Articles tagged with Environmental Health
Researchers found that a diagnosis of FAS at an early age and a stable environment can reduce the risk of negative life experiences by two-to-four-fold. Children with FAE often lack physical characteristics, but still face challenges with learning, memory, and problem-solving.
The number of female consultants has risen by more than 50% in the last 10 years, driven by increasing numbers of women admitted to medical school. However, sexism and a lack of flexibility in working environments are still major issues affecting female doctors' careers.
The UK's Healthcare Commission, led by Ian Kennedy, has been criticized for its flawed star system and lack of transparency. The commission's ratings have been shown to be based on incomplete data and do not accurately reflect the quality of care provided by NHS Trusts.
Researchers at U of T found that animals absorb environmental information to modulate behavior, associating smells with starvation cues. A mutation affecting environmental role in memory recall was identified, highlighting the importance of environment in learning.
A new research center aims to investigate the links between environmental exposures and childhood health in the heavily contaminated Tar Creek area. The center will conduct integrated studies on toxic metals, epidemiology, and animal models to better understand their effects on neurological, behavioral, and mental development.
Changes in land use have implications for disease distribution and human health, with activities like deforestation and urban sprawl contributing to the spread of Lyme disease and malaria. The report calls for policy changes and research investments to address these issues.
A recent study by Cohn et al. found that 82 percent of U.S. homes contain mouse allergens, with kitchen floors being the most contaminated area. The study, conducted across the entire country, highlights the need for clinicians to consider rodent and cockroach problems as risk factors when treating allergy and asthma patients.
The exhibition features 12 thematic stations celebrating diversity in fields like genetic research, fashion, and environmental understanding, highlighting the impact of women chemists on our daily lives. Featured chemists include Marie Meurdrac and Susan Solomon.
A new questionnaire, WISDM-68, has uncovered the diverse motivations behind smoking, including emotional attachment and automatic behavior. This measure helps understand tobacco dependence and points towards more individualized treatment for smokers.
A new study led by Duke University and NIST found a correlation between sea turtle health and high levels of toxic organic chemicals. The research team analyzed blood and fat samples from 48 juvenile turtles in North Carolina waters, discovering changes in immune function, liver damage, and protein regulation.
A new study by Mount Sinai researchers found that exposure to WTC dust increased the risk of respiratory symptoms, including cough, wheeze, and shortness of breath. Pregnant women who were near the disaster site experienced a two-fold increase in small for gestational age infants.
Johnson-Thompson is recognized for her dedication to mentoring and increasing diversity in the field of microbiology. She has initiated various outreach initiatives, including a poster highlighting the contributions of women microbiologists.
Experts question whether Europe can achieve ambitious environmental goals for children due to limited action taken. Prioritizing specific areas with clear disease causation and high burden is recommended.
The article highlights the need for investment in human resources to respond to global health crises, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Human resources for health are essential for achieving better health outcomes, and donors can support these developments by acknowledging their importance.
The four new research centers will study the effects of harmful algal blooms, marine pathogens, and ocean potential for drug discovery. The combined expertise of experts in biomedical and oceanographic sciences will accelerate scientific discovery.
A recent study found that environmental factors such as temperature and humidity can significantly impact LASIK surgery results. The study of 191 patients revealed that indoor humidity had the largest impact on whether enhancement surgery was required, while outdoor temperature and humidity in the weeks before surgery also played a role.
A study using three strains of inbred laboratory rats found significant variations in slow wave sleep, activity, and rest periods, suggesting a genetic link to the 'early bird' and 'night owl' phenomenon. The research aims to establish the genomic basis of normal and abnormal variation in sleep patterns.
The American Physiological Society awarded 55 minority travel fellowships to facilitate participation of underrepresented students in EB 2004, attracting over 11,000 scientists annually. The fellowships, supported by NIDDK and NIGMS grants, provide funds for transportation, meals, lodging, and meeting registration.
A new study, led by experts at the University of Rochester Medical Center, explores the effects of environmental agents and toxins on children's health. The report highlights the significant knowledge gap in understanding how environmental factors affect children compared to adults.
Researchers measured blood levels of chlorpyrifos and diazinon in umbilical cords before and after the ban and found a significant reduction in birth weights and lengths in infants with high pesticide exposure. The study confirms developmental impact of insecticides on human health.
The Lancet's patient safety series aims to enhance care coordination through a framework focusing on patient, local environment, hospital, and healthcare system levels. The subsequent papers will delve into methods for measuring and improving inpatient safety.
Dr. Kenneth Olden has received the Society of Toxicology's Public Communications Award for his efforts to bridge the gap between researchers, policymakers, and the public through open access journals and regional town meetings.
The Environmental Polymorphism Registry aims to investigate the interaction between genes and environment. Researchers will analyze DNA samples from 20,000 participants to identify genetic variants associated with environmental exposure.
A new DNA registry at UNC will study the interaction between genes, environment, and disease. The registry aims to identify groups of individuals with genetic polymorphisms that may be linked to environmental risk factors.
Researchers at Columbia University discovered that steel dust from NYC subways contains elevated levels of iron, manganese, and chromium, exceeding 100 times those found in indoor or outdoor settings. The study suggests that subway platforms are a primary source of exposure to these metals.
A study found that NS temperament in adulthood was predicted by an interaction between the DRD4 gene polymorphism and a hostile childhood rearing environment. Participants with certain genetic variants and adverse childhood experiences had a higher risk of exhibiting high novelty seeking scores.
A study found pesticide residues on floors, toys, and hands of children living in farm worker households, posing a significant health risk. The research team detected six agricultural chemicals and 11 residential pesticides in the homes, highlighting the need for further study on this population's exposure to pesticides.
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) has awarded $9 million to support ongoing research on the health consequences of the 9/11 attacks. The funding will continue to study human exposures, respiratory and psychological problems, and provide education and training for workers and communities.
Michigan State University (MSU) is one of four national centers studying the link between environmental exposures and breast cancer. The center will focus on hormonal factors, including progesterone, and community outreach to better understand breast cancer risk.
The new Bay Area Breast Cancer and the Environment Research Center aims to study the impact of prenatal-to-adult environmental exposures on breast cancer risk. The center will focus on two counties: Marin County, with high reported rates of breast cancer, and Alameda County.
The Fox Chase Breast Cancer and Environmental Research Center will investigate how natural environmental exposures affect breast cancer predisposition. The center, funded by NIH agencies, will collaborate with other centers to analyze the effects of specific environmental agents on mammary tissue development.
Researchers examining the link between cabin air quality and health will collect data from a sample of flights, recording cabin air quality and perceptions of comfort and health by flight attendants and passengers. The study aims to inform the development of air quality standards for commercial aircraft.
Two studies found Gulf War veterans have a significantly higher risk of ALS, particularly those deployed to Southwest Asia. The studies also revealed that young Gulf War veterans were more than twice as likely to develop ALS compared to the general population.
A recent UC Riverside study found that mosquito coils in Indonesia and Asian markets contain the banned substance S-2, which can cause exposure to bischloromethyl ether, a potent lung carcinogen. The researchers plan to measure levels of BCME in indoor environments where the coils are used.
Researchers at the Mayo Clinic have identified a key finding about how donor kidneys adapt to new bodies. By analyzing gene expression patterns, the study found that donor kidneys can develop protective processes that shield them from the recipient's immune system, potentially reducing rejection rates and improving transplant outcomes.
Scientists discovered two green tea compounds, EGCG and EGC, that inhibit the aryl hydrocarbon (AH) receptor, a molecule linked to cancer. The findings suggest that green tea may exert its anti-cancer activity through multiple pathways.
Researchers discover cadmium inhibits DNA repair mechanisms, leading to dramatic mutations and increased cancer risk in humans. Environmental exposure to cadmium may cause genetic damage through this novel pathway.
Exposure to environmental toxins during the first year of life significantly increases asthma risk, with cockroach infestations doubling the likelihood, according to a study led by Dr. Frank Gilliland.
A new series of special reports on 'Living on Earth' will follow cutting-edge research on environmental topics, including a 20-year study on the effects of lead on human development in Cincinnati. The study has found an association between childhood exposure to lead paint and patterns of delinquency and crime among adolescents.
The Environmental Genome Project has identified genetic variations that confer susceptibility to environmental agents, including a polymorphism in the NKX3.1 gene associated with increased risk of prostate cancer. The project aims to develop effective therapies targeting these pathways.
Recent studies investigate the toxic potential of ultrafine and fine particles, finding worsening health outcomes for people with chronic heart and lung disease. Exposure to small particles also contributes to increased risk of emergency visits, hospitalizations, and death.
A two-year study found that environmental changes in middle schools increased boys' physical activity during school hours, leading to improved body mass index. However, no significant change was observed in girls' physical activity or dietary fat intake.
Researchers found that people living in walkable communities were more likely to leave their cars behind, suggesting that the physical environment plays a crucial role in shaping physical activity habits. The study's findings encourage policymakers to consider changes in neighborhood design as a way to promote better health.
A study by Case Western Reserve University has found that Bisphenol A (BPA) in plastic bottles can cause abnormal pregnancies in mice. The researchers discovered that even extremely low doses of BPA produced detectable effects, highlighting the potential risks to human reproduction.
Researchers found that catnip oil repelled and killed termites in a laboratory test, providing a potential less toxic alternative to pesticides. However, the oil breaks down quickly in the environment, limiting its long-term effectiveness.
Scientists at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute create computer models of proteins to integrate them into dry substances like plastic. This development could lead to new applications in the security and medical industries, such as ultra-hygienic surfaces and chemical sensors.
A family history of asthma is a consistent risk factor for childhood asthma, but only partially identifies children at increased risk. Despite this, knowledge of the risk can motivate parents and healthcare providers to take proactive steps in prevention.
Researchers analyzed debris from the collapsed towers and found no high levels of pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls or other persistent organic pollutants. The study estimated that 100-1000 tons of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were present in lower Manhattan dust, but these particles were too large to be inhaled deeply.
The Global Health Research Initiative Program for New Foreign Investigators (GRIP) provides support to young researchers from developing countries. The program aims to enhance scientific research capacity and address critical global health issues, including AIDS, cancer, and neurological disorders.
A study published in Annals of Neurology found that environmental enrichment can reverse cognitive deficits caused by lead poisoning in rats. The researchers observed significant improvements in learning ability and a recovery in brain receptor function among lead-exposed rats raised in enriched environments.
The Center will develop the environmental public health tracking network with the CDC, linking environmental protection efforts to public health surveillance. The initiative aims to track exposures to environmental hazards and develop sound policies to prevent disease.
Researchers found that depression is influenced by additive genetic effects on temperament dimensions, which interact with individual environmental experiences. People predisposed to harm avoidance or high reward dependence are more likely to develop depression.
The HEED program aims to bridge disciplinary interests in global health, economics, and environment. It will support research on the complex linkages between these factors and inform healthcare strategies in low- and middle-income countries.
A study found that White Americans' fruit and vegetable consumption rose by 11 percent when a supermarket was nearby, whereas black Americans showed a smaller increase. The research highlights the importance of environmental factors in shaping dietary habits.
A $3.3 million NIH-funded grant will test whether changing the afternoon environment can increase physical activity, improve diets, and reduce body fat in third-graders.
A University of Pittsburgh study found no overall increase in cancer deaths among TMI residents between 1979 and 1998. However, a slight increase in lymphatic and hematopoietic cancers was observed in women, related to everyday background radiation exposure.
Researchers have developed computer models to predict the effects of atomic disorder on piezoelectric properties, leading to improved performance. The work paves the way for designing lead-free piezoelectric materials with enhanced properties.
Researchers from the Pittsburgh Development Center are conducting clinical and pre-clinical studies to investigate genetic components of recurrent miscarriage, normal and abnormal pregnancy, and tobacco smoke exposure's impact on fetal growth. The team aims to track development at the cellular level using non-invasive imaging scans.
Research reveals that people near freeways are exposed to 30 times more ultrafine particles, linked to neurological changes and cardiovascular problems. The study measured particle concentrations near two major freeways in Los Angeles, finding a significant decrease in particle concentration with distance from the freeway.
Unemployment can start a vicious cycle of depression, loss of personal control, decreased emotional functioning, and poorer physical health. After re-employment, 71% of job seekers still reported negative effects, highlighting the need for mental health support to improve re-employment chances.