From chemistry to social science, Northwestern scientists continued their groundbreaking research this week. The Daily compiled an overview of the most recent developments.
Tea brewing filters contaminants from water
NU researchers discovered that brewing tea can remove sizable amounts of lead and other heavy metals from water. Tea leaves’ active surface area, the same property that causes tea to quickly release flavor chemicals, traps heavy metal ions on its surface, effectively removing contaminants.
Steeping time is the most important factor in removing contaminants. Mere seconds of steeping might have little to no effect, while brewing for extended periods could remove most or almost all heavy metals, according to the study’s first author, Ph.D. student Benjamin Shindel.
The researchers also found that finely ground black tea and cellulose bags are the most effective properties for removing contaminants because both maximize available surface area.
While the researchers emphasized that tea bags should not replace water filters, the study’s findings suggest potential positive health effects for frequent tea drinkers.
Wage theft rampant among LA-area fast food workers
A report by researchers at NU and Rutgers University revealed that one in four fast food workers in the Los Angeles area were illegally paid below the minimum wage in 2024, according to a news release.
The study also found that most workers don’t file complaints, despite collectively losing $44 million annually to wage theft. This aligns with prior research, which found that 88% of low-wage workers don’t have a complete understanding of their basic job rights.
Forms of wage theft include withholding tips, asking for unpaid labor and denying rest breaks. The LA City Council is considering a proposal for mandated “know your rights” training to address this issue.
HIV stigma higher when associated with immoral behaviors
A new NU research paper suggests a reason for persistent stigma toward people with HIV. According to a news release, lead researcher and Feinberg Prof. Shahin Davoudpour sought to address a lack of research into the effects of morality on stigmatization.
By sifting through recent data on people’s beliefs on HIV-positivity and comfort with physical proximity to people with HIV, the researchers found that individuals are 13 times more likely to reject proximity to people with HIV when they associate it with immorality.
Davoudpour said he hopes the research can be used by advocates and scientists to destigmatize HIV.
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