Research Team Area: Environmental Science and Plant Science
Project/Program Location: Lincoln University at Jefferson City
Objectives:
- Monitoring aeroallergens in Jefferson City area and serving the public by
providing early warnings and forecast of aeroallergen peaks and allergy
preventive tips
- Reducing LU waste stream and improving environment qualities
- Investigating natural compounds of insect deterrent potential in herbs
Summary:
Monitoring aeroallergen related air quality has been conducted at LU Cooperative
Research since 2003 and 2004. Major seasonal pollens were identified and
counted. Patterns of pollen shading were established and used for pollen
forecast and releasing early warning before pollen peaks.
LU compost facility was funded by a MO DNR grant and constructed at LU Busby
Farm in 2004. This facility is currently under management of Cooperative
Research and is handling average 600 Lb daily food waste generated from LU food
services and cafeteria during university sessions. LU Composting operation
demonstrated an efficiency food waste management with less than two hours daily
operation time and producing compost of premium quality.
Interests on natural compounds of insect deterrent potential in herbs has lead
to studies on essential oil and chemical analysis of herbs. Insect resistant
herbs were identified and extracts of these plants were obtained. Several
fractions of extracts were tested for positive biological activities. Focus will
be placed on compounds present in large quantities for further isolation and
bioassays.
Impact:
Aeroallergen monitoring and forecast has had positive impact on public health
education and allergy and asthma prevention.
Food waste composting project has improved LU waste management and strengthened
teaching, research, and extension programs in Environmental Science.
Herb research also strengthened LU teaching programs and analytical capability
at Cooperative Research. Natural compounds isolated from targeted herbs will
have potential pharmaceutical benefits to protect the public from undesirable
insect bites and positive impact on agricultural pest management.
For More Information, Contact:
Hwei-Yiing Johnson, Ph.D., Principal
Research Investigator
Lincoln University Cooperative Research
308 Foster Hall
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0029
Phone: (573)
681-5533
Fax: (573) 681-5955
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