A nationwide field study will quantify methane emissions throughout US natural gas distribution systems to estimate national emissions rates. The study aims to improve energy policies and management practices for a cleaner environment.
A new study by Duke University suggests that tougher EPA air-quality standards may make nearly two-thirds of US coal-fired power plants as expensive to run as plants powered by natural gas. The stricter regulations could spur an increased shift away from coal towards natural gas, especially if fuel prices rise significantly.
Climate change is projected to increase the risk of heat waves, heavy rains, and droughts. Preparing resilient communities with disaster preparations, early warning systems, and well-built infrastructure can help mitigate these impacts.
Research suggests that human-driven climate change will lead to more frequent and severe weather events in the US, including multi-day heat waves and heavy precipitation. As a result, extreme weather-related disasters are expected to incur significant expenses, affecting both public funds and private equity.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have found that epidermal growth factor speeds the recovery of blood-making stem cells after exposure to radiation. The finding could lead to new treatments for cancer patients and those affected by dirty bombs or nuclear disasters.
A study found that natural disasters can alter children's altruistic giving, with 9-year-olds showing increased willingness to give and 6-year-olds becoming more selfish. The research suggests that empathy plays a key role in this development, with older children better able to regulate their emotions and act pro-socially.
The Southern Medical Journal's special issue explores physician preparedness, healthcare system readiness, and patient care in disasters. Experts share lessons learned from real-life experiences and provide guidance on improving preparedness.
A systematic review found that children and teenagers diagnosed with PTSD showed signs of improvement up to three months following treatment. Psychological therapies, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy, have been shown to be effective in treating post-traumatic stress disorder in children, reducing anxiety and depression symptoms.
A study by Sabrina McCormick found that citizen science can quickly identify hazards and provide specific local information, often missing from official reports. The Spill Map collected over 2,600 online reports and in-person interviews, capturing real-time data on oil spill impacts and health problems.
A new study suggests that US health security research is not adequately addressing the needs of a diverse range of threats, including natural disasters. The study found that only 10% of funded projects addressed non-biological threats, while most focused on bioterrorism and emerging infectious diseases.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute discover a novel cell signaling process that improves immune cell function, potentially leading to new treatments for cancer and infectious diseases. The study identifies a key regulator of immune function and suggests the development of drugs that enhance Natural Killer cell activity.
The elderly are disproportionately affected by disasters like Hurricane Sandy due to inadequate disaster infrastructure and response. Experts highlight the need for targeted policies and refined programs to enhance existing systems of care.
A UT Austin study aims to quantify methane emission rates from natural gas production sites using direct measurement techniques. The study brings together industry stakeholders and researchers to better understand and manage emissions from well sites.
A CU-Boulder-led team will examine social, ecological, and economic aspects of natural gas development. The project aims to provide a framework for society to evaluate the trade-offs associated with the benefits and costs of natural gas development.
A Spanish research study has identified 23 nuclear power plants in Asia and beyond as being at high risk due to tsunamis, including Fukushima I. The study found that 74 reactors are located in the east and southeast of Asia, with some countries like China, Japan, South Korea, India, and Pakistan also facing significant risks.
A new study by the European Respiratory Society found that Christchurch residents increased their tobacco consumption following the 2010 earthquake. The study showed that 28% of non-smokers picked up the habit after the disaster, with many attributing it to anxiety and changes in lifestyle.
A study published in the American Journal of Infection Control found that less than half of US schools address pandemic preparedness and only 40% have updated their plan since 2009. Many schools lack personal protective equipment, staff training, and medication stockpiles, highlighting the need for improved emergency planning.
A University of Miami study reveals that children experiencing both post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression are more likely to face longer-term adverse reactions after a disaster. Helping children cope with stressors after the event can improve their psychological functioning.
A U-M study reveals that natural killer cells, a crucial part of the immune system, are not fully matured until adulthood. By blocking a specific cell signaling pathway, infants' immune systems can be boosted, potentially reducing their susceptibility to infections.
A series of 18 articles in ZooKeys examines recent advances in imaging systems, data gathering techniques, and collaborative approaches to digitization. These efforts aim to create a global virtual natural history museum, providing unprecedented access to biodiversity records and research opportunities.
Manufacturers are turning to biotechnology companies using genetically engineered microbes to produce natural flavor and fragrance ingredients. These microbes can produce vanillin and picrocrocin at lower costs than traditional methods.
A new analysis found that over two-thirds of recently approved pesticide active ingredients have roots in natural substances. Scientists have discovered that biological and natural products-based pesticides are a rich source of new active ingredients.
Researchers found that crowd disasters are not caused by individual panic, but rather amplifying feedback and cascading effects. They introduced a new scale to assess criticality of conditions in the crowd, aiming to prevent disasters before they occur.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet used mobile data to predict population movements after a disaster, improving aid delivery accuracy. By analyzing patterns in anonymous user locations before and after the 2010 Haiti earthquake, they were able to accurately forecast people's whereabouts with 85% probability.
The new website at www.naturaltransfats.ca explores the differences between industrial and natural trans fats, providing key information on nutrition labels and food choices. Key findings suggest that natural trans fats found in meat and milk from ruminant animals are not harmful and may have health-enhancing potential.
The Marine Technology and Life Sciences Seawater Complex will study coastal structures, weather phenomena, and marine life impacting human health. The facility features a wind-wave-storm surge simulator capable of generating Category 5 hurricane force winds.
A survey by MIT reveals that 95% of major Latin American cities are planning for climate change, compared to only 59% in the US. Cities worldwide are taking proactive steps to adapt to global warming, often due to natural disasters and changing climate conditions.
A community health center in Joplin, MO, survived a tornado by having comprehensive disaster planning and robust electronic medical record systems. The study highlights the importance of data security and preparedness for interruptions to care and information access during disasters.
Researchers found that the earthquake's aftermath saw the resurgence of species on sandy beaches, while coastal armoring led to beach loss and decline in intertidal diversity. The study highlights the potential effects of natural disasters on sandy beach ecosystems worldwide.
Researchers aim to predict Dragon Kings, statistical anomalies in natural disasters, using advanced statistical analysis. They have identified empirical evidence in abnormal rainfall, hurricanes, and sudden events.
A collaborative study found that earthquakes and tsunamis can revive habitats and bring back species thought extinct, while also exacerbating coastal erosion. The research highlights the importance of preserving sandy beaches as barriers against sea level rise and conservation.
A dirty bomb attack on downtown Los Angeles' financial district could lead to significant economic losses, with estimated costs of nearly $16 billion over a decade. The study found that the public's fear and risk perception would have a larger impact than the immediate damage, with employees demanding higher wages to return to work.
A study by the University at Buffalo found that families dealing with environmental disasters often experience conflict, denial, and silence when discussing serious health issues. This can lead to isolation, decreased seeking of medical or psychological help, and increased psychological distress.
The University of Miami will study typhoons, monsoons and internal waves using SAR imaging to improve tracking and predictability. The new grant will provide valuable data for governments and first-responders in preparedness for natural disasters.
Researchers have found that individuals with specific gene variants are more likely to develop PTSD symptoms after exposure to trauma. The study suggests a genetic link to PTSD, which could lead to new screening methods and targeted treatments.
PLoS Currents: Disasters is a new publication channel for sharing research and operational analyses on disasters. It supports timely publishing and revision-friendly article formats.
Scientists have developed a new technology to purify natural gas by removing carbon dioxide, which increases the energy density and efficiency of storage and transportation. The 'super natural gas' burns hotter and occupies less space than traditional fuel.
A more effective environmental governance system is needed to address increasing natural disasters, food and water security problems, and biodiversity loss. The article suggests creating a UN Sustainable Development Council and upgrading the UN Environment Programme to improve global governance.
Researchers at McGill University have developed a mathematical method to predict the movement of oil and ash following environmental disasters. The tool uses Lagrangian Coherent Structures (LCSs) to forecast dramatic changes in pollution patterns, allowing for more informed decision-making about controlling spills.
Researchers have developed a mathematical method to forecast the movement of oil and ash in the environment following disasters. This technique uses Lagrangian Coherent Structures (LCSs) to detect the cores of complex patterns in ocean flows, predicting dramatic changes in pollution patterns.
The Office of Naval Research has developed a web-based tool suite called TRACS to help first responders rapidly coordinate resources during disasters. The tool takes data from the United Nations' ReliefWeb and displays it on a map-based diagram showing the locations of various resources, such as food, shelter, and health supplies.
In 2011, NOAA researchers made significant discoveries about storm systems, oceanic and atmospheric research, and environmental threats. They found that human-caused aerosol increases linked to decreased monsoon rainfall in South Asia, while also improving weather forecasting capabilities.
Penn and Brown researchers discovered an aspect of friction on the nanoscale that may lead to a better understanding of earthquakes. The team used atomic force microscopy to simulate rock-on-rock contact with different materials, revealing stark differences in frictional aging.
A Rice University-led team recommends building a floodgate across the Houston Ship Channel and adding new levees to protect densely populated areas. The report also suggests creating a 130-mile-long coastal recreation area to utilize wetlands as a natural storm-surge barrier.
Researchers warn that forced migration due to climate change will have calamitous results if not planned carefully. The team emphasizes the need for informed decision makers and careful planning to avoid community devastation. Resettlement efforts have left millions impoverished in the past, highlighting the complexities of the task.
Natural Killer cells play a critical role in early immune responses to tumours and viruses, exploiting HLA molecules on healthy cells to launch attacks. The research may help develop approaches to better utilize Natural Killer cells to combat viral infection.
Researchers found that elderly residents in long-term care facilities who were evacuated during a severe summer storm experienced delirium, cognitive changes, hospitalizations, and death. The study highlights the need for nurses to be aware of the potential difficulties older adults may experience during disasters.
A new issue of The Counseling Psychologist discusses the contributions of counseling psychologists to disaster research and response. The article highlights the need for a multisystem analysis and response, which counseling psychologists can provide.
A study published in Food and Chemical Toxicology found that a soy-based natural S-equol supplement did not increase the risk of estrogen-sensitive breast cancer. The supplement, SE5-OH containing Natural S-equol, was previously shown to reduce menopause symptoms in postmenopausal women.
A recent study suggests that relying on natural gas instead of coal would fail to significantly slow down climate change. The research found that a shift in energy sources could lead to a slight increase in worldwide warming over the next 40 years, with temperatures eventually dropping by only a few tenths of a degree.
Researchers monitored two million anonymous mobile phones after Haiti's earthquake and cholera outbreak, providing real-time data on population movements. The method improved humanitarian aid delivery by tracking the migration patterns of people in need of help.
A study using mobile phone positioning data tracks population movements after disasters, providing more accurate estimates than ad hoc methods. The method can be used for close to real-time monitoring of population movements during outbreaks, leading to better allocation of relief supplies.
Researchers found that role abandonment by first responders is unlikely if organizations are proactive in protecting their employees. The study suggests that employers should reach out to families and provide support and resources for spouses to alleviate role strain. Additionally, education on disaster threats and personal protective ...
A new study found that stress experienced by young female rats can affect their future offspring, causing behavior impairments. However, providing an enriched environment can ameliorate some of the negative effects. The study also showed that offspring raised in enriched environments can offset inherited effects.
The INFORMS journal has announced a special issue on using logistics and analytics to improve responses to disasters and health crises. The studies featured include pre-positioning of emergency items, optimizing schedules for maritime humanitian cooperative engagements.
A team at Georgia Tech developed an operations research model that helped CARE International pick three locations worldwide to supply relief quickly to victims of earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters. The model considered capacity constraints and recommended a gradual roll-out plan, enabling CARE to reduce response time, pr...
A study by North Carolina State University found that organized sports can bring people together and provide hope in the wake of disasters like Hurricane Katrina. The research highlighted both the positive and negative impacts of sports on community recovery.
Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed a system to anticipate high-risk climate tipping points, providing early warning systems for devastating consequences. By analyzing observational data, scientists can identify signs of instability in climate systems, allowing for forewarning and adaptation.
The elderly are more vulnerable to negative impacts of floods and natural disasters due to age-related disabilities and social circumstances. Research highlights the importance of considering age-related needs in emergency preparedness planning to ensure better outcomes.
A recent study reveals that households in New Orleans broke up more than double the national rate following Hurricane Katrina. The study found that extended-family households were especially vulnerable to breakups due to their composition and response to economic need.