Articles tagged with Environmental Health
Researchers found an association between the use of products containing lavender oil and/or tea tree oil and prepubertal gynecomastia in young males. Laboratory studies confirmed that these oils can mimic estrogen effects and inhibit androgen effects, leading to breast tissue growth.
A group of 10 scientists will help increase public awareness and understanding of environmental health science. They will assist in identifying important new research findings about environment and health, and translate them into accessible articles for working reporters and the broader public.
A new NIH-funded program co-directed by the Mailman School faculty will expedite clinical research, transforming how medical discovery is made. The center will centralize core resources for clinical researchers and enhance collaboration among scientific communities.
A new study found that folic acid supplements can substantially reduce the risk of isolated cleft lip with or without cleft palate in babies. Researchers discovered that taking 0.4 milligrams of folic acid per day during pregnancy can lower this risk by one-third.
A recent USC study reveals that children who live within 500 meters of a freeway have substantial deficits in lung function by age 18 compared to those living farther away. This highlights the importance of reducing exposure to traffic pollution for healthy lung development.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology has developed a new set of Standard Reference Materials to improve workplace safety by accurately measuring respirable quartz dust. These materials cover the range between 5 micrograms and 1000 micrograms of quartz per filter, typical of the field's range.
Researchers at the Hollings Marine Laboratory have uncovered a subtle chemical pathway by which Pfiesteria piscicida can produce a lethal toxin. The discovery resolves a long-standing mystery surrounding occasional mass fish kills on the East Coast.
Researchers have made progress in nanotech workplace safety, including new instrumentation and innovative exposure control methods. However, critical questions about worker safety remain unanswered, highlighting the need for further study to ensure safe nano-workplaces today and in the future.
Dr. Neal Lane, former U.S. President Bill Clinton's science advisor, expresses concerns about the impact of limited public knowledge on nanotechnology's future success. He emphasizes the need for a coordinated effort to educate the public and provide balanced information about nanotechnology's benefits and risks.
Dartmouth researchers discover that low doses of arsenic disrupt steroid hormone receptor signaling, affecting biological processes and disease risks. The study found that arsenic suppresses the ability of critical receptors to respond to normal hormone signals.
A study published in Pediatrics found that prenatal exposure to chlorpyrifos, a common agricultural insecticide, was associated with poorer mental and motor development in children by age three. The study also revealed an increased risk of behavior problems among children exposed to higher levels of the insecticide.
A new study aims to uncover the causes of the testicular cancer increase among 15-35 year old Caucasian men. The research will examine environmental hormone disruptors and genetic susceptibility as potential risk factors.
Fourteen top scientists propose five critical challenges for nanotechnology risk research, including identifying potential health and environmental hazards. They will discuss their recommendations at a live webcast on November 16th, 2006.
A recent paper identifies Five Grand Challenges for research on nanotechnology risk to meet the full potential of the technology. The challenges include developing a universal aerosol sampler, assessing fiber-shaped nanoparticles' health hazards, and engineering safe-by-design nanomaterials.
The House Science Committee's Chairman Sherwood Boehlert and Ranking Democrat Bart Gordon call for the implementation of a new research agenda on the environmental, health, and safety implications of nanotechnology. The paper recommends prioritized priorities for examining potential consequences over the next decade and a half, which c...
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered dynamic behavior in a mutant form of the protein GroEL, which chaperones misfolded proteins. Electron cryomicroscopy revealed an unprecedented expansion of the protein structure related to its function, highlighting the need for studying macromolecules in solution environments.
A comprehensive survey of nanotechnology workplace safety practices found that many companies and laboratories are using conventional EHS practices despite the potential for nanoparticles to pose specific environmental and health risks. The survey, conducted by Rice University's International Council on Nanotechnology, collected data f...
The ESSP launched a new research initiative to identify and quantify health risks posed by global environmental change, aiming to develop cost-effective adaptation strategies. Climate and land-use changes pose significant health threats, including malaria, malnutrition, skin cancer, and immune system depression.
A study found that African-American women, particularly younger ones, have a significantly higher incidence of breast cancer and die at a younger age than white women. Environmental factors such as hormone-mimicking compounds are suggested to contribute to these disparities.
Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that individuals living in high Black concentrated neighborhoods were twice as likely to report poor health compared to those in low concentration areas. This association persisted even after adjusting for socioeconomic factors.
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) is allocating $74 million to study the environmental causes of disease. The Exposure Biology Program will focus on developing innovative technologies to assess exposures to chemical and biological agents, dietary intake, physical activity, and psychosocial stress.
The International Council on Nanotechnology (ICON) has reviewed existing efforts to develop best practices for handling nanomaterials in the workplace. The Phase 1 report highlights the need for better information on industry practices, with some documents not publicly available.
A study by human factors/ergonomics researchers found that virtual reality-based simulators can effectively train military medical personnel in high-stress conditions. The simulation tested the efficiency and quality of emergency chest tube thoracostomy procedures, revealing a correlation between faster completion times and poorer work...
Daily exposure to noise on subway platforms and cars can cause hearing loss, with average maximum levels exceeding recommended limits by up to 30 minutes. Researchers found that frequent long-term rides and other high-noise activities increase the risk of hearing damage.
Researchers surveyed 212 teenagers from Cincinnati neighborhoods with high lead concentrations and found a significant correlation between elevated childhood blood-lead levels and the risk for multiple, unintentional injuries later in life. The study suggests that early-life exposure to lead can cause lasting health effects impacting f...
A Rice University study recommends lowering Houston's toxic air pollutant levels due to high health risks. The report proposes a new set of air quality standards based on the underlying toxicology of four pollutants, including benzene and formaldehyde.
A groundbreaking study by Field Museum scientists reveals that wild lion manes develop according to local climate regimes and are influenced by age. Contrary to popular assumptions, most lions in regions like Tsavo do acquire respectable manes, and the best-maned lions are typically older.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that household levels of mold and bacterial endotoxins in post-Katrina homes were comparable to those in wastewater treatment plants and agricultural environments. The researchers strongly recommend wearing respirators for cleaning and repairing flood-damaged homes.
Preeclampsia's impact on fetal death has decreased over the last 35 years, largely due to reduced stillbirths and better clinical management. Modern medical management has effectively prevented fetal deaths without increasing infant or maternal risk.
The National Science Foundation has extended funding for Rice University's Center for Biological and Environmental Nanotechnology through 2011. The center, founded in 2001, is dedicated to studying the interaction between nanomaterials and living organisms and ecosystems.
The study found that healthcare use slowed immediately after the attacks and later increased for certain conditions, including ulcers and skin infections. Distance from the World Trade Center also affected healthcare utilization, with declines observed among those closest to the site.
The UK faces high financial and personal costs due to occupational ill health and injury. A new approach is needed to address the issue, requiring collaboration between employers, employees, and policymakers.
Sven-Eric Jordt and Michelle L. Bell received the Outstanding New Environmental Scientist (ONES) Award for their research on environmental health, focusing on asthma, allergy, and dermatitis. Their studies will investigate the relationship between environmental exposures and human disease.
A study found that medical interns frequently work beyond mandated limits, with rates of injury increasing with extended hours and fatigue. The most common contributing factor to percutaneous injuries was a lapse in concentration, followed by fatigue.
Research conducted at NIH/NIEHS found that men with increased body mass index (BMI) were more likely to be infertile than normal-weight men. A 20-pound weight gain was associated with a nearly 2-fold increase in infertility among obese men.
Researchers at University of Pennsylvania discovered that adult stem cells depend on physical microenvironment clues to differentiate into various tissue types. By manipulating the firmness of the gel, scientists can guide stem cells towards specific fates.
A new survey found that 514 teens were injured on the job, with injuries affecting daily activities for more than three days. The study emphasizes the importance of introducing safety training within school health curricula to empower teens and reduce work-related injuries.
A pilot research study led by Marina Bers explores how virtual environments can promote positive development in post-transplant adolescents and encourage adherence to treatment protocols. The study uses a three-dimensional virtual world called Zora, where children create and control their own identities and interact with others.
Researchers found that longer train trips lead to increased physiological and psychological stress, as well as impaired task completion. Commuter stress affects human health and well-being, with over 100 million Americans experiencing daily stress due to their commute.
Researchers at Columbia University will study the health effects of arsenic in groundwater, particularly in New England and South Asia. The $16.9M grant will investigate the geochemistry and exposure sources of arsenic, as well as its effects on children's health.
Tiny airborne particles, similar to nanoparticles, follow a rapid and efficient pathway from the nasal cavity to various regions of the brain in rats. The study found increased gene expression signaling inflammation and cellular stress response, but it is unclear if ultrafine particle buildup causes brain damage.
Researchers found a chemical compound in many air fresheners and deodorizing products may cause modest reductions in lung function. The study, published in Environmental Health Perspectives, analyzed blood concentrations of common volatile organic compounds and pulmonary function measures in a representative sample of adults.
Researchers will investigate the health effects of arsenic exposure in groundwater, particularly in New England and South Asia, with a focus on children's health. The grant renewal aims to mitigate public health problems associated with arsenic contamination.
Acquired susceptibility plays a crucial role in disease development, with environmental and genetic factors contributing to its acquisition. The study highlights the importance of understanding the interplay between these factors to develop effective prevention strategies.
A study by University of Cincinnati researchers found that over 75% of consumer paints in India, Malaysia, and China had dangerously high lead levels, exceeding U.S. regulations. The team calls for an urgent worldwide ban on lead-based paint to prevent future public health problems.
A UC Berkeley study found that in utero exposure to DDT is linked to lower developmental scores in children, while nursing was beneficial despite DDT transmission through breast milk. The study suggests that the benefits of nursing may outweigh the potentially harmful effects of DDT transmission.
Scientists at Rutgers have created a computerized model to understand the degree of harmful exposure in the immediate aftermath of the World Trade Center attacks. The model, combining satellite data and regional weather forecasts, provides a way to evaluate human exposure to aerosols released during the disaster.
The study presents a comprehensive overview of oral health research worldwide, highlighting the high risk of dental caries in rural children and adolescents. It emphasizes the importance of preventive efforts, education, and public awareness to improve oral health outcomes.
Research from eight countries highlights the need for improved oral health services, particularly in juvenile detention and low-income communities. Key findings include the high prevalence of dental caries among young children and the importance of parental education and access to oral health promotion services.
A USC study found that the environment plays a big role in women starting to smoke, while genetics are a stronger influence for men. The study suggests that societal interventions can help prevent smoking initiation and highlight the importance of peer influence and social networks.
Researchers found that people tend to consume a single unit of food when served in a small portion, despite the actual quantity being larger. This 'unit bias' helps explain how environmental factors influence eating habits and may contribute to obesity.
A 10-year study found that late career job loss significantly increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Individuals over 50 who lost their jobs were nearly twice as likely to experience cardiovascular events compared to those still employed.
A recent study calculates the risks of nanotechnology, emphasizing the need for rational work to understand and minimize adverse effects. The research highlights the importance of managing exposure to manufactured nano-sized particles, particularly through respiratory or skin routes.
The Penn CEET aims to improve environmental health through research and outreach, focusing on lung disease, endocrine systems, and gene-environment interactions. The center will collaborate with local communities to address pressing environmental concerns.
Researchers found that Caucasians with the K55R polymorphism had an accelerated breakdown of beneficial fatty acids called EETs, which play a protective role in the cardiovascular system. This increase in EET degradation is associated with higher coronary heart disease risk.
A study of 225 children exposed to at least five cigarettes a day found a significant relationship between cotinine levels and increases in acting out, anxiety, depression, and behavior problems. The study suggests that exposure to environmental tobacco smoke is a risk factor for child behavior problems.
Exposure to combustion-related urban air pollutants during pregnancy is linked to lower scores on mental development tests and a higher risk of developmental delay at age three. The study found that children exposed to the highest levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) scored significantly lower on cognitive tests.
TEEVE enables cost-effective cyberspace communication with full-body size views, suitable for training, entertainment, and healthcare applications. Researchers have tested the technology with dancers, achieving exciting results, and plan to expand its use in education, remote healthcare, and elderly care.
A survey of 141 physicians and medical students found that female respondents were more likely to perceive sex discrimination in surgery, citing workload considerations and lifestyle concerns as deterrents. The results suggest addressing these concerns to attract both men and women to surgery, but also highlight the need to confront a ...
A large family study has pinpointed genetic linkage in drug addiction, identifying genes that influence opioid dependence and its symptom cluster traits. The study provides a foundation for further research on the genetic factors contributing to substance dependence risk.