Poor air quality is associated with negative effects on human health but can be difficult to measure in an accurate and cost-effective manner. The authors design and test a monitor for measuring indoor air quality using low-cost components.
Read More...Browse Articles
Mathematical modeling of plant community composition for urban greenery plans
Here recognizing the importance of urban green space for the health of humans and other organisms, the authors investigated if mathematical modeling can be used to develop an urban greenery management plan with high eco-sustainability by calculating the composition of a plant community. They optimized and tested their model against green fields in a Beijing city park. Although the compositions predicted by their models differed somewhat from the composition of testing fields, they conclude that by using a mathematical model such as this urban green space can be finely designed to be ecologically and economically sustainable.
Read More...Tap water quality analysis in Ulaanbaatar City
There have been several issues concerning the water quality in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia in the past few years. This study, we collected 28 samples from 6 districts of Ulaanbaatar to check if the water supply quality met the standards of the World Health Organization, the Environmental Protection Agency, and a Mongolian National Standard. Only three samples fully met all the requirements of the global standards. Samples in Zaisan showed higher hardness (>120 ppm) and alkalinity levels (20–200 ppm) over the other districts in the city. Overall, the results show that it is important to ensure a safe and accessible water supply in Ulaanbaatar to prevent future water quality issues.
Read More...Mapping the Electromagnetic Field in Front of a Microwave Oven
There is limited evidence that extended exposure to an electromagnetic field (EMF) has negative health effects on humans. The authors measured the power density and strength of EMF at different distances and directions in front of a microwave oven, and they discuss the safety of different distances.
Read More...An Aqueous Solution Containing Soluble Substances From PVC Char Has No Effect on the Rate of Transformation in E. coli Cells
PVC is a widely used plastic that poses harmful health hazards when burned. In this study, the authors ask whether or not burned PVC (PVC char) affects bacterial transformation.
Read More...The Effect of Sunglass Price on Ocular Exposure to Ultraviolet Radiation
Wearing sunglasses may offer protection against the negative health outcomes linked to exposure to ultraviolet waves. In this study, the authors test whether more expensive sunglasses offer better UV protection.
Read More...Bacterial Load Consistency Among Three Independent Water Distribution Systems
Clean drinking water is an essential component to maintaining public health. The authors of this study tested the bacterial load of water from three different disinfection and filtration systems in order to determine which system might be superior.
Read More...A Temperature-Based Comparison of Compounds Found in Bao Chong Tea, Green Tea, and Black Tea
While tea has a complex history, recently the health benefits of this beverage have come into focus. In this study, researchers sought to compare the levels of caffeine, catechins and L-theanine between different types of tea using NMR spectroscopy. Further, the impact of brewing temperature on the release of these compounds was also assessed. Of those tested, Bao Chong tea had the highest levels of these compounds. Brewing temperatures between 45ºC and 75ºC were found to be optimal for compound release. These results can help consumers make informed choices about their tea preparation and intake.
Read More...The Emergence of Tetracycline Resistance in Rumen Bacteria
The emergence of antibiotic-resistant pathogenic bacteria is a major concern for human health, rendering some antibiotics ineffective in treating diseases. The authors of this study tested the hypothesis that exposing rumen bacteria to tetracycline will gradually lead to the development of tetracycline-resistant bacteria, some of which will develop multidrug resistance.
Read More...Electromagnetic Radiation From Electronics Does Affect Plant Growth
Plants are the main producers of oxygen and organic compounds. Ensuring the health of these organisms is vital, as recent technologies could be damaging them. The purpose of this study was to find out if electromagnetic (EM) radiation from electronics affects plant growth.
Read More...