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.
A new Penn Medicine study outlines how an individual's location and activities influence their risk of being assaulted, with areas of neighborhood connectedness showing lower rates of gun and non-gun related assaults. The research highlights the importance of changing urban environments to make them safer and reduce violence.
A new study found that underage drinkers prefer certain beer brands more than others based on their age and ethnicity. Bud Light was the most popular brand across all demographic groups, while Smirnoff Malt Beverages ranked high among racial and ethnic groups.
A study published in BMJ Open found that Canadians living in densely-populated areas with close services report more utilitarian walking but have lower total physical activity. The researchers suggest that walkability can be an opportunity to integrate activity into daily life.
A new alliance of UK health professionals aims to place health at the center of climate change negotiations. The Health Professional Alliance to Combat Climate Change advocates for improving air quality, increasing active transport, and reducing healthcare's environmental footprint.
Researchers found a significant association between coarse particles in the air and increased cardiovascular hospitalizations in people 65 and older. The study, published in Environmental Health Perspectives, analyzed data from 110 large urban counties in the US and linked it to Medicare data on hospitalizations from 1999 to 2010.
A comprehensive care program involving a team of specialists from multiple medical disciplines has reduced hospital readmissions for seniors due to falls by 10%. The multidisciplinary approach emphasizes early intervention and patient-centered care, leading to improved safety outcomes and reduced risk of future complications.
Researchers successfully promoted the repair of an injured neural circuit in zebrafish using a special form of inducible adenylyl cyclase that responds to blue light, increasing repair rates by up to 30%. This breakthrough has potential therapeutic implications for conditions like diabetes-related neuropathies.
A recent study published in Journal of Aging and Physical Activity found that fitness level is the strongest correlate of physical activity among Norwegian older adults. Higher education was associated with increased physical activity for males but not females. The study, which analyzed data from 850 participants aged 70-77, also disco...
There are around 500,000 new work-related illnesses every year, with over 13,000 deaths caused by occupational exposures. However, only 0.3% of these cases are reported to the Health and Safety Executive, leading to a lack of enforcement of employers' duty to protect workers.
A recent study found that chronic arsenic exposure can lead to stem cell dysfunction, impairing muscle healing and regeneration. Inhibiting a certain protein in an inflammatory pathway can reverse the harmful effects of arsenic exposure.
A novel statistical model mapped the spread of the 2014-2015 Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone, providing the most detailed picture to date. The analysis suggests two critical opportunities to control the epidemic and identifies two critical points where intervention could have been more effective.
A study found that high job demands, stress, and job insecurity are key reasons for presenteeism. The research also highlights the importance of a supportive work environment in reducing the likelihood of going to work while ill.
Researchers found that switching to efavirenz-based therapy did not result in higher rates of viral rebound or failure among children with viral suppression. This study provides evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of this treatment regimen for HIV-infected children over 3 years old.
A program combining home repairs, training, and comprehensive care significantly reduces childhood asthma symptoms and emergency department visits in low-income urban public housing. Removing asthma triggers such as mold and pests from these homes helps address the disproportionate impact of childhood asthma on minority communities.
Severe obesity costs Medicaid nearly $8 billion annually, with research predicting continued growth due to expanded eligibility. States can slow the rise in obesity-related healthcare costs by identifying effective prevention and treatment services.
The study found that households using the test kits had a consistent reduction in dust mite allergens over the course of the 12-month study period. A significant number of parents reported adopting behaviors to reduce dust mites after seeing their test kit results, such as using special pillow covers and vacuuming with HEPA filters.
Economically disadvantaged, non-English speaking Latino immigrant neighborhoods are disproportionately exposed to toxic air pollution in the US. Liévanos' study reveals a one-in-three chance of high-level air pollution in these areas.
A recent study found that pregnant women in Brooklyn have the highest levels of methyl paraben and propyl parben, preservatives commonly used in cosmetics. The researchers detected these substances in human cord blood samples and raised concerns about potential health effects on fetal development and child health.
A study found that workers in well-ventilated offices with low indoor pollutants and CO2 have significantly higher cognitive functioning scores than those in typical offices. The researchers identified green building design attributes that influence cognitive function, suggesting improved air quality could greatly increase productivity.
A new strategy to determine monocyte subsets involved in diseases has been developed, which may improve the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. The analysis of an additional marker molecule called slan allows a more precise determination of monocyte subgroups.
Researchers at Helmholtz Munich developed a method to predict the probability of developing postpartum diabetes after childbirth, using BMI and genetic predisposition as key factors. The test showed that women with low-risk scores had an 11% risk of developing diabetes within five years.
A study by the University of Utah Health found that truck drivers with high pulse pressure and fatigue are at increased risk for crashes. Cell phone use while driving and unhealthy working conditions also contribute to crash risk.
Researchers have identified ten new genetic risk loci for eczema, a chronic inflammatory skin disorder. The study found strong correlations with known risk factors for asthma, allergies, and other autoimmune diseases.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that US teens exhibit higher sensation-seeking behavior compared to their peers in Puerto Rico, with rates increasing earlier and being influenced by family environment and parenting practices.
The Columbia Mailman School and Columbia University Medical Center site will focus on prevention and expand the study of risk factors that precede breast cancer. The researchers aim to understand the role of genetic and environmental factors in modifying breast cancer risk.
A new study suggests that girls who suffer a concussive bump on the head in childhood may be at increased risk for abusing alcohol as adults. However, research found that female mice living in an enriched environment reversed this effect by reducing drinking and degeneration of axons.
The Breast Cancer and the Environment Research Program is expanding its focus to prevention, involving new communities and studying risk factors like breast density. Researchers will explore links between environmental exposures and high breast density, aiming to identify new insights into prevention.
The NIH and Canadian partners are investing $20.9 million to establish seven regional research centers addressing environmental and occupational health issues. These hubs aim to develop capacity, conduct research, and inform policy changes to improve health in low- and middle-income countries.
A recent study has found a strong association between prenatal exposure to common flame retardants and attention problems in children aged three through seven. The researchers followed 210 mother-child pairs from birth through early childhood and assessed child behavior using standardized rating scales, revealing that those with the hi...
Asthma and other allergies can be aggravated by artificial scents in hospitals, affecting vulnerable patients. Implementing a scent-free policy promotes patient safety and well-being.
A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that maternal lead exposure during pregnancy can cause specific changes in DNA methylation, which can be detected in grandchildren's blood. The study suggests that this epigenetic effect can be transmitted to the next generation.
A recent study published in Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research reveals that adults with a history of problem drinking who continue smoking are at a greater risk of relapsing to alcohol dependence. Quitting cigarettes is crucial for maintaining sobriety, according to the researchers.
Researchers warn of the dangers of talc exposure in the food processing industry, highlighting a case of talcosis in workers who inhaled talcum dust. The study led to effective control measures being implemented at the company, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive surveillance programmes and structured medical evaluation.
Mitochondrial mutations enabled humans to adapt to new environments, allowing for physiological responses and flexibility. This adaptation is crucial for species survival, as it provides faster and more flexible adaptations than nuclear DNA mutations.
A recent study by University of California, Berkeley researchers found that neighborhoods with higher percentages of Hispanic and African American residents had poorer air quality and closer proximity to hazardous waste sites. The study reveals stark racial disparities in environmental health hazards across California communities.
The new repository will help measure the status of biodiversity knowledge in Bolivia and inform conservation efforts. The project brings together over 40 Bolivian scientists with international partners to catalog the country's plants and animals.
A large US study confirms that tiny chemical particles in the air are linked to an increased risk of death from all causes and cardiovascular disease. Fine particles can be absorbed deep into the lungs and bloodstream, contributing to potentially fatal heart and lung diseases.
A recent study suggests that community-level differences in organ donor designation can be explained by sociodemographic and social capital measures. Neighborhoods with lower social capital, such as high racial segregation and violent crime, tend to have lower organ donor registration rates.
Researchers found a network of DNA sequence variations associated with high survival rates among long-lived smokers, suggesting that genetics play a role in stress resistance and genomic stability. These genetic markers were also linked to a nearly 11% lower cancer prevalence.
A new model for preventing and treating obesity in the United States has been proposed, integrating healthcare with community resources. The model centers on individual patients and family engagement, restructuring clinical services to address stigmatization and promoting behavioral changes.
Researchers found a strong link between prenatal exposure to the Ukrainian Famine of 1932-33 and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in adulthood. The study, which included over 43,000 cases of type 2 diabetes, suggests that early gestation is a critical period for the development of long-term health outcomes.
Researchers discovered the VRN-D4 gene, found in South Asian wheat lines, plays a crucial role in adaptation to regional climate and environment. This finding could help breeders design more resilient wheat varieties, reducing crop loss due to changing environments.
Researchers have replicated the surface chemistry found in iridescent Morpho butterfly scales to create a highly selective gas sensor. The bio-inspired sensor detects small color changes for gas detection, potentially transforming medical diagnostics, industry, and military sectors.
Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center have discovered a gene variant, APLP2, that increases the risk of myopia in children who spend more time reading. Spending time outdoors is found to reduce this risk.
The UC Davis Environmental Health Sciences Center aims to develop preventions and policies protecting communities from environmental toxins and disease. The center focuses on studying toxic exposures and their effects on human health, particularly in the San Joaquin Valley with high pollution levels and ethnic diversity.
A study by Helmholtz Munich researchers identified a key role of the protein BMP7 in promoting cell division and migration in pheochromocytoma cells. Targeting this signaling pathway with specific substances may lead to an increase in apoptosis, providing a new approach for treatment.
A review of over 100 scientific studies found that natural gas mining operations release complex mixtures of endocrine disrupting chemicals, which could harm human development and reproduction. Researchers recommend a process to examine the total endocrine disrupting activity from exposure to these chemicals.
A study by the National Institutes of Health found that low-level arsenic exposure before birth is associated with early puberty and obesity in female mice. The researchers exposed pregnant mice to low levels of arsenic through drinking water and observed significant weight gain and premature onset of puberty in the offspring.
A proposed article in Environmental Justice advocates for basic energy rights for low-income populations, addressing energy insecurity and environmental health risks. The author compares two US communities: Dimock, PA, and Detroit, MI, highlighting the disproportionate burden vulnerable communities bear in energy supply and demand.
The Institute for Disaster and Emergency Preparedness at NSU's College of Osteopathic Medicine developed Project SEAMIST, a safety training program for the marine industry. The program provided training to nearly 3,000 workers and is now receiving $4.3M in funding.
Researchers found that B cells enhance the secretion of allergy-driving IgE antibodies when exposed to non-allergenic compounds like PPE1. This discovery reveals a new mechanism for pollen allergy and offers new starting points for therapy development.
A new study projects an increase in deaths and emergency visits in Rhode Island due to rising summer temperatures. Even mild temperatures above 75 degrees are associated with a noticeable increase in medical distress among state residents.
A crowdsourcing challenge in systems biomedicine has combined predictions from hundreds of scientists to estimate population-level response to toxic compounds. The study provides new methodologies for hazard evaluation and assessment, offering a way to accelerate toxicity testing.
Two leading public health scholars, Sandro Galea and Ronald Bayer, warn that the US emphasis on precision medicine may distract from broader investments to reduce health inequities and address social factors. They cite a 2013 report by the National Research Council and the Institute of Medicine, which found that health is determined by...
Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, psychological stress and malnutrition may alter gene expression and lead to increased risk of cognitive disorders, obesity and metabolic diseases. The preconception period is a sensitive developmental window, emphasizing the need for universal healthy starts for children.
Engineers at MIT have developed a model that predicts the force needed for robotic grippers to adjust their grasp on an object by interacting with the environment. This approach, called extrinsic dexterity, enables robots to perform more complex maneuvers without needing expensive and complex hand designs.
Researchers have developed a new model of survival that can predict the potential harm caused by thousands of chemicals used daily. By considering death as a continuum between random events and individual tolerance, scientists can analyze every chemical using high-throughput screening, paving the way for further testing.
Researchers found that CF microbes thrive in saliva and mucus with limited oxygen, leading to severe symptoms. Hydrogen sulfide levels in sputum samples correlated with less severe disease.
A major European mouse study has identified the roles of 320 genes in mice, shedding light on their functions and potential links to human diseases. The study, led by Helmholtz Munich, provides valuable insights into genetic variations that can be used to develop personalized medicine approaches.
A pediatrician at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center warns that recycling older electronic equipment poses a lead poisoning risk to children. Elevated blood lead levels have been detected in two cases, highlighting the importance of preventing take-home exposure to hazardous chemicals and substances.