This research investigates how bisphenol A (BPA), a common plastic chemical, may contribute to obesity. By disrupting hormonal systems during brain development, BPA alters appetite regulation and metabolic set points. Animal studies show increased obesity and diabetes risk, suggesting environmental chemicals may play a significant role in the obesity epidemic.
Microplastics and nanoplastics pose growing environmental and health concerns, yet their formation pathways remain unclear. This research compiles data from nearly 300 studies to model plastic degradation and identifies key roles of plastic type and weathering process. Lab experiments reveal mechanical wear can directly generate nanoplastics, improving risk assessment and mitigation strategies.
This research examines Rotterdam’s urban tree planting practices and their impact on air quality and drought resilience. Findings show that current reliance on single-species tree lines reduces resilience, while greater species and functional diversity improves pollutant removal and climate adaptability. The study recommends transitioning to mixed-species, biodiversity-focused urban forestry strategies.
This research investigates why blocking an early asthma “alarmin” signal often fails as a treatment. Using mouse models, it reveals that environmental differences—particularly the microbiome—can bypass this signal and still drive asthma. Understanding microbiome health may help predict treatment success and lead to more personalized, effective asthma therapies.
This dissertation introduces a mixed-methods framework integrating midwifery, meteorology, and geography to study Black birthing outcomes. Rejecting deficit-based comparisons, it centers community-specific strengths and environments. Through qualitative studies of Black midwifery and quantitative climate analyses, the work offers a more holistic, justice-oriented approach to environmental health research.
As urban living increases, access to green and blue spaces may play a crucial role in pregnancy health. This longitudinal PhD research uses anonymised health records to examine how nearby nature affects maternal mental health and birth outcomes, with evidence suggesting reduced pregnancy complications and important implications for urban planning and public health policy.
Microplastics are increasingly found in human bodies, driven by everyday plastic use such as milk bottles. This research examines why consumers continue choosing plastic and identifies systemic barriers to reusable options. By improving affordability, convenience, and incentives, sustainable choices can become the default rather than the exception.
This research examines how real-world microplastics and nanoplastics affect human brain immune cells. Using plastics from everyday consumer items, it shows rapid cellular stress and mitochondrial damage linked to neurodegenerative disease. The findings suggest current laboratory studies may underestimate the true health risks of chronic plastic exposure.
This research reveals Heterobilharzia americana as a widespread, underdiagnosed parasitic threat to dogs in the US Southwest. Testing showed nearly 25% infection rates, often linked to river exposure. The Drake Project raises awareness and seeks prevention strategies to protect dogs from this deadly waterborne parasite.
PCBs, toxic “forever chemicals” found in older school buildings, accumulate in body fat and trigger harmful inflammation. This research shows that PCB-exposed fat cells recruit excessive immune cells, creating an uncontrolled inflammatory response that contributes to obesity and diabetes. Understanding this mechanism opens pathways for treatments targeting fat–immune cell communication.
