A study found pesticide residues on floors, toys, and hands of children living in farm worker households, posing a significant health risk. The research team detected six agricultural chemicals and 11 residential pesticides in the homes, highlighting the need for further study on this population's exposure to pesticides.
Researchers found that tire chips can absorb nitrate, a main chemical in fertilizers, reducing pollution in groundwater. Turfgrass quality was not affected by the rubber layer, suggesting it can be used as a sustainable solution for golf courses.
Researchers found BMAA in increasingly higher concentrations in the food chain of Chamorro people on Guam, potentially linking their diet to neurodegenerative diseases like ALS-PDC. Biomagnification of BMAA was also detected in Canadian patients with similar conditions.
Several commonly used pesticides are toxic to mitochondria in laboratory experiments, causing cellular damage that may contribute to diseases such as Parkinson's. The study found pyridaben to be the most potent toxic compound, followed by rotenone and fenpyroximate.
Researchers have developed a technology that can detect chemical contaminants in saliva, enabling rapid diagnosis of pesticide exposure and potential nerve gas poisoning. The innovation could be used to monitor farm workers and diagnose accidents or terrorist attacks.
A study by Newcastle University found that a refined garlic product is an effective killer of slugs and snails, with the potential to replace chemical pesticides. The researchers tested nine molluscicides, including a garlic-based product, and found it to be one of the most effective killers.
Researchers found that pollutants like lindane and hexachlorobenzene (HCB) behave differently in the presence of organic matter and sunlight, with HCB degrading at higher rates. The study suggests that pollutants can have varying effects on local ecosystems and human health.
Researchers have discovered that Fe-TAML activators can break down toxic organophosphorus compounds found in pesticides, which can harm human health and contaminate water supplies. The technology has the potential to provide a safe alternative to existing methods of pesticide degradation.
Researchers have developed a novel approach to break down toxic organohalides using sunlight-powered hemin and titanium dioxide. The new technique shows promise for efficiently degrading these pollutants, which are linked to environmental problems like ozone depletion and climate change.
A Penn State study reveals that low-maintenance lawns harbor higher populations of beneficial arthropods, such as mites and collembolans, while high-maintenance lawns experience reduced diversity due to chemical applications and mowing.
Researchers have discovered a single gene mutation in flies that provides resistance to multiple, chemically unrelated pesticides. This mutation has spread globally and has been linked to devastating consequences if not addressed through reassessment of current pest management methods.
A new study by USC researchers found that exposure to cockroaches, weed killers, pesticides, and other environmental pollutants in the first year of life are linked to an increased risk of early asthma. Daycare attendance before 4 months also contributed to this risk.
Researchers have discovered that Solanum sisymbriifolium can eliminate potato cyst nematodes from the soil, which are difficult to control. By cultivating this plant between potato harvests, farmers may be able to reduce the need for pesticides and improve crop yields.
Researchers are developing user-centered design guidelines to reduce pesticide exposure among ethnic minority farm workers, improving safety and communication. The project aims to create more effective risk communications, applicable to all farm workers regardless of ethnicity.
A longitudinal study found that high fruit and fruit drink consumption predicted an increased risk of Parkinson's disease. However, vitamin C intake was not associated with the risk. The study suggests further research into food-borne toxins may help understand the etiology and prevention of the disease.
Researchers found that catnip oil effectively deters termite tunneling, but its toxicity and cost limit its practical use. The study suggests a potential future for catnip oil as a natural termite control method.
The IR-4 project supports research and development of natural pest control tools for specialty crops. The program aims to provide effective alternatives to traditional pesticides, benefiting farmers, homeowners, and consumers.
Researchers found that catnip oil repelled and killed termites in a laboratory test, providing a potential less toxic alternative to pesticides. However, the oil breaks down quickly in the environment, limiting its long-term effectiveness.
Researchers found low-dose exposure to permethrin triggered a process with early onset and persistent effects, while high-level exposures had delayed effects. The study suggests that genetic predisposition may increase the risk of damage from pesticide exposure.
Scientists are studying the impact of human activities on water quality in the Brush Creek watershed. Geophysicists have discovered small earthquakes in northeastern Kansas related to movements of the Earth's crust. Additionally, researchers are analyzing how irrigation affects summertime climate in the High Plains.
The study found that complex interactions between common gene variants contribute to Parkinson's disease risk in women. Environmental exposures are thought to play a greater role in men, with estrogen reducing the risk of developing the disease in women.
A study of Native American artifacts found high levels of mercury, naphthalene, and DDT, posing a risk to human health. Museums are advised to handle these objects with proper precautions until further research is conducted.
Researchers at the Salk Institute found a genetic connection between organophosphate exposure and ADHD-like behavior, as well as symptoms similar to Gulf War syndrome. Mice exposed to organophosphates showed a 40% decrease in the NTE enzyme, leading to behavioral changes and neurological problems.
Researchers found naturally occurring fungi effective in controlling plant mites and powdery mildew diseases without chemical pesticides. This breakthrough reduces costs and environmental damage associated with traditional pest control methods.
A new study finds that oxygen deficiency can impair fish reproduction by disrupting endocrine function and reducing fertility rates. Long-term exposure to hypoxia can lead to major declines in fish populations, potentially causing extinction for some species.
Researchers at UC Davis found that organic and sustainably-grown fruits and vegetables contain higher levels of polyphenolics, a type of natural chemical with potential health benefits. The study suggests that the absence of pesticides and fertilizers in sustainable farming practices may lead to increased production of these chemicals.
A recent study by Queen's University researchers has found a link between trichloroethylene (TCE) exposure and male infertility. TCE, used in various industrial applications, is metabolized in the human reproductive tract and can adversely affect sperm development.
Organic and sustainably grown produce show significantly higher levels of antioxidants compared to conventionally grown food. The investigation reveals a 58.5% increase in antioxidant levels for sustainably grown corn, highlighting the potential benefits of alternative farming practices on nutrition.
Researchers at UC Riverside have isolated microorganisms that can degrade up to 90% of the toxic pesticide endosulfan in 15 days. The strains, Fusarium ventricosum and Pandoraea sp., have potential applications for detoxifying contaminated soils and water bodies.
A new monsoon forecasting method developed by Professor Peter Webster could guide farmers in choosing optimal planting times and making informed decisions about water management. This technique, applicable to any monsoon region, has the potential to create a significant increase in crop yields without relying on pesticides or fertilizers.
Scientists found that increasing nitrogen fertilizer levels in corn hybrids boosts Bt toxin production, potentially affecting pest management. The study suggests that early-season nitrogen applications may impact the effectiveness of Bt hybrids in reducing insect damage.
A new study found that genetically modified crops in India produced yields up to 80% greater than non-Bt counterparts, while also reducing pesticide use. This breakthrough has implications for small-scale farmers in developing nations who struggle with crop losses due to pests.
The US Navy is developing new antifouling hull coatings inspired by nature, using complex nanometer-scale patterns to prevent barnacles from attaching. These coatings have shown exceptional low settlement rates in early experiments, promising a reduction in fuel costs and frequent cleaning needs for Navy ships.
Researchers have identified two microorganisms, Fusarium and Pandoraea spp., that can degrade the toxicity of endosulfan, a persistent organic pollutant. This breakthrough offers a potential solution for detoxifying contaminated sites, reducing toxic residues in soil.
The new Methods of Soil Analysis Book, Methods 4, expands on previous editions with comprehensive techniques for carrying out soil physical measurements. It features advanced methods such as geostatistics, fractals, and fuzzy sets, providing a standard reference for soil physics technology.
Researchers analyzed debris from the collapsed towers and found no high levels of pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls or other persistent organic pollutants. The study estimated that 100-1000 tons of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were present in lower Manhattan dust, but these particles were too large to be inhaled deeply.
A study published in PNAS found that intensive farming practices can reduce bee populations and limit the pollination services provided by native bees. However, careful land use management can support the flourishing of native bee species, which are capable of doing more pollinating than previously thought.
Research in China identifies eight significant risk factors for suicide, including depression, previous attempts, and chronic stress. The study suggests that focusing on individual risk factors may not be effective in reducing suicide rates, emphasizing the importance of a multi-factor approach to prevention.
A farm safety lesson improved rural students' knowledge of farm safety, with significant gains in correct answers. The program reduced the risk of farm-related injuries and deaths among elementary school children.
Researchers found habitat destruction and pesticide exposure linked to declines of four frog species and two toad species in California. The study suggests that wind-borne agrochemicals may be a contributing factor to amphibian population declines.
Research suggests that tobacco smoke exposure can transform follicular lymphoma into an aggressive large cell lymphoma with poor prognosis. Genetic mutations in the p53 tumor suppressor gene and microsatellite instability may play a role in this process.
Researchers at Virginia Tech's Bioinformatics Institute will sequence the genomes of two Phytophthora species, including one that causes over $1 billion in soybean losses annually. The project aims to understand how these pathogens operate and develop strategies to control them, with potential benefits for marine species like diatoms.
Researchers at University of Melbourne warn of potential risks in pesticide control due to widespread resistance discovered in Drosophila melanogaster fly species. The gene Cyp6g1 confers resistance by producing more protein that breaks down pesticides, posing significant challenges for future pest management options.
Bushmeat consumption has been linked to chemical poisoning, with 30% of samples containing organochlorines, carbamates, and organophosphorus. The Ghana government aims to reverse the extinction of wildlife through sustainable alternatives like wildlife farming and education campaigns.
Emory University will lead a new center studying the relationship between environmental agents and Parkinson's disease, with research focusing on pesticides, organochlorine insecticides, and genetic causes of PD. The center aims to develop strategies for prevention and treatment.
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) is launching a $20 million effort to pinpoint environmental triggers of Parkinson's disease. Three centers will conduct independent research, including the University of California at Los Angeles, Emory University, and The Parkinson's Institute.
George Kauffman, a renowned Fresno chemist, has won the ACS Helen M. Free Award for his outstanding contributions to public outreach in chemistry. With over 1750 scientific papers and 16 books on science for general readers, Kauffman is celebrated for his work in making chemistry accessible to the public.
A study of internal tobacco industry documents reveals that companies profited from both tobacco and nicotine replacement therapies, undermining efforts to combat smoking addiction. Researchers argue that such financial conflicts of interest should be made public to ensure greater corporate responsibility.
A new, late blight-resistant potato variety developed by Cornell University will be given to Russian company Dokagene Technologies. The potato can also resist golden nematodes, scab, and potato virus Y, making it a valuable resource for Russian farmers.
Researchers found that chemicals in detergents, plastics, and medicines can mimic natural estrogens, disrupting the sexual development of juvenile zebrafish. The study suggests that these compounds can affect not only the reproductive capacity but also sex ratios of fish populations.
A three-year grant awarded by EPA aims to develop a scientific way to accurately estimate pesticide exposure among children, especially farmworker sons and daughters. Researchers use novel methods like videotaping children at home to quantify real-life exposure to pesticide residues.
A study by Penn State researchers found that deformed frogs are linked to the combination of parasite infection and pesticide exposure. The research, which included experimental studies in ponds where the animals live, may help explain how environmental stress affects disease outbreaks in frogs.
Researchers found that environmental oestrogens, such as genistein and nonylphenol, stimulate sperm development and motility, while natural oestrogen has no effect on capacitated sperm. This suggests a different mechanism of action for environmental oestrogens, which could have negative effects over time.
Dr. You's research highlights the effects of endocrine-active chemicals on biological systems, finding altered gene expression in male rats exposed to high levels of genistein and methoxychlor. The study suggests plant-based estrogens can alter the effects of synthetic compounds like pesticides.
Organic farming methods produced 20% smaller crop yields compared to conventional farming, but made up for it in ecological benefits. The study found that organic soils were more fertile, had a larger community of organisms, and decomposed more efficiently.
Researchers found a strong link between amphibian deformities and parasites, particularly those carried by snails, which thrive in human-altered habitats. The study surveyed over 60% of sites in Oregon, where deformities were linked to the presence of Ribeiroia parasite.
A new study found a striking connection between malformed amphibians and the presence of Ribeiroia, a parasitic infection. The parasite was linked to limb malformations in over 12,000 amphibians across 11 species, with Pacific treefrogs exhibiting the greatest number of abnormalities.
Researchers have discovered three promising microorganisms that can infect and kill termites, providing a potential solution for termite infestations. The microorganisms appear to work by breaking down the termites' bodies through enzymatic degradation mechanisms.
Researchers found that exposure to agricultural fungicide Triphenyltin (TPT) can irreversibly suppress natural killer cell function, a crucial part of the human immune system. Even after TPT is removed, these cells are unable to regain their strength.
A population study found that hypospadias was more than 20 times as common in boys whose mothers were exposed to DES during pregnancy. Research on exposure to DES may be relevant to current concerns about weaker oestrogens in oral contraceptives and other substances.