Articles tagged with Particulate Matter
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A study analyzing air pollutants' impact on lung cancer reveals that fine particulate matter (PM2.5) increases the risk of all subtypes, while NO2, O3, and SO2 are linked to non-small-cell lung cancer. No associations were found between gaseous pollutants and small-cell carcinoma.
A new study from the ECHO Program found that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) before and after birth may influence childhood blood pressure patterns. High blood pressure in children is a growing concern worldwide, with nearly 80% increase over two decades.
A cohort study found higher fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure associated with lower birth weight, particularly in early and mid-pregnancy. The study's findings suggest that understanding windows of susceptibility to environmental exposures can inform strategies for limiting exposure during critical periods.
A cohort study found associations between exposure to multiple fine particulate matter components and increased depression risk among US Medicare population members. The study highlights the importance of targeted regulation to protect vulnerable populations from harmful air pollution.
A new study published by Yonsei University reveals that air pollution is a significant contributor to workplace accidents, increasing the risk of accidents and fatalities by 2.6 times when PM2.5 concentrations double. The study estimates economic losses of up to $10 billion annually.
A soft coral's ability to stiffen its skeleton in response to danger has been studied by Penn Engineers, revealing a mechanism known as granular jamming. By compacting mineral particles and expelling water, the coral's tissues create a rigid structure that can withstand external forces.
A large cohort study found associations between prenatal fine particulate matter components and postnatal ozone exposure with increased risk of autism spectrum disorder. These findings suggest that air pollution may play a role in the etiology of autism, warranting further research.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have successfully synthesized Prussian Blue with an octahedral morphology by using a specialized solvent. The new crystal shape enhances electrochemical reactivity and stable performance in sodium-ion hybrid capacitors.
Researchers found that soot particles can transform their shape and behavior within hours of becoming airborne, altering their ability to warm or cool the atmosphere. This rapid transformation affects both soot's warming and cooling effects, as well as its lifetime.
Researchers have confirmed the existence of hidden motions in granular materials like soil and snow, which can control their movement. This discovery could help understand how landslides and avalanches work, as well as benefit industries such as construction and grain filling.
A recent study analyzed hourly data from nearly 750 low-cost and regulatory air pollution sensors throughout LA to understand the impact of wildfires on air quality. The findings suggest that combining different data sources, including ground-based sensors and satellite data, can provide more accurate and comprehensive information.
Researchers found that sewage spills from land to sea coincided with winds of at least 6.5m/s on 178 days within a two-year period, potentially sending microplastics into the air. The study suggests that coastal towns and cities may be exposed to billions of airborne microplastic particles.
A long-term study from Saxony shows a significant decrease in air pollution in Eastern Europe, with PM1 concentrations falling by 28% per year. The study's findings indicate improved air quality due to clean energy measures and lower emissions from transportation.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology and Jeonbuk National University successfully trapped mechanical waves within a single resonator, overcoming a century-old physics barrier. The discovery opens new possibilities for energy harvesting, ultra-sensitive sensors, and advanced communications.
A recent study found that volcanic ash from Kīlauea prompted a rare and large summertime phytoplankton bloom in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre. The blooms were stimulated by iron and other trace elements in the ash, producing massive growth of nitrogen-fixing microbes and organic matter.
A new study published in The Journals of Gerontology: Series A found that long-term exposure to high levels of air pollution is associated with lower scores in key cognitive abilities, especially language skills. Exposure to nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter was linked to poorer language performance.
A new study found that exposure to fine particulate air pollution from wildfire smoke was associated with increased visits to emergency departments for mental health conditions. The study suggests that wildfire smoke may play a direct role in worsening mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
A cross-sectional study found wildfire smoke exposure associated with increased odds of mental health-related emergency department visits. The study suggests a possible increase in demand for mental health services during wildfire events.
A team of chemists from Virginia Tech found a way to visualize the intricate structure and chemical reactions of battery interfaces using an X-ray beam line. This breakthrough enables researchers to gain better control over these critical surfaces, potentially leading to cheaper, higher performance batteries.
Research shows that highly reactive components in particulate matter disappear within hours, leading to inaccurate estimates of their presence and potential health risks. This discovery highlights the need for more accurate measurements and better protective measures.
A liquid robot that can transform, separate, and fuse like living cells has been developed by SNU researchers. The robot features particle-armored hydrophobic particles for structural stability and exceptional deformability for flexibility.
Researchers found systemic monitoring disparities for six major pollutants across US Census groups, with Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders facing the largest gaps. The study highlights the need to consider biases in datasets beyond algorithmic bias.
New Delhi's air pollution is more severe than previously estimated, with particles absorbing atmospheric water vapor leading to significant underestimation of particulate matter levels. The study highlights the importance of considering hygroscopic growth and its impact on air quality assessments.
Researchers discover that disordered solids lose stability at low-frequency vibrations near zero, leading to a 'loose state' where particles slide in clusters. The theory applies to materials with negligible thermal fluctuations, including those found in space.
Researchers at Institute of Science Tokyo developed porous organic crystals with ultrahigh-density amines, achieving fast CO2 adsorption and high thermal stability. The unique 2.5-dimensional skeleton reduces the cost for CO2 separation from flue gases.
A new study by the University of Southampton has found that brake pad emissions can be more toxic than diesel exhaust, particularly due to high copper content. The research highlights the need for policy changes to mitigate the health effects of vehicle particulate matter, as electric vehicles are not emission-free.
A new study reveals that people may be exposed to unhealthy levels of airborne pollutants inside their homes, even if the outdoor air quality is good. Researchers used low-cost sensors and innovative techniques to compare particulate matter in three homes, finding significant differences in PM levels.
A study by Virginia Tech researchers found that electric vehicles generally produce less non-exhaust emissions than gasoline-powered vehicles when driving in city conditions. The research also highlights the environmental benefits of regenerative braking, which reduces brake abrasion emissions.
A study by the University of Tokyo reveals that fine particulate pollution PM2.5 exacerbates pre-existing conditions in elderly populations, leading to higher hospitalization rates and premature mortality, with significant socioeconomic challenges for rural regions with limited medical resources.
Research reveals that even short-term exposure to high levels of particulate matter air pollution impairs cognitive functions such as selective attention and emotion recognition. This study highlights the urgent need for stricter air quality regulations and public health measures to combat the harmful effects of pollution on brain health.
The ASCENT project provides real-time advanced air pollutant measurements, including PM2.5 aerosols and chemical components, to help increase public safety amidst the LA fires. The network measures chemicals emitted by burning structures and household materials, such as lead and chlorine, which can have toxic or carcinogenic effects.
China's particulate matter emissions have followed an environmental Kuznets curve, peaking in the mid-1990s. However, finer PM fractions and carbonaceous components have increased due to shifts in industrial energy usage and residential sector transitions. This poses new challenges for air quality policies.
A recent study found that biomass burning products are toxic to human lung cells, causing inflammation and oxidative stress. The research emphasizes the need for extended air quality networks across the European Union to monitor key biomass burning markers.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health found that lower access to air conditioning increases the need for emergency care for wildfire smoke exposure. People living in areas with low air conditioning availability are at higher risk, especially children and the Black population.
A new study found that while lung cancer deaths decreased globally from 1990 to 2019, mortality linked to tobacco use and air pollution increased. Tobacco remains the leading cause of death, accounting for 66% of TBL cancer deaths in 2019, while particulate matter pollution is a growing concern.
A new study by researchers at Brown University found that greater race-day pollution is associated with slower average marathon finish times. Runners' efforts to optimize their performance should consider the effect of air pollution.
A new study reveals woodburning contributes significantly to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels in the region, accounting for 25% of total PM2.5 mass. The experts recommend targeted measures to mitigate health risks associated with woodburning activities, including raising public awareness and promoting cleaner alternatives.
A Dartmouth-led study suggests using clay to convert CO2 into food for zooplankton, which expel it as carbon-filled feces in the deep sea. This method accelerates the ocean's natural cycle for removing carbon from the atmosphere.
A new analysis from PSE Healthy Energy reveals that fine particulate matter emissions from petrochemical facilities contribute to nearly 1,500 premature deaths annually, with estimated economic impacts of $17 billion. The study found that industry growth led to a 12% increase in greenhouse gas emissions between 2012 and 2021.
A German Research Foundation-funded project led by Stefan Mecking aims to quantify the biodegradation of polyethylene. The team develops methods to distinguish carbon dioxide from plastic and investigate factors influencing biodegradability, such as molecular structure and functional groups.
A new study finds that fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) exposure is associated with altered immune responses and increased inflammation in pregnant women, leading to adverse birth outcomes. The study highlights the importance of minimizing air pollution exposure in pregnant women to protect maternal and fetal health.
A new study by the University of Birmingham has found that air fryers emit significantly lower levels of particulate matter and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than other cooking methods. The researchers measured pollutant levels in a well-controlled research kitchen and found that improving ventilation can help reduce indoor pollution.
A cohort study found that long-term exposure to wildfire and fine particulate matter was associated with dementia diagnoses. The study suggests that reducing wildfire PM2.5 exposure could decrease dementia diagnoses and address health disparities.
A study by the University of Bonn and Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais shows that forest protection measures significantly reduce particulate matter in the air, leading to a decrease in hospital stays and deaths due to respiratory diseases. Protective measures are estimated to save around 680 human lives per year.
A new study published in PLOS ONE suggests that air pollution exposure may be associated with an increased risk of eczema. Data from hundreds of thousands of U.S. adults found that every 10-µm/m3 increase in PM2.5 levels doubles the eczema rate among residents.
A recent study published in Scientific Reports correlates higher levels of pollutant particulate matter with increased occurrences of head and neck aerodigestive cancer. The research found a significant association between exposure to PM2.5 and the incidence of head and neck cancer, shedding light on the environmental factor contributi...
A USC study found that children living closest to the Salton Sea experience more respiratory issues due to airborne dust, triggering asthma, coughing, and disrupted sleep. The study also suggests that dust events have a greater impact on wheezing and sleep disturbances among children in these areas.
A USC study involving 8,500 children found that exposure to certain sources of air pollution, particularly ammonium nitrate, is linked to poor learning and memory performance in 9- and 10-year-olds. This study contributes to the mounting evidence that fine particulate matter PM2.5 can cause neurocognitive harm across the lifespan.
Researchers developed porous dermal fillers that accelerate tissue healing and regeneration for diabetic wounds. The novel approach combining electrospinning and electrospraying technologies creates biocompatible microspheres that promote cell migration, granulation tissue formation, and neovascularization.
A new meta-analysis suggests that almost a third of asthma cases are attributable to long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), with significant health impacts on children and adults. The study highlights the urgent need for policymakers to combat air pollution through stringent legislation.
A new study found that the US air pollution monitoring network has significant gaps in coverage, particularly in historically underrecognized communities. The network's inadequacy to capture exposure disparities has been highlighted as a major concern, with potential health implications for millions of people.
Research finds that increases in air pollution levels correspond with a higher number of patients visiting the hospital emergency department, particularly for cases of trauma, breathing difficulties, and skin conditions. The study suggests that heavy traffic is directly responsible for increased trauma cases and indirectly contributes ...
A University of Colorado Boulder study of 10,000 pre-teens found that increased wildfire smoke exposure was linked to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other internalizing symptoms. Repeated high-level exposures had a greater impact on risk than annual averages or maximum levels.
Researchers found that women exposed to higher levels of nitrogen dioxide and inhalable particulate matter during the second trimester face an almost fourfold increased risk of postpartum depression. The study also discovered a sustained effect of air pollution on symptoms of depression for up to three years after birth.
A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that higher exposure to fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) during infancy is associated with lower economic earnings in adulthood. The association was strongest in the Midwest and South, where an increase in PM2.5 exposure by one microgram per cubic meter was linked t...
A new filtration material developed by MIT researchers uses natural silk and cellulose to remove persistent chemicals, including PFAS and heavy metals. The material's antimicrobial properties help keep filters clean, providing a nature-based solution to water contamination.
The study reveals that colder fuel increases the spray impingement ratio, leading to higher wall adhesion and thicker films. The findings aim to optimize fuel injection strategies for cleaner, more efficient engines.
Researchers found a significant association between air pollutant exposure and emergency room visits for mental disorders in communities that were once denied mortgages due to race. Elevated levels of fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide in these neighborhoods increased ER visits by 1.04% and 0.44%, respectively.
A study by Rutgers researchers examined particulate matter from a June 2023 fire that triggered advisories for over 100 million Americans in the Northeast. The analysis revealed extremely high concentrations of ultrafine particles and toxic chemicals, surpassing national air quality standards.
A new study quantifies air pollution for NYC subway commuters, revealing disparities in exposure across racial and income groups. The research found that people from lower-income working communities have higher exposures and Black and Hispanic workers experience on average 35% and 23% higher PM2.5 exposure, respectively.