DR. RODNEY SCOTT RUSHING, M.D.

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This research examined a new method for measuring harmful chemicals called PFAS in surface and groundwater polluted by historical waste. The study found that the new method could estimate concentrations of 210 different PFAS chemicals, with some levels reaching as high as parts-per-billion. This is important because understanding the total amount of PFAS in water helps assess the potential health risks to communities relying on these water sources. Who this helps: Patients and communities whose water supplies are contaminated by PFAS.

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This study focused on creating a toolkit called the ENTAiLS Toolkit to help laboratories better analyze harmful chemicals known as PFAS in our environment. Researchers found that many labs currently only measure a small number of PFAS, while there are thousands that are known to exist. The toolkit provides standardized methods and best practices to support labs in detecting and understanding the full range of PFAS in drinking water, addressing barriers that have previously limited these analyses. Who this helps: This benefits public health officials and environmental scientists working to ensure safer drinking water.

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This study examined water samples from near St. Paul, Minnesota, to find out what types of harmful chemicals called PFAS are still present from old waste sites where these substances were dumped between the 1940s and 1970s. Researchers found a total of 210 different PFAS chemicals in both groundwater and surface water, with two-thirds of these chemicals unique to one groundwater site. This discovery is important because it highlights ongoing contamination in the water supply from past industrial activities, which can pose risks to health and the environment. Who this helps: This helps communities living near contaminated sites and environmental health advocates.

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This study looked at the contamination of food and fish used in laboratory experiments with substances known as PFAS, which are often found in environmental pollutants. Researchers tested 24 different PFAS in fish feed from three companies and fish from five aquaculture facilities. They found contamination in all samples, with PFAS levels in fish feed ranging up to 76 nanograms per gram and fish containing up to 351 nanograms per gram, which could affect research results and safety assessments. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and scientists working with aquatic organisms in experiments.

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This study looked at a young female cat that showed symptoms like weakened limbs and fever due to a foreign object in her body. Doctors used MRI and CT scans to find a thin plant material lodged in her throat and spine, causing inflammation and serious damage. Unfortunately, the cat was euthanized, and a postmortem examination confirmed the presence of a plant stem causing the problems. Who this helps: This information helps veterinarians better diagnose and treat similar cases in pets.

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This study looked at whether a specific fungicide called azoxystrobin, used in wallboard to prevent mold, is also found in house dust. Researchers found that azoxystrobin and similar chemicals were present in 34% to 87% of dust samples tested, with azoxystrobin being the most common and at levels as high as 10,590 nanograms per gram. This is concerning because it means that people, especially young children, might be exposed to these potentially harmful chemicals indoors, outside of their food sources. Who this helps: This research benefits parents and caregivers concerned about chemical exposure in their homes, especially for children.

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This study looked at wastewater from a city in Washington State to see how legalized cannabis sales affected its use from 2014 to 2016. The analysis found that the amount of THC (a key ingredient in cannabis) in the wastewater increased by 9% every quarter, showing that cannabis consumption doubled during that time, while legal sales rose by nearly 70% each quarter. This matters because it indicates that legal cannabis sales have likely reduced illegal market activity. Who this helps: This helps policymakers and public health officials understand cannabis consumption trends and the effects of legalization.

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This study looked at how magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results relate to the severity of nerve damage and recovery in dogs that have disk herniation in their backs. The researchers found that dogs with certain MRI findings, like increased brightness on T2-weighted images, were more likely to have serious mobility issues before the MRI and were less likely to walk again after treatment. Specifically, dogs with these severe features had a 76% chance of walking long term, compared to 93% for those without such features. Who this helps: This research benefits dog owners and veterinarians by providing insights into predicting recovery outcomes for dogs with back injuries.

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This study looked at the experiences of young migrant women who are forced into sex work in northern Vietnam. Most of the women reported facing high levels of coercion and exploitation, and many found it difficult to access healthcare because of the stigma associated with their work. The findings highlight the need for peer support and health education to empower these women and protect them from further exploitation. Who this helps: This benefits young migrant women in sex work, healthcare providers, and policymakers focused on improving their safety and well-being.