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Why Don’t Spiders Get Stuck in Their Webs?​

By RISC | 3 days ago

What’s stronger than steel and more flexible than rubber? Spider silk!​Spider silk is incredibly tough. If a strand were as thick as a pencil, it could stop a Boeing 747 in mid-flight. Think about Spider-Man shooting his webs when fighting villains or swinging between buildings… Those webs are incredibly strong!But there’s more to spider silk than just its strength.​Spider silk has different types of threads – sticky and non-sticky. Each thread serves a unique purpose. Spiders have 7 silk-producing glands in their abdomen, and each gland produces a different type of silk:​• Glandula Aggregate: Produces sticky silk.​• Glandula Ampulleceae – major: Produces strong, durable silk for walking.​• Glandula Ampulleceae – minor: Produces temporary walking silk during web-making.​• Glandula Pyrifomes: Produces adhesive silk for attachment.​• Glandula Anciniformes: Produces flexible capture silk for catching prey.​• Glandula Tubiliformes: Produces silk for building nests or egg sacs.​• Glandula Corontae: Produces sticky, adhesive silk.​Since spiders create these fibers, they know exactly where to walk on their webs without getting stuck. Their legs also have tiny hairs and special hooks that allow them to walk confidently on the sticky strands.​Beyond catching insects or prey, spider silk has another intriguing function: it helps spiders sense their environment through vibrations. With such incredible properties, spider silk has inspired many innovations, including bulletproof vests, safety belts, and even surgical sutures.​Nature’s wonders surround us every day. Stay tuned for more on the world’s amazing creatures from RISC.​​Story by: Kotchakorn Rattanama, Biodiversity Researcher, RISC​​References:​Esme Mathis. (2022). Australian Geographic. "Unspinning the secrets of spider webs." From: https://www.australiangeographic.com.au/news/2024/07/cobra-bite-treatment/ (Accessed on 1 August 2024)​http://oservice.skru.ac.th/ebookft/601/chapter_7.pdf (Accessed on 1 August 2024)​

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How Do El Niño and La Niña Affect Thailand?

By RISC | 1 week ago

El Niño and La Niña have had an intense impact in recent years.​They’re part of the southern hemisphere's atmospheric system. El Niño is characterized by warm sea surface temperatures in the eastern Pacific Ocean, which affects tropical regions like Thailand in Southeast Asia, often causing drier weather than usual. La Niña has the opposite effect, bringing increased rainfall to tropical regions in Southeast Asia, including Thailand.​​In Thailand, during the second half of 2024, as the El Niño phenomena transitions to La Niña, there will be more rainfall than typical. When paired with other variables such as land use changes and reduced natural forest area, higher rainfall could cause fast flooding in residential areas. It is critical to constantly be prepared, such as elevating items, turning off power on the ground floor, and remaining aware about prospective evacuations if necessary.​​It is uncommon for both occurrences to occur in the same year, mimicking extraordinary weather changes amid global climate change. This serves as a signal to all of us to be prepared and to consider resilience. The more tools we have for adapting to different situations, the more easily we can help ourselves.​​The "Resilience Framework Toolkit" helps us see and understand problems to predict the impact of changes in various forms. The toolkit can help plan property projects and cities that can withstand coming challenges at the building, community, and city levels. ​​Get your copy of Resilience Framework Toolkit now! Pay 600 THB/copy (including shipping) to account number 175-054975-8, Bangkok Bank, MQDC. ​Please send proof of payment along with your name and address on Facebook or Line. Our team will ship the item as soon as possible. ​For online orders, fill in your details and shipping address at https://forms.gle/7ybMXoNZ29Xo826b7 ​If you require a tax invoice, please fill in the details for the receipt (E-Receipt format) at https://forms.gle/WPq8ybbKfxXPmkXi9 ​Or get your copy with special price of 500 baht at: ​DTGO Campus: Empty Cup RISC Office (2nd floor) and Forget-Me-Not Shop (3rd floor) (https://maps.app.goo.gl/kGLM3YcccNysnMcW9)​​Special Offer! Get it for only 500 THB if purchased and picked up in person at DTGO CAMPUS, Empty Cup Building, RISC Office (2nd floor), and Forget-Me-Not Shop (3rd floor) (https://maps.app.goo.gl/kGLM3YcccNysnMcW9).​------------------------------------------------​Story by Woraporn Poonyakanok, Senior Research Engineer and Acting Head of Resilience Research Hub​References:​https://www.tmd.go.th/info/%E0%B8%9B%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%8F%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%93%E0%B8%A5%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%8D%E0%B8%B2​https://www.thairath.co.th/scoop/theissue/2786619​

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Air Quality in the Rainy Season under WELL V2​

By RISC | 2 weeks ago

During the rainy season, one of the challenges we face is the increased humidity, which can lead to health issues if not properly managed.​​WELL Building Standard Version 2 (WELL V2) is a global standard for the health and well-being of building occupants. The standard has comprehensive guidelines for effectively managing humidity.​​High humidity in buildings can affect their users in several ways:​o Mold Growth: Excessive humidity is a key factor that promotes mold growth, which can lead to respiratory problems and allergies.​o Deterioration of Indoor Air Quality: The accumulation of dust and allergens worsens indoor air quality.​o Discomfort: High humidity levels can make people feel uncomfortable, sticky, and uneasy.​o Material Degradation: Excessive humidity can accumulate in building materials, damaging furniture, construction materials, and electronic equipment.​​To ensure that everyone using the building breathes clean and safe air, the WELL V2 provides specific guidelines for humidity management, focusing on:​ Thermal Comfort Concept - T07 Humidity Control: WELL V2 recommends that mechanical ventilation systems should maintain the relative humidity (RH) in buildings between 30% and 60%. The systems used may vary based on the size of the building:​o Residential Homes: Air conditioners with a humidity control mode (Dry) or an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) system should be installed. ERV systems help exchange heat and moisture between indoor and outdoor air, conserving energy while maintaining humidity balance. Additionally, dehumidifiers can be used in combination with ventilation systems.​o Large or Public Buildings: A Dedicated Outdoor Air System (DOAS) can be employed to adjust outdoor air quality before bringing it into the building, including humidity control.​Moreover, WELL V2 recommends regular air quality monitoring, especially during the rainy season when humidity levels rise. Air quality data should be displayed on tablets or applications, with readings updated at least every 15 minutes.​ Moisture Management - W07 Water Concept focuses on reducing leaks and moisture accumulation:​o Building Envelope: To prevent moisture accumulation on the building’s exterior, areas should be designed with good drainage systems, regular inspections of rainwater drainage, and materials such as waterproof sheets, metals, or closed-cell foam that do not absorb water should be used.​o Interior Spaces: For areas with high moisture exposure, such as kitchens and bathrooms, moisture-resistant materials should be selected. It is also important to check plumbing systems to ensure there are no leaks, which could lead to moisture buildup. This includes inspecting toilets, washing machines, and dishwashers. Wastewater treatment systems and pipes should also have backflow prevention systems installed.​o For large and public buildings, a moisture control plan should be in place. This includes scheduling regular inspections for leaks, water damage, mold growth on walls, floors, and HVAC equipment. There should also be regular assessments of pipe leakage, and building users should be able to report leaks or mold directly. Additionally, WELL requires that leak inspection and mold reports be submitted to the WELL digital platform.​If we can effectively control and manage humidity during the rainy season, it will bring numerous benefits, such as:​o Improved Health for Building Occupants: Reduces the risk of allergies and respiratory issues.​o Enhanced Productivity: A comfortable environment promotes well-being and increases the productivity of building users.​o Cost Savings: Decreases repair costs from moisture-related damage and reduces energy consumption for air conditioning systems.​o Extended Building Lifespan: Prevents deterioration of the building structure and materials.​o Positive Image: Demonstrates a commitment to the health and well-being of building occupants.​​Implementing WELL V2 for humidity management during the rainy season not only addresses immediate concerns but also serves as a long-term investment in the health and sustainability of both the building and its users.​As consultants specializing in the WELL Building Standard, RISC have expertise in analyzing humidity issues and designing appropriate management systems in line with WELL V2 standards. We are ready to provide guidance and support your organization in enhancing humidity management to create a healthier and more efficient environment.​Let’s work together to create buildings free from moisture issues, ensuring a high quality of life for everyone in the organization, no matter the season.​​Story by Phetcharin Phongphetkul, Sustainable Designer/ LEED®AP BD+C, WELLTM AP, Fitwel Ambassador, ActiveScore AP, TREES-A NC, RISC​​References: ​Thermal Comfort Concept - T07 Humidity Control https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/wellv2/thermal%20comfort/feature/7 ​Moisture Management - W07 Water Concept​ https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/wellv2/water/feature/7 ​T07 Humidity Control Option 2: Humidity modeling https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/wellv2/thermal%20comfort/feature/7 ​A03 Ventilation Design https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/wellv2/air/feature/3A04 Enhanced Ventilation Design https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/wellv2/air/feature/6 ​A12 Air Filtration https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/wellv2/air/feature/12 ​01 Air Quality https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/wellv2/air/feature/1 Air Quality Monitoring and Awareness https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/wellv2/air/feature/8

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How to Choose Wood to Prevent Mold?​

By RISC | 2 weeks ago

Want to use wood in your home but worried about mold? Here’s the solution…​​People who love wood can face disappointment, especially in wet weather such as the rainy season. Wood contains cellulose, starch, sugars, and lignin. These all can degrade into carbohydrates, the primary food for mold.​Mold needs moisture, a food source, and a suitable temperature. If we can adjust these variables, mold will vanish. But Thailand’s hot and humid atmosphere, particularly in the rainy season, makes it tough to control moisture. Other conditions for mold growth include oxygen, light, acidity, and the type of wood.​So how to stop mold? Let's find out…Surface mold is a type that hasn’t yet entered the wood. Mold filaments and spores have a variety of hues. They’re usually found on moist wood or in humid settings. You can eliminate them by washing the surface or sanding the wood, taking care not to spread the spores to other locations. Always wear protective gear such as masks, gloves, and goggles to avoid direct contact with mold. Breathing it in can trigger respiratory problems and allergies.​Stain-causing mold is inside the wood, either naturally or from production. It causes discoloration and shows in spots or wider areas. You can’t eliminate this type of mold, but it doesn't weaken the wood's structural integrity. ​​The last type of mold is wood-decaying mold that grows on the outside or inside the wood. This mold rots wood, causing it to crumble, collapse, and snap. The wood's structural strength may be impacted by bleaching and reduced density. ​ Figure 1 shows mold damage to flooring.​ Figure 2 show mold damage to a door.​ Figure 3 shows mold damage to a wardrobe.​ To avoid mold problems in your home, choose wood carefully and manage the environment: ​Moisture control is critical. Outdoor areas must have adequate drainage, no standing water, and wood mustn’t touch the earth. You must use long-lasting materials and wood designed for outdoors. This wood can better resist the sun, rain, and humidity. Before using it, the wood should also be treated to protect it from mold and termites. You also must regularly clean away dirt, algae, and mildew. ​Moisture control is equally crucial indoors. Make sure the environment isn’t damp. Regularly open windows and doors. Let in natural light. Use fans or dehumidifiers. Check for leaks in roofs, walls, doors, windows, pipes, air conditioners, refrigerators. And check for moisture rising from the ground. Regular cleaning is also vital to minimize dust and dirt. Always dry surfaces after cleaning. ​​Before buying wood, check its moisture level with detection tools or get certification from the manufacturer or supplier. ​Here's how you can pick wood that won’t become food for mold:​ Wood with adhesives or binders, such as plywood, laminated wood, MDF, or particleboard, must be used with care. These materials shouldn’t be exposed to direct sunlight, rain, or placed in damp places like restrooms because they promote mold growth.​ Mold can also grow on processed wood with a high moisture level. Wood that is processed or utilized in construction should have its moisture level managed. An ideal range is 10-12%. This level helps to balance the moisture in the wood with air temperature and relative humidity, lowering wood expansion and contraction while minimizing moisture absorption from the air. Acceptable moisture content varies with the local climate. (As relative humidity rises, the equilibrium moisture content rises, and as air temperature rises, the equilibrium moisture content falls.)​ Chart 1 shows the relationship between air humidity and the wood's equilibrium moisture content.​ Moisture control in wood, whether through air-drying or kiln-drying, varies with the intended use. Door core wood should have a moisture level of 8-12%. Flooring wood or general indoor-use wood should have a moisture content of 12-16%. Structural wood, such as Glulam, shouldn’t have a moisture content greater than 16%. Wood should also be treated before use, such as with chemical impregnation or anti-mold treatments. ​You can also choose wood alternatives. Synthetic wood alternatives, for example, have higher mold resistance, reduced water absorption, and lower moisture retention. ​But wood has many benefits. It’s popular because it’s low-carbon, renewable, beautiful, and has a natural feel. But don’t only focus on mold when choosing wood. Check the source to protect habitats and avoid deforestation, both of which are crucial for natural water sources.​Story by Saritorn Amornjaruchit, Assistant Vice President of RISC ​References:​TIS 497-2526, Standard for Kiln-Dried Wood Products​Forestry Research and Forest Product Management Division, Royal Forest Department. "Wood-Destroying Fungi," 2006.​ANSI A190.1-2022 Product Standard for Structural Glued Laminated Timber ​Maher Zakaria Ahmed Selim.  Evaluation of moisture content in wood fiber and recommendation of the best method for its determination, 2006. ​

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Which Floor Materials Stop Us Slipping?

By RISC | 1 month ago

We often see warnings to drive slowly in the rain – but people are also at risk of slips and falls!Many people get hurt on wet floors. Injuries can be severe. The vulnerable and elderly can even die. More than 1 in 3 older adults (60+) fell and hurt themselves in 2023, according to the Division of Injury Prevention, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health. These falls involve 180,000 outpatient treatments and 90,000 hospitalizations each year.. and cause about 1,200 deaths!​Slipping and tripping is the leading cause of falls in the elderly, accounting for 61.97% of those needing medical treatment in 2022 (20,741 cases). These numbers show that falls cause enormous damage. Prevention is vital. According to World Health Organization (WHO) research, falls stem from:​• Biology, including neurological illnesses, physical decline, balance, and vision.​• Behaviors such as using certain medications, drinking alcoholic beverages, wearing shoes with no tread, changing position quickly.​• Economic and societal reasons, such as living alone and not having enough money to modify the indoor and outdoor environments. ​• Environmental factors such as slippery, uneven flooring, varying levels, insufficient illumination, objects blocking the walkway, lack of handrails. ​​​Since aging is inevitable, older adults are most at risk. But anyone can fall from toddlers to pregnant women and those with physical limitations. ​So how can we prevent accidents? ​Living spaces should have anti-slip materials appropriate for each location to lower the risk of slipping and falling for everyone. ​Room function determines the risk level for area. Where the floor might get wet from water, rainwater, or oil, floor materials need a higher anti-slip value (learn more about the R value at https://risc.in.th/th/knowledge/slippery-problems-lets-get-to-know-r-rating-in-flooring-material).• For general usage areas in the house, such as bedrooms, living rooms, and walkways, select materials with an anti-slip value of at least R9. ​• For dry bathroom floors like toilets and sinks, select materials with an anti-slip value of at least R10. For wet bathroom floors like showers and bathtubs, select materials with an anti-slip value of at least R11. ​• For food preparation area floors, select materials that have a slide resistance of at least R10. ​• Select slip-resistant materials for kitchen flooring and outdoor spaces like pathways and parking lots (minimum R11 rating). ​• For outdoor spaces with high slopes, select materials with a slip resistance of at least R12. ​Standard flooring materials should have slip resistance test results from the manufacturer. However, if there is no slide resistance, you can employ the following methods: ​• High friction materials, such as rubber and vinyl, provide good surface adherence and high slip resistance. ​• To improve slide resistance, roughen the surface, groove it, add grout lines, or create mosaics. ​ Figure 1 Example of roughening the surface​   Figure 2 Example of grooving the material​ Figure 3 Example of adding grout lines​ Figure 4 Example of creating mosaics​ If you are unable to replace the original slippery materials, apply anti-slip rubber sheets, tapes, or coatings, depending on the location. ​Non-wet surfaces require extra attention. For example, when concrete, stone, and tile floors are exposed to water, their slip resistance rating is frequently reduced compared to when the surface is dry. You can follow these steps: ​• Regularly clean and dry indoor locations and use caution when wet from cleaning agents. ​• Outdoor areas should have a roof, drain wells, and no standing water. Avoid using them during or after rain. ​​For cleaning, materials with a high slip resistance rating may have a rough surface, so choose a surface type that can still be cleaned well and has a low porosity material, decreasing dirt on the surface that might cause slipping when wet. ​Floor colors or patterns should be visible and show whether the floor is flat or on different levels. Do not focus solely on appearance. Consider the quality of the view to avoid accidents. Having the same color and pattern on the stairs makes it difficult to detect the different level floor. Choose a color and pattern that stands out as a decorative border on the floor.​ Figure 5 Examples of colors and patterns that may cause accidents​ Also choose floor materials for adequate lighting and clear visibility of the walking path and surroundings. Remove obstacles from the walkway. Install handrails to help support the body where there are changes in levels, ramps, or along key walkways. All these are tips can help provide a safe environment that reduces injuries and potential losses.​Story by Saritorn Amornjaruchit, Assistant Vice President of RISC​References:​2023 Annual Report, the Division of Injury Prevention, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health (https://ddc.moph.go.th/dip/journal_detail.php?publish=15746)​WHO global report on fall prevention in elderly (https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241563536)​

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How Different Countries Prevent Floods

By RISC | 2 months ago

The earth entered La Niña in May bringing rainfall and a greater risk of flooding. Floods cause both direct and indirect harm. They damage buildings, homes, transport routes, public utilities, and agricultural and cattle industries. They indirectly impact the economy, safety, and mental health.​Each country around the world has a distinct approach to coping with flooding. Today, let’s look at how other countries manage and cope with floods. ​​Geo-informatics technology is now used by city management organizations all over the world to help with area planning and management to lessen the impact and damage caused by flooding. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in the United States has established the FEMA Flood Map Service Center, a spatial data source that displays flood maps, flood risk maps, and flood insurance rates to support the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and serve as a guideline for relevant people to effectively mitigate impact. ​Singapore employs geographic information technology in flood management, such as a water level measurement system using sensors and CCTV cameras. The system displays real-time events on a warning map when water rises. The system shows flood risk levels and analyzes spatial data to identify flood risk points. A rainfall monitoring and forecasting system predicts rain using radar.​Bangkok uses geographic information technology too. Weather radar data reveals the movement and intensity of rain clouds through remote sensing. Radio waves penetrate raindrops to assist in flood prevention and solutions. The public can also track the movement of rain clouds on the website of the Department of Drainage and Sewerage, Bangkok https://weather.bangkok.go.th/radar/. ​​Bangkok has also created a digital database to detect safety and danger regions (Bangkok Danger Map), which is used in risk management in Bangkok. This website allows us to view flood-risk zones as well as previously flooded areas. https://cpudapp.bangkok.go.th/riskbkk/index.htmlIn addition, the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (Public Organization), or GISTDA, has created a decision support system for disaster area management, as well as a spatial data service system for floods, forest fires, and drought. The technology will display Thailand's current general position to estimate future degree of damage and threats. We can all monitor the situation on the website https://disaster.gistda.or.th/#4.87/13.16/101.49. ​​Every day, more rain falls. If you are interested in dealing with floods on your own, review the material available on these public sources to ensure its reliability and benefits for preparing to reduce flood damage. ​Story by: Sirapach Mangkang, Geographic Information System (GIS) specialist, RISC ​References: ​https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home ​https://www.pub.gov.sg/Public/KeyInitiatives/Flood-Management ​https://pr-bangkok.com/?p=258971 ​https://weather.bangkok.go.th/radar/ ​https://disaster.gistda.or.th/#4.87/13.16/101.49 ​https://gistda.or.th/news_view.php?n_id=2883&lang=TH ​

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How Can Rain Improve Your Mood?

By RISC | 2 months ago

Imagine rain pouring down the window and raindrops beating on the ground with a fresh scent in the air… Ever wondered why you feel great when it rains? ​​These sensory impressions alter our mood and well-being. You might see rain as an obstacle to your daily routine, creating delays and difficulties. Rain can also cause affect serotonin through overcast skies and lack of sunlight, as mentioned in a previous article (read more at https://www.risc.in.th/knowledge/does-the-rain-make-you-lonely). But studies show that rain also boosts our mental and physical wellness.​Let's look at how rain impacts us, with a focus on the olfactory and auditory sensory experiences.​Let's start with the sense of smell. The fresh fragrance of rain or dirt rising from the soil is known as petrichor and was identified by Australian scientists in 1964. Petrichor contains several key components, including ozone, geosmin, and several plant oils.Streptomyces, a type of bacterium found in soil, produces geosmin. When rain falls and contacts the ground, it releases bacterial spores and geosmin molecules into the air. This makes us conscious of the fragrance. In addition, plant oils produced during the dry season are discharged into the atmosphere. The study discovered that this rain scent can produce feelings of peace, reduce tension, and enhance relaxation and connection with nature.​The sound of rain also has a positive impact through our auditory sense. Rain typically has a steady rhythm, melody, and frequency. It is classified as pink or white noise. Such sounds help to hide background noise, allowing us to focus on the current moment. According to the study, listening to natural noises such as rain can improve concentration, reduce tension and anxiety, and promote tranquility, relaxation, and better sleep.​Many artists, writers, and musicians have drawn inspiration from the rain. This is because the rain sound stimulates creativity and concentration. Research also shows that listening to rain sounds while completing arithmetic problems reduces calculation time and enhances computation efficiency more than a silent atmosphere. This suggests that the rain sound reduces external distractions, improves attention, and promotes brain function. ​Rain not only influences surface senses that increase perception and performance, but also cools temperatures. A study discovered that high temperatures (above 32.22°C) and low temperatures (below 10°C) reduce the brain's ability to process information and make decisions. As a result, colder temperatures generated by rain are ideal for work and can boost creativity and problem-solving abilities. ​​As we can see, rain influences both our bodies and our emotions. It’s not just a natural occurrence but also provides inspiration and relaxation. Let's enjoy the rainy season and its positive vibes. ​Story by Sittha Preedapirat, Senior Researcher, Brain Computer Interface, Happiness Science Hub, RISC ​​References:​1. https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-44904298 ​2. Amiri, M. J., Sadeghi, T., & Bonabi, T. N. (2017). The effect of natural sounds on the anxiety of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Perioperative Medicine, 6(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13741-017-0074-3 ​3. Bentley, P. R., Fisher, J. C., Dallimer, M., Fish, R. D., Austen, G. E., Irvine, K. N., & Davies, Z. G. (2022). Nature, smells, and human wellbeing. Ambio, 52(1), 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13280-022-01760-w ​4. Pilcher, J. J., Nadler, E., & Busch, C. (2002). Effects of hot and cold temperature exposure on performance: a meta-analytic review. Ergonomics, 45(10), 682–698. https://doi.org/10.1080/00140130210158419 ​5. Proverbio, A. M., De Benedetto, F., Ferrari, M. V., & Ferrarini, G. (2018). When listening to rain sounds boosts arithmetic ability. PloS One, 13(2), e0192296. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0192296 ​6. Yoon, H., & Baek, H. J. (2022). External Auditory Stimulation as a Non-Pharmacological Sleep Aid. Sensors, 22(3), 1264. https://doi.org/10.3390/s22031264 ​

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Does the Rain Make You Lonely?

By RISC | 2 months ago

Ever wondered why you feel lonelier during the rainy season?​ Let's find out…​If you feel sad and lonely when it rains, or have less energy, don’t worry. It’s not just your imagination. The weather can greatly impact how we feel. But it mightn’t affect us all or every time it rains. Some of us get seasonal affective disorder (SAD).​A lot of research is underway into weather and mood. Sunshine boosts the creation of serotonin, which dips with cloudy skies and winter weather.​Serotonin has a vital impact on our emotions, feelings, and behavior. The hormone helps us feel happy and relaxed. High levels help us concentrate and enjoy stable moods. Lower levels can make us touchy, anxious, sad, angry, unable to concentrate, remember, or take decisions.In the long term, low serotonin raises the risk of emotional difficulties such as depression, anxiety, stress, ADHD, and phobias. ​If you look at the rain and feel lonely, get active. You could clean your home, exercise, or go outside for natural light. Eat some tasty and healthy foods like meat, milk, eggs, soybeans, salmon, tuna, and dark chocolate. You’ll boost your serotonin levels and feel better when it rains… and when it doesn’t!​Story by: Kotchakorn Rattanama, Biodiversity Researcher, RISC ​References:​(1) Mental Health Knowledge Base, Department of Mental Health, Ministry of Public Health​(2) Baylor Scott,(2019), Rainy day blues? "8 ways to boost your mood when the sun is away. Retrieved 9 July 2024, from https://www.bswhealth.com/blog/rainy-day-blues-ways-to-boost-your-mood-when-the -sun-is-away​

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Should We Enjoy the Weather in the Rainy Season?

By RISC | 2 months ago

We often hear people ask how nice the weather is. But how can we assess meteorological conditions for human comfort?​Thermal comfort is a good place to start.​Thermal comfort is being happy with our surroundings in terms of the body's heat. It depends on 2 key aspects: 1) physical factors in the surroundings and 2) individual factors. Environmental design should provide a comfort zone, not just mentally but also physically, neither too hot nor too cold.​So what physical factors in the environment affect comfort?​4 factors must be considered:1. Air temperature2. Relative humidity​3. Air velocity​4. Mean radiant temperature (MRT).During the rainy season, the air temperature drops. It mightn’t be comfortable, though, because the air is quite humid. (Read more here: https://bit.ly/3VjQysW) Our surroundings could be more comfortable if a wind is blowing. In a garden or on a lawn surrounded by trees and bushes, for example, there’s a low MRT value. We may feel cooler than when surrounded by concrete with a higher MRT, even if the temperature is the same.​In addition to comfort conditions, individual factors affect comfort. Everyone feels cold and heat differently, even in the same location. There are 2 human variables to consider:​1. Our outfit ​2. Our metabolic rate​In a hot and humid country like Thailand, a T-shirt and shorts seem cooler than a long-sleeved shirt and long pants. Clothing acts as an insulator, preventing the body's heat from transferring to the surrounding environment. To assess comfort, the thermal resistance coefficient of clothing, or Clo Value, is used. The body's metabolic rate is determined by the human activities that occur in that area. The body produces heat in diverse ways, which affects a person's feeling of happiness and comfort.​The Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) is used in landscape design and building exteriors to quantify human comfort and thermal stress in a variety of situations. The calculation involves 4 physical parameters of the environment: air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and mean residual temperature. Temperature stress has 10 levels, with the median level or no thermal stress at 9-26 °C.​There’s lots more to learn about Thailand's environmental comfort characteristics. (Read more here: https://bit.ly/3VjQysW) There’s also been a lot of research into Thai people's comfort zones. Thais are accustomed to their hot and humid climate so could find different situations pleasant from other nationalities with different climates.​Story by Panpisu Julpanwattana, Senior Sustainable Designer and TREES-A Specialist, RISC​Reference ​Stein, B., & Reynolds, J. S. (1992). Mechanical and electrical equipment for buildings. New York: John Wiley & Sons.​

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How to Help an Electric Shock Victim?

By RISC | 2 months ago

In the last article, we looked at the design and installation of electrical systems to avoid shock and short circuits (you can read it again at https://bit.ly/45YXDnM). Let’s now look at what to do in an emergency involving an electric shock. How should we respond and act correctly and safely?When someone is electrocuted, the current passes through the heart, causing it to stop. Muscles, bones, abdominal organs, and the nervous system can also be affected. A very high current can cause severe tissue damage, leading to injuries in the abdominal organs. Some people may experience muscle spasms, rapid breathing, and loss of consciousness.For initial first aid, we should:- Immediately call the emergency hotline 1669 during the rescue or first aid process, so experts can arrive in time. The severity of the harm depends on the duration of the electric shock, and proper assistance can increase the victim's chances of survival.- Quickly find the source of the electric leak and cut off the circuit to prevent the rescuer from being electrocuted as well.- If someone is being electrocuted and a wire is touching them, use insulating materials that do not conduct electricity, such as wood, dry rope, rubber hoses, rubber gloves, or thick dry cloths, to push or pull the victim away quickly or flick the wire away from them.- If it's a high-voltage electric shock, notify the electricity authority immediately to cut off the power and call the emergency hotline 1669.- If the victim is electrocuted in a flooded area, the rescuer must not enter the water. Cut off the power before attempting a rescue.- Approach the rescue quickly, carefully, and cautiously. Cover the area that was electrocuted with a dry cloth. If there are wounds or uncertain injuries to the skin and tissues in the area, take the victim to the hospital immediately.Remember! Safety is the most important thing. Being prepared and cautious can reduce the risk of electric shock.Additionally, learning and practicing first aid methods for electric shock is something everyone should be interested in. When an incident occurs, we can help promptly. Keep the phone numbers of relevant agencies, such as rescue units and hospitals, handy for emergency calls.Preventing electric shock and short circuits during the rainy season isn’t difficult. Regularly inspecting and maintaining electrical appliances in the home with simple methods can effectively prevent electric shock hazards, allowing everyone to live safely and comfortably during the rainy season.Story by Montri Phulanku, Senior Research Engineer, Well-Being Research Integration and Building Infrastructure Specialist, RISC​​

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Confirmation
Confirmation