form changes. Our findings indicate that the large low-rise type (LCZ 8) needs more attention in built-up planning for thermal mitigation, and urban low plants type (LCZ D) should be a more effective nature-based climate mitigation strategy compared with the water bodies (LCZ G). The GWR results show a stronger consistency between UTCI and LCZ 8 and LCZ D, compared with WBGT and AT. UTCI is thus suggested for application in future urban climate studies. More importantly, the spatially-varied relationship between UTCI and urban form specifies the strategies and appropriate locations for thermal mitigation in climate-sensitive urban design.
... where T A is apparent temperature (1C), T db is dry bulb temperature (1C), v is the wind speed at 10 m height (m/s) and p v is the vapour pressure of air (hPa) and can be computed from Steadman (1994): ...
This article provides an overview of the various aspects of floating photovoltaic (FPV) system components and design, both for onshore and offshore applications. These include global growth, market, and potential. Special attention is given to experimental and modeled performance advantages as well as to the role of FPV systems in hybrid renewable energy systems.
... Two forms are in use by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology: one includes radiation and one does not. The AT index used here is based on a mathematical model of an adult walking outdoors in the shade 37 and thus does not include radiation: ...
Thermal stress poses a major public health threat in a warming world, especially to disadvantaged communities. At the population group level, human thermal stress is heavily affected by landscape heterogeneities such as terrain, surface water, and vegetation. High-spatial-resolution thermal-stress indices, containing more detailed spatial information, are greatly needed to characterize the spatial pattern of thermal stress to enable a better understanding of its impacts on public health, tourism, and study and work performance. Here, we present a 0.1° × 0.1° gridded dataset of multiple thermal stress indices derived from the newly available ECMWF ERA5-Land and ERA5 reanalysis products over South and East Asia from 1981 to 2019. This high-spatial-resolution database of human thermal stress indices over South and East Asia (HiTiSEA), which contains the daily mean, maximum, and minimum values of UTCI, MRT, and eight other widely adopted indices, is suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications and allows researchers and practitioners to investigate the spatial and temporal evolution of human thermal stress and its impacts on densely populated regions over South and East Asia at a finer scale.
... To control the combined effect of temperature and humidity on humans, we calculated a composite indicator, apparent temperature (AT, • C), based on mean temperature ( • C), relative humidity (%) and wind speed (m/s), using the following formulas [14]: ...
Temperature change is an important meteorological indicator reflecting weather stability. This study aimed to examine the effects of ambient temperature change on non-accidental mortality using diurnal temperature change (DTR) and temperature change between neighboring days (TCN) from two perspectives, intra-day and inter-day temperature change, and further, to explore seasonal variations of mortality, identify the susceptible population and investigate the interaction between temperature change and apparent temperature (AT). We collected daily data on cause-specific mortality, air pollutants and meteorological indicators in Shenzhen, China, from 1 January 2013 to 29 December 2017. A Quasi-Poisson generalized linear regression combined with distributed lag non-linear models (DLNMs) were conducted to estimate the effects of season on temperature change-related mortality. In addition, a non-parametric bivariate response surface model was used to explore the interaction between temperature change and AT. The cumulative effect of DTR was a U-shaped curve for non-accidental mortality, whereas the curve for TCN was nearly monotonic. The overall relative risks (RRs) of non-accidental, cardiovascular and respiratory mortality were 1.407 (95% CI: 1.233–1.606), 1.470 (95% CI: 1.220–1.771) and 1.741 (95% CI: 1.157–2.620) from exposure to extreme large DTR (99th) in cold seasons. However, no statistically significant effects were observed in warm seasons. As for TCN, the effects were higher in cold seasons than warm seasons, with the largest RR of 1.611 (95% CI: 1.384–1.876). The elderly and females were more sensitive, and low apparent temperature had a higher effect on temperature change-related non-accidental mortality. Temperature change was positively correlated with an increased risk of non-accidental mortality in Shenzhen. Both female and elderly people are more vulnerable to the potential adverse effects, especially in cold seasons. Low AT may enhance the effects of temperature change.
... The level of thermal sensation is also affected by acclimatisation/adaptation. Studies show that people who originate from hot climates are comfortable at higher temperatures than those coming from in cooler climates [16][17][18]. The mathematical model of heat balance in the human body should include the effects of temperature, humidity, wind speed and radiation [19]. ...
The operational management of a smart city environment using IoT data is a challenge. Resource descriptor framework (RDF) techniques interpret relationships in activity profiles to generate better situationally aware operational information. The data analysis uses a system process approach, to create an effective smart city monitoring and management system. The two-year project uses a LoRaWAN network of sensor nodes across a 127-ha campus, using customised sensors, producing a daily operational record of three important criteria: (a) human traffic count, (b) temperature and (c) humidity, at each of the seventy-one carefully selected locations. An ontology-based semantic framework is used to describe, in process-driven operational terms, campus-related activity, including before, during and in the waning days of the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper shows how the technology is used on the Macquarie University Campus and environs, process optimization methods tried, predictive techniques developed to improve operational effectiveness in an evolving smart city environment.
Background : Outdoor and indoor air temperature affects human health and wellbeing. Climate change projections suggest that global temperatures will continue to increase and this poses a threat to health. Housing that can protect humans from the adverse effects of temperature is essential, especially in the context of climate change.
Method : In this cross-sectional study, we measured indoor temperature inside shipping containers comprising a seven-storey block of apartments and businesses in Johannesburg, South Africa. We assessed indoor temperature and relative humidity; evaluated measured temperatures in relation to thresholds known to be associated with adverse health risks; and sought to understand heat-health perceptions and symptoms of people living and working in shipping container units.
Results : Median indoor apparent temperature (AT) (a combination of temperature and relative humidity) was 16 °C with values ranging from 6 °C (observed at 8:00) to 42 °C (observed at 17:00). Insulated units had temperatures between 2°C and 9°C cooler than uninsulated units. Heat-health risks from AT exposure were likely in all units, although there was variation in the number of occurrences that AT measurements exceeded the four symptom bands of caution, extreme caution, danger and extreme danger. Some participants believed that their units were hot during hot weather and most people opened windows or did nothing during hot weather. Few participants reported experiencing adverse heat-health impacts, except for experiencing headaches (n=62, 58%) and feeling tired or weak (40%).
Conclusion : Container units should be insulated and have adequate windows for ventilation when used for residential and commercial purposes, especially in hot climates. Awareness regarding heat-health risks of living and working in hot spaces needs to be done, especially in the context of repurposed container units.
Objectives:
To identify and summarise the contextual factors associated with running demands in elite male Australian football (AF) gameplay that have been reported in the literature.
Design:
Scoping review.
Methods:
A contextual factor in sporting gameplay is a variable associated with the interpretation of results, yet is not the primary objective of gameplay. Systematic literature searches were performed in four databases to identify what contextual factors associated with running demands in elite male AF have been reported: Scopus, SPORTDiscus, Ovid Medline and CINAHL, for terms constructed around Australian football AND running demands AND contextual factors. The present scoping review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), and narrative synthesis was conducted.
Results and conclusion:
A total of 36 unique articles were identified by the systematic literature search, which included 20 unique contextual factors. The most studied contextual factors were position (n = 13), time in game (n = 9), phases of play (n = 8), rotations (n = 7) and player rank (n = 6). Multiple contextual factors, such as playing position, aerobic fitness, rotations, time within a game, stoppages, and season phase appear to correlate with running demands in elite male AF. Many identified contextual factors have very limited published evidence and thus additional studies would help draw stronger conclusions.
El viento local incide en el microclima urbano, en donde los edificios causan que el viento pierda intensidad al llegar a calles y plazas, afectando la ventilación y el confort peatonal. El presente estudio tiene por objeto evaluar el comportamiento del viento peatonal empleando morfometría, mecánica de fluidos computacional (CFD) e indicadores de ventilación para un área del centro histórico de Quito en un radio de 400 m. El modelo presenta cañones urbanos con orientaciones respecto al norte de 40° y 125°. Los cañones se modelan en base a su geometría para definir el ratio H/W. Posteriormente, se realizan simulaciones considerando el viento prevalente de la zona durante los periodos de día (6:00- 12:00) y tarde (12:00-18:00). Las simulaciones muestran una velocidad de viento peatonal entre 0,8 y 1,2 m/s, que ocasiona una reducción térmica de 2°C. Además, los indicadores de ventilación muestran un mejor comportamiento para los cañones menos profundos.
Specifying seasons is one of the most significant and arduous parts of climatology studies. In the present study, seasons are defined to apparent temperature index. For determining changes in the length, start, and end dates of the season in Iran in line with global climate change, in this research we used daily data of apparent temperature for 32 synoptic stations with locations and topography over a 60-year period (1959–2018). Temperature indices used for determining the start of seasons are thresholds of apparent temperatures of 0 and 20 degrees, with a 10-day continuation and without reverting to the initial conditions during this period for winter and summer, respectively. In the same vein, transitional seasons were specified and changes were analyzed using linear regression. The findings revealed that, in various regions, the start of spring and summer occur earlier while the start of fall and winter are delayed. The biggest statistically significant changes are observed at the start of the spring and fall seasons, as the increase is 2.25 days for summer and 1.5 days for winter per decade. Therefore, the duration of cold seasons have decreased and the duration of warm seasons have increased in climatic regions. These changes are statistically significant in foothill and high-altitude regions; the hot and dry climatic range is expanding with the increase and decrease of the summer and winter length, respectively. However, considering the inhomogeneity of altitude and geographical phenomena in the Iranian plateau and its flat northern and southern regions, these changes are not uniform or equivalent. We can say that, overall, climate change, as a direct factor influencing season change and climatic belts, plays a more influential role in comparison with local factors.
More frequent and intense heatwaves in the last decade have challenged humanitarian, health and meteorological authorities to mitigate impact. Meteorological heatwave monitoring and prediction services vary between heatwave definitions which either include humidity or are based only on temperature. Incorporation of humidity into human health heatwave studies and warning services has been variable. Whilst higher humidity is a known stressor during heatwaves, humidity is known to confound interpretation of heatwave data and can be difficult to monitor and forecast.
This study examines the effect of humidity on diagnosed heatwave severity across Australia’s diverse climate zones. Dry bulb temperature is used as the only input into the Bureau of Meteorology’s current operational Excess Heat Factor (EHF) index. Alternative humidity-affected temperature indices (Apparent Temperature, Wet Bulb Globe Temperature and Heat Index) are examined for suitability as input to EHF to compare the incidence of dry and humidity-affected heatwave severity within Australia. This paper uses maximum and minimum dry and humidity affected temperature indices extracted from Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology Atmospheric high-resolution Regional Reanalysis for Australia (BARRA).
Our investigation demonstrates Australia’s operational temperature-only percentile-based heatwave severity service provides effective heatwave warning guidance for five of Australia’s six diverse climate zones. However, rare very dry or very humid heatwaves in the tropics require both dry bulb temperature-only and Heat Index versions of Excess Heat Factor (EHF) severity index to provide competent operational heatwave early warning guidance.
In a series of three companion papers published in this Journal, we identify and validate the available thermal stress indicators (TSIs). In this first paper of the series, we conducted a systematic review (registration: INPLASY202090088) to identify all TSIs and provide reliable information regarding their use (funded by EU Horizon 2020; HEAT-SHIELD). Eight databases (PubMed, Agricultural and Environmental Science Collection, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, Russian Science Citation Index, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar) were searched from database inception to 15 April 2020. No restrictions on language or study design were applied. Of the 879 publications identified, 232 records were considered for further analysis. This search identified 340 instruments and indicators developed between 200 BC and 2019 AD. Of these, 153 are nomograms, instruments, and/or require detailed non-meteorological information, while 187 can be mathematically calculated utilizing only meteorological data. Of these meteorology-based TSIs, 127 were developed for people who are physically active, and 61 of those are eligible for use in occupational settings. Information regarding the equation, operating range, interpretation categories, required input data, as well as a free software to calculate all 187 meteorology-based TSIs is provided. The information presented in this systematic review should be adopted by those interested in performing on-site monitoring and/or big data analytics for climate services to ensure appropriate use of the meteorology-based TSIs. Studies two and three in this series of companion papers present guidance on the application and validation of these TSIs, to guide end users of these indicators for more effective use.
Background
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the leading cause of death worldwide, are sensitive to temperature. In light of the reported climate change trends, it is important to understand the burden of CVDs attributable to temperature, both hot and cold. The association between CVDs and temperature is region-specific, with relatively few studies focusing on low-and middle-income countries. This study investigates this association in Puducherry, a coastal district in the Eastern part India for the first time.
Methods
We analyzed the association between apparent temperature (Tapp) and in-hospital CVD mortalities in Puducherry between 2010 and 2020 using a distributed lag non-linear model to capture the delayed and non-linear trends over a 21-day lag period and identify the optimal temperature range for Puducherry. The results are expressed as the fraction of CVD mortalities attributable to heat and cold, defined as temperatures above or below the optimal temperature. We also performed stratified analyses to explore the associations between Tapp and age-and-sex combined and different types of CVDs.
Results
We found that the optimal temperature range for Puducherry is between 33⁰C and 35⁰C with respect to CVDs. Both cold and hot non-optimal Tapp were associated with an increased risk of overall in-hospital CVD mortalities, resulting in a U-shaped association curve. Cumulatively, up to 20% of the CVD deaths could be attributable to non-optimal temperatures, with a slightly higher burden attributable to cold (11.2%) than heat (9.1%). We also found that males above 60 years of age were more vulnerable to colder temperature; females above 60 years were more vulnerable to heat while females below 60 years were affected by both heat and cold. Mortality with cerebrovascular accidents was associated more with heat compared to cold, while ischemic heart diseases did not seem to be affected by temperature.
Conclusion
Both heat and cold contribute to the burden of CVDs attributable to non-optimal temperatures in the tropical Puducherry. Our study also identified the age-and-sex and CVD type differences in temperature attributable CVD mortalities. Further studies from India could identify regional associations, inform our understanding of the health implications of climate change in India and enhance the development of regional and contextual climate-health action-plans.
Background and aim
Climate change has far reaching consequences on all aspects of life, including health. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the global leading cause of death, have also been found to be climate sensitive, mainly to temperature. However, the associations between CVDs and temperature are region-specific with relatively few studies focusing on low and middle-income countries. This study explores this association in Puducherry, a coastal district in the Eastern part India.
Methods
We analyzed the association between apparent temperature (Tapp) and in-hospital CVD mortalities in Puducherry between 2010 and 2020 using a binomial regression model. We used a distributed lag non-linear model to capture the delayed and non-linear trends and identify the optimal temperature range for Puducherry. The results are expressed as the fraction of CVD mortalities attributable to non-optimal temperatures. We also performed stratified analysis to explore the associations between Tapp and age and sex combined and different types of CVDs.
Results
We found that the optimal temperature range for Puducherry is between 33⁰C and 35⁰C with respect to CVDs. Temperatures both above and below the optimal temperature range were associated with an increased risk of overall in-hospital CVD mortalities, resulting in a U-shaped association curve. Up to 20% of the CVD deaths could be attributable to non-optimal temperatures, with a slightly higher burden attributable to cold (11.2%) than heat (9.1%). We also found that males above 60 years of age were more vulnerable to colder temperatures, while females above 60 years were more vulnerable to heat. Mortality with cerebrovascular accidents was associated more with heat compared to cold, while ischemic heart diseases did not seem to be affected by temperature.
Conclusions
We found the optimal temperature range for Puducherry to be higher than that previously reported for India as a whole, with a relatively high burden attributable to ‘cold’ temperatures, despite being an inherently hot region. Our study also identified the age and gender differences in temperature attributable CVD mortalities, which can be socio-cultural. Further studies from India could identify the regional associations and enhance the development of region and context specific climate-health action plans.
The main reason for technological developments is to make human life more comfortable. Bioclimatic comfort areas are areas where people feel the most comfortable and comfortable in terms of climate. As a result of global climate changes, the temperature in the world is increasing day by day moreover increase in terms of people living in our country and other countries which the need for comfortable and comfortable spaces increases in all seasons. Bioclimatic comfort areas are the most needed in the summer months. However, the average temperature increases day by day in all seasons due to climate change. For this reason, within the scope of this study, the most suitable bioclimatic comfort areas were calculated with the HEAT index by using the average temperature and humidity maps for the fall, winter, spring, and summer seasons of 2019. While creating temperature and humidity maps, a point database was created for the neighborhoods in Kocaeli Province, temperature and humidity data were combined in this database. The temperature and humidity map for each season was open-source code the Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) interpolation method in the QGIS 3.16 software was transformed into a map in raster format. The heat index was created by using temperature and relative humidity maps in raster format. Then, the relationship between the created heat index maps and morphological factors was examined.
Ongoing climate crisis increase people's outdoor thermal stress, discouraging outside activities and increasing indoor consumptions. Amelioration of urban microclimates is necessary to safeguard citizens from thermal strokes without energy-intensive strategies, ensuring future cities’ sustainable development. More than 200 calculation methods can be adopted with the purpose to design thermally comfortable public spaces, but existing literature lacks selection criteria to justifiably choose the appropriate ones. As resolution, the Metamatrix of Thermal Comfort has been developed. It's a graphical methodology, addressed to academicians and practitioners, that allows to rapidly comprehend and compare the specificities of 65 renowned thermal comfort indices and thermo-physiological models, explaining their mutual interactions. To promote practicality in thermal comfort studies, relying on calculation tools, an Operational version, including only 22 indices and models integrated in computer programs, is presented. A qualitative evaluation by approximately 30 criteria, such as climatic and physical factors, meteorological conditions, solar exposure and type of environment, allows to select thermal comfort calculation methods compatible to specific needs. To find appropriate computational tools, the Metamatrix of Software can be consulted. An application example is provided, proving the suitability of this graphical methodology as a powerful asset to apply outdoor thermal comfort-driven design to urban planning.
Evidence has emerged regarding the role of seasonality and several meteorological parameters on bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and depression. We investigated the relationship between ambient and apparent temperature and hospital admissions of major psychiatric diseases in a psychiatric clinic of a General Hospital situated in Northern Greece during 2013–19. Data about temperature was provided by the National Observatory of Athens and diagnosis for psychotic, schizophrenic, manic and bipolar and unipolar depression were retrieved from medical records. A total of 783 admissions were recorded. Poisson regression models adjusted for time trends were applied to analyze the impact of temperature on monthly admissions. A summer peak was observed for the bipolar disorder, irrespectively of substance/alcohol use status. Seasonality emerged also for psychotic and schizophrenic patients with a through in winter. An increase of 1 °C in either ambient or apparent temperature was associated with an increase 1–2% in the monthly admissions in most outcomes under investigation. Alcohol and drug abuse did not modify this effect. Although our results indicate effects of temperature on psychiatric admissions, they are not consistent across subgroups populations and need to be replicated by other methodologically superior studies.
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