A small study found that people believe bottled water has health benefits, but are unsure of the extent. Convenience and taste were more influential factors for participants when choosing bottled water.
A report by Rice University scientists warns that growing biofuels could harm the nation's water resources, degrading quality and affecting availability. The researchers suggest choosing drought-tolerant crops grown on minimal irrigation to balance energy needs with water conservation.
A new study evaluates expected ground motion in Seattle, Victoria, and Vancouver from earthquakes of magnitude 7.5 - 9.0, providing a tool to build or retrofit structures to withstand seismic waves. Ground motions are estimated for firm ground at the three sites, with a model that engineers can adjust for local soil conditions.
A new system developed by Prof. Abraham Katzir can detect contaminants in water supply in real time, providing early warning to authorities. The system uses special fibers that can distinguish between pure and contaminated water using the invisible infrared spectrum.
Researchers from Swedish and German scientists found that better water management can significantly reduce future food crises by leveraging both green and blue water. This approach can lift billions out of water poverty and provide a new green revolution in poor countries, even if they face blue water scarcity.
The BSSA special issue on rotational seismology discusses research on rotational ground motions, including theory, instrumentation, observation, and interpretation. Rotational effects from earthquakes have been observed for centuries, but were ignored due to practical difficulties in measuring them.
A new University of Minnesota study reveals that ethanol production in the Midwest uses far less water than similar processes in drier states like California and South Dakota. Iowa's 6 gallons of water per gallon of ethanol is significantly lower than California's 2,100 gallons.
A recent study reveals that disinfection by-products (DBPs) in water are toxic and genotoxic, causing DNA damage. DBPs from iodine-containing compounds and nitrogen-containing compounds are more toxic than regulated ones.
UIC researchers are conducting a study to determine the health effects associated with recreational activities on Chicago's waterways. The CHEERS study will establish water quality standards for people who enjoy activities on the waterway and measure actual pathogens in the water that cause disease.
Research by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory scientists discovered water acts as a catalyst in complex explosive reactions at high temperatures and pressures. Water transports oxygen between reaction centers, challenging the current view that it's just a stable detonation product.
Researchers found that proper irrigation management with reuse water can maintain favorable salt balances and plant response. The study's results suggest embracing reuse water as a viable alternative for golf course irrigation.
Chemists have visualized a chemical reaction that splits water into oxygen and hydrogen, improving our understanding of processes like hydrogen production and pollution cleanup. The discovery reveals that water can act as a catalyst, enabling the movement of adatoms on a metal oxide slab.
The Dead Sea's water levels are decreasing at an accelerated rate, primarily caused by increased human water consumption from the Jordan and Yarmouk Rivers. The study suggests that desalination of seawater or construction of new channels could help slow down the receding water levels.
Researchers find methanol enhances uranium reduction in contaminated ground water and sediment. Methanol use results in almost complete uranium reduction compared to ethanol or glucose, suggesting potential for improved long-term bioremediation stability.
The National Science Foundation has awarded a five-year, $1.24 million grant to the University of Arizona to fund a research center investigating new clean-water technologies. The Water and Environmental Technology Center will develop 'smart' water technologies, including sensors at individual households capable of detecting contaminants.
NOAA researchers have identified a wintering ground for North Atlantic right whales in the Gulf of Maine, with 44 individual whales spotted in December. The sightings suggest that the region may also be a potential breeding ground for the endangered species, which is critical for their protection.
A team of researchers used seismic waves to create CAT-scan-like images of the Soufriere Hills Volcano's internal structure. The study found an elongated magma chamber that fills with magma, causing it to decompress and resulting in greater eruptions than expected.
Scientists studied gibbon foot movements to understand the mechanisms of a 'flexible' foot. They found that gibbons hit the ground with their toes first and raised their heel to generate propulsion for walking.
Researchers used NASA satellite data to estimate the heat-trapping effect of water vapor, validating its critical component role in climate change. The study found that increasing water vapor leads to a spiraling cycle of warming and increased absorption, amplifying the warming effect of other greenhouse gases.
The study found that magnetized water exhibits magnetism, a saturation effect, and memory properties. New phenomena, such as irreversible infrared absorption and exponential UV absorption, were also discovered. These findings support the theory of magnetization of water proposed by Professor Pang Xiao-Feng.
A new USGS study published in the Journal of Environmental Quality shows that pesticide contamination in groundwater has decreased over the past decade. Only six compounds were detected in ground water from at least 10 wells during the study period, with concentrations less than 0.12 parts per billion.
Researchers Jan Schmedes and Ralph J. Archuleta found that locally ground motion increases near the epicenter but not equally along the rupture plane of large earthquakes. A new method for estimating detection capability was also developed, providing a more complete picture of seismicity.
A nationwide study found statistically significant increases in nitrate concentrations in 7 of 24 well networks, with median concentrations exceeding the USEPA maximum contaminant level. The study highlights the importance of long-term monitoring programs to protect ground water quality.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered the physical mechanism behind rapid water transport in carbon nanotubes. By orienting water molecules, the researchers found that a coupling between rotational and translational motions occurs, resulting in a helical motion through the nanotube.
Researchers propose using carbon nanotubes to replace conventional materials in water-purification systems due to their unique chemical properties. The technology could efficiently remove arsenic, fluoride, heavy metals and toxic organic chemicals from contaminated water.
Researchers have developed a manganese-containing complex that effectively catalyzes the photooxidation of water, a crucial half reaction in the photocatalytic splitting of water. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of a photoelectrochemical cell that produces pure hydrogen and oxygen from water and sunlight.
Researchers discovered that the Douglas-fir tree's wood structure prevents water from being pulled any higher than 350 feet due to air bubble formation. At this height, trees experience drought-like conditions and struggle to transport water, limiting their growth.
Researchers used terahertz absorption spectroscopy to study the motion of water molecules during protein folding. Water molecules change to a native-type arrangement much faster than the protein, helping establish its correct configuration. This 'designer fluid' plays a crucial role in life.
A team of researchers has developed a chlorine-tolerant membrane that simplifies the water desalination process, increasing access to fresh water. The new membrane reduces the need for de-chlorination steps, leading to cost savings and potentially lowering carbon-dioxide emissions.
Forests provide natural filtration and storage systems that process nearly two-thirds of the U.S. water supply. Preserving and managing forests may help sustain water supplies, but forest management is unlikely to increase water yields.
A Brown University-led research team has found evidence of water trapped in lunar volcanic glasses, suggesting it was present since the Moon's formation around 4.5 billion years ago. The discovery may shed light on the origin of water on Earth and its presence in the Moon's interior.
A study investigates the potential of a Simple Inverse Yield Model (SIYM) for estimating plant-available water capacity in fields. The results show that measured plant-available water capacity correlates with corn yield better in dry years, but SIYM estimates are weaker in claypan soils.
USGS scientists investigated pesticide occurrence in ground water at four US sites. Herbicides triazines and chloroacetanilides were most frequently detected, with degradation products often exceeding parent compounds. Redox conditions, residence times, oxygen levels, and nitrogen gas influenced pesticide concentrations.
The new strategy focuses on reducing per capita consumption from 150 litres to 130 litres per day, emphasizing the need for a sociological perspective to understand water usage habits. The report explores the role of metering and price signals in encouraging water efficiency, as well as the development of rising block tariffs.
Researchers propose using oil and gas flare-off energy to release water from gypsum deposits, creating a vast source of clean drinking water. The process has been successfully tested and could solve the water shortage problem in dry areas, enabling irrigation and fertility improvement.
New research on azhdarchid pterosaurs suggests they were strongly adapted for life on the ground, with features such as long limbs, stiff necks, and padded feet. The study argues that these reptiles were specialized terrestrial stalkers, using their unique anatomy to pick up prey from the ground.
A literature review found no clear evidence of benefit or harm from increased water intake in healthy individuals. However, studies suggest that people with certain diseases and athletes may benefit from increased fluid intake. No single study indicates a need to drink the recommended '8x8' amount of water daily.
Researchers are turning to advanced technologies like membrane bioreactors, nanoscale filtration, and desalination to provide clean water globally. A coordinated approach is needed to tackle complex water issues, with international cooperation key to addressing the crisis before it worsens.
Waters Corporation is offering complimentary drinking water analysis to US water authorities to assess regional exposure and develop solutions for pharmaceutical residues. The program aims to provide a baseline understanding of exposure levels to facilitate long-term monitoring and action plans.
Tests on ground squirrels found that moderate cortisol levels improve learning, while low or high levels impede it. The study suggests a link between cortisol and learning, which could inform understanding of human cognitive development.
Global climate models project significant changes in water availability due to anthropogenic warming, with regions like high latitudes and Mediterranean basin expected to experience substantial decreases. Non-stationarity must be accounted for in water resources planning to ensure effective management.
Researchers at Princeton University found a highly simplified model molecule that behaves in much the same way as water, challenging conventional wisdom. The discovery may have implications for industrial or pharmaceutical research.
The United Water Senior Design and University Marketing Program was developed in conjunction with Stevens Institute of Technology, resulting in improved water quality for customers. The program also addresses staffing needs, identifying future hires, and fostering community relationships.
A recent study by Indiana University researchers found that fluoridated tap water reduces dental fillings and costs for all age groups, with older adults benefiting the most due to limited access to dental insurance. The study breaks new ground on adult dentistry, highlighting the importance of community water fluoridation for people o...
New research at Yucca Mountain, Nevada, limits potential ground movement to 3.6 meters per second, reducing earthquake risk. Small earthquakes may serve as predictors for large ones, contradicting conventional seismology theories.
Researchers found that older sand filters with established biofilms effectively remove geosmin and MIB, reducing the earthy taste in tap water. The study suggests using biologically active sand filters can improve water purification, making water safer for consumption.
A new NASA study estimates that most US ground-level particulate pollution comes from regional sources within North America. The research found that controlling local pollution emissions is the most effective way to manage US air quality.
The Aquatest project aims to provide individuals and communities with the information they need to identify unsafe water and take action. The test, which can detect E. coli contamination, will be available in developing countries within 10 years, leading to improved water management and a potential decline in water-borne diseases.
A new study from Ohio State University suggests that climate change could diminish drinking water resources by up to 50 percent more than previously thought. As sea levels rise, coastal communities may lose fresh water supplies, with vulnerable areas including Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and northern Europe.
Researchers found that the earliest birds primarily made their livings on the ground rather than in trees. By analyzing toe claws of 249 species and fossilized ancestors, they concluded that early birds foraged predominantly on the ground.
Recent high-resolution images from NASA's Mars orbiters show extensive evidence of ice-made features on the planet's surface, including glacial debris and valley deposits. The findings suggest a dynamic history of Martian climate change, with water ice playing a key role in shaping the planet's geology.
A study by Andrea Dietrich at the American Chemical Society meeting found that cPVC has a low odor potential, while HDPE had the highest odor production. The researchers also discovered that certain types of plastic piping can leach organic compounds into drinking water.
A study by University of Minnesota researchers found that alternative cropping systems reduced nitrate levels in surface and ground water by 41-62% compared to conventional farming practices. Increasing cropping system biodiversity can improve water quality.
Researchers at UCL have detected water vapor in the atmosphere of an extrasolar planet, HD 189733b. The discovery was made using NASA's Spitzer telescope and confirms that water might be more common than previously thought outside our Solar System.
Researchers found that water quality is highest when beaches are busiest with swimmers, stirring up pathogens in the sediment. The studies recommend testing water for microorganisms like C. parvum and G. lamblia during peak usage hours to ensure safe recreational use.
A Georgia Tech research team discovered that water exhibits layered properties when confined to channels less than two nanometers wide. The study found that the viscosity of water increases dramatically as it approaches one nanometer in thickness, potentially making it a more suitable lubricant for applications.
A team of researchers led by Susan Cozzens is working to improve water supply and sanitation in developing countries. They aim to create new approaches to water supply and sanitation, focusing on storing, treating, and disinfecting water, as well as developing sanitation systems that minimize pathogen release.
Floods and aging infrastructure threaten the nation's drinking water safety, with inadequate monitoring and poor watershed protection being major concerns. According to MSU expert Joan Rose, combining sewer systems and climate change increase the risk of waterborne illnesses, especially in vulnerable communities.
Scientists at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a method to precisely control the movement of water through carbon nanotube membranes. By applying low-voltage electricity, they can switch between repelling and pumping water, paving the way for technologies like instant drinking water purification and DNA separation.
Researchers have created a fly-by-sight micro-helicopter that mimics the flight capabilities of insects, including takeoff, level flight, and landing. The study reveals how insects use optic flow to maintain their position relative to the ground, providing insights into previously unexplained observations about insect flight.