Articles tagged with Environmental Health
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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...
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%.
A recent study published in Environment and Behavior found that placing fruit and vegetable bowls near participants increases the likelihood of eating them. However, this effect is more pronounced for fruits due to their natural sweetness, which stimulates brain reward regions.
A new study finds that prenatal exposure to the insecticide chlorpyrifos may lead to long-term changes in brain structure, potentially resulting in cognitive deficits. The study used MRI to evaluate the brains of 40 New York City children and found associations between higher exposure levels and brain anomalies.
A study found a possible link between smoking during pregnancy and the development of high-functioning autism, including Asperger's Disorder. The research suggests that certain types of autism may be influenced by environmental factors like maternal smoking.
A new Duke University-led study suggests that increasing dietary calcium intake may be necessary to address widespread dental health problems caused by fluorosis in rural Ethiopia. The research found that even with fluoride-reducing treatments, high levels of naturally occurring fluoride in drinking water can still cause significant to...
A recent study by McMaster University researchers has found that floc, microscopic communities hosting large populations of bacteria, contain high levels of antibiotic resistance. The discovery highlights the widespread presence of antibiotic resistance in aquatic environments, with varying intensities based on human influence.
The rate of workplace deaths in Michigan remained steady in 2011, with the construction industry having the most deaths at 24. However, new research reveals a vast underreporting of workplace burns, with 1,461 work-related burns reported, more than three times the number reported by employers.
Silicosis, a preventable lung disease caused by silica inhalation, remains a significant occupational health concern globally. Despite prevention efforts, cases continue to rise in developing countries, highlighting the need for improved workplace safety and regular medical assessments.
Research by Katherine Ashbullby and Dr Mathew White found that coastal visits had the greatest benefit on mental health and well-being. Outdoors locations like parks and countryside also showed positive effects, but not as strongly as the coast.
Researchers have created a transgenic zebrafish that reacts to environmental estrogens by producing fluorescent signals, revealing new insights into the effects of pollution on human health. The study found responses in previously unknown tissues, including skeletal muscle and eyes.
A study of Chinese industrial workers found that long-term exposure to silica dust was associated with substantially increased mortality. The risk of death from all causes and specific diseases, such as lung cancer and cardiovascular disease, increased with increasing exposure levels.
A Stanford University School of Medicine study found that socioeconomic and environmental variables are more effective than race or geography in predicting premature mortality. The researchers identified 22 key factors, including education, income, and job, which account for most of the differences between racial and ethnic groups.
A study published in Diabetes Care found that high levels of phthalate metabolites are associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes. The research, conducted among over 1,000 elderly individuals, suggests a connection between environmental chemicals and the development of type-2 diabetes.
A recent study by University of Granada researchers links marriage, high socioeconomic status, education, job, per capita income, and welfare to better health. The study reveals that family environment plays a significant role in an individual's health, accounting for over 30% of variations in health status.
A Boston University study found that two-thirds of lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults in Massachusetts reported receiving positive support from their parents after coming out. This support was associated with lower rates of mental health and substance abuse problems. The study suggests that parental support may play a crucial role in pr...
A new study found that neighborhoods with walkable environments and access to healthy food have a significant impact on childhood obesity rates. Children living in these neighborhoods had 59% lower odds of being obese compared to those in less favorable areas.
Research from Michigan State University found that autistic children born preterm or post-term have significantly higher screening scores for autism spectrum disorder than those born on time. The study also reveals a link between the length of pregnancy and the severity of autism symptoms.
Research found that zebrafish exposed to BPA as embryos had significant behavioral changes, including learning and memory problems. The study suggests that even low levels of BPA can have long-lasting effects on cognitive function.
A small study found that online virtual communities can effectively teach patients meditation and relaxation techniques, offering a barrier-free alternative to traditional face-to-face meetings. Participants reported significant reductions in depression- and anxiety-related symptoms and high satisfaction with the virtual environment.
A recent study found that low doses of endocrine-disrupting chemicals can result in significant health effects, contradicting current testing paradigms. Researchers recommend expanded and generalized safety testing to detect potential adverse effects of these chemicals.
A new study finds that high levels of black carbon, a pollutant from truck emissions and dirty oil, contribute to childhood asthma hot spots in NYC. Children with higher black carbon exposure have higher exhaled nitric oxide, indicating greater lung inflammation and increased risk for asthma exacerbations.
At the American Chemical Society's National Meeting & Exposition, experts will discuss the chemistry and instruments used to investigate the scene and monitor the controlled burn of the 'bomb house'. The session reveals how public safety and law enforcement professionals utilized their skills and expertise to safely destroy the house.
Autism Speaks has awarded $1.1 million in funding to support research projects focusing on differences between DSM-IV and proposed DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, the impact of flame retardants on immune systems, and strategies to improve quality of life for individuals with autism.
A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that prenatal exposure to combustion-related pollutants was significantly associated with symptoms of anxious/depressed and attention problems in young children. High levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) were measured in mothers' air samples and umbilical cord blood.
Researchers call for ob-gyns to evaluate patients' exposure to environmental chemicals, provide education, and advocate for policy change to reduce toxic exposures. The human reproductive system is vulnerable to biological changes caused by chemicals during critical periods of development.
Research at the American Heart Association's 2012 Scientific Sessions found that living in neighborhoods with favorable features, such as parks and healthy food options, is associated with better cardiovascular health. Participants with ideal health were more likely to be under age 55, male, and highly educated.
A University of Alberta study found that individuals who live near areas with more traffic-related incidents are more likely to engage in sufficient levels of physical activity. The research also highlights the importance of increasing awareness about available facilities to encourage physical activity.
A VCU study found that dysfunctional family environments can augment genetic risk for drug abuse in adoptees, even with no biological parent history of addiction. The research used a large adoption sample from Sweden and demonstrated the impact of environmental factors on the liability to drug abuse.