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 the University of Illinois have developed miniaturized walking biological machines using hydrogel, heart cells, and 3D printing. The bio-bots demonstrate asymmetry-based locomotion and could be customized for specific applications, such as drug screening or chemical analysis.
A study by researchers at the University of California, Berkeley found that prenatal and childhood exposure to PBDEs is linked to poorer attention, fine motor coordination, and IQ in school-aged children. The study collected blood samples from 279 women during pregnancy or at delivery and from 272 children when they were 7 years old.
A new study found that diabetic patients have a higher risk of hearing impairment, which is independent of aging or environmental factors. The study's findings suggest that diabetic patients should be screened for hearing impairment at an earlier age to prevent related health problems.
A recent study published in the British medical journal 'Clinical & Experimental Allergy' found that children with skin manifestations have increased levels of eosinophil progenitors in their blood. Exposure to environmental contaminants, such as cigarette smoke, was also linked to higher levels of allergy-relevant stem cells.
The University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine has received a $1.5 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration to provide four-year financial aid for at least 26 new and current students. The grant aims to increase access for underrepresented minorities, supporting diversity in dental education.
The Feinstein Institute will conduct a two-year study to evaluate the physical, mental, and socioeconomic impact of the 9/11 attacks on responders. The study aims to identify health issues among WTC responders and develop prevention strategies.
The Journal of Public Health Management and Practice is now available on the iPad, providing convenient access to critical public health information. The journal's November/December special issue focuses on public health services and systems research, exploring its impact on organization, financing, and delivery of public health services.
A study by University of California, Berkeley researchers found elevated levels of formaldehyde and several other contaminants in day care centers, exceeding state health guidelines. Cleaning- and sanitizing-related chemicals were also present, with some at higher levels than in comparable studies on homes.
A new Harvard study found over half of people in northeastern Madagascar engage in geophagy, a widespread behavior previously thought to be non-existent. Researchers also discovered high rates of geophagy among men and young children, contradicting earlier studies that linked the practice mainly to pregnant women or adolescents.
Amanda Botticello received a $736,216 NIH grant to investigate the role of environmental factors in rehabilitation outcomes for spinal cord injury. The study aims to identify community-level factors that threaten physical, psychological, and social gains during rehabilitation.
A study found that a gene variant producing efficient arsenic metabolism is common among Atacameño Indian villagers in Argentina, reducing health risks associated with high levels of arsenic. The research suggests human evolutionary adaptation to environmental toxins may vary among populations.
A NIH study found a bacterial protein in common house dust may worsen allergic responses to indoor allergens, leading to asthma. Researchers discovered flagellin boosts allergic reactions in mice with asthma, suggesting cleaning could reduce symptoms by removing bacteria.
Researchers at University of Leeds found that hospital superbugs can spread far beyond patient beds through airborne dispersal, contaminating surfaces up to 3.5 meters away. This discovery highlights the need for improved ward layouts and ventilation systems to prevent microorganism deposition on accessible surfaces.
A study by researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago found that white non-Hispanic construction workers in Illinois receive higher workers' compensation settlements compared to Hispanic or black workers with similar injuries and disabilities. The disparity amounted to approximately $6,000 more for white non-Hispanic claimants.
The HPV Chemicals Challenge Program initially had the potential to use 3.5 million animals but ultimately reduced the number to 127,000 through PETA's involvement and implementation of animal-saving measures. The program's data collection process was found to be lengthy, disorganized, and inefficient.
A WSU study found that dioxin exposure to pregnant rats resulted in reproductive problems and disease in subsequent generations, including prostate disease and ovarian disease. The effects can be passed down to great-grandchildren, highlighting the potential long-term impact of environmental toxins on health.
A new process called chemical lift-off lithography (CLL) enables precise patterning of biomolecules at the nanoscale, avoiding diffused patterns. The technique uses chemically treated stamps to remove molecules already in place on gold substrates.
A new study by University of Guelph researchers has found that DNA barcoding can accurately identify natural health products with up to 88% effectiveness. This technique uses short genetic sequences to compare specimens to reference databases, making it an efficient tool for authenticating products.
Daily disinfection of high-touch surfaces in isolation rooms significantly reduces pathogens on healthcare personnel's hands, finding a simple yet effective infection control strategy. The study highlights the importance of environmental cleaning in preventing transmission and patient exposure to harmful pathogens.
A systematic review of serious games for surgical training suggests that these tools can improve both technical and non-technical skills in surgeons. However, game-based learning's effectiveness is limited by a lack of scientific research, according to the authors.
Children exposed to piperonyl butoxide (PBO) in the womb have a heightened risk of noninfectious cough at ages 5 and 6. The study suggests that toxic exposures during pregnancy can damage the respiratory system, leading to symptoms like childhood cough.
Researchers at Kansas State University are working on developing a flexible but standardized and secure communication network for medical devices. The team aims to enable devices to monitor and reason about patient health, reducing security problems as devices become more complex.
A study of 1,216 individuals found a positive association between PFOA levels and the presence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and peripheral arterial disease. Higher PFOA levels were associated with an increased risk of CVD and PAD.
A study found that plain cigarette packs reduce their appeal among young Brazilian women, while branded packs are considered more stylish and sophisticated. The research supports the recommendation for plain packaging to reduce smoking among youth and young adults.
Scientists have found that using waste cooking oil as a starting material can produce high-quality bioplastics, including Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), three times more efficiently than glucose. This reduces production costs and enables the use of PHA in medical implants and drug delivery.
A study found that pregnant women exposed to high levels of common household chemicals PFCs had babies that were smaller at birth and heavier by 20 months, potentially leading to obesity later in life. The research suggests a link between prenatal exposure to PFCs and increased risk of weight gain in childhood.
Researchers developed an agent that blocks cardiolipin oxidation, preventing cell death and preserving function in rats with severe traumatic brain injury. The study suggests a targeted oxidation-blocker may also be beneficial in treating other neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease and stroke.
A new study found that boys are more vulnerable to the negative effects of prenatal exposure to chlorpyrifos, a common insecticide. The research, published in Neurotoxicology and Teratology, also revealed that parental nurturing can improve working memory in both boys and girls.
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that greening vacant lots reduces violent crime and makes residents feel safer. Residents living near greened vacant lots reported feeling significantly safer than those near non-greened sites.
Research found that fainting triggers were common among twin sets, with identical twins more likely to experience fainting associated with typical triggers. The study suggests multiple genes and environmental factors influence the phenomenon of fainting.
A recent study reveals a gap between Americans' opinions on obesity and the Institute of Medicine's report recommendations. While most believe personal decisions contribute to obesity, only 18% attribute environmental factors, highlighting the need for a research-driven communication strategy.
A new study finds that adhering to the current ozone standard of 75ppb would avoid 1,410-2,480 premature deaths. Lower standards could save even more lives and alleviate acute respiratory symptoms.
Research published in Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that certain jobs carried out by fathers may be linked to an increased risk of birth defects in their babies. Jobs such as mathematicians, physicists, and computer scientists, as well as artists and photographers, were associated with a higher risk of birth defects.
A new study found that people living near the coast tend to have better health than those living inland. The analysis showed that the link between living near the coast and good health was strongest in economically deprived communities.
A new semiautonomous safety system, developed by MIT engineers, uses onboard cameras and laser rangefinders to identify hazards and detect safe zones. The system allows drivers to control the vehicle while avoiding obstacles, with few collisions reported in over 1,200 trials.
A study led by the Brigham and Woman's Hospital found an association between phthalate exposure and an increased risk of diabetes in American women. High levels of phthalates were linked to a higher likelihood of developing diabetes, with possible explanations including medical devices and medication used to treat diabetes.
Scientists develop SMARTS, a customizable platform for autonomously regulating chemical reactions and temperature, mimicking biological systems. The material's dynamic feedback loops enable it to sense and modulate desired stimuli without external power, paving the way for intelligent medical implants and efficient buildings.
Researchers at the virtual Helmholtz Institute PolarTime are studying the inner clock of Antarctic krill to understand its impact on the marine ecosystem under climate change. They will investigate the principles and evolution of endogenous biological rhythms and clocks in pelagic organisms.
Researchers at St. Michael's Hospital found that surgical residents trained in a simulated environment outperformed those with conventional training, scoring significantly higher on technical performance and multiple-choice tests. This innovative approach aims to reduce preventable medical errors and improve patient safety.
Research found that women who spent long periods standing during pregnancy had slower fetal growth rates, with an average head circumference reduction of 1 cm. Long working hours were not consistently associated with restrictions on fetal development or premature birth, but excessive work may impact birth weight.
A study by Columbia University found that prenatal exposure to butylbenzyl phthalate (BBzP) in nearly 100 percent of mothers studied increases the risk of childhood eczema. The condition is characterized by dry, itchy red skin and affects early childhood.
Research on nano-pesticides is crucial for understanding their fate and toxicity, as well as assessing potential benefits and drawbacks. The development of new pesticides products based on nanotechnology holds promise for reducing environmental contamination, but concerns about human health risks persist.
A major population study found that women who worked nights had a 30% higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to those who never worked nights. The study also suggested that women who worked at night prior to a first pregnancy may be more vulnerable to the increased risk.
A University of Cincinnati study found strong correlations between Mycobacterium and visible mold, as well as between Stenotrophomonas and environmental relative moldiness index. These bacteria strains are linked to indoor bacterial contamination in water-damaged homes, posing health risks to occupants.
Researchers have developed a 'pyroelectric nanogenerator' that converts waste heat into electricity using the ancient pyroelectric effect. The device has the potential to power applications such as wireless sensors, temperature imaging, and medical diagnostics, offering a new source of energy from environmental waste.
A three-center study found four key factors underlying unprofessional behavior among hospitalists: making fun of others, conduct in the learning environment, workload management, and time pressures. Most hospitalists reported witnessing these behaviors more frequently than participating in them.
A new study has mapped children's food allergies by geographical location in the US, revealing that urban centers have a higher prevalence of peanut and shellfish allergies compared to rural areas. The study controlled for household income, race, ethnicity, gender, and age, tracking food allergy prevalence in different regions.
Dr. Micah I. Krichevsky has been recognized for his commitment to advancing women in microbiology through the American Society for Microbiology's Alice C. Evans Award. He established Bionomics International and developed a standardized method for computer coding of microbiological data, impacting research globally.
The My Air, My Health Challenge offers a cash award of $100,000 for the most effective solution in integrating physiological and air quality data. The competition aims to better understand the connection between air quality and health, and will collaborate between health researchers and technologists.
The Tomato Genome Consortium has sequenced the genomes of domesticated tomatoes and its wild ancestor Solanum pimpinellifolium, revealing detailed insights into the plant's genetic makeup. The sequences provide a better understanding of how genetics and environmental factors interact to determine crop health and viability.
A new study published in Obesity found a correlation between PCB exposure and increased distribution of body fat to the abdomen. Researchers analyzed data from over 1,000 70-year-olds and found that high levels of PCB189 were related to a high proportion of visceral fat.
Workers' compensation insurance is not used enough to cover workplace illnesses and injuries. Nearly 80% of these costs are paid by employer-provided health insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, and other disability funds. The resulting low premiums provide little incentive for companies to promote workplace safety.
A Duke University study found that toddlers from lower socioeconomic backgrounds have higher levels of flame retardant chemicals in their blood, potentially due to hand-to-mouth activity. This highlights the need for better public access to information on household products and potential exposure routes.
Researchers used image analysis software to determine that octopuses reproduce specific features of objects in their surroundings for effective camouflage. This strategy may make the approach more flexible and increase success in different environments.
The UC San Diego Superfund Research Program has received a $15 million grant renewal to continue studying the molecular and genetic consequences of toxicant exposure from Superfund sites. The program aims to develop novel biological models to define how toxicants cause disease and find effective ways to remediate.
Researchers linked air pollution exposure to increased risk of cardiovascular problems, as shown by significant reductions in blood clotting and inflammation biomarkers during the Beijing Olympics. The study provides evidence that even short-term air pollution reduction improves cardiovascular health.
A recent study from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has pinpointed indoor air quality risks in the United Arab Emirates as a significant health concern. The research found that residents are exposed to high levels of pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and formaldehyde, which can lead to respiratory iss...
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a low-cost portable diagnostic system that uses a textured surface to move small drops of liquid along predetermined paths. The system, inspired by the lotus effect, requires little energy and avoids contamination.
A study found that CMS closely followed AMA committee recommendations on physician fees, agreeing with 87.4% of the recommendations. The analysis shows that CMS tends to recommend lower fees for radiology and specialty services when it differs with the committee's suggestions.
A study found that more than 80% of bike share riders in Boston and Washington D.C. do not wear helmets, putting them at risk for head injuries. The study suggests helmet use can reduce head injury by up to 88%.