Articles tagged with Water
A study by Marine Biological Laboratory scientists found that common levels of arsenic exposure can compromise the immune response to influenza A (H1N1) infection. Arsenic exposure, even at low levels, disrupts both the innate and endocrine systems, leading to increased morbidity and mortality.
A new system developed by Prof. Abraham Katzir can detect contaminants in water supply in real time, providing early warning to authorities. The system uses special fibers that can distinguish between pure and contaminated water using the invisible infrared spectrum.
A study published in Biology and Fertility of Soils found that the rate at which a dried soil is rewetted affects phosphorus loss into surface water. High phosphorus concentrations can lead to harmful algal blooms and disrupt food webs, affecting drinking water quality and recreational activities.
Researchers at Duke University discovered that ancient groundwater in Jordan's Disi aquifer contains up to 20 times the safe level of radiation, threatening long-term human consumption. To make it safe, experts recommend diluting or treating the water with technologies like ion exchange and desalination.
A new study suggests that increased climate-related extreme rainfall events in the Great Lakes region will aggravate the risk for outbreaks of waterborne disease. The researchers found a potential 10 to 40% increase in extremely heavy precipitation events, leading to greater potential for flooding and sewage overflow into Lake Michigan.
Researchers propose using carbon nanotubes to replace conventional materials in water-purification systems due to their unique chemical properties. The technology could efficiently remove arsenic, fluoride, heavy metals and toxic organic chemicals from contaminated water.
A study of 788 US adults found that those with higher arsenic levels in their urine were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. The researchers also discovered that the presence of certain organic arsenic compounds did not increase diabetes risk.
The Woods Institute has awarded five faculty planning grants to develop long-term research programs at Stanford, focusing on solving the world's water demands. The grants aim to identify promising solutions to freshwater challenges and facilitate partnerships among academics, businesses, and policymakers.
A study by Michigan Technological University researchers found that installing proper latrines can significantly improve sanitation conditions in Africa. The findings also highlight the importance of handwashing habits in preventing diseases such as dysentery.
Researchers propose using oil and gas flare-off energy to release water from gypsum deposits, creating a vast source of clean drinking water. The process has been successfully tested and could solve the water shortage problem in dry areas, enabling irrigation and fertility improvement.
A genetic tool called RNA interference may help remove harmful microbes and viruses from drinking water. The approach, which targets a specific gene in a fungus found in water, has promise for solving safe drinking water issues in underdeveloped countries.
Researchers found that green tea polyphenols administered through drinking water improved spatial learning and memory in rats with intermittent hypoxia, mimicking OSA. This suggests that GTPs may represent a potential interventional strategy for patients with sleep-disordered breathing.
Research found nanoparticles can adhere tightly to soil particles in salty water but flow easily with stabilizers like natural organic compounds. This affects municipal filtration systems' ability to retain nanoparticles, with up to 77% retained by sand and 8-49% by glass beads.
Planting herbicide-tolerant crop varieties can significantly reduce herbicide losses and concentrations in surface runoff, according to a USDA study. The study found that contact herbicides like glyphosate and glufosinate resulted in lower concentrations of herbicides in water compared to residual herbicides.
A literature review found no clear evidence of benefit or harm from increased water intake in healthy individuals. However, studies suggest that people with certain diseases and athletes may benefit from increased fluid intake. No single study indicates a need to drink the recommended '8x8' amount of water daily.
Waters Corporation is offering complimentary drinking water analysis to US water authorities to assess regional exposure and develop solutions for pharmaceutical residues. The program aims to provide a baseline understanding of exposure levels to facilitate long-term monitoring and action plans.
The United Water Senior Design and University Marketing Program was developed in conjunction with Stevens Institute of Technology, resulting in improved water quality for customers. The program also addresses staffing needs, identifying future hires, and fostering community relationships.
A University of Cincinnati researcher, Dionysios Dionysiou, received a $698,689 EPA grant to investigate processes used to purify drinking water and remove cyanobacterial toxins. The research aims to develop cost-efficient technologies to treat water contaminated by such toxins.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that arsenic-tainted wells require tailored treatment approaches, depending on their source and geology. Chlorine disinfection can effectively control pathogenic bacteria but may not address all types of arsenic contamination.
Researchers found that reusing water in produce washing processes compromises sanitizer efficacy and affects product quality. The study provides specific information on how wash operation variables impact water quality and product quality, offering new tools for enhancing food safety and quality.
The Queensland Government's decision will ensure 80% of residents drink fluoridated water within two years and over 90% by 2012. Fluoride introduction is expected to reduce dental decay by up to 65% compared to non-fluoridated areas.
Scientists are discovering that aquatic nanoparticles influence natural and engineered water chemistry differently than similar materials of a larger size. The review considers nanoparticles formed by natural processes in water and as unintended consequences of human activity, such as mining or water treatment.
A team of Dartmouth Medical School researchers found that low doses of arsenic disrupt the activity of hormone receptors critical in development, highlighting the potential harm of arsenic at levels found in U.S. drinking water. The study's findings provide evidence for mitigating arsenic's impact on human health.
A new study found that folic acid supplements can dramatically lower blood arsenic levels in individuals chronically exposed to arsenic-contaminated drinking water. The study, funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, showed a 14% reduction in total blood arsenic levels in Bangladesh.
The American Chemical Society presents groundbreaking research on the biotechnology of health and wellness, including a study that reveals 'good' cholesterol can be bad for the heart. Additionally, scientists uncover new information about HDL cholesterol's protein composition, which could lead to more accurate lab tests and life-saving...
A study by Andrea Dietrich at the American Chemical Society meeting found that cPVC has a low odor potential, while HDPE had the highest odor production. The researchers also discovered that certain types of plastic piping can leach organic compounds into drinking water.
Endurance exercise experts recommend limiting fluid intake during prolonged activities to prevent exercise-induced hyponatremia (EAH), a potentially lethal water intoxication. Excess drinking can lead to diluted sodium levels in the blood, posing risk to athletes engaging in 4-hour or longer endurance events.
A study found that arsenic exposure led to a significant rise in lung and bladder cancer deaths, with mortality rates peaking 10-20 years after exposure ended. The research suggests the need for controlling arsenic concentrations in drinking water worldwide.
A recent study by Dr Chris Byrne of the University of Exeter found that drinking large amounts of water during exercise has no effect on body temperature or performance. Runners lost an average of 1.5 litres of sweat per hour and reached high body temperatures, regardless of fluid intake.
Researchers will present on alternative energy sources, genetically-engineered crops, and new water purification processes. The symposium aims to address the world's growing demand for clean water and explore sustainable solutions to environmental challenges.
A lack of resources and political leadership are major contributors to the slow progress toward meeting the UN's sanitation target. Improving water quality is not enough without proper sanitation facilities, which can have a significant impact on household health and education.
Susan Murcott, an MIT engineer, collaborates with people from developed and developing countries to solve humanitarian problems. Her co-evolutionary engineering design approach ensures sustainable, affordable, and safe drinking water solutions.
Researchers have found that monochloramine treatment is less reactive and less efficient than traditional chlorination in killing bacterial contaminants. This means that municipalities with monochloramine systems may need to rely on other methods of monitoring for contamination.
Scientists at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a method to precisely control the movement of water through carbon nanotube membranes. By applying low-voltage electricity, they can switch between repelling and pumping water, paving the way for technologies like instant drinking water purification and DNA separation.
A study by Cornell and US Military Academy researchers found that waste and drinking water treatments, including UV radiation and bacterial digesters, can eliminate avian flu viruses. H5N2, a low-pathogenic virus similar to deadly H5N1, was inactivated at levels within industry standards.
Complex organic molecules from natural organic matter fouls water purification and desalination facilities, creating bio-fouling layers. Researchers found that certain ions like calcium interact strongly with natural organic matter.
Researchers at Rice University's Center for Biological and Environmental Nanotechnology have developed a revolutionary, low-cost technology to clean arsenic from drinking water. The nanorust technique reduces arsenic levels in contaminated water to below EPA thresholds, offering a sustainable solution for millions of people worldwide.
A research team led by Virginia Tech professor Andrea Dietrich aims to identify the cause of metallic flavors in chemotherapy patients and develop preventive methods. The study will also explore the role of antioxidants and investigate the relationship between metal ions and health outcomes.
A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found no increased risk of pregnancy loss related to drinking water disinfection by-products. The research, led by David A. Savitz, Ph.D., used data from 2,409 women and 258 pregnancy losses, concluding that tap water DBPs do not pose a measurable risk to fetal health.
A humanitarian response is required in Lebanon due to the dire situation faced by millions. The lack of access, security, and funding for aid delivery has exacerbated the crisis.
Particles of toxic lead solder used in plumbing can evade detection in some water quality tests, according to researchers funded by the National Science Foundation. Larger particles can get trapped in faucet aerator screens, while smaller particles stick to sampling containers, resulting in inaccurate readings.
A Mailman School of Public Health study reveals that even low doses of arsenic in drinking water can increase the risk of skin lesions. Researchers found that participants exposed to well water with arsenic concentrations as low as 50 ug/l were at higher risk, particularly men and those with normal body mass index.
A Dartmouth study found that arsenic in drinking water can inhibit DNA repair, leading to increased cancer risks. The researchers measured arsenic levels in urine and toenails of participants in New Hampshire and Mexico, and found a correlation between high arsenic levels and impaired DNA repair.
A tiny packet containing a grayish powder has been shown to dramatically reduce diarrheal deaths caused by contaminated water. The system, called PUR Purifier of Water, can kill deadly pathogens and remove toxic metals, and is now being distributed globally for free
Researchers found that anthrax spores can tolerate water treatment and attach to pipes, potentially allowing them to pass through the system. Higher chlorine concentrations were more effective in killing the spores, but at high levels could make water undrinkable.
A new UV measurement tool helps validate UV treatment for preventing disease-causing bacteria and parasites in drinking water. The technique uses fluorescent microspheres to mimic pathogenic microbes, providing precise measures of UV doses.
The Gaza Strip faces a severe contaminated water crisis, with the only source being unsuitable for drinking due to high levels of salinity and pollution. A proposed management plan aims to provide a win-win situation but requires cooperation between Israel and Palestine.
Researchers detected high concentrations of MTBE in ground water throughout the Northeast US, particularly in urban areas. These findings highlight the potential health risks associated with low levels of MTBE in drinking water.
The Johannesburg Sustainable Development Summit identified halving water deprivation by 2015 as a priority; today, 300 million Africans lack access to drinking water. Investments in science and technology are seen as key solutions.
The University of Arizona has received a $14 million grant to focus on two major types of contaminants: arsenic and halogenated organic solvents like TCE. The research projects will improve hazardous waste management in Arizona and the Southwest, and can serve as a model for arid and semi-arid regions worldwide.
Researchers found that many runners dilute their sodium levels during long races due to excessive water intake. The study recommends individualized fluid-replacement consumption for all competing athletes to prevent hyponatremia, a potentially life-threatening condition.
Tap water is a significant source of hospital-acquired infections, with biofilm harbouring pathogenic microorganisms. Point-of-use 0.2 micron filters can significantly reduce the release of pathogens and aerosols, providing an absolute barrier between patients and contaminated water.
The Midwest Technology Assistance Center is funding research to optimize iron addition and track arsenic concentration variability in relation to time and pumping procedures. The center also evaluates water quality at surface water intakes with watershed modeling to improve small systems' technical, managerial, and financial capacity.
The Lancet report highlights the 'silent humanitarian crisis' of 3900 children dying daily from inadequate sanitation and safe drinking water. The authors recommend scaling up efforts to expand coverage by 2015 without significant financial investment or technological breakthroughs.
Researchers will conduct detailed measurements and analysis of contaminants in building plumbing systems to inform effective responses to contamination incidents. The study's findings will support the development of EPA guidelines for protecting drinking water supplies within buildings.
The Grainger Challenge Prize aims to encourage the development of household-scale water treatment systems to remove arsenic from contaminated groundwater. The goal is to create an affordable, sustainable, and reliable solution that can be manufactured in developing countries.
High levels of fluoride were found in several brands of instant tea, with amounts ranging from 1.0 to 6.5 parts per million. The study suggests that doctors should ask patients about their tea consumption if they have achiness in their bones.
A study of 10,591 Taiwanese residents found that those exposed to high levels of arsenic in their drinking water had a 3.29 times increased risk of developing lung cancer. Cigarette smoking further exacerbated this risk, particularly among non-smokers and those with lower arsenic exposure.
A new USGS-led study warns of the limitations and inaccuracies of microbial source tracking methods, which are used to identify sources of contamination. The study found that fewer than 30% of challenge isolates were correctly classified to their source-animal species.
A study by Marshfield Clinic and USGS revealed that untreated city water in La Crosse contains various types of gastrointestinal viruses, including enteroviruses, rotavirus, hepatitis A virus, and norovirus. The presence of these viruses poses a risk to the drinking water supply, particularly in shallow sand and gravel aquifers.