Science and engineering meet to create new surface water robot
By Sarah Holland
October 18, 2023
PEREC director Dr. Chris Jones teamed up with College of Engineering & Computing Professor Dr. Leigh McCue and undergraduate student Ze Li to develop an efficient, accessible method of automated plankton collection. Rather than hauling, equipping, and launching a boat – which requires an access point and at least an hour of time in the water – the autonomous surface water device created by Li could collect samples faster, easier, and at a wider variety of locations. Read the full article here.
Common Plastic Additive Linked to Autism And ADHD, Scientists Discover
By David Nield
October 7, 2023
Bisphenol A (BPA), a common plastic addictive sometimes found in food and drink cans, has been linked to health issues such as breast cancer, infertility, and other conditions involving hormone disruption. A recent study from Rowan University and Rutgers University discovered that children with ASD and ADHD have a lessened ability to efficiently filter out BPA, leading to potentially longer exposure to toxic effects from the chemical. Read the full article here.
“DC Water awards $819 Millon Contract for Potomac River Tunnel”
By Prince Of Petworth
October 6, 2023 at 3:15pm
A design-build contract for the 5.5 mile-long, 18-foot diameter Potomac River Tunnel (PRT) has been approved for construction starting in 2024 with expected completion in early 2030. The tunnel will function to improve water quality by controlling combined sewer overflows. Read the full article here.
Invasive snails that can be deadly to humans found in North Carolina
By Emily Mae Czachor
October 5, 2023 / 10:17 AM / CBS News
A population of aquatic “apple snails”, originally native to South America, has been discovered in North Carolina for the first time along the river in Lumberton. These invasive invertebrates pose a threat to aquatic life and can even carry diseases deadly to humans. Read the full article here.