Articles tagged with Environmental Health
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Researchers at UCSF found a feedback loop between immune protein IL-31 and nerve cells, which dials back nearby inflammation and promotes skin healing. This discovery could lead to new treatments for conditions like eczema, allergies, and asthma by targeting the nervous system's role in regulating the immune response.
The article highlights that mental health problems and disorders are common in the working population, affecting 15% of adults of working age. Interventions focus on individual-level support, but proactive measures are needed to protect and promote workers' mental health and wellbeing.
The new Global Center on Climate Change, Water, Energy, Food, and Health Systems program will address the impacts of climate change on rural and refugee communities in Jordan. The three-year program will focus on health effects research, health equity, intervention research, and training and capacity building.
Researchers measured metabolite concentrations of two herbicides in urine samples from Ecuadorian adolescents and found negative associations with attention, memory, and language. Glyphosate was also linked to social perception issues.
A study found that renting in the private sector is associated with faster biological ageing, but this effect can be reversed through policy changes. The research emphasizes the importance of housing policy in improving health outcomes.
A new study finds that many wells and community water systems in the US contain unsafe levels of toxic contaminants, including cancer-causing substances like arsenic and lead. Climate change will exacerbate the issue, particularly in underserved communities, as clean sources of drinking water become harder to find.
A 10-year study found that even low doses of radiation may contribute to an increased risk of diabetes among emergency workers at the Fukushima nuclear power plant. Researchers analyzed data from over 6,000 workers and found a significant association between low-dose radiation exposure and a higher risk of developing diabetes.
A University of Cincinnati study found that exposure to PFAS may delay the onset of puberty in girls by an average of five or six months. The researchers also discovered decreased hormone levels consistent with the delay, raising concerns about negative long-term health outcomes such as breast cancer and renal disease.
A study of US adults ages 45+ found that neighborhood-level safety, physical, and social environments, as well as individual-level discrimination, narrowed racial disparities in cardiovascular health. Interventional approaches targeting these factors are needed to improve ideal cardiovascular health.
A new study found that US K-12 students' science learning standards vary widely in their coverage of environmental issues, reflecting the states' dominant political ideology and major industries. The quality and depth of information on planetary health issues are greatly impacted by these factors.
A new study review found children from families with low incomes and families of color are exposed to more neurotoxic chemicals, leading to greater harm on brain development. This disparity is attributed to their neighborhoods being located near factories, chemical plants, highways, and agricultural fields where pesticides are applied.
A new EWG study reveals that humans can serve as sentinels for understanding the impact of toxic PFAS on wildlife health. The study's findings show that over 625 species, including fish, birds, and mammals, are contaminated with PFAS, highlighting the need to tackle these persistent chemicals.
Researchers found a significant association between high temperatures and increased hospital visits for alcohol-related disorders. Higher temperatures also led to more hospital visits for other substance disorders, but only up to a certain limit. The study highlights the need for public health interventions during warmer weather.
The Keck School of Medicine of USC has launched a five-year, $50.3 million multi-omics study to better understand the causes and prevention of various diseases, including NAFLD, in underrepresented racial and ethnic groups.
A new ecological theory may help explain the persistence of segregation in US cities. The theory, called the 'adaptive resilience cycle,' emphasizes how systems adjust to shocks and retain their structure. Researchers analyzed Baltimore's history and found that this cycle has reinforced segregation throughout the city's history.
A new editorial addresses clinician burnout by proposing a unifying systems medicine model that incorporates biological, psychological, environmental, and consciousness factors. The authors suggest that Transcendental Meditation can enhance resilience and prevent burnout-related mind-body conditions.
A new global study assesses the scale of metal mining contamination in river systems worldwide, impacting human populations and ecosystem services. The research estimates 23 million people affected by toxic waste, highlighting the need for new safeguards to address growing demand for 'green' minerals.
A new study by Northwestern University found that Chicago's West Side experiences significantly elevated nitrogen dioxide (NO2) air pollution compared to other areas. The study used three state-of-the-art datasets and consistently identified the West Side as a hotspot in both February and August, affecting approximately 501,000 people
A new NIH study found an association between higher prenatal phthalate levels and a slightly increased risk of postpartum depression. Exposure to chemicals like phenols, phthalates, and parabens during pregnancy may influence hormone levels and contribute to the development of postpartum depression symptoms.
Researchers found that AI/ML based programs can successfully detect PCOS with an accuracy of 80-90%, making it a promising tool for early diagnosis and reducing the burden on patients. The study suggests integrating large population-based studies with electronic health datasets to identify sensitive diagnostic biomarkers.
A team of UC researchers, led by Ashley Kubley, have received a $2.5 million state grant to continue research on improving firefighter protective gear. The project aims to develop a firefighter jacket liner that brings down body temperature through advanced cooling technology and protects against external hazards.
The new facility will enhance the lab's capabilities to study the impact of chemicals and nanomaterials on human health, with applications in areas like toxicology and disease prevention.
Research estimates that natural flood disasters correlate with increased cases and fatalities from neglected tropical diseases, malaria, respiratory infections, and tuberculosis.
Replacing combustion engines with electric vehicles in Chicago would significantly reduce air pollution, especially in predominantly Black, Hispanic, and Latinx neighborhoods. The study found that electrification of all on-road vehicles could save over 1,000 lives and $10 billion annually.
Climate change exacerbates cardiovascular disease through poor air quality and extreme temperatures, according to a special issue of the Canadian Journal of Cardiology. Experts review environmental influences, exposures, and practical tips for healthcare providers to mitigate these effects.
A new study by Environmental Working Group scientists found that common household cleaning products release hundreds of volatile organic compounds, many of which are hazardous to human health. The study also suggests that choosing 'green' or 'fragrance-free' cleaning products could reduce exposure to these chemicals.
A global study estimates that lead exposure causes 5.5 million cardiovascular deaths and loses 765 million IQ points in children under five years old annually. The economic cost of lead exposure is estimated to be $6 trillion, with the majority attributed to cardiovascular disease deaths.
Researchers have developed a new method to calculate the health and climate impacts of reducing buildings' energy consumption. The tool estimates co-benefits under different energy use scenarios, providing insights into the economic value of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and premature deaths caused by air pollution.
A new study by Duke University found that urban parks built on former waste incineration sites can still contain high levels of lead in their surface soils, posing potential health risks to children. The research highlights the need for increased monitoring and mapping of contaminated soil hotspots across hundreds of cities.
Researchers found a significant association between high particulate matter exposure and an 8% increase in breast cancer incidence among US women. The study, which considered historical air quality data, suggests that fine particulate matter may affect breast cancer through endocrine disruption.
A new method enables efficient isolation of raccoon-borne Escherichia albertii from fecal samples, providing insights into its epidemiology and facilitating improved control of food poisoning. The developed culture medium selectively promotes the growth of E. albertii at a rate of up to 48%.
A recent study published in Nature Communications found that global PM2.5 exposure decreased significantly from 2011 to 2019, largely due to China's air quality management efforts. The study used satellite-derived data and a new regional decomposition approach to quantify local and regional contributions to global PM2.5 pollution.
A new Northwestern University-led study finds that electrifying 30% of heavy-duty vehicles in the lower Great Lakes region, including Chicago, would significantly reduce pollution and save hundreds of lives annually. The benefits are largely concentrated in disadvantaged communities, where residents face disproportionate health burdens.
The University of Miami has been awarded a $23.57 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to join the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Program. The research team will investigate how stress experienced by parents can affect their children's development.
The Illinois Kids Development Study (IKIDS) will receive $13.7 million in funding to continue its work on child health research for another seven years. The study focuses on the pre-, peri- and postnatal period, neurodevelopment, obesity, respiratory health, and well-being.
A new study by George Washington University found that unionization increases employer compliance with OSHA's reporting requirements, leading to safer nursing homes. Non-unionized nursing homes are less likely to report workplace injuries and illnesses, making it difficult for policymakers to track and prevent these incidents.
A study found that high-income countries' emission reductions fall short of Paris Agreement targets, with many needing to reduce emissions by 30 times faster than achieved. Experts call for a post-growth approach to decarbonize and achieve urgent social and ecological goals.
A new review explores the effects of air pollution and climate change on children's developmental health, leading to human capital losses. The study highlights three dimensions: health, cognitive ability, and socio-emotional ability, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive evaluation of these impacts.
A Swedish study found that precarious employment conditions increase the risk of early death, with workers who shifted to standard employment experiencing a 20% lower risk of mortality. The study used registry data from over 250,000 workers and found that job security is crucial in reducing premature deaths.
A survey of 10,981 US adults found that toxic molds, fossil fuels, and antibiotics are common causes of chemical intolerance. The study suggests that reducing exposure to mold, pesticides, and other contaminants may help prevent future cases.
Researchers found that DiNP exposure impairs blood vessel formation in maternal tissue and placenta, leading to smaller litter sizes and shorter gestation periods. The study suggests a ripple effect, impairing embryo growth.
Research highlights associations between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and workers' insomnia among Japanese adults. ACEs, including bullying and family dysfunction, are known to have detrimental health consequences.
Researchers at UMass Amherst are investigating the connection between PFAS chemicals and breast cancer. They will examine data from postmenopausal women to determine if PFAS concentrations are associated with less breast tissue involution, which may increase breast cancer risk.
A new study finds that living in racially segregated neighborhoods puts Black children at a higher risk of elevated blood lead levels, which persisted over more than two decades. The association between racial segregation and childhood blood lead levels was true even when adjusting for socioeconomic status.
A new study found that 12% of Americans are responsible for eating half of all beef consumed on a given day. The study analyzed data from the CDC's National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and found that these individuals, mostly men or those between 50-65 years old, eat disproportionately large amounts of beef.
Research at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health detected significant levels of metals in the blood and urine of marijuana users, suggesting that marijuana is a source of lead and cadmium exposure. Measurements reported by participants showed higher lead levels in blood and urine among exclusive marijuana users compare...
A new study from the University of Georgia found that improved sleep can significantly reduce impulsive behaviors in children exposed to stressful environments. The study, which analyzed data from over 11,000 children aged 9-10, discovered that lack of sleep and long sleep latency were linked to increased impulsivity.
A new study found that boys' sleep patterns remain stable until around age 12, suggesting that social and behavioral factors may play a role in sleep problems. After this age, changes in sleep patterns may begin to occur, making it essential for parents to seek help when needed.
A new study by Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute found that residence in neighborhoods with higher opportunity or lower vulnerability is associated with a decreased risk of pediatric asthma. The study used a geographically diverse cohort of over 10,000 children and examined associations between neighborhood attributes and asthma in...
A new NIH study found that living in a well-resourced neighborhood with access to healthy food, parks, and clean air reduces the risk of childhood asthma. Children born in high-opportunity neighborhoods had significantly lower asthma incidence rates compared to those from low-opportunity areas.
A new essay highlights how news stories about healthcare workers during COVID-19 often left out crucial socioeconomic and environmental contexts, which can impact consumer thoughts and responses. By introducing a public health framework, experts aim to broaden storytelling and reframed scientific information dissemination.
A new NIH study found that high levels of certain minerals and metals in environmental water supplies may increase the risk of nontuberculous mycobacteria pulmonary infections in people with cystic fibrosis. The presence of sulfate, vanadium, and molybdenum was positively associated with increased incidence of lung infections.
Researchers from Mount Sinai found that Asian Americans have a significantly high exposure to PFAS, with median exposure scores 89% higher than non-Hispanic whites. The study used advanced data science methods to account for complex exposure sources and heterogeneity across different groups.
A Dartmouth-led study reveals the devastating impact of gold and mineral mining on tropical rivers worldwide. Mining operations have doubled suspended sediment concentrations at 80% of affected rivers, altering river ecosystems and threatening human health.
Researchers from FAU will examine the effects of smoke-related air pollution on social isolation, cognitive function and risk of Alzheimer's disease in rural residents along Lake Okeechobee. The five-year study aims to promote early awareness of the disease and earlier modification of associated risk factors.
A study across five Nordic cities finds diverse microbial exposure inversely linked to risk of asthma and atopy development. Protective 'farm-like' microbiota associated with lower asthma risk exhibited higher abundance of outdoor-associated bacterial taxa, which are less prevalent in homes with high precipitation.
A statistically significant increase in heat-related illnesses was found among patients at US Department of Veteran Affairs facilities between 2002 and 2019. Specific groups, such as those with existing health conditions and certain ethnic groups, were more vulnerable to heat-related illness.
A new study uses a simple leaf-swabbing technique to detect over 50 species of mammals, birds, and frogs in a single cotton bud. The technique reveals an average of nearly eight animal species per swab, showcasing its potential for informing wildlife management strategies.
A new study led by Wayne State University aims to discover gene-heavy metal interactions in human livers that contribute to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The research, funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, will investigate how naturally accumulated metals interact with the liver genome.
Researchers at the University of New Hampshire found that pregnant women living in walkable areas engage in more physical activity and have fewer issues with pregnancy complications. The study also suggests that walking can have health benefits beyond exercise, such as social interactions and community engagement.