Articles tagged with Environmental Health
A Vanderbilt University study found that women's hormonal cycles play a critical role in drug addiction and relapse. When fertility-related hormone levels are high, females are more prone to seek rewards and make stronger associations with environmental cues, leading to higher relapse rates.
A team of researchers at Duke University has determined the structure of the TRPM8 protein, which is responsible for sensing cold and menthol. The findings suggest that PIP2 and cooling agents like menthol cooperate to control structural changes in TRPM8, potentially leading to new treatments for chronic pain and migraine.
A new European Fans in Training (EuroFIT) program has shown promise in increasing physical activity among male football fans in Europe. The 12-week group-based program resulted in improved physical activity and reduced sedentary time, with participants also experiencing improvements in diet, body weight, and well-being.
A Drexel University study found that nail salon employees are exposed to hazardous chemicals and experience acute symptoms, highlighting the need for intervention and policy change. The researchers propose simple protective practices, such as mask-wearing and proper ventilation, to improve workplace safety.
Researchers review novel research hypotheses and approaches to understand the role of environment in Parkinson's disease, particularly before diagnosis. The study suggests targeting specific environmental factors via the nose or gut may help prevent or modify the disease's progression.
Researchers developed an AI-powered method to correct errors in single-cell RNA sequencing, enabling precise data for every cell. The algorithm, called kBET, quantifies differences between experiments and facilitates comparison of correction results.
The NIH has launched a new fellowship program to support the next generation of African scientific leaders. The program aims to build research capacity in African countries and develop ongoing scientific partnerships.
Researchers studied graphene and related materials' physicochemical characteristics and biological effects, finding varying properties lead to differing toxicity. The study provides a solid guide for safe use of these materials, essential for widespread utilization.
A nationwide study investigated socioeconomic disparities in nitrate concentrations in US drinking water, finding that Hispanic residents and systems serving low-income communities had higher nitrate levels. The study suggests that programs targeting these communities may not be effectively assisting them.
A Michigan State University study found a strong association between high pesticide exposure and impaired sense of smell in aging farmers. Researchers discovered that washing with soap and water within three hours can mitigate the risk, but waiting longer increases it.
Researchers used a massive insurance database to analyze the effects of genes and environment in 560 common conditions among over 56,000 twin pairs. The study found that nearly 40% of diseases had a genetic component, while 25% were driven by environmental factors.
A recent study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology analyzed data from the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute's Severe Asthma Research Program. The research found that African American patients are more likely to experience emergency hospital visits for asthma and have poorer asthma outcomes due to socioecon...
Researchers develop phone-based intervention app to strengthen personal and occupational resources in military personnel, promoting balance and growth values. The project's goal is to improve the quality of life for military personnel, addressing stressors such as separation from family and frequent relocation.
A new analysis reveals states adopting guideline levels lower than the US EPA's health advisory levels for PFAS, highlighting the need for enforceable federal standards. States consider additional health effects, such as developmental problems and cancer risk, in their decisions.
Researchers discovered bone and tooth specimens of wild camels, elephants, horses, and antelopes at Azraq Basin site, providing insights into ancestral human adaptation to changing environments. The team found evidence of butchery and suggests that humans may have faced challenges from predatory competitors like lions and hyenas.
A new computer model simulates the spread of MRSA infections in hospitals and community settings, revealing hidden transmission dynamics and predicting patient infection risks. The model estimates that up to 61% of hospital-acquired MRSA infections are imported from the community.
Researchers found that children's health is less negatively affected when parents have control over their work lives. Autonomous parents are better able to regulate themselves and their parenting, leading to healthier outcomes for their children. This suggests that workplaces can play a role in promoting job autonomy to support families.
A comprehensive review of air pollution effects in children reveals adverse birth outcomes, cognitive and behavioral problems, asthma incidence, and potentially childhood cancer. The study estimates that over 40% of environmental disease burden is borne by children under five.
A new study published in Occupational & Environmental Medicine suggests that workplace resilience programs may not have a positive impact on employees' mental health and wellbeing. The researchers found no evidence that a specific program improved recruits' mental health and attitudes towards mental illness after training.
Researchers at UTSA create Cyberwell, an algorithm that reduces negative side effects of virtual reality on users. The algorithm predicts and personalizes cybersickness reduction through deep learning models.
A pilot study found that residents living in areas with high oil and gas activity showed higher blood pressure, stiffer blood vessels, and inflammation markers. The study suggests a possible connection between oil and gas development and cardiovascular disease.
A new case study examines the planning processes behind Chicago's 606 Trail and concludes that nonprofit coordination multiplied gentrification risks due to fragmentation. The trail's $95 million project converted an abandoned rail line into a multi-use path, but ignored displacement concerns and accelerated environmental gentrification
The symposium presentation explores current topics in occupational risk analysis, including chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and dermal contact with solid metals. Studies have found a lifetime excess risk of CTE in NFL players to be unacceptably high, highlighting the need for regulations.
A study by the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene found that over half of spice samples had detectable lead concentrations, with higher levels detected in spices purchased abroad. The study highlights the importance of considering spices as a potential risk factor for lead exposure in high-risk populations.
A recent study found that infants and toddlers in low-income, rural areas may be exposed to high levels of second- and third-hand smoke. The study suggests that frequent moves, lower education, and more adults in the home can increase a child's exposure to smoke.
Researchers at NIST discovered that oxide-coated silicon photonic devices can withstand up to 1 million gray of radiation exposure, making them suitable for measuring radiation dose in medical and industrial applications. This breakthrough could lead to the development of precise radiation sensors for medical imaging and therapy.
Researchers developed a method to measure 71 elements in water, beverages, and biological fluids simultaneously, providing a distinct 'fingerprint' to differentiate substances. This advancement has implications for fields like nutrition, ecology, climate science, and environmental health.
A new study found that Agile Implementation reduced central-line associated blood stream infections by 30 percent, improving patient safety and reducing costs. The methodology enabled fast and effective implementation of evidence-based solutions, involving all stakeholders in the change management process.
The Bloomberg American Health Initiative releases a special supplement to Public Health Reports addressing five urgent US health challenges. The supplement features articles and commentaries on addiction and overdose, violence, obesity and the food system, environmental challenges, and adolescent health.
Leading researchers urge government intervention to phase out organophosphates, citing evidence of lower IQs and difficulties with learning in children exposed prenatally. The review calls for reduced exposures through monitoring, education, and alternative pest-control measures.
New research suggests that infant girls fed soy formula are more likely to develop severe menstrual pain as young adults. Women who had ever been fed soy formula as babies were 50% more likely to have experienced moderate or severe menstrual discomfort between the ages of 18 and 22.
A recent pilot study by kinesiologists at UMass Amherst found that pedaling while working improved insulin responses to a test meal, with lower insulin levels observed when using a pedal desk compared to a standard desk. The study suggests that pedal desks could be a feasible solution for sedentary work environments.
Women are less likely to receive CPR from bystanders due to fears of inappropriate touching, causing injury, and misperceptions about their health. Studies suggest these concerns can lead to delays or no CPR being administered.
A study by Boston University School of Public Health found that Twitter users proposed many effective strategies to prevent sexual violence, but also perpetuated misinformation and myths. The researchers analyzed over 1,400 tweets using the #HowIWillChange hashtag and identified gaps in prevention strategies.
A new MIT study finds that every five-year delay in reducing mercury emissions results in a 14% decrease in the effectiveness of policy measures, with remote regions suffering most. The researchers used modeling to estimate legacy emissions and found that delays lead to an accumulation of toxic mercury in the environment.
A study published in Science Advances reveals short-term lead exposure in ancient Neanderthals, with implications for understanding human evolution and the effects of environmental exposures. The research team analyzed teeth to reconstruct climate and developmental events during and after birth.
Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a new environment for repairing eyes using hyaluronic acid. By creating an ideal substrate layer with high concentrations of hyaluronic acid, they aim to improve the treatment of patients with limbal stem cell deficiency, which can lead to opaque corneas.
A new AR device enables surgeons to interactively explore 3D cardiac data in real-time, reducing the risk of infection and improving patient care. The technology has shown exciting potential for guiding treatment and improving treatment outcomes.
A new study finds that 12% of frequent marijuana smokers experienced Cannabis Withdrawal Syndrome, including symptoms like nervousness, hostility, and sleep difficulty. The study also links CWS to psychiatric disorders, mental disability, and a family history of depression.
A UCR psychologist argues that low expectations set by ADL and IADL questionnaires may contribute to cognitive decline in healthy older adults. Wu advocates expanding the range of functional independence to include new skills and adaptability, potentially leading to greater long-term independence.
Researchers highlight importance of environmental surveillance in detecting silent polio transmission, which can lead to paralytic cases if left undetected. The study found that a substantial proportion of children under 10 were likely infected during the 2013 silent polio outbreak in Israel.
A recent study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that drinking water fluoride levels significantly impact pregnant women's urine. Researchers discovered that Canadian cities with fluoridated public drinking water have higher urinary fluoride levels compared to non-fluoridated areas.
Researchers found that some substitutes for di-n-butyl phthalate and triphenyl phosphate may be harmful, raising concerns about 'regrettable substitution'. The study of 40 nail polishes revealed that manufacturers have removed DnBP but still use similar toxic substitutes without disclosure.
A new study suggests that feeding 10 billion people sustainably by 2050 is achievable through a combination of dietary changes, improved agricultural practices, and reduced food loss and waste. The researchers found that adopting more plant-based diets could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over half and other environmental impacts.
A USC-led study of over 20,000 European youths found that children with asthma are more likely to become obese. Asthma increases the risk of obesity by 50-66%, especially in those with persistent wheezing symptoms.
Dream Tech LLC is developing a methodology to reduce animal use in chemical toxicity studies of food, pharmaceuticals, pesticides and other products. The project aims to enhance dose-response assessment efficiency and effectiveness.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found gas station vent pipes release vapors containing toxic chemicals like benzene. The researchers' findings exceed safe limits for benzene exposure, prompting officials to reconsider setback regulations.
Researchers analyzed children's asthma management and found that environmental exposures like secondhand smoke and pet ownership were not significant factors in improving asthma control. Once asthma guidelines are followed, these exposures do not impact overall asthma improvement.
Carlos Vargas-Irwin's research aims to decode intentional movements and develop more accurate brain-computer interfaces using cameras, artificial vision, and neural activity information. The goal is to improve control of robotic limbs for paralyzed individuals.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health researchers found that higher levels of stress are associated with lower odds of conception for women, but not for men. Women with high perceived stress were 13% less likely to conceive than those with low perceived stress.
The University of Freiburg has been granted two Clusters of Excellence, CIBSS and livMatS, with funding of up to 100 million euros over seven years. The clusters will focus on biological signalling studies and bioinspired materials research.
The UN is calling for the establishment of prevention programs to reduce tuberculosis among miners and others exposed to silica dust. Implementing primary prevention in high-risk occupations can prevent 300,000 new cases annually with improved ventilation, water spray misting, and personal protective equipment.
Exposure to PFAS has been linked to worse kidney function and other signs of kidney damage in studies analyzing all relevant research. The analysis points to the need for further research on the effects of PFAS on kidney health.
A study by Durham University found that industry-certified particle masks are most effective at protecting people from volcanic ash, while surgical masks offer less protection. The study also showed that cloth materials like bandanas and T-shirts provide very poor filtration.
New York University has received nearly $66 million in funding from the National Institutes of Health to investigate how environmental factors impact children's health. The ECHO initiative will explore how early life exposures affect brain development, obesity risk, and overall well-being.
Sherpas' unique physiological adaptations to high altitude may help improve oxygen delivery in critically ill patients. By increasing blood flow and delivering oxygen to tissues, Sherpas thrive at low oxygen environments, offering a potential alternative to traditional high oxygen content strategies.
Asthma patients with specific genetic profiles exhibit more intense symptoms following traffic pollution exposure. The study suggests that tailoring treatments to individual gene-environment interactions could enhance quality of life for people with asthma.
A new study from the University at Buffalo found that the presence of new or worsened bedsores is associated with lower quality outcomes for rehabilitation patients, including decreased functional independence and longer hospital stays. The study used data from nearly 500,000 Medicare patients discharged between 2013 and 2014.
A new study finds that NYC's tobacco-free pharmacy law substantially reduces tobacco retailer density overall, particularly in high-income neighborhoods. However, disadvantaged neighborhoods experienced little to no change in retailer density, highlighting unequal impact across neighborhoods.
Researchers found that the CSB protein, previously thought to be solely responsible for DNA repair, also enhances acetylation of alpha-Tubulin and regulates autophagy. HDAC inhibition restores balance, improving skin symptoms in mouse models. Further studies aim to explore its potential treatment for Cockayne syndrome.