Articles tagged with Water
A cross-disciplinary team at Northwestern University has developed a sensor platform that can detect environmental contaminants like fluoride in real-world samples. The team used an established riboswitch to build a biosensor for fluoride, encapsulating the sensor inside a fatty membrane to protect it from contaminants.
Research from Karolinska Institutet found high levels of antibiotic residues in waterways, including wastewater and drinking water, in regions such as China and India. The study suggests these residues contribute to antibiotic resistance, a global threat to human health.
Scientists at Washington University in St. Louis found that manganese oxides can be formed without atmospheric oxygen under Mars-like conditions. The study, published in Nature Geoscience, used kinetic modeling to show that halogens like chlorate and bromate can convert manganese into minerals thousands of times faster than by oxygen.
A new study finds higher arsenic and uranium concentrations in public drinking water linked to communities with higher proportions of Hispanic/Latino and American Indian residents. The findings highlight inequalities in public water contaminant exposures affecting regions with more residents from communities of color.
Researchers at the University of California, Riverside, have created a novel method to break down per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as 'forever chemicals', in contaminated water. The hydrogen-infusion and UV light-based process achieves high molecular destruction rates without generating unwanted byproducts.
A new study finds that areas with high levels of arsenic contamination in drinking water have a higher prevalence of antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli in both water and child stool samples. The study highlights the potential for environmental drivers like arsenic to contribute to antimicrobial resistance.
Researchers found that rusty center pivots indicate a lack of nitrate in the groundwater they feed. In fact, most wells supplying full-rust and part-rust pivots had nitrate concentrations below the EPA's safety threshold. However, some part-rust pivots showed higher nitrate levels, highlighting the need for further investigation.
A new law restricts 1,4-dioxane levels in household cleaners and cosmetics, a potential human carcinogen common in everyday products. Experts recommend robust analytical methods for detection and quantification to meet regulatory requirements.
Eun-Ah Kim and Michael Matty identified a phase in between solid and liquid for electron crystals, revealing their behavior under certain conditions. In this intermediate phase, electrons arrange themselves into tiny strips that can move around and orient themselves.
A Rutgers researcher has created a machine learning model that can estimate arsenic contamination in private wells without sampling the water. The model identifies geological bedrock type and soil type as primary contributors to higher arsenic concentrations, highlighting the need for targeted well testing programs.
Researchers have launched five projects to investigate the impact of pollution on UK rivers, which fail to meet good ecological status due to pollutants like chemicals, microplastics, and pharmaceuticals. The projects aim to improve water quality, biodiversity, and resilience to climate change.
A new study of thousands measures daily water intake and turnover in people worldwide, revealing significant variations. The study found that physical activity level, sex, age, and environmental factors drive differences in water consumption.
A new study published in Science found that the recommended eight 8-oz glasses of water per day is too high for human needs. Water turnover, measured objectively using a stable isotope technique, showed higher values in hot and humid environments, athletes, pregnant women, and individuals with high physical activity. The researchers de...
Stanford researchers found that dams could store over 50% of water needed for crop irrigation, but emphasize alternatives like small dams and recharged groundwater systems as more environmentally friendly options. The study aims to increase food security without depleting water stocks or harming nature.
Two billion people globally rely on mountain water for drinking and irrigation, which is under threat due to global heating. Researchers propose integrated water strategies that include scientists working directly with communities to drive climate adaptation and boost water security.
A recent study published in Science of The Total Environment found that many household wells in Nevada are contaminated with heavy metals such as arsenic, which can cause adverse health effects. The study suggests that frequent testing and improved treatment systems are necessary to ensure safe drinking water for rural communities.
A team of researchers has found new evidence for the presence of liquid water beneath Mars' south polar ice cap using spacecraft laser-altimeter measurements and computer model predictions. The findings agree with earlier radar data interpretations and provide independent confirmation of the existence of subglacial liquid water.
The global survey highlights intense exposure to extreme heat, water scarcity, and flooding due to climate change, with cities in developing countries facing significant infrastructure gaps. City leaders also report challenges related to private automobiles, biking, and walking, as well as budgetary concerns and mental health issues.
A new study finds that climate change may decrease the percentage of blue lakes worldwide, leading to shifts in lake water color and ecosystem health. The research uses satellite images to determine a global inventory of lake colors, finding that green-brown lakes are more widespread than previously thought.
A study by Duke University found that one in four Flint residents have PTSD, with rates of depression and PTSD three to five times higher than national estimates. The crisis exacerbated existing mental health problems in the predominantly low-income Black community.
A study of 1,970 Flint residents found over one-fifth met criteria for depression and nearly one-quarter for posttraumatic stress disorder five years after the water crisis. Only 34.8% received mental health services, but most who did utilize them.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a reactor that can completely break down two of the most common forever chemicals, PFOA and PFOS. The reactor uses supercritical water to destroy these recalcitrant molecules, leaving only harmless substances such as carbon dioxide and fluoride salts.
Researchers found higher total and non-HDL cholesterol levels associated with GenX exposure in a new study. Legacy PFAS chemicals like PFOS and PFNA were most strongly linked to elevated cholesterol, particularly in older participants.
A team led by York University has developed a new technique to keep drinking water safe in refugee settlements using machine learning and ensemble forecasting systems. The approach can predict the probability of residual chlorine remaining in stored water, providing critical information for aid workers to ensure safe drinking water.
Researchers have created a sorbent that maximizes the absorption of precious metal from solutions, selectively extracting silver even in low concentrations. The new sorbent's properties make it useful for purifying drinking water and processing production waste.
Researchers at Northwestern University developed a process to break down two major classes of PFAS compounds into benign end products using low temperatures and common reagents. The technique could be a powerful solution for disposing of these harmful chemicals linked to various health effects in humans, livestock, and the environment.
Researchers have uncovered new evidence of a liquid-liquid phase transition in water, where molecules form 'entangled' arrangements at low temperatures. This finding has significant implications for understanding the physics of water and could pave the way for new experiments to validate the theory.
Researchers developed a wireless system called Contactless Moisture Estimation (CoMEt) that estimates soil moisture in agricultural fields at multiple depths using radio signals. CoMEt can assess soil moisture without requiring in-ground sensors, making it more cost-effective and convenient for farmers.
A new study from Penn State and Northwestern University finds that avoiding tap water is associated with a 20-30% increase in food insecurity among Americans. Tap water avoidance can divert funds meant for nutritious food, leading to higher reliance on prepackaged and restaurant food.
A study by Australian National University found that at least 25,245 people in remote communities had access to non-compliant drinking water services. The researchers also identified 408 locations with poor water quality, including 40% of Indigenous communities. A national drinking water database is urgently needed to address these gaps.
Climate change is affecting lakes globally, causing changes in stratification regimes, dissolved oxygen levels, and habitat for native fish. Warmer water temperatures can lead to cyanobacterial blooms, reduced oxygen levels, and increased salinity, impacting aquatic organisms and human activities.
A new framework developed by researchers at Wayne State University aims to help state and local water authorities prioritize funding for infrastructure improvements on drinking water lead service line replacement programs. The study incorporates drinking water quality characteristics with community and environmental quality attributes,...
Researchers have successfully mapped the potential energy surfaces of individual water molecules in liquid water at room temperature and normal pressure. This breakthrough uses X-ray analysis and statistical modeling to reveal the complex behavior of water molecules, shedding light on their role as a solvent.
Researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology accidentally discovered that adding more water to a liquid solution turns it back into a gel, and then further dilution forms another gel. The team's findings have significant implications for various fields in chemistry and biology.
A new study found that the O139 cholera variant lost antimicrobial resistance and changed toxin production, leading to its unexpected decline. The findings suggest continuous monitoring of genetic changes is key to preventing future outbreaks.
New research reveals UV disinfection can form trihalomethane disinfection byproducts from halobenzoquinones, posing a risk to public health and the environment. The study found UV enhances THM formation yield by nearly 10 times, highlighting the need for further investigation into combined UV/chlorine processes.
A three-year project will focus on developing the Waterworks Park Pilot Plant facility for applied research, testing and evaluation of new technologies. The project aims to address critical shortages of technicians and engineers for water utilities nationwide.
Researchers found an association between estimated groundwater arsenic concentration and risk of low birth weight, suggesting efforts to reduce arsenic in private wells could help more babies be born at healthy weights. The study used machine learning algorithms to estimate arsenic levels in nearly all US counties.
Researchers have designed a new anaerobic reactor using polyurethane foam, reducing nitrogen removal costs in Brazil. The system achieves high nitrogen removal efficiency by creating an environment that optimizes denitrification.
Scientists have created a membrane made from a waste by-product of vegetable oil manufacturing that can filter out heavy metals from contaminated water. The membrane uses proteins derived from peanut or sunflower oil production to attract and trap heavy metal ions, purifying water to international drinking standards.
USC Viterbi School of Engineering researchers introduce platinum as a non-toxic catalyst to transform toxic aldehydes into harmless carboxylic acids in wastewater. The breakthrough enables the production of clean and reusable water, addressing growing concerns about water shortages and regulatory requirements.
A citizen science project called Snow Spotter analyzed tree-snow interactions to improve predictions of summer water supplies. The study found that snow in Washington's trees becomes 'cemented' and never leaves, while Colorado's trees experience frequent snowfall but dry conditions.
Research reveals Paradise, California's water contained VOCs at levels exceeding EPA standards due to degraded plastic pipes near or above ground. To protect communities, experts recommend burying service lines deeper, using isolation valves, and monitoring temperature thresholds.
Global mismanagement of phosphorus is causing twin crises, with skyrocketing fertilizer prices and pollution damaging biodiversity. The '50, 50, 50' goal aims to reduce global phosphorus pollution by 50% and increase recycling by 50%, while adopting more efficient use in agriculture.
A multidisciplinary project aims to develop a decision-making tool to estimate the risk of water contamination in flooded areas. The research team will collect public data and conduct field work to test their approach in small study areas, ultimately enabling Québec to reduce health risks by better protecting water quality.
Scientists at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a low-cost gel film that can pull water from the air in dry climates, producing up to 6 liters of water per day. The film uses renewable cellulose and konjac gum, making it an affordable solution for communities struggling with water shortages.
Researchers used a supercomputer to simulate water supply in an inter-utility agreement, finding that cooperation can benefit both water supply and financial needs. The study found that more flexible agreements allow utilities to adapt to changing conditions, reducing financial risk.
A recent study found that microplastics are abundant in borehole drinking water and sediments in Lagos, Nigeria. Areas with high industrial activity had higher levels of microplastics than areas with less industrial activity and lower population densities.
Researchers developed a portable desalination unit weighing less than 10kg that removes particles and salts to generate clean drinking water. The device uses ion concentration polarization and electrodialysis processes, requiring minimal energy and maintenance.
A recent study published in Nature Microbiology found that chlorine water treatment does not disrupt the normal population of beneficial bacteria in children's developing gut microbiomes. The study suggests that chlorination can actually help reduce disease incidence and limit antibiotic use while keeping microbiomes healthy.
A team of researchers from INRS has developed a new tool to measure the effects of endocrine disruptors in wastewater. Using human cell lines, they can detect the presence of these contaminants and predict their harmful effects without resorting to animal testing.
Researchers found that fighters who rapidly cut weight before bouts are more likely to suffer concussions or be misdiagnosed with head trauma. The study also discovered that the practice may not offer a competitive advantage and can leave fighters at a disadvantage more often than not.
A team of scientists has developed a solar-powered water filter that can remove pathogens, pesticides, and micropollutants from contaminated water. The filter uses titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanowires and carbon nanotubes to produce reactive oxygen species that kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms.
Researchers found that metal concentrations were particularly elevated in CWSs serving semi-urban, Hispanic communities, highlighting environmental justice concerns. Arsenic, barium, chromium, selenium, and uranium concentrations were also disproportionately elevated.
A team of high school students, led by science teacher Rebecca Bushway, designed an inexpensive filter attachment that removes lead from tap water. The filter uses a biodegradable plastic cartridge with a built-in indicator that turns the water yellow when lead is present.
Researchers have created a novel sorbent that effectively removes copper and zinc from water solutions, with the ability to be reused for efficient treatment of industrial wastewater and drinking water. The sorbent's adsorption properties were enhanced through modification, allowing for up to 60% removal of heavy metals within minutes.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new system that can automatically clean solar panels without using water, reducing dust accumulation's impact on efficiency. The system uses electrostatic repulsion to detach dust particles, improving overall power output and potentially saving $200,000 in annual revenue.
A study published in PLOS Water found that office buildings with low-consumption plumbing may experience chemical and microbiological safety issues due to weekend stagnation. The research highlights the need for regular water testing in commercial buildings, even those designed as 'green' to reduce water consumption.
A team led by Osamu Takahashi developed a procedure to reproduce the double peak feature of x-ray emission spectroscopy spectra in liquid water. They used molecular dynamics calculations and first principles quantum mechanical calculations to estimate XES spectra, reproducing features such as the double peaks.
A global study reveals that freshwater lake ecosystems are being damaged by salt concentrations below government-protective thresholds. The loss of zooplankton triggers a cascade effect causing an increase in algae, potentially altering nutrient cycling and water quality.