Articles tagged with Pollutants
Researchers have discovered that microplastics can serve as a transport vehicle for metals in the environment, accumulating and releasing these pollutants. The study found significant differences in metal accumulation between different types of plastics, with some metals attaching almost entirely to microplastics.
Researchers at INRS and Université de Montréal are developing new electrodes based on nanostructured materials to degrade chemical compounds, including persistent organic pollutants (POPs) like PFAS. The project aims to create innovative solutions to decontaminate waters containing harmful chemicals.
A review of previous scientific studies on pollutant release from sediments during extreme flood events reveals significant risks to human and environmental health. The study highlights the need for good river management to address long-term consequences of pollutants in riverbeds.
Researchers reprogrammed whale cells into neuronal cells to investigate the neurotoxic effects of an environmental pollutant. The study found that exposure to the pollutant led to apoptosis and disrupted cellular signaling pathways, ultimately causing neurodegeneration.
Researchers developed a new imaging technique to study ligand interactions with nanoparticles, discovering that varying ligand concentration can control particle shape. This approach could lead to the creation of chemical sensors and methods for removing micropollutants from the environment.
Researchers found that pollution reductions contributed to a 20% increase in yield gains for corn and soybeans between 1999 and 2019, worth $5 billion per year. The analysis revealed that four key air pollutants are particularly damaging to crops, with negative effects averaging 5-6% loss of production.
Researchers used NASA data to map PM 2.5 levels across China, Europe, and North America during the pandemic. They found seasonal differences driven primarily by meteorology, not lockdowns, but did see a significant reduction in nitrogen dioxide emissions.
Research suggests that exposure to air pollution during pregnancy may increase a baby's risk of obesity and related diseases. Hispanic mothers who lived in areas with high levels of pollutants had babies who grew unusually fast, gaining excess fat that puts them at risk of obesity later in life.
A new system developed by University of Missouri researchers can automatically prioritize pollutants in landfills based on their toxicity and abundance. The system has the potential to help environmental agencies create more specific and efficient plans to combat leachate, which can cause cancer and other serious harm.
Research found that long-term exposure to low levels of air pollution increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and respiratory issues. The study analyzed hospitalization records for over 63 million Medicare enrollees and found a significant association between air pollution and increased hospital admissions.
Researchers developed a stable graphene oxide nanofiltration membrane with uniform pore size to remove organic micropollutants. The study proposes combining signal amplification strategy and defect chemistry to reduce membrane pore size distribution, offering a promising method for preparing highly selective NF membranes.
Researchers developed two approaches to control plant proteins related to hydrophobic pollutant transport. A pesticide that suppresses MLP gene expression reduced hydrophobic pollutant accumulation, while an MLP-binding pesticide inhibited binding to pollutants. This breakthrough enables safer crop production on contaminated soil.
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.
Researchers developed the APIStrip tool to sample contaminants in honeybee colonies without disrupting their normal routine. The method uses a polystyrene strip with Tenax to detect up to 442 kinds of pesticides, including residues from beekeepers' treatments and plant protection products.
Researchers discovered that gold nanorods can catalyze the degradation of organic micropollutants like bisphenol A and perfluorooctanoic acid. When exposed to sunlight, these nanorods produce free radicals that break down pollutants, making them a promising low-cost water purification method.
A study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that mussels and sediment from Hiroshima Bay contain novel bioaccumulative compounds with high toxicological effects. The researchers identified unknown mixed halogenated compounds with similar physicochemical properties to persistent organic pollutants.
A new study by the University of Surrey found that babies in popular low-riding pushchairs inhale 44% more harmful pollutants than their parents during school runs. Pushchair covers can reduce pollutant exposure by up to 39%, according to researchers.
Researchers at USC have developed a new imaging technique called spectrally encoded enhanced representations (SEER) that provides greater clarity and works up to 67 times faster than existing methods. This technology has the potential to revolutionize disease diagnosis, particularly in detecting lung cancer and damage from pollutants.
A study in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry reveals that coal-burning activities in the Asia-Pacific region have contaminated sediment layers in the US Pacific Northwest, with mercury deposition increasing by 400-fold. Global cooperation is essential to mitigate these environmental consequences.
A new study reveals that polar bears at sea, particularly pelagic bears, accumulate more pollutants due to their diet rich in marine life closer to pollutant sources. This is attributed to increased energy requirements and longer periods without ice, forcing them to feed on land-based prey or rely on fat reserves.
Researchers found that high levels of DDT in Indian immigrants' blood correlated with obesity, liver fat accumulation, and insulin resistance. The study suggests that prior exposure to persistent organic pollutants may contribute to the higher diabetes risk among Asian Indians.
A study from the University of California, Davis found a link between high levels of DDT and increased risk of obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic disease in Asian Indian immigrants. Prior exposure to the pollutant may contribute to their higher rate of diabetes, even after migration to the US.
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin engineer molecular sensors based on porphyrin pigments, which can detect and capture pollutants. The novel sensors exploit the shape of porphyrins to mimic a Venus flytrap's opening leaves, enabling selective binding of target molecules.
Researchers have discovered that zearalenone, a widespread food estrogen, can pass through the placenta and affect fetal development. The study found that even low concentrations of zearalenone can have a significant impact on the unborn child's hormonal balance.
A study found high levels of pollutants, such as industrial fluids and mercury, in the blubber and skin of English Channel dolphins. The levels of pollutants were similar to those previously described for bottlenose dolphins in other contaminated areas.
Researchers have developed a method to trace industrial metals in the environment using honey and salmon. By analyzing lead isotopes in honey and Pacific salmon, scientists can identify sources of pollutants like lead and cadmium. The technique has been proven effective in Metro Vancouver and is being applied to other cities.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University's Institute for Green Science unveiled a new field of sustainable chemistry using bioinspired oxidation catalysts. The catalysts, called NewTAMLs, can eliminate pharmaceutical micropollutants from water in under five minutes and have major cost savings over current water treatment techniques.
A team from the University of Córdoba studied protein oxidation in western Mediterranean mice to detect environmental pollution levels in Doñana National Park. The research found high levels of oxidation in rice fields near the park, highlighting the presence of pollutants in the area.
Researchers measured air quality before, during, and after a large fireworks display in Albany, New York, finding peak levels of submicron particulate matter eight times higher than before. Potassium levels also spiked significantly, peaking at 350 times the background level.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology found that fatty fish provide clear protection against type 2 diabetes, but only if they are free from environmental pollutants. The study used innovative methods to analyze data and identified biomarkers in blood samples to objectively measure fish consumption.
Exposure to environmental pollutants alters brain development, affecting sexual development and fertility for multiple generations. Research suggests that current levels of endocrine-disrupting chemicals may already be causing long-lasting harm.
Researchers found that environmental pollutants can impact molecular hallmarks of aging, including mitochondrial DNA content and telomere length. Higher levels of certain pollutants were associated with decreased mitochondrial DNA content or shorter telomeres, suggesting a potential link between pollution and accelerated aging.
A Rutgers study found that exposure to ultrafine particulates restricts blood flow and nutrients to the uterus, potentially leading to delayed growth and development. Pregnant women are advised to monitor indoor air quality and avoid high-smog days.
A new study from Michigan Medicine reveals that pesticide exposure contributes to faster progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The research, published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry, found that patients with higher levels of pesticides in their blood had a shorter median survival time.
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.
Researchers have genetically modified a common houseplant to remove chloroform and benzene from the air, two hazardous compounds linked to cancer. The modified pothos ivy plants express a protein that converts these pollutants into harmless molecules, which can support plant growth.
A multicity study found exposure to ground-level ozone and nitrogen oxides increases ED visits for respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The study analyzed associations between cardiorespiratory ED visits and twelve major air pollutants across five US cities.
Researchers found high levels of tri(2,4-di-t-butylphenyl) phosphate (TDTBPP), a toxic organophosphate, in dust samples from e-waste recycling facilities and residential homes. The study highlights the need for better tracking and regulation of chemicals to understand their effects on human health.
A recent study explores the feasibility of measuring atmospheric pollutants in China using geostationatory satellites. The research recommends suitable sensor parameters for improved retrieval sensitivity and reduced errors, paving the way for more accurate monitoring and control of air pollution.
The study found that pollution levels in Hong Kong are mainly determined by tropical cyclone locations, with different impacts on PM10 and ozone levels. Tropical cyclones bring high concentrations of pollutants when located east or southeast of Hong Kong.
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.
The NEWT Center at Rice University has developed an energy-saving technology to remove pollutants from water. The polymer mat attracts hydrophobic contaminants, which are then destroyed by photocatalytic titanium dioxide under light exposure.
Researchers have developed low-cost, low-tech solutions to improve water quality in municipal tanks by circulating water through shower head-like attachments. Additionally, they've found effective adsorbents using polymer-coated magnetic nanoparticles to remove micropollutants from water, which can be reused and restored.
Researchers found Crepidula onyx snails unaffected by microplastics at environmentally relevant concentrations, suggesting potential threat to other marine organisms. The study highlights the species' resilience and implies a need for further investigation into its coping mechanisms.
Researchers at UCLA discovered that moving bus stops away from busy intersections can significantly reduce the amount of pollution bus riders are exposed to. By relocating stops 120 feet away from intersections, pollutant concentrations decrease sharply with distance.
A study found that asthma prevalence and emergency department visits vary widely among different NYC neighborhoods. Pollutants like nitrogen dioxide and elemental carbon are associated with greater urgent asthma care in lower-prevalence areas, especially among children.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis found that controlling car ventilation can significantly reduce pollutant exposure during commutes. Using portable instruments and sensors, they measured pollutant levels inside and outside cars during daily commutes, finding that running the AC reduced pollutants by 20-34%.
A new study estimates that air pollution and dust are cutting global solar energy production by more than 25% in certain parts of the world, with China, India, and the Arabian Peninsula being the hardest hit. The regions experiencing heavy losses are also those investing the most in solar energy installations.
A terahertz wave study in Beijing found that high PM2.5 concentrations were related to larger absorption at selected frequencies, and the information gained by EM was effective in relieving haze pollution. The study also identified differences in sulfate types during red alert periods compared to normal conditions.
Researchers at Cornell University developed a new technique using high-resolution mass spectrometry to detect 112 micropollutants in New York state waterways. The approach identified eight common chemicals in every sample and dozens more in most samples, revealing widespread contamination.
A new analysis reveals that polar bears are at risk from Arctic pollutants, with the risk being 2-3 orders of magnitude higher than safety thresholds. International control measures have reduced risks for bear cubs, but new contaminants pose a growing threat to the ecosystem.
Researchers have developed plants that can more effectively remove TNT from contaminated soil using the glutathione transferase DmGSTE6 gene. These plants show improved resistance to TNT and enhanced removal capabilities, offering a potential solution for land contamination
A recent study found that over 67% of participants had at least one persistent pollutant at high concentrations, with 13% having 10 or more at high levels. The study also revealed a significant correlation between POP exposure and socioeconomic factors, such as race and body mass index.
A team of researchers from Hokkaido University found that a receptor, known for its role in mediating dioxin toxicity, also regulates the body's innate immune response to viral infections. The activation of this receptor negatively regulates the production of an antiviral protein called type I interferon.
A study by University of Tsukuba researchers reveals that dioxin exposure disrupts AhR signaling, leading to slowed neuron migration and altered brain development. This mechanism may explain abnormal behavioral alterations caused by dioxin exposure in laboratory animals.
Researchers found that pollutants in seafood, including DDT and flame retardants, can interfere with the body's P-gp protein, which protects against foreign chemicals. The study suggests a risk assessment for protecting human health when eating contaminated seafood.
Scientists created a super-sensitive sensor to monitor pollutant levels in artworks, helping preserve Disney art on tour. The new technology detects low concentrations of pollutants that damage artwork, allowing conservators to replace sorbents more effectively.
A new study found that teenage exposure to organochlorine pesticides may lead to defective sperm and fertility problems later in life. Researchers analyzed sperm and blood samples from 90 men living in an island community with high pesticide exposure.
A new study assesses the underlying causes of Delhi's severe air pollution, attributing it to a combination of industrial waste, population growth, and urban landscape. The research highlights the need for innovative solutions to address this complex problem and protect public health.
Research published in Diabetologia reveals a strong association between early pregnancy exposure to organic pollutants and an increased risk of gestational diabetes. Women with high levels of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) were found to be four times more likely to develop the condition.