Articles tagged with Water
A new analysis reveals states adopting guideline levels lower than the US EPA's health advisory levels for PFAS, highlighting the need for enforceable federal standards. States consider additional health effects, such as developmental problems and cancer risk, in their decisions.
The study found that seven states have adopted their own guideline levels for PFOA and/or PFOS, with three setting levels lower than EPA's health advisory. State guidelines vary dramatically, from 13 nanograms per liter to 1,000 nanograms per liter.
Researchers at KAUST developed a device that can capture its own weight in water from fresh air and release it when warmed by sunlight. The device uses deliquescent salt and a polymer hydrogel to absorb moisture from the air, which is then released continuously with the help of carbon nanotubes.
Researchers at RCSI are developing six prototypes to remove Contaminants of Emerging Concerns from drinking water and wastewater in rural India. The project aims to provide clean drinking water to 2.1 billion people without access to safe sources.
A new study found that US tap water contains a mixture of contaminants, including pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and lead, which can harm public health. The researchers detected high levels of lead in 23 samples, exceeding the EPA's zero-lead goal.
New research shows that drinking No 1 Rosemary Water can improve memory by up to 15%. The study, conducted by Dr Mark Moss at Northumbria University, found that the drink increased brain blood flow and improved cognitive performance in participants.,
A study of 140 premenopausal women with recurrent cystitis found that those drinking more water (1.5 liters daily) experienced less frequent infections (average 1.7 vs 3.2 episodes). Drinking more water may be a safe and inexpensive alternative to antimicrobial treatment.
Researchers at Cornell University have developed a new test that employs a bacteriophage to detect the presence of E. coli in drinking water. The test can provide results within hours, rather than days, allowing for faster action to be taken in case of contamination.
A new study by Professor Hajin Kim reveals that DNA phase separation can be triggered by heavy methylation of DNA, influencing cellular activities such as gene expression and stem cell differentiation. The research team discovered that electrostatic forces between DNA molecules play a crucial role in this phenomenon.
Researchers at UC Berkeley have developed a technology to remove contaminants from storm water using mineral-coated sand. The coated sand can break down organic pollutants into smaller pieces that are less toxic and more biodegradable, creating a safe and local reservoir of drinking water for communities.
Researchers found high levels of toxic metals in drinking water, including nickel, copper, cadmium, and lead, leading to increased morbidity rates. The study also revealed a significant link between the accumulation of these metals in kidneys and livers, increasing the risk of malignant neoplasms.
A study led by Penn State researchers found low levels of pharmaceuticals in drinking water from private wells in north central Pennsylvania. The most frequently detected compounds were ofloxacin and sulfamethoxazole, with at least one compound detected at all sites.
A new study by University of Illinois engineers shows that chemicals used to prevent mineral buildup in drinking water pipes can actually make biofilms thicker and softer, allowing bacteria to reproduce more easily. This can lead to increased risk of pathogen release and waterborne illness.
Research by LSU Health New Orleans School of Public Health found that flushing water lines may not be effective in reducing lead levels, potentially increasing exposure to children. The study suggests that certified water filters and more proactive interventions may be needed to protect children from lead in drinking water.
Researchers found that using chopsticks while eating popcorn, finding novel ways to drink water, or watching a video with hand-goggles all intensified the experience and made it more enjoyable. These unconventional methods help focus on what's enjoyed about the product, making experiences feel brand new.
A new study by Duke University has found widespread uranium contamination in India's groundwater, with levels exceeding the World Health Organization's safe drinking water standard. The contamination is linked to human activities such as over-pumping of aquifers and nitrate pollution.
Researchers from University of Cincinnati studied methane concentrations in groundwater and found no relationship with proximity to natural gas wells. In most cases, methane in drinking water was attributed to underground coal or biological production.
A study by Ohio State University found that some water-filter pitchers are more effective at removing microcystins, which can be toxic to humans and animals. The researchers tested three popular brands and found that the slowest-filtering pitcher removed all microcystins from the water.
Scientists from the University of Leeds developed a global index identifying peatland-fed water as a significant source of drinking water in the UK and Republic of Ireland. The study estimates that peatlands support the equivalent of 71.4 million people globally, with most of these areas being in the British Isles.
A study from Lund University reveals that older slow sand filters are more effective at cleaning drinking water due to the development of a specific ecosystem of bacteria. The use of 'sand starter' made from bacteria and sand from an older filter can improve new sand filters.
Researchers at Stockholm University have discovered a moss that can rapidly remove arsenic from contaminated water, making it safe for human consumption. The aquatic moss Warnstofia fluitans can absorb up to 80% of arsenic in just one hour.
A study by the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies found that distance to roads and amount of nearby pavement significantly influence well water salinity. Hotspots with high salinization were identified, particularly near sharp turns, steep grades, and narrow streets.
A study by Michigan Medicine and Rutgers New Jersey Medical School found Flint childhood blood lead levels decreased from 11.8% in 2006 to 3.2% in 2016, with a historic low of 1.15 micrograms per deciliter in 2016. A random spike in blood lead levels was also observed between 2010 and 2011.
Researchers have identified dichloramine as the compound responsible for forming a potent carcinogen called N-nitrosodimethyalmine, or NDMA, in recycled water. The study found that minimizing dichloramine concentrations can reduce NDMA formation.
Researchers report that wildfires can cause a variable but predictable impact on the substances released from soils and flow into drinking water sources, leading to contamination. The study found that as wildfire severity increases, the amount of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) released by soil decreases, while sediments increase.
Researchers at the University of New South Wales have developed a world-first, graphene-based filter that can remove more than 99% of natural organic matter from drinking water. The filter uses graphene oxide membranes to allow high water flow at atmospheric pressure while removing virtually all organic matter.
A recent study by researchers sheds light on the hidden health risks of elevated lead levels in private wells. The team found that even newer, 'lead-free' pipes can contain a small amount of lead that leaches into water, posing a risk to those consuming it.
A new study of 2,000 women found no association between long-term exposure to trihalomethanes (THMs) and breast cancer risk, contradicting previous links to bladder cancer. However, high levels of chloroform were linked to a moderate association with breast cancer in some cases.
A new study from Aarhus University found a correlation between nitrate in drinking water and an increased risk of colon and rectal cancer, even at low concentrations. The study followed 2.7 million Danes over 33 years and showed that those with high nitrate exposure had a 15% greater risk of colorectal cancer.
A new study from Aarhus University finds that high nitrate levels in drinking water are associated with a 15% greater risk of colorectal cancer. The study analyzed data from over 2.7 million Danes and found that even low nitrate concentrations may pose a health risk.
A recent UCI-led study found that between 1982 and 2015, 9-45 million people annually were affected by water quality issues. Low-income, rural regions were most vulnerable to recurring problems in Texas, Oklahoma, and Idaho.
A study examined the relationship between free chlorine concentrations and the 2014-2015 Legionnaires' disease (LD) outbreak in Flint, Michigan. The results indicate that decreasing concentrations of free chlorine in the water were associated with increased risk of developing LD, with a 80% increase per 1 mg/L decrease.
Scientists estimate that hydraulic fracturing could affect aquatic organisms in 7-51% of streams due to freshwater usage. Improved monitoring is needed to protect these vital habitats and drinking water sources.
Researchers from Kumamoto University developed a new electrodialytic ion transfer enrichment method to improve the sensitivity of analytical systems for various ionic solutes. This method enables fast and efficient detection in low-cost equipment, making it suitable for community health analysis in resource-limited areas.
A new study finds that 37% of US drainage areas experienced significant increases in salinity and alkalization, with consequences for pipe stability and drinking water quality. Strategies like pre-wetting salt and monitoring aging pipes are recommended to mitigate effects on public health.
Researchers in Colorado study 200 people affected by AFFF contamination, collecting data on biological markers and health indicators to assess biopersistence and potential health impacts of PFASs. The study aims to provide a better understanding of the effects of long-term exposure to these chemicals.
Researchers at University of California - Santa Barbara found that about half of hydraulically fractured wells exist within 2 to 3 kilometers of domestic groundwater systems. The study analyzed data from nearly 27,000 wells in 14 states and suggests increased water monitoring efforts are needed to protect water quality.
A new study finds that children who don't drink tap water are more likely to have tooth decay, while those who do tend to have elevated blood lead levels. The study analyzed nearly 16,000 children and adolescents aged two to 19 years.
A simple colour-changing test developed by researchers at the University of Bath can detect high levels of fluoride in drinking water, which can cause crippling skeletal fluorosis. The test aims to be low cost, rapid, and robust, allowing anyone to perform a test without scientific training.
The NEWgenerator generates nutrients, energy and water from wastewater, providing a sustainable solution for urban settlements. The system can generate up to 1,000 users' worth of clean water, energy and fertilizer, reducing strain on sewer systems.
A new study finds that climate change could decrease the sun's ability to kill pathogens in lakes and waterways by increasing organic runoff. This can lead to an increase in waterborne illnesses, with 12-19 million people affected annually in the US.
Researchers tracked mortality rates in Chileans exposed to arsenic-contaminated drinking water, finding increased risk of lung, bladder, and kidney cancer up to 40 years after exposure ended. Long-term interventions may help mitigate the effects of past exposures.
Compliance with the 2006 EPA regulation on maximum arsenic levels led to a 17% decline in urinary arsenic concentrations among public water users, equivalent to an estimated reduction of over 200 cases of lung and bladder disease per year. Private well water users showed no improvements due to lack of federal regulation.
A study published in The Lancet Public Health found that federal drinking water regulations reduced toxic exposure and protected human health. Compliance with the EPA regulation led to a decline of 17% in levels of urinary arsenic, resulting in an estimated reduction of over 200 cases of lung and bladder cancer every year.
A new study estimates that about 2 million Americans may be exposed to high levels of naturally occurring arsenic in their private well water. The researchers developed a model incorporating tens of thousands of existing arsenic measurements and identified arsenic hotspots in regions with higher concentrations.
Global Change Center researchers developed a system to create real-time water forecasts for Falling Creek Reservoir in Roanoke, Va., using environmental data and local weather predictions. The system aims to predict times when water may require additional treatment due to environmental factors, improving drinking water quality.
A comprehensive study led by Leslie Stayner aims to investigate the impact of maternal nitrate exposure on birth outcomes among one million babies born in Denmark. The research will analyze medical records, household nitrate levels, and maternal consumption habits to identify potential adverse effects.
A study published at IDWeek 2017 suggests that women with frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs) can reduce their risk by increasing their daily water intake. The research found that those who drank an additional three pints of water a day were nearly half as likely to get UTIs compared to those who didn't.
Researchers compare sanitation systems in Brazil and USA, finding presence of contaminants in drinking water, including industrial compounds, pesticides, and endocrine disrupters. The study suggests that complementary treatments are needed to obtain clean water that can be safely consumed.
A new study from the University of Waterloo found that the beverage industry is heavily promoting sugar-sweetened beverages in Guatemalan schools, contributing to high consumption rates among students. In contrast, private school students who have access to free drinking water consumed sweetened beverages less often.
A new test invented by researchers at the University of Waterloo can detect E. coli in drinking water in under three hours and at a cost of 50 cents, improving water safety globally.
A recent study by University of California, Riverside researchers found high levels of manganese in groundwater wells in the US and three Asian countries, exceeding World Health Organization guidelines. The study suggests public health officials should monitor manganese levels to ensure safe drinking water, particularly for children.
A comprehensive study found high arsenic concentrations in groundwater throughout the Indus Plain, threatening public health. The researchers recommend urgent action, including testing and treating affected wells, to address this significant global health risk.
Researchers discover high arsenic concentrations in groundwater supplies along the Indus River, posing a significant health risk to millions. The study suggests irrigation practices and soil pH may contribute to arsenic enrichment, highlighting the need for urgent testing and mitigation measures.
Researchers found alarming concentrations of antimony in Roman water pipes from Pompeii, linked to vomiting, diarrhea, and organ damage. The element is acutely toxic, causing rapid reactions that can lead to dehydration, liver and kidney problems, and even cardiac arrest.
Drexel University researchers found associations between acute gastrointestinal illness and water turbidity, even at low levels. Cloudy drinking water provides a place for germs like norovirus, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium to hide, increasing the risk of illness.
Researchers found that while partial line replacements can decrease lead levels in tap water, concentrations spike right after and remain elevated for months. Full service line replacement or flushing the replaced pipes is recommended to address potential contamination.
A study by the University of Zaragoza found Giardia and Cryptosporidium in 55% and 70% of drinking water plants, posing a public health risk despite low concentrations. The pathogens are resistant to chlorination and can trigger diarrheic outbreaks.
Researchers have found high levels of manganese and arsenic in Indian groundwater, highlighting the need for further study into their relationship and potential health risks. The study suggests that processes between manganese and dissolved organic matter may contribute to the distribution of arsenic in groundwater.
A study by the University of East Anglia warns that common water treatments containing colloidal silver may cause genotoxicity, damaging DNA. This can lead to reproductive issues and harm to future generations. The World Health Organization advises against its use as a primary water treatment.