Environmental Factor - September 2019

Environmental Factor - September 2019

Nonsmokers can get emphysema from air pollution, study finds  Researchers hope that understanding the causes of debilitating lung disease may lead to better prevention and treatment. Chemicals’ effects on development and reproduction reviewed by expert panel  The National Toxicology Program invited outside experts to review its first technical reports related to developmental and reproductive toxicology. Patricia Jensen tenure vote unanimous  As an NIEHS neurobiologist, Jensen developed new tools used by researchers around the world. Suk promotes children’s environmental health in Asia-Pacific  A Fulbright award allowed Suk to collaborate extensively with researchers in Thailand and surrounding countries. Molecular sensor scouts DNA damage, supervises repair  From NIEHS scientists and grantees comes the first report of a protein — called UV-DDB — involved in two ancient DNA repair pathways. NIEHS fellow starts new position at Mayo Clinic  Matthew Schellenberg, Ph.D., says the knowledge and skills he gained at NIEHS paved the way for his exciting career opportunity. Summer food drive draws generous giving  Through the Feds Feed Families program, NIEHS donated 3,470 pounds of food and other necessities to local communities.

NIH researchers tackle questions on air pollution and pregnancy  National Institutes of Health scientists responded to concerns about air pollution, pregnancy, and child health via Reddit Ask Me Anything. Blocking mosquitoes with a graphene shield  Graphene film may be an alternative to chemicals now used in insect repellants and protective clothing. FAIR principles critical for data-driven research, says Schurer  The data principles known as FAIR improve drug studies and are integral to the new NIEHS Informatics and Information Technology roadmap. In memoriam: Joyce Goldstein’s distinguished NIEHS career  She was a pioneering researcher, a passionate mentor, and an engaged member of the broader scientific community. Wildfire — a tragedy years in the making, says Steelman  Duke University dean explains how recent catastrophic fires resulted from long-term trends in climate, housing, fire suppression, and more. Summer interns take the stage  College students practice communication skills in addition to performing scientific research during their summer at NIEHS

Extramural papers of the month  •    Flame retardant linked to hyperthyroidism in cats •    Molecule senses DNA damage and supervises repair •    Collaborative Cross mice reveal different susceptibilities •    Organic diet reduces pesticide metabolites in pregnant women

Intramural papers of the month  •    NTP identifies differential molecular changes in rodent liver tumors •    Beta-arrestin-1 is a critical regulator of glucocorticoid signaling •    NF-Y protein key for proper transcription initiation •    Compound treats corticosteroid-resistant form of asthma •    Crystal structure shows RNA-binding domains collaborate within protein