Articles tagged with Hydrocarbons
A new strain of bacteria has been discovered that can produce non-toxic rhamnolipids to help degrade polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), a major environmental pollutant in oil spills. The strain, NY3 of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, shows an 'extraordinary capacity' to break down PAHs and decontaminate the environment.
Researchers collecting mollusk specimens from the Gulf Coast will analyze growth rings in shells to determine how quickly harmful compounds from the oil become incorporated into the animals' bodies. They will also test for hydrocarbons in tissues and measure changes in growth rate and survivorship.
A Columbia University study found prenatal exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can reduce children's reasoning ability and intelligence at age 5. PAHs are released from fossil fuels and other combustion sources, making air pollution a widespread concern.
A new study by the Rochester Institute of Technology indicates that E20 fuel blends reduce tail pipe emissions of hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide without impacting vehicle drivability. The research found an average emissions reduction of 23% for carbon monoxide and 13% for hydrocarbon emissions compared to conventional gasoline.
A recent study found that stormwater runoff is the primary source of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) pollutants in the New York/New Jersey Harbor. The study estimated that stormwater runoff contributes about half of the total PAH load to the harbor. The researchers also identified gaps in data, particularly for stormwater runoff ...
A team of UW-Madison engineers has developed a highly efficient process that converts gamma-valerolactone into the chemical equivalent of jet fuel, preserving about 95% of the energy from biomass. The process requires little hydrogen input and captures carbon dioxide for future use.
A study by researchers from Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona and Save America's Forests found that the Peruvian Amazon is at risk of a second hydrocarbon boom, with over 70% of the region leased to oil and gas companies. The authors highlight the devastating environmental and social impacts of previous hydrocarbon booms in the area.
Researchers found that frying meat on a gas hob produces higher levels of potentially harmful polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), mutagenic aldehydes, and particulate matter compared to electric hobs. Cooking fumes from vegetable oils and lard also contain fine and ultrafine particles.
A study by Irina Stepanov and colleagues found that moist snuff contains at least eight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, nine of which are classified as carcinogens. The presence of these toxicants in smokeless tobacco may contribute to increased risk of cancer and other health issues.
A massive impact crater off the coast of India is being studied as a potential cause of the mass extinction event that led to the demise of the dinosaurs. The Shiva basin, located in western India, is believed to have been created by an object at least 40 kilometers in diameter.
A University of Toronto study found that genetically eliminating certain pheromones triggered a surge in fruit flies' libido, leading to same-sex and interspecies mating. The research suggests a link between sex, species recognition, and chemical signals in fly behavior.
Researchers led by Jackie Shanks aim to develop a catalyst that allows plants to produce hydrocarbons, potentially creating second-generation biofuels. The project will investigate the conversion mechanisms and structures of biological hydrocarbons, paving the way for sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels.
Researchers from the University of Georgia have identified a gaseous version of naphthalene, a component of mothballs, in deep-space clouds emitting unusual infrared light. The discovery provides insights into the composition of interstellar dust and its association with stellar lifecycles.
A team of researchers has found that contaminants from the Exxon Valdez oil spill were the main source of bioavailable PAH pollutants in the Gulf of Alaska. The study used genetically engineered bacteria to prove that only tanker oil PAHs had an effect on organisms.
A new study has discovered that smokeless tobacco contains carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and other hazardous chemicals, exposing users to the same level of risk as cigarette smokers. The research adds to evidence of oral and pancreatic cancer risks associated with smokeless tobacco use.
Researchers found ethane and heavier hydrocarbons can be synthesized in the deep Earth, suggesting a new possible source of oil and gas. The discovery suggests that saturated hydrocarbons exist deeper in the Earth without requiring organic matter.
A recent study by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences found that children exposed to high levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in urban areas had lower full-scale and verbal IQ scores compared to less exposed children. The effects were similar to those seen with low-level lead exposure.
A study published in Pediatrics found that prenatal exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can lower children's full-scale and verbal IQ scores. The study suggests that reducing air pollution exposure, particularly in urban areas, could have a positive impact on educationally meaningful IQ decreases.
Researchers have found the optimal conditions for a new microbe to degrade n-hexadecane, suggesting a more effective approach to bioremediation. The team discovered that enzymes within the microbial cell and its membrane are responsible for degradation, with neutral pH and 30 Celsius temperature being ideal conditions.
A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology has discovered a significant link between aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) expression and gastric cancer. The research suggests that AhR may be a potential therapeutic target for gastric cancer treatment.
Researchers at UNH found that sealcoat can contribute to high levels of polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in waterways, posing a risk to aquatic life and potentially human health. The study showed significant increases in PAH concentrations in stormwater runoff from sealed parking lots compared to unsealed areas.
New research suggests Titan, Saturn's largest moon, has a subterranean ocean of hydrocarbons and unusual topography, including mountains with lower elevations than surrounding plains. The findings may help explain the presence of large lakes of hydrocarbons at both poles.
Researchers at Penn State developed a solar-powered process converting carbon dioxide to methane using titania nanotubes, achieving a 20-times higher yield than previous attempts. The method uses dual catalysts coated on the nanotubes, resulting in significant hydrocarbon production.
A study of umbilical cord blood found evidence of a biomarker associated with prenatal exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, potentially leading to pollution-related asthma. Researchers discovered epigenetic alterations in the ACSL3 gene linked to maternal PAH exposure.
A new technique developed at the University of Toronto is being used to test the effectiveness of clean-up efforts for contaminated groundwater. Using Compound Specific Isotope Analysis, researchers can determine if biodegradation is taking place by analyzing the ratio of carbon isotopes in the contaminants.
Researchers at Arizona State University have found a unique chemical signature blend on the cuticle of fertile ants that allows workers to locate and police cheaters. This discovery provides insight into social regulation and evolution in ant societies.
A new study reveals that cheater ants give away their fertility status through unique chemical signals, allowing peers to swiftly attack and restrain them. This system plays a crucial role in maintaining harmony in ant societies.
Scientists discover diverse microbes that can consume hydrocarbons without oxygen, reflecting early appearance of these compounds as nutrients. Understanding their role may help access natural climate change control.
The western Amazon, home to the most biodiverse rainforest left on Earth, is at risk from oil and gas projects. Over 180 blocks cover nearly 688,000 km2, overlapping with protected areas and indigenous territories. The study highlights the need for regional Strategic Environmental Assessments and indigenous rights protection.
Scientists have developed a new technique to identify organic matter in Martian soils using ultraviolet light. The method, which uses polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), has the potential to detect signs of life on Mars and could be used on future missions.
Researchers have found a way to effectively recycle toxic chlorinated compounds using a lanthanum chloride catalyst. The new reaction enables the exchange of chlorine atoms for hydrogen atoms, producing desired products without byproducts.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania's CEET have discovered that polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can lead to mutations in critical genes in lung cancer through oxidative stress. PAHs transform into oxygen free radicals, which bind to DNA and cause damage if not repaired.
New study analyzes commercially made carbon nanotubes, finding vastly different compositions and potential emissions of toxic chemicals. Researchers aim to work proactively with industry to prevent environmental mistakes, highlighting the need for better understanding and regulation of nanotechnology manufacturing processes.
Scientists uncover toxic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in air pollutants from fossil fuels, damaging fish hearts and potentially contributing to human cardiovascular diseases. This emerging threat highlights the need for further research on the impacts of urban air pollution on human health.
Researchers have found that 400 chemicals resist breaking down in the environment, affecting fish and wildlife, and potentially human health. The study also reveals pesticides can be more toxic when combined, threatening salmon populations and human health.
Researchers discovered that the Lost City hydrothermal vent field produces building blocks of life, including hydrocarbons and acetate, in higher concentrations and with more complexity than typical black smoker systems. This finding is significant for understanding the origin of life on Earth and other solar bodies.
A new study published in JCI Journals reveals that smoking before pregnancy or while breast-feeding may decrease the fertility of female offspring by reducing resting and early growing follicles. The effects are mediated through the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (Ahr), which upregulates expression of the Harakiri gene, leading to cell death.
Industry experts suggest nanotechnology can improve fuel extraction from dwindling resources and reduce pollution. Nanomaterials may be used to enhance efficiency, purification and storage of hydrocarbons.
A German-American research team has isolated bacteria from marine sediments that utilize propane and butane as their sole source of carbon and energy. These unique organisms employ an unprecedented biochemical mechanism to transform hydrocarbons into reactive metabolites.
A global study has found that phosgene is present in all latitudes and its levels have decreased since previous studies. The gas plays a role in pharmaceuticals, herbicides, and synthetic materials, but its use is being reduced due to legal restrictions.
Researchers at Michigan State University found that polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) produced by burning tobacco interfere with cell communication, promoting pancreatic cancer. PAHs do not initiate cancer but contribute to its promotion.
Scientists at University of Illinois designed and built ceramic microreactors to reform hydrocarbons into hydrogen for fuel cells. The new reactors achieved high-temperature operation, surpassing other fuel reformer systems in performance.
Researchers have developed a new technology that converts coal into diesel fuel, potentially cutting the US's reliance on foreign oil. The process uses Nobel Prize-winning chemistry to control the molecular weight of hydrocarbon products, producing useful fuels while eliminating undesirable byproducts.
A new EPA rule requires manufacturers to reduce motorcycle emissions by 60% by 2010, reducing pollution by 54,000 tons and saving 12 million gallons of fuel annually. Motorcycles produce more harmful exhaust emissions per mile than cars or sports utility vehicles.
John Castagna's developed an algorithm to predict seismic-wave velocities for direct hydrocarbon indicator analysis, detecting oil and gas reservoirs more effectively. This advancement enables explorers to locate hydrocarbon discoveries with higher accuracy, reducing the need for costly drilling operations.
Researchers found that increasing water vapor levels caused less damage to mirrors, possibly due to increased ambient hydrocarbon levels. Introducing methanol mitigates water-induced damage, paving the way for accelerated testing and broader illumination capabilities.
A recent study published in Environmental Science & Technology has found that parking lot sealcoat may be a significant source of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The research suggests that the sealcoat can leach PAHs into the environment, posing potential health risks.
Researchers found that certain populations of bacteria in contaminated coastal waters can degrade crude oil components, particularly polycyclic aromatic compounds. This discovery suggests that indigenous microbiota have evolved to handle the pollution, paving the way for potential bioremediation methods.
Researchers find that naturally occurring atmospheric chemicals react with sunlight to break down smog and pollutants, producing more OH radicals than previously thought. This discovery could improve our understanding of how the atmosphere works and potentially lead to better models for predicting pollution.
Scientists have found a previously unknown way in which the atmosphere produces substances that break down smog and pollutants into less harmful components. This discovery could lead to a better understanding of how the atmosphere cleanses itself and may improve atmospheric models.
A study found that exposure to traffic emissions at menarche (first menstrual period) and first birth was associated with increased breast cancer risk in premenopausal and postmenopausal women, respectively. The findings support the hypothesis that early-life exposures contribute to breast cancer risk.
A University of Oregon geologist's analysis suggests that a 'troubled' greenhouse event 55 million years ago may indicate wider climate shifts in Africa, North America, and South America. The study confirms dramatic increases in seasonal contrast and rainfall, with potential implications for modern-day weather patterns.
Olah's work on hydrocarbon chemistry led to improvements in lead-free gasoline, cleaner fuels, and insights into chemical processes used in pharmaceutical and industrial chemistry. He also developed a new, highly efficient fuel cell and has guided over 200 research associates throughout his distinguished career.
Researchers discovered that certain marine red seaweeds can efficiently neutralize organic pollutants, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The process, known as phycoremediation, shows promise for developing new bioremediation technologies to remove contaminants from the marine environment.
Researchers recreated extreme conditions to find that rocks rich in chromium minerals accelerate the production of more complex hydrocarbons. This process may help explain the diverse communities thriving around hydrothermal vents.
The Huygens probe will encounter a mysterious surface of seven-kilometer-high ice mountains and liquid methane seas. Scientists expect the Cassini spacecraft to improve the current sketchy picture of Titan's surface.
Researchers found that methane formed through reducing carbon in calcite at temperatures and pressures of about 1000 degrees F and less than 70,000 times atmospheric pressure. The study's implications are significant for the ecology and economy of our planet if abiogenic hydrocarbons are produced in the deep Earth.
Researchers monitored PAHs in smoke and soot after 9/11, finding high levels initially but diminishing rapidly. The study suggests little lifetime cancer risk for people living near Ground Zero, but possible effects on unborn babies.
A study found that users of reduced exposure tobacco products experienced decreased levels of nitrosamines in their urine after switching, with medicinal nicotine groups showing greater reductions. However, the actual reduction in carcinogen exposure for OMNI cigarette users was less than advertised.
Studies show that exposure to environmental carcinogens can cause DNA damage in the womb, increasing cancer risk. The fetus is more susceptible to genetic damage than the mother, highlighting the need for preventive policies.