Articles tagged with Environmental Health
The NIEHS is developing a new RNAi library to better understand the effects of environmental toxins on human health. This technology will help researchers identify specific genes responsible for adverse responses to chemicals, ultimately aiding in the development of new disease prevention strategies.
The NIH is funding a five-year study to assess the impact of local design and transportation changes on physical activity and obesity. The goal is to determine if simple changes in the built environment can enhance physical activity and reduce obesity for residents.
A study by Dr. Richard Palmer challenges the classical Darwinian theory, suggesting that environment plays a crucial role in creating differences and variations in species. The research found that variations without genetic basis are common and important for evolution, especially in asymmetric forms.
A group of experts recommends incorporating environmental health into pediatric medical and nursing education, citing gaps in current curricula. The study aims to equip healthcare providers with tools to recognize, treat, and prevent diseases related to environmental factors.
A global assessment of amphibian populations reveals that nearly one-third of species are threatened with extinction, with many more considered vulnerable. Key drivers of decline include habitat destruction, air and water pollution, and climate change.
A new study by UNC researchers reveals that Hispanics in the South suffer more fatal occupational injuries than blacks or other groups. The findings highlight the need for greater injury prevention efforts focused on Hispanic workers in the region.
A new Virginia Tech-led initiative will develop research-based changes to the construction industry, focusing on work system designs and technology compatibility with human capabilities. The goal is to reduce accidents, injuries, and fatalities in the sector.
Researchers at NIST studied four pharmaceuticals and their reactions with chlorine, finding multiple products some of which are highly toxic. The resulting compounds were more hydrophobic than the original drugs, raising concerns about potential environmental and health impacts.
A recent study reveals that two-thirds of assisted living residents exhibit mental health problem indicators, with half suffering from dementia. The findings are higher than expected and highlight the need for improved accommodations to address these needs without over-medicating.
Dartmouth Medical School emphasizes ongoing feedback and mentoring in its educational research environment. The school attributes its success to a supportive faculty culture and rigorous evaluation processes.
A Mount Sinai study found that nearly three-quarters of WTC responders experienced upper respiratory issues, with half still experiencing symptoms eight months later. Over half had persistent psychological symptoms, with risks for PTSD four times that of the general male population.
A National Institutes of Health study found that reducing indoor allergens in the home significantly improves asthma symptoms in inner-city children. By targeting common allergens like dust mites, cockroaches, and tobacco smoke, researchers helped alleviate symptoms comparable to those achieved with asthma inhalers.
Professor Ken Donaldson proposes the creation of a new discipline, nanotoxicology, to study the potential harmful effects of nanoparticles. The importance of nanotechnology is debated, but its adverse impacts need to be studied to ensure sustainable development.
Researchers have detected high levels of triclocarban in Maryland streams, with concentrations up to 5.6 micrograms per liter. Further studies are needed to understand the impact on aquatic life and potential human exposure.
A new study found that only half of parents' anti-asthma efforts are likely to work, while the other half may be unproven or potentially harmful. The study highlights a need for better education and support for parents, as well as healthcare providers, to effectively manage childhood asthma.
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.