Articles tagged with Pesticides
Researchers at Rutgers University have developed tiny chemical cages that can enclose drug and pesticide molecules, enabling safe delivery and improving chemical production. The one-step process creates tight bonds, surpassing earlier approaches in simplicity and efficiency.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill have discovered a new enzyme that can break down chloroacrylate pesticide residue in just 10,000 years, significantly longer than other environmental pollutants. This enzyme is found in bacteria that thrive on the pesticide and has implications for designing more efficient enzymes.
Researchers have developed a product that blocks insect enzymes and delivers a dose of pesticide 4-5 hours later, proving almost 100% effective in trials. This technology reduces the amount of pesticide needed on fields, benefiting both Western and developing world farmers.
Researchers found that MXC alters estrogen-regulated gene Hoxa10 in the reproductive tract, reducing embryo implantation ability. Exposure to MXC has been shown to induce abnormalities in female reproductive tract development and function.
A recent study found that genetically modified rice in China reduces pesticide use by 80% and increases crop yields by up to 9%. The research also indicates no significant impact on farmers' health. The study provides valuable information for developing countries considering genetically modified food crops.
Researchers found that dermal exposure accounts for a substantial portion of total exposure among pesticide workers, with some workers absorbing more pesticide through the skin than inhaled. The study's results underscore the need for improved methods to assess worker exposure and protect health.
A new technique targeting pesticide-resistant insects has shown effectiveness in trials against the cotton bollworm, silverleaf whitefly, and diamondback moth. The method uses micro-encapsulated formulations to deliver an enzyme inhibitor and a pesticide, providing a double-blow effect.
A new modeling approach predicts how long pollutants will stay in soil by using a method developed by medicinal chemists to understand chemical interactions with natural organic matter. This tool could help environmental regulators and cleanup consultants make informed decisions about hazardous contaminant persistence and migration.
A new study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that cinnamon oil is effective in killing mosquito larvae, with four compounds exhibiting strong activity against the yellow fever mosquito. The study suggests that cinnamon oil could be a good mosquito repellant, although further testing is needed.
A Purdue University research team has found a set of genes that may orchestrate insects' ability to fight the effects of pesticides. The study identified dozens of genes different in resistant fly lines compared to non-resistant wild-type flies, indicating that multiple genes are involved in metabolic resistance.
Scientists at UC Davis create a novel fluorescent assay for detecting pesticides on a chip, utilizing lanthanide oxide nanoparticles as a reporter. The approach has the potential to improve pesticide detection in environmental testing and other fields.
Stanford University researchers use video cameras to capture daily activities of healthy children in various environments. By analyzing these recordings, they create detailed models of how children ingest or become exposed to substances like lead and pesticides. This approach allows for the collection of tens of thousands of data point...
Researchers found that agricultural workers who thin orchards have detectable levels of pesticides in their house and vehicle dust, posing a risk to children. Children of thinners were more likely to have detectable pesticide metabolites in their urine, supporting the theory that workers track home pesticides on their clothing and shoes.
A 10-year study by Wake Forest researchers highlights the need for better safety measures to protect migrant farm workers and their families from pesticide exposure. Changes are needed in housing, hygiene procedures, and pesticide application to reduce health risks.
A study found a higher prevalence of congenital abnormalities related to testicular descent in boys exposed to endosulfan. Although the sample size was small, the results suggest a link between endosulfan exposure and delayed sexual maturity in males.
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.
Researchers found that tire chips can absorb nitrate, a main chemical in fertilizers, reducing pollution in groundwater. Turfgrass quality was not affected by the rubber layer, suggesting it can be used as a sustainable solution for golf courses.
Several commonly used pesticides are toxic to mitochondria in laboratory experiments, causing cellular damage that may contribute to diseases such as Parkinson's. The study found pyridaben to be the most potent toxic compound, followed by rotenone and fenpyroximate.
Researchers have developed a technology that can detect chemical contaminants in saliva, enabling rapid diagnosis of pesticide exposure and potential nerve gas poisoning. The innovation could be used to monitor farm workers and diagnose accidents or terrorist attacks.
A study by Newcastle University found that a refined garlic product is an effective killer of slugs and snails, with the potential to replace chemical pesticides. The researchers tested nine molluscicides, including a garlic-based product, and found it to be one of the most effective killers.
Researchers have discovered that Fe-TAML activators can break down toxic organophosphorus compounds found in pesticides, which can harm human health and contaminate water supplies. The technology has the potential to provide a safe alternative to existing methods of pesticide degradation.
A Penn State study reveals that low-maintenance lawns harbor higher populations of beneficial arthropods, such as mites and collembolans, while high-maintenance lawns experience reduced diversity due to chemical applications and mowing.
Researchers are developing user-centered design guidelines to reduce pesticide exposure among ethnic minority farm workers, improving safety and communication. The project aims to create more effective risk communications, applicable to all farm workers regardless of ethnicity.
The IR-4 project supports research and development of natural pest control tools for specialty crops. The program aims to provide effective alternatives to traditional pesticides, benefiting farmers, homeowners, and consumers.
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.
A study of Native American artifacts found high levels of mercury, naphthalene, and DDT, posing a risk to human health. Museums are advised to handle these objects with proper precautions until further research is conducted.
A new study found that genetically modified crops in India produced yields up to 80% greater than non-Bt counterparts, while also reducing pesticide use. This breakthrough has implications for small-scale farmers in developing nations who struggle with crop losses due to pests.
Researchers have identified two microorganisms, Fusarium and Pandoraea spp., that can degrade the toxicity of endosulfan, a persistent organic pollutant. This breakthrough offers a potential solution for detoxifying contaminated sites, reducing toxic residues in soil.
A study published in PNAS found that intensive farming practices can reduce bee populations and limit the pollination services provided by native bees. However, careful land use management can support the flourishing of native bee species, which are capable of doing more pollinating than previously thought.
Researchers found habitat destruction and pesticide exposure linked to declines of four frog species and two toad species in California. The study suggests that wind-borne agrochemicals may be a contributing factor to amphibian population declines.
A three-year grant awarded by EPA aims to develop a scientific way to accurately estimate pesticide exposure among children, especially farmworker sons and daughters. Researchers use novel methods like videotaping children at home to quantify real-life exposure to pesticide residues.
A study by Penn State researchers found that deformed frogs are linked to the combination of parasite infection and pesticide exposure. The research, which included experimental studies in ponds where the animals live, may help explain how environmental stress affects disease outbreaks in frogs.
Dr. You's research highlights the effects of endocrine-active chemicals on biological systems, finding altered gene expression in male rats exposed to high levels of genistein and methoxychlor. The study suggests plant-based estrogens can alter the effects of synthetic compounds like pesticides.
Researchers found a strong link between amphibian deformities and parasites, particularly those carried by snails, which thrive in human-altered habitats. The study surveyed over 60% of sites in Oregon, where deformities were linked to the presence of Ribeiroia parasite.
Researchers are using spatial statistics to analyze cases of renal failure and leukemia in Texas. They found that the distribution of renal failure cases is consistent with random phenomena, but may have underlying hotspots for cancer cases.
Researchers at AgraQuest have developed a natural pesticide called Serenade that targets various fungal and bacterial diseases. It is highly effective and nontoxic to humans, birds, fish, and beneficial insects, making it suitable for integrated pest management systems.
A new study reveals that exposure to pesticides and solvents in men is associated with lower sperm threshold values and changes in hormone concentrations, particularly affecting primary infertility. The research highlights the potential impact of environmental factors on male reproductive health.
A USGS study links agricultural contaminants to declining amphibian populations in California's Sierra Nevada. Pesticides, such as chlorpyrifos and diazinon, were found to suppress enzyme activity in frogs, leading to population declines.
A new study found that farming overall is protective against breast cancer in women, but pesticide exposure boosts their risk slightly. Women who farmed more than 23 years had a 40% lower risk of breast cancer.
A University of Washington study found that over half of farmworker children in Douglas and Chelan counties, Washington state, exceeded federal safety levels for pesticides. The study suggests that regulators need to reassess exposure standards for these chemicals.
A New York-based council argues that health scares about pesticides in food are unjustified on scientific grounds, citing issues of dose and exposure. Experts warn that the risks from nature don't end with cancer, as certain foods like potatoes contain natural toxins.
A recent study by Ohio State University suggests that evergreen trees can collect two to four times more pesticide spray droplets than broadleaf plants. The researchers recommend planting a line of evergreen trees around crops to reduce the movement of pesticide sprays outside their fields.
Research by Cornell University reveals that genetically engineered corn, designed to protect against pests, can kill monarch butterfly larvae when they come into contact with its pollen. This has significant implications for the long-term survival of the monarch species, which is already facing habitat disruption and other threats.
Scientists have developed cotton fabrics with built-in pesticide detoxifiers that can be cleaned and reactivated by washing with bleach. The treatment reduces pesticide levels in garments to harmless fragments within minutes, offering a comfortable and protective solution for agricultural workers and gardeners.
Researchers discovered a gene-toxin link that may increase the risk of dementia in Parkinson's patients. The study found that exposure to pesticides and a defective gene called CYP 2D6 29B+ increased the likelihood of developing dementia, particularly among those with Parkinson's disease with dementia (PD+D).
A study by UNC-CH scientists found elevated DDE levels in Aberdeen residents' blood, but no major clinical effects were observed. Younger residents showed a two-to-three-fold increased risk of herpes zoster, indicating immune system suppression.
Pesticide residues on food raise concerns, but some pesticides can increase safety by reducing naturally occurring toxins. Carl Winter suggests fine-tuning regulations to reflect relative benefits and risks presented by a pesticide.
A unique strategy aims to use computer-examined variables and prescribe chemical regulations for specific areas to benefit the environment and agriculture. The nation's first 'smart' environmental regulations for ground water contamination by agricultural runoff are being created as part of Indiana's pesticide management plan.
A US chemist, Cliff Meloan, has developed a comprehensive training manual to help Central American food inspectors detect pesticide residues using advanced analytical methods. The manual, published in 1996, covers procedures for handling raw and processed foods, identifying chemical compounds, and quality control and assurance.