Articles tagged with Environmental Health
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.
Researchers have developed several low-cost environmental interventions to reduce noise in nursing homes, resulting in a 16-fold reduction in noise levels. These interventions include sound-absorbing panels, reducing TV noise by moving speakers to bed headboards, and experimenting with tiny speakers embedded in bed pillows.
A recent study has identified a rare gene variant, ADH2*2, as a protective factor against alcohol dependence in Jewish individuals. Those with the variant gene tend to drink less frequently and experience more unpleasant reactions to alcohol.
Emory University will lead a new center studying the relationship between environmental agents and Parkinson's disease, with research focusing on pesticides, organochlorine insecticides, and genetic causes of PD. The center aims to develop strategies for prevention and treatment.
Cleanup workers at Ground Zero reported widespread respiratory symptoms, including coughing and wheezing, after working on the site. Lung function results showed no extensive impairment among workers, but long-term health risks remain unknown due to potential exposure to other airborne contaminants.
The report highlights deficiencies in protecting rescue and other workers, resulting in unnecessary injuries, particularly to eyes and lungs. Improvements recommended include providing emergency response personnel with appropriate protective gear and developing safety regulations tailored to large terrorist events.
The new Center for Dietary Supplement Research at the University of Iowa will investigate the health benefits and safety of Echinacea and St. John's wort. This research aims to advance knowledge on botanicals, including their effectiveness, safety, and biological action.
A study of over 1,000 passengers flying between San Francisco and Denver found that recirculated cabin air did not cause more colds than fresh air. The researchers suggest that being on a plane packed with people may be the primary factor in transmission of colds.
Researchers found that neighborhoods with older homes in urban areas have sidewalks, denser street networks, and mix of business and residential uses, which encourages walking. Men and non-Hispanic whites were more likely than women and other racial groups to walk at least a mile 20 times a month.
A new study from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute finds that a worksite program combining smoking cessation with occupational health and safety initiatives significantly increased quit rates among blue-collar workers. The program's success suggests that similar approaches could be effective in other industries.
A study found that sisters of centenarians have about half the risk of dying at any given age compared to the national average. Brothers of centenarians also exhibit low mortality rates, especially during young adulthood, increasing their chances of becoming centenarians.
The IU Pediatrics Training Program, funded by a $2.5 million Anne E. Dyson Foundation grant, focuses on patient advocacy and community-based care. Pediatric residents will work with families served by organizations such as the Hispanic Education Center and Julian Center to improve their health outcomes.
Researchers found that cocaine elevates body temperature by impairing the body's ability to increase skin-blood flow, sweat, and perceive excessive heat stress. Cocaine abuse in hot temperatures increases the risk of serious heat-related injuries, including heat stroke and death.
Researchers discovered the brain region responsible for pattern perception, which helps humans recognize danger but also leads to superstitions. The prefrontal cortex processes information about the environment, preparing the organism to change behavior in response to patterns.
A study found that elderly patients' sense of caring, technical proficiency, and office environment are key factors in meeting their medical care expectations. Physicians who connect personally with patients, spend time with them, and demonstrate competence can earn high marks for caring.
Researchers argue that policies improving education and equalizing resources can have significant health benefits and cost savings. Experts also suggest a broader approach to addressing socioeconomic disparities in health by considering multiple determinants and promoting cross-cutting policy initiatives.
A study analyzing satellite images of the 1999 hurricane flood area found that over 200 NC livestock operations were flooded, contaminating wells and posing a risk to local residents. The research highlights the need for improved monitoring and regulation of industrial animal farms in flood-prone areas.
A comprehensive study found that both prenatal and postnatal lead exposure were associated with increased antisocial behavior in children and adolescents. The researchers followed inner-city adolescents for over two decades, tracking blood lead levels and documenting delinquent behavior.
Research suggests that chronic alcohol consumption leads to long-lasting brain changes that promote relapse. Stressful cues and environmental triggers also contribute to relapse drinking. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing effective treatments, such as medications and behavioral therapies.
A recent study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that men with higher levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were more likely to father boys. Researchers analyzed data from 208 children born to 101 families, where PCB levels were detectable in both fathers and mothers.
Research found that regular alcohol intake higher than 70 grams per week is associated with increased total serum IgE levels. Moderate drinking may also lead to abnormal immune responses, affecting the control of the immune system's response to allergens.
Case studies illustrate how special-interest groups influence policies on needle exchange programs, ergonomics, and mammograms. The authors suggest that institutions must address vested interests to ensure the appropriate use of scientific evidence.
The new guidelines aim to support Starbucks' commitment to environmentally and socially responsible coffee production. The program rewards suppliers who meet key standards in four categories: quality, social conditions, environmental concerns, and economic issues.
A study of 27,541 full-time staff in Finland found that workers do not typically extend the weekend by taking sick leave on Mondays and Fridays. Despite the widespread assumption that these days are common absences due to illness, the research reveals that Monday and Friday absences were actually lower than other days of the week.
Researchers developed a simple risk index using age, heart rate, and systolic blood pressure to predict mortality risk in STEMI patients. The index revealed a strong and independent predictor of mortality risk, with a 20-fold gradient of increasing mortality.