Pesticides – News and Features

News
Optical Fiber Sensor Helps Detect Arsenic Contamination in Drinking Water
Researchers have developed a new optical sensor that provides a simple way to achieve real-time detection of extremely low levels of arsenic in water.

News
Flame Retardants in Plastic Battery Cases May Do More Harm Than Good
One common strategy to prevent lithium-ion battery fires may cause serious harm to health and not work to stop the fires.

News
Biochar Reduces the Risks of DDT-Contaminated Soil
Researchers have developed a new method to manage ecological risks from the DDT toxin by binding it with biochar.

News
A Quarter of Freshwater Species Are at Risk of Extinction
A study finds 24% of freshwater species, including crabs, dragonflies and fishes, face extinction due to habitat loss, pollution and climate change. Wetland loss and underfunded research compound the crisis.

News
Nearly Half of Protein Powders Contain Dangerous Levels of Toxic Metals
A new report reveals alarming levels of toxic heavy metals in protein powders, with nearly 50% of products exceeding safety thresholds for lead, cadmium and arsenic. The study highlights organic and plant-based powders as the most contaminated.

News
Mutation Rates Don’t Explain Genetic Differences in Chornobyl Dogs
Researchers from NC State and Columbia University analyzed the genomes of dogs in Chornobyl City and the nearby Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), revealing no evidence of radiation-induced genetic mutations.

News
Genetically-Modified Citrus Tree Could Be Immune to Psyllid Pests
Scientists at the University of Florida are testing a new type of citrus tree that can fight off the tiny insects responsible for citrus greening.

News
Powdery Mildew Has Spread From Eastern US to Multiple Continents in Last Decade
NC State researchers identify the U.S. as the origin of Erysiphe vaccinii, the fungus causing blueberry powdery mildew. Spreading globally via nursery plants, this disease costs the blueberry industry $47–$530 million annually.

News
Chemists Develop Greener Method to Produce Chlorine-Based Materials and Drugs
Researchers introduced a photocatalytic chlorination process using iron and sulfur catalysts activated by blue light. The method operates at room temperature, eliminating harsh chemicals and enabling precise, efficient chlorine placement on molecules

News
Trained Dogs Can Sniff Out Spotted Lanternflies Pests
Trained detection dogs outperform humans in spotting spotted lanternfly egg masses in forested areas, while humans excel in vineyards. A study shows combining both methods enhances early detection and rapid response.
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