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.
Magdalena Osburn, a Northwestern University geobiologist, has been awarded a $875,000 Packard Fellowship to study 'microbial dark matter', or unknown microbes that have evaded cultivation in the lab. Her research will explore how these microorganisms interact with their environments and produce chemical signatures.
Researchers discovered that cells retain properties from their previous environment for several days, known as mechanical memory. This property can aid in tumor invasion and metastasis. The study's findings may lead to new insights into the mechanisms behind cancer spread.
IUPUI has received a $428,000 NSF grant to develop a novel educational program that enhances geosciences education and inspires students to address community problems. The program will engage undergraduates from underrepresented groups and provide opportunities for them to explore environmental justice through a themed learning community.
Compliance with the 2006 EPA regulation on maximum arsenic levels led to a 17% decline in urinary arsenic concentrations among public water users, equivalent to an estimated reduction of over 200 cases of lung and bladder disease per year. Private well water users showed no improvements due to lack of federal regulation.
Alicia Timme-Laragy's research investigates the health effects of PFOS and its replacement chemical PFBS on embryos of fish, worms, and fruit flies. The study aims to understand how these pollutants affect nutrient deposition and later-life metabolic dysfunction.
A new study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that permissive concealed-carry laws are associated with significantly higher rates of handgun-related homicide. The study suggests that current trends towards more lenient gun laws are inconsistent with promoting public safety.
A stepped care approach is more effective in reducing PTSD prevalence than usual care in the aftermath of hurricanes. The study found that stepped care delivered greater reach, treatment effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness than usual care when it came to hurricane-related PTSD.
A new article introduces the concept of food justice to address infant feeding disparities and environmental injustices in breast milk access. The authors propose activism strategies to advance food justice, emphasizing the importance of breast milk as a basis for infants' immune response.
Research at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona suggests that green gentrification in cities may not equally benefit all residents, particularly socially disadvantaged neighbours. The process of recovering natural spaces tends to displace low-income populations, increasing chronic stress and negatively affecting their mental health.
Researchers found that a protein named ZATT can eliminate DPCs with the help of another protein TDP2. Understanding how TDP2 and ZATT work together may improve cancer patient health outcomes. The discovery could lead to development of new drugs targeting these defenses.
Researchers developed a predictive model using childhood blood-lead level records and census data to identify high-risk areas. The model highlights the importance of targeting poor and minority neighborhoods with interventions and support.
Researchers compare sanitation systems in Brazil and USA, finding presence of contaminants in drinking water, including industrial compounds, pesticides, and endocrine disrupters. The study suggests that complementary treatments are needed to obtain clean water that can be safely consumed.
A study published in JAMA Surgery found that patients undergoing major abdominal surgery with lower health literacy levels experience longer hospital stays. Patients with low health literacy spent an additional median of one day in the hospital compared to those with high health literacy.
A review by UC Davis graduate students highlights the need for research on wildfire smoke's composition and its impact on human health. The study found that current scientific evidence is insufficient, and pesticides and fire-suppression chemicals used in California contribute to the toxic effects of wildfire smoke.
Researchers at UTHealth will investigate how genetic profiles interact with stressors like trauma exposure and HIV infection in cocaine addiction. The five-year study aims to develop more tailored treatments for this chronic public health problem.
A new NIH-funded study aims to develop evidence-based treatments for neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, a condition affecting newborns exposed to opioids during pregnancy. The Advancing Clinical Trials in Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (ACT NOW) project will evaluate treatment options and develop research protocols.
Research reveals that genetic mutations in PDGFR-α and TGF-β signaling pathways contribute to the development of BPD. Lowered production of PDGFR-α leads to increased oxygen demand, defective septation, and apoptosis.
A recent study published at Medical University of South Carolina found that epigenetic enzyme HDAC5 influences the brain's response to drugs, leading to persistent triggers for relapse. The research suggests that understanding these connections could lead to better treatments for addiction.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that the opioid epidemic on Staten Island disproportionately affects marginalized communities. The researchers identified areas with high overdose rates as underserved in treatment services, highlighting the need for expanded methadone clinics and detox capacity.
A new study found that women exposed to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War had higher levels of hormones in their breast milk, which were then transferred to their babies. The research revealed a nearly three-fold increase in DHEA in babies from dioxin hotspots compared to non-contaminated regions.
A study found that cold temperatures and atmospheric pressure increases are associated with a higher risk of hospitalization and death in elderly patients with heart failure. The researchers suggest that elderly patients should avoid fog and low cloud weather in winter to prevent such events.
Research finds that antibiotic use on people or pets, and biocidal cleaning products like bleach, contribute to MRSA multidrug resistance in the home environment. The presence of domestic pets and unwanted pests is also associated with multidrug-resistant strains.
Laura Vandenberg, a leading expert on endocrine disrupting chemicals and their impact on human health, has been named one of CHE's '20 Pioneers Under 40 in Environmental Public Health'. Her groundbreaking research informs prevention-focused behaviors and policies to protect public health.
A study by the University of Cincinnati found that higher manganese levels in children are associated with lower IQ scores and cognitive decline. The research analyzed blood and hair samples from 106 children aged 7-9 and found significant declines in full-scale IQ, processing speed, and working memory.
A study published in BMC Public Health suggests that increasing tobacco taxes across the EU can lead to significant reductions in cigarette consumption, particularly in higher-income countries. In contrast, lower-income countries may experience negative tax revenue effects, highlighting the need for alternative funding strategies.
A Rutgers University study found that 83% of sindoor samples collected from the US and India had at least 1.0 microgram of lead per gram, exceeding FDA limits. Researchers urge government to take action as a public health issue, not relying on consumer choice.
A study by the National Institutes of Health found that Gulf spill cleanup workers who handled oil dispersants or were exposed to them during cleanup reported symptoms such as cough, wheeze, and skin and eye irritation. The study suggests a short-term effect of dispersants on health symptoms.
Dr. Matthew Cave is awarded $4 million to investigate the long-term effects of environmental chemicals on liver health. He plans to explore how endocrine-disrupting chemicals like BPA contribute to fatty liver disease, using a flexible research approach.
A study published in mBio finds that household environment plays a major role in shaping the salivary microbiome, with similar bacteria found in individuals living together. The research team sequenced DNA and saliva from an extended Ashkenazi Jewish family to determine how environmental influences affect the microbiome.
A Melbourne research team has identified a protein called SIDT2 as critical for cells to detect viral components and initiate an immune response. This discovery has important implications for delivering new therapeutics based on dsRNA.
Regulatory T-cells in adipose tissue increase in response to environmental stimuli, promoting heat production and fatty acid breakdown. This discovery highlights the complex interactions between immune cells and environment in maintaining metabolic balance.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health researcher Jacob Bor found that counties with lower life expectancy gains saw a significant increase in Republican votes, while Democrats lost votes in these areas. The findings suggest that voters' health needs may be driving their electoral decisions.
Scientists have discovered that bacteria can act as an aphrodisiac for choanoflagellates, one-celled marine organisms notable for being the closest living relative of all animals. The discovery reveals how these eukaryotes regulate their life history in response to bacterial cues.
Researchers warn that off-road vehicles can produce airborne asbestos and erionite, posing a risk to children and others. The study highlights the need for precautions, such as wearing safety masks and goggles, when using ORVs in areas with naturally occurring asbestos deposits.
A common type of flame retardant was associated with reduced likelihood of clinical pregnancy and live birth following IVF. Women with higher urinary concentrations of a specific flame retardant had lower reproductive success rates.
A study found that 17.6 million Americans live within one mile of an active oil or gas well, correlating to increased risk of heart and neurological problems, cancers, and adverse birth outcomes. States with high percentages of residents living near active wells include West Virginia and Oklahoma.
A large long-term study found that women who live in areas with high levels of outdoor light at night may be at higher risk for breast cancer. The link was stronger among women who worked night shifts and were premenopausal or current/past smokers.
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.
Daily e-cigarette use was found to be the strongest predictor of smoking cessation among established smokers. Over half of daily e-cigarette users had quit smoking in the past five years, compared to just 28% of those who never tried e-cigarettes.
A study by CSIC and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine found that higher temperatures increase health risks, but sensitivity varies by region. The study suggests adapting to excessive heat and developing migration strategies as climate change projections increase temperatures.
A study found that immersive cycling workouts increase satisfaction and lower perceived exertion in novice exercisers. The immersive class created a high-intensity workout without feeling intense, resulting in higher heart rate zones without discomfort.
A new study finds that smoking during pregnancy is disproportionately common among women with depression, affecting nearly one-third of this group. The study suggests that depression is a significant barrier to quitting smoking, and addressing it may be crucial for helping women quit during pregnancy.
Researchers will use genomic technologies to understand genetic basis of traits influencing wildlife and plant survival in changing environments. The project aims to advance understanding of how organisms cope with environmental challenges and develop guidelines for genomic interventions.
Scientists at Nagoya University found two brain pathways that control thermoregulation, revealing their separate roles in 'feeling' and responding to external temperature changes. Disabling one pathway led to impaired ability to regulate core temperature.
A recently conducted study revealed that the cured-in-place pipe repair (CIPP) method can emit hazardous chemicals into the air, posing potential health hazards to workers and the public. The research found a complex mixture of organic vapor, water vapor, and liquid droplets of water, which can cause short- and long-term health impacts.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health highlights the dangers of vaginal bleeding taboos in low-income countries, where limited access to clean water and sanitation exacerbates the issue. The researchers emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach addressing vaginal bleeding across the life course.
A study found a significant increase in prescription opioid involvement in fatal car crashes between 1995 and 2015. The prevalence of prescription opioids among fatally injured drivers rose from 1% to over 7%, with higher rates in female drivers.
Experts argue that working 24-hour shifts may not negatively impact patient care, but can lead to burnout. The medical profession must address the issue of sleep deprivation and its effects on doctors' wellbeing and patient safety.
A comprehensive study reveals a 52.4% decline in sperm concentration and a 59.3% decline in total sperm count among Western men, highlighting impaired male health and decreasing fertility. The study suggests environmental and lifestyle influences may be contributing factors.
Molting feathers help birds quickly eliminate mercury accumulation and reduce concentrations in tissues. This process may be key to mitigating environmental contaminant effects on bird populations.
A new study reveals birds are less likely to cross roads due to predation fears and territorial boundaries, with smaller forest-dependent species being the most affected. The findings highlight the need for measures to connect fragmented forests across roads, allowing wildlife to move freely.
The University of Delaware research team, led by Jennifer Biddle, will investigate how environmental factors affect gene expression in microbes. They aim to develop a new method for detecting epigenetic signals, which could have wide-ranging impact on human health and renewable energy.
A new hearing test, developed by researchers at the University of Southampton, has been implemented to assess auditory fitness-for-duty among military personnel. The test, a speech-in-noise test, takes into account real-world scenarios and challenges faced by soldiers, providing a more accurate measure of their hearing abilities.
Researchers tracked 106 bacterial symbioses in animal, plant, and fungi species, finding that vertically transmitted bacteria are better for hosts. Removing these bacteria can have a significant negative impact on the host, while horizontally transmitted bacteria have less impact.
A study by Helmholtz Munich researchers found that certain subtypes of COPD are associated with changes in the lung microbiome, which may promote pathogenic bacteria. The findings suggest personalized medicine approaches should consider the microbiome when treating patients with specific COPD subtypes.
Researchers found that rats use local visual cues more than idiothetic cues when navigating through identical environments in darkness. Place cell activity indicated that animals were unaware of separate environments, suggesting reliance on visual cues over directional sense.
Researchers at Indiana University discovered banned flame retardants, like PBDEs, are passed from mother to baby through the umbilical cord. The study found higher levels of these chemicals in infant blood compared to their mothers.
A new study found that nearly 25% of socioeconomically marginalized women stopped breastfeeding after one month compared to about 7% of those in the privileged group. The reasons for early cessation differed between the two groups, with skin-to-skin contact and other factors identified as targets for interventions.
Researchers replicated traditional Native Californian Indian water bottles to analyze polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) levels. The study found PAHs in the air during production, but not significant leaching from storage.
A recent study published in The Lancet Global Health found that applying continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) to children with respiratory distress significantly decreased mortality rates and improved respiratory rates. The treatment was safely and effectively administered by nurses in district-level hospitals, offering a lifesav...