University of Michigan researchers found that invasive cattails alter the environment in ways that hinder native species but benefit the invaders. The cattails' litter accumulation creates a different environment with higher nutrient levels and lower light, which favors the invaders' growth.
Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and DNA packaging, can be inherited and affect gene expression. Recent studies in mice and rats have shown that early nutritional environment and behavioral experiences can influence epigenetic marks, which can be 'remembered' in cell divisions.
A nationwide study found that there is no consensus across the US on whether to teach K-12 students about human-environmental interactions. Research suggests that most states prioritize teaching about human impacts on the environment over environmental impacts on humans and society.
The American Geological Institute publishes Coal and the Environment, a framework for understanding coal's mining and use impacts. The report discusses new clean-coal technologies and regulations to reduce harmful emissions.
A majority of Americans (55%) expect the world's natural environment to be in worse shape in 10 years than it is now. Despite party affiliation, 67% of Democrats and 48% of Republicans are pessimistic about environmental health. A bipartisan 86% supports government action to improve the environment during the next year.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center are studying the interaction between genes and environment in promoting cancer. Environmental scientists have identified new culprits in the cancer equation, including chemicals that can damage or mutate genes, and epigenetic alterations that occur without changing a gene's fundamental code.
A new special issue of Yale's Journal of Industrial Ecology examines the practical application and framework of eco-efficiency. Researchers used data envelopment analysis and maximum abatement cost method to quantify environmental impact, demonstrating progress in understanding the economy-environment tradeoff.
Researchers have discovered four genes in tuberculosis bacteria that enable it to capture iron from the environment, a crucial step in its survival. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new anti-tuberculosis drugs by targeting these genes.
Researchers found that post-lactation involution matrix promotes breast tumor cell migration and metastasis, even when compared to virgin matrix. The study suggests changes in the breast environment during pregnancy may contribute to poor breast cancer outcomes.
Curtis Marean aims to reconstruct ancient ecological factors influencing human evolution and understand the future implications for modern humans. He believes a team-based approach will provide more fruitful research than traditional specialist work.
Researchers have found a potential association between high blood levels of PCBs and furans with an increased risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The study analyzed blood samples from 100 healthy volunteers and 100 non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients, revealing a link between three specific molecular forms of PCBs and cancer development.
A University of Georgia research team is studying the effects of manufactured nanoparticles on microorganisms and small worms in soil. The study aims to understand the bioavailability and toxicity of zinc oxide nanoparticles, which may establish potential ecological and human health risks if released into the environment.
Researchers found that distinct brain regions were active when rats chose between environments associated with pups or cocaine. This discovery may provide insight into the neural basis of decision-making and preference formation in mammals.
SINTEL aims to provide automated, real-time situational information for ship crews, including threat assessment and decision aids. The lab will test and analyze threat scenarios in the NY Harbor environment using a combination of E/O and IR sensor modeling systems.
University of California, Irvine researchers will evaluate alternative materials and recycling programs to reduce the environmental impact of e-waste, including cell phones. The interdisciplinary team aims to create a comprehensive model to protect public health and the environment from hazardous chemicals in electronic waste.
A new artificial intelligence-based drying process for wood products could significantly reduce energy costs and improve product quality. The proposed method analyzes the kiln environment to predict optimal conditions and minimize deviations, potentially saving the $250 billion US wood industry millions of dollars.
A Carnegie Mellon psychologist will investigate how a person's social environment influences their health and well-being. The study aims to determine which biological factors are impacted by social well-being to affect health.
Two scientists outline China's environmental impact on the world, including pollution, resource consumption, and human health dangers. They recommend education, environmental law enforcement, market tools, and lifestyle changes to address these issues.
A well-designed NICU can conserve energy, improve environment management, and reduce respiratory support, lung disease, and length of stay. Modified environments can also reduce staff stress and improve patient and family experience.
A study published in Home Healthcare Nurse found that home care nurses value professional autonomy, collaborative relationships with physicians, and access to resources to provide quality care. Implementing these traits can help reduce nurse turnover and improve patient outcomes in home health care agencies.
NASA's Goddard technologist Vladimir Lumelsky proposes developing a 'High-Tech Skin' with over 1,000 infrared sensors to enable robots to sense their environment and react like humans. This technology is crucial for carrying out NASA's Vision for Space Exploration, where humans and robots work together in unstructured environments.
Researchers developed a vaccine targeting the local tumor environment to improve systemic anti-tumor immunity in melanoma patients. The study showed that the vaccine was safe and feasible, with partial responses and stable lesions observed in some patients.
Researchers at Georgia State University are exploring virtual reality (VRE) therapy as a potential solution to treat fear of public speaking. By immersing individuals in a controlled virtual environment, Anderson's study aims to reduce anxiety and improve confidence in real-world public speaking situations.
A group of researchers argue that industrial chemicals in the environment pose significant health risks to children due to their exposure through inhalation, ingestion, and placental transfer. The lack of developmental neurotoxicity testing for 75% of high-production volume chemicals is a major concern.
A twin study found that genetic factors contribute substantially to the development of AMD, accounting for 46-71% of disease severity variation. Environmental factors also play a role, with unique environment contributing 19-37% and shared environment 28-64% to AMD grade and specific macular measures.
Mice raised in an enriched environment with running wheels and toys showed reduced beta-amyloid deposits and increased enzyme activity. They also exhibited improved genes involved in learning, memory, brain cell survival, and blood vessel growth.
Researchers find that adult stem cells are maintained by local environment signals that block gene expression, preventing differentiation. The microenvironment captures cells and prevents them from becoming other types of cells.
A UCI professor has developed a method to measure the relationship between environment and mental well-being, finding that natural features like water and flowers are most beneficial for mental health. The study suggests that designing landscapes with these elements can enhance overall quality of life.
Researchers discover how genetic and environmental factors influence racial health disparities, highlighting the importance of personalized treatment approaches. Studies show that genetic contributions play a larger role in blood pressure differences among African Americans than previously thought.
Enterococcus faecalis uses a Sonar-like system to detect human blood cells and produce a toxin in response, providing a potential mechanism for developing new antibiotic treatments. This discovery could also be adapted to help the aging population cope with vision loss.
A $2 million NSF grant enables researchers to develop real-time soil monitoring technologies, reducing the impact of fertilizers and greenhouse gases on the environment. The project aims to determine best management practices for California agriculture while minimizing harm to the environment.
A study by Dr. Richard Palmer challenges the classical Darwinian theory, suggesting that environment plays a crucial role in creating differences and variations in species. The research found that variations without genetic basis are common and important for evolution, especially in asymmetric forms.
The book provides detailed explanations of procedures used to manage and minimize environmental impacts of aggregate mining, processing, and transportation. It also highlights successful reclamation projects that convert mined areas into beneficial uses such as recreation areas and natural habitats.
Researchers at U of T found that animals absorb environmental information to modulate behavior, associating smells with starvation cues. A mutation affecting environmental role in memory recall was identified, highlighting the importance of environment in learning.
The University Corporation for Atmospheric Research has purchased a large-scale Linux-based computing system, adding significant computing capacity to NCAR's arsenal. The system will enable the evaluation of major community climate and weather codes in a full-scale Linux environment.
A new theory suggests that the Sun and Solar System formed in a turbulent environment, with massive stars influencing the development of planets. This vision could have profound implications for understanding planetary formation and life's origins.
Researchers found that early exposure to environmental toxins reprograms the uterus to promote tumor growth in genetically susceptible rats. This new model of gene-environment interaction may explain why some people develop cancer while others don't, especially considering inherited BRCA1 mutations.
Research at UC Davis explores the effects of ocean nanoparticles and vehicle emissions on atmospheric conditions. The study aims to develop models for measuring and predicting nanoparticle transients in the atmosphere.
A study from Duke University Medical Center found that virtual reality interventions significantly reduced symptom distress and fatigue in breast cancer patients during chemotherapy. Participants reported a decrease in nausea and vomiting, as well as improved mental state, after using the technology.
The lab recognized for FRAMES, a software system for understanding industrial impact on people and environment; a testing chamber that identifies hard-to-measure chemical emissions; and a test bed for developing fish-friendly designs for roadway culverts.
A joint research effort discovered Mars-like soils in Chile's Atacama Desert, which are depleted in organic materials and would have been missed by NASA's Viking missions. The team found that the conditions in this environment represent a limit for microbial life on Earth.
A new DNA registry at UNC will study the interaction between genes, environment, and disease. The registry aims to identify groups of individuals with genetic polymorphisms that may be linked to environmental risk factors.
A study found that NS temperament in adulthood was predicted by an interaction between the DRD4 gene polymorphism and a hostile childhood rearing environment. Participants with certain genetic variants and adverse childhood experiences had a higher risk of exhibiting high novelty seeking scores.
In an effort to improve regeneration, Emory scientists treated severed nerves with enzymes that degrade proteoglycans. Axons regenerated through enzyme-treated tissues more effectively, extending over twice as far as untreated tissues.
Researchers found that amphetamine and cocaine exposure blocked environmental-induced structural changes in the nucleus accumbens and parietal cortex. Exposure to complex environments increased dendritic branching and spine density in these areas, but was hindered by prior drug exposure.
The MagiC VLIW processor is a revolutionary component that enables environment intelligence, allowing for flexible systems to interact with the surrounding environment. It has been successfully integrated into various applications, including audio conferencing and ecographic ultrasound scanners.
A three-year study of 193 healthy older adults found that social environment, including home and family, was the most important factor in determining quality of life. Good mental faculties and personal optimism also played a significant role.
The Georgia Tech research aims to develop advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) techniques to study blood flow turbulence in heart valves. The team will create a virtual environment that accurately models the turbulent flow environment, which could lead to better design and reduced thromboembolic complications.
A new instrument, Decisional Involvement Scale (DIS), assesses the level of involvement registered nurses have in decisions affecting their work environment and patient care. The DIS can help hospitals identify areas for improvement and implement changes to reduce staff turnover and enhance quality of care.
The study reveals African Americans are more likely to make environmentally-friendly lifestyle choices and prioritize environmental issues. Despite this, they face poorer environmental conditions in their neighborhoods, sparking greater concern than their white counterparts.
A study found that prenatal exposure to a diabetic environment from mothers with type 1 diabetes is associated with increased occurrence of impaired glucose tolerance and a defective insulin secretory response in adult offspring. This effect was observed independently of genetic predisposition to type 2 diabetes.
A study found that economic growth often takes precedence over environmental concerns in local policy-making. However, there are examples of cities like Manchester where sustainability has become an integral part of urban development. Local authorities still play a crucial role in driving environmental and economic policies.
Researchers are developing faster methods to detect pathogens in the environment, such as DNA-based field assays and real-time PCR systems. However, challenges persist, including identifying the viability of pathogens and distinguishing between natural and genetically modified organisms.
The System Assessment Capability (SAC) is an integrated system of computer models and databases that predicts the movement and fate of contaminants through the vadose zone, groundwater, and Columbia River. SAC assesses the impact of contaminants on human health, animals, and the environment, providing a comprehensive understanding of c...
Researchers found that exposure to environmental cues linked to heroin administration reduced the expression of iNOS mRNA and protein in rat spleen, lung, and liver tissues. This suggests that environmental cues associated with drug use may contribute to altered susceptibility to infection.
Scientists have found that bacterial endospores can survive in a simulated Martian environment, raising concerns about future space missions. The discovery highlights the potential for Earth-borne endospores to hitch a ride to Mars and compromise efforts to detect life on the planet.
A broad-based research program is needed to understand obesity, which cannot be easily explained by personal failing. Genes and environment interact to determine body weight, with genetic factors accounting for individual differences in weight among present time.
A study by Ohio State University found that children living in owned homes outperform those in rental units, with higher math and reading achievement scores. The researchers attribute this difference to the better home environment, including safety, maintenance, and educational materials.
Researchers at Purdue University found that ozone can effectively kill insects in grain storage facilities without damaging food quality or the environment. The gas has a short half-life and low dosage is used to eliminate bugs, reducing the risk of mycotoxins and potential food-borne diseases.
Researchers found that childhood exposure to nature leads to a greater appreciation of the outdoors and interest in environmental careers. This has implications for educators and policymakers, as it can increase support for land preservation and environmental conservation.