Articles tagged with Chemical Pollution
A new USC study found a link between 'forever chemicals' and changes in glucose metabolism in Latina girls, potentially increasing their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Researchers measured the impact of PFAS on glucose metabolism over time among adolescents and young adults.
A new study has detected high levels of PFAS chemicals in indoor air, particularly in carpets and other products treated with the forever chemicals. The research suggests that children may be exposed to these harmful substances through inhalation, highlighting the need for reduced use of PFAS in products.
Scientists have developed novel gas sensors with improved detection sensitivity and durability by combining organic and inorganic materials. The hybrid sensors boast high durability and high sensitivity, making them suitable for portable gas sensing applications.
Michigan Tech researchers developed a model to calculate how particular chemicals break down in surface water using singlet oxygen, which degrades contaminants and helps protect our waterways. The study's findings can aid environmental engineers and scientists in estimating half-lives of chemicals and predicting their degradation rates.
Researchers developed machine learning methods to accurately identify and characterize metabolism-disrupting chemicals, also known as obesogens. A high-throughput chemical screening approach combined with a machine learning approach was used to profile over 60 chemicals with known effects and predict their metabolism-disrupting potential.
Research by Lancaster University has found elevated levels of toxic chemicals, known as 'forever' chemicals, in the Arctic Ocean. These chemicals, used in products like stain-proof uniforms and non-stick pans, can accumulate in sea ice due to long-range transport from the atmosphere.
A £2.3million study is investigating the impact of chemical pollutants from UK coastal landfill waste on seabirds' health, reproduction and survival. The researchers will focus on European shags in the Firth of Forth, comparing their health and survival rates with birds that spend more time in the area.
International scientists agree that chemical pollutants can impact wildlife and human behavior, calling for improved methods to study contaminated-induced behavioral changes. The recommendations include developing standardized toxicity tests and integrating behavioral toxicology into environmental risk assessments.
Researchers explore using microbes to degrade per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), persistent environmental pollutants. A study suggests that certain microbe strains can defluorinate PFAS, but further research is needed to develop a feasible method for cleaning up the compounds.
Exposure to chemicals has contributed to over 1.3 million premature deaths worldwide. A global intergovernmental science-policy body is proposed to tackle this issue by conducting scientific assessments and identifying policy-relevant research needs.
The American Chemical Society outlines key business and policy issues in chemistry for 2021, with a focus on climate goals and the impact of open access publishing. The organization also notes that chemical firms are looking to bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic and manufacturers will remain busy producing COVID-19 vaccines.
University at Buffalo researchers have created a chemical sensing chip that approaches quantum limit capabilities, enabling quick and accurate detection of drugs and trace chemicals. The chip uses surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) technology to identify unique light-scattering signatures of chemicals.
A study by University at Buffalo researchers reveals that common terns in the Great Lakes region are contaminated with legacy pollutants like PCBs, PBDEs and DDT metabolites. The chemicals were found in birds of all ages, including chicks and adults, as well as emerald shiners, a primary food source for the terns.
Researchers detected nitrous acid levels two to four times higher than expected in wildfire plumes globally, driving increased ozone pollution and air quality harm. The chemical accelerates the formation of lung-damaging ozone pollution downwind of fires, with significant variations depending on ecosystem type.
Research shows that air pollution from ozone levels damages the scent of flowers, deterring moths. However, when given a chance, moths quickly learn that even polluted floral odors may lead to nutritious nectar rewards. This learning ability is crucial for moths to adapt to changing environments.
The study enhances air quality numerical models by incorporating observation information and model background fields to improve prediction accuracy, particularly for pollutants with long lifespans. It shows significant benefits for PM2.5, PM10, and CO forecasts lasting more than 48 hours.
A major study finds associations between air pollution, smoking, and built environment characteristics with increased childhood BMI. Exposure to maternal smoking, air pollutants PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide, and densely populated areas were linked to higher childhood BMI.
Researchers discovered significant chemical differences between PM1 and PM2.5 aerosol species, affecting particle acidity and water content predictions. These findings are crucial for accurately modeling air pollution in highly polluted regions, where the distinction is critical.
A review paper in Science highlights the challenge of assessing chemical risks to wildlife, citing the need for computer modelling and long-term ecological monitoring. The authors recommend a more consistent retrospective risk assessment approach to better understand the impacts of chemicals on wildlife populations.
The EU Water Framework Directive needs further development to address the complex mixtures of pesticides, medicines, and industrial chemicals in European waters. Researchers have developed new concepts and tools to monitor and reduce exposure to these substances.
The INTERfaces project, funded by the EU's Horizon 2020 programme, aims to replicate natural bioprocesses for use in the chemical industry. Researchers will mimic nature's metabolism to produce pure and sustainable chemical products.
A team of scientists from UMass Amherst and China has developed a new dynamic, two-step process to break down tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), a persistent global pollutant. The process uses sulfidated nanoscale zerovalent iron (S-nZVI) to degrade TBBPA into harmless carbon dioxide and water.
A recent study by Cardiff University and others found that Welsh rivers in urban locations have damaged food chains and fewer species of invertebrates compared to rural rivers. Persistent industrial pollutants like PCBs and PBDEs may be responsible for these effects, persisting despite being phased out.
Scientists developed all-dielectric nanoantennas that enable fast temperature-feedback identification of viruses and explosives at low concentrations. The technology allows accurate tracing and control of local temperatures during laser-induced chemical reactions.
Recent research reveals that pollutants can alter animals' immune responses and decrease their resistance to infectious diseases. Chemical exposure in the womb has also been linked to increased risk of illnesses in children.
Researchers from University of Colorado at Boulder found that daily household activities like cooking and cleaning release high levels of airborne chemicals, contributing to indoor and outdoor air quality. The study highlights the importance of proper ventilation in homes to minimize health impacts.
Scientists are creating new receptor-molecules and nanostructures to detect and destroy industrial pollutants like pesticides, herbicides, and pharmaceuticals. The goal is to develop a more effective technology for cleaning the environment, addressing a major issue due to the 'chiral' nature of these pollutants.
A study found associations between environmental pollutants and metabolic processes in pregnant women, with potential implications for foetal development and child health. Exposure to low levels of contaminants left an imprint on their metabolism.
UTSA researchers have developed numerical models to replicate toxic gas dispersal, allowing for accurate projections of deadly gas trajectory. The tools can help direct evacuations in as little as 10 minutes.
Researchers found that various fruit and vegetable peels effectively removed pollutants like dyes and heavy metals from water. The study, led by Cindy Samet, expanded on previous research using avocado peels to remove pollutants, and discovered the potential of other peels like lemon seeds to achieve near-100% removal rates.
Researchers in Shanghai discovered new particles formed in polluted air, defying expectations and highlighting the need for emission reductions to mitigate climate change. The study provides new insights into urban particle formation (NPF) and its role in affecting local and global air quality.
Historical data analysis reveals significant differences in source region contributions to haze under unfavorable weather systems. Policymakers can develop more efficient control plans by incorporating weather system analysis when haze events occur.
The HOMEChem field experiment is analyzing chemical interactions in indoor environments, exploring sources of oxidants, organic compounds, and reactive nitrogen species. The month-long project uses advanced instruments to detect chemicals in real-time, providing insights into the complex chemistry of indoor environments.
Researchers at Lobachevsky University discovered hormesis and paradoxical effects in plants under formaldehyde exposure, affecting growth and biochemical indicators. This study contributes to improving environmental assessment methods using plant parameters.
A University of Melbourne study reveals that one in four Americans report chemical sensitivity, with nearly half experiencing severe health problems. The research found a significant increase in diagnosed cases of Multiple Chemical Sensitivities, affecting an estimated 55 million adults.
A new study finds that consumer and industrial products are a dominant urban air pollution source, contributing as much as the transportation sector. Particle-forming emissions from chemical products are twice as high as those from vehicles, causing lung damage.
Researchers at Swansea University have discovered patterns in soil fractures that could speed up the decontamination of industrial brownfield sites. The technique uses fracturing to generate high-conductivity pathways for fluid exchange, reducing cleaning time and cost.
Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory have made a breakthrough in understanding the Criegee intermediate, a key chemical able to break down sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. The research improves models for atmospheric chemistry and validates a major theory for predicting chemical reactivity.
A new study reveals that unequal exposure to environmental pollutants may drive higher diabetes rates among minority and low-income populations. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals can hinder insulin production, increasing the risk of diabetes.
Air pollution is the biggest contributor, linked to 6.5 million deaths in 2015, while water and workplace-related pollution pose significant risks. Welfare losses due to pollution are estimated to cost more than US$4.6 trillion each year.
Researchers found that low-income households living in subsidized housing are exposed to hazardous chemicals from building materials and personal care products. The study highlights the need for broader green building standards to address indoor air pollution, particularly in vulnerable communities.
Research highlights the disproportionate impact of beauty product-related chemicals on women of color, who face higher levels of exposure and health risks. The study suggests that marketing practices and societal pressure contribute to this issue, emphasizing the need for improved testing and disclosure to advance environmental justice.
A new study reveals that US streams contain complex blends of organic pollutants, including pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and byproducts from their degradation. The findings suggest that these chemical combinations could harm aquatic life and potentially impact human health.
Despite enacted policies, China's smog remains due to climate change and uncertainty over pollution sources, with nitrogen dioxide and ammonia contributing significantly. Research suggests targeting volatile organic compounds from vehicles could help clean up the air.
A new study finds that research on synthetic chemical pollution is severely lacking, despite its growing presence and impact on ecosystems. The study's authors call for increased funding and collaboration to better understand the environmental effects of these chemicals and mitigate their harm.
The new soy-based filter can capture nearly all pollutants, including small particles and hazardous gaseous molecules. The biodegradable material is cost-effective and has the potential to improve indoor air quality, particularly in regions with poor air quality.
Researchers developed a framework to optimize liquid-crystal-based sensors for detecting specific chemicals, enabling portable and inexpensive detection. The approach uses computational chemistry and liquid crystals to create sensitive materials that can be used in various applications.
A recent study by University of Surrey researchers reveals that emissions from pizzerias and steakhouses using wood burners can have damaging effects on the urban environment. The findings highlight the need to consider unaccounted sources of emissions, including burning wood and domestic waste.
Higher concentrations of BPA in pregnant mothers' blood are associated with an increased risk of preterm birth. The study found that women with higher BPA levels were more likely to deliver their babies early compared to those with lower levels.
A study led by the Zoological Society of London found that harbour porpoises in European waters are struggling with reproductive failures, with almost 20% of females experiencing stillbirth or foetal death. PCB concentrations in UK porpoises were moderate despite being banned over 30 years ago.
Trees that tolerate soil pollution show improved resistance to biological invasions, with 99% of spidermite RNA found in higher abundance in uncontaminated trees. This discovery implies that polluted plants may prime their defence machinery, enhancing their ability to defend against pests and pathogens.
The European technical report presents aquatic effect-based monitoring tools to address chemical pollution in surface waters, including bioassays and biomarkers for detecting toxic effects. These tools support the Water Framework Directive's goal of achieving a 'good status' for all Europe's surface waters by 2015.
Researchers found that high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) triggered pollution-forming reactions in winter, concentrating ozone pollution. Ozone levels in northeastern Utah exceeded national air quality standards 49 times during the winter season.
Researchers are monitoring air pollution levels and their impact on health using advanced methods like X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. The study aims to measure the specific chemical makeup of polluted air and its effects on human health.
A new study demonstrates that ingested microplastic delivers pollutants and additives into animal tissue, compromising key functions sustaining health and biodiversity. The findings show toxic concentrations of pollutants and additives in the tissues of animals that have eaten microplastic.
A UCI-led study found high levels of carcinogens and other gases downwind of major refineries and chemical manufacturers in Alberta, Canada. The researchers detected elevated rates of cancers linked to these chemicals in nearby communities.
A Duke University-led study found that elements sulfur, carbon, and strontium have unique isotopic fingerprints, enabling scientists to quantify mountaintop mining's contribution to water pollution. These tracers will help distinguish between contamination from mountaintop mining and other sources.
A recent study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology reveals that transpacific dust plumes carry thousands of unique microbial species to North America. The researchers detected archaea at high altitudes, which has potential applications in biotechnology and medicine.
The winners of the 2012 Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Awards have been announced for their groundbreaking work in developing environmentally benign organic catalysts, producing high-performance green chemicals, and improving synthetic pathways. The awards recognize innovation in reducing waste and pollution.
Researchers found that rhinovirus infection causes an increase in cough receptors, making airways more sensitive to environmental stimuli. This may lead to new drugs that reduce virus-induced cough and wheeze in asthmatics and chronic lung disease patients.