Subchronic inhalation toxicity of silver nanoparticles

Subchronic inhalation toxicity of silver nanoparticles

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19033393?dopt=AbstractPlus

Sung JH, Ji JH, Park JD, Yun JU, Kim DS, Jeon KS, Song MY, Jeong J, Han BS, Han JH, Chung YH, Chang HK, Lee JH, Cho MH, Kelman BJ, Yu IJ.

Korea Environment & Merchandise Testing Institute, Incheon.

Toxicol Sci. 2008 Nov 25.

The subchronic inhalation toxicity of silver nanoparticles was studied in Sprague Dawley rats. Eight-week-old rats, weighing approximately 253.2g (males) and 162.6g (females), were divided into 4 groups (10 rats in each group): fresh-air control, low-dose (0.6 x 10(6) particle/cm(3), 49 mu/m(3)), middle-dose (1.4 x 10(6) particle/cm(3), 133 mu/m(3)), and high-dose (3.0 x 10(6) particle/cm(3), 515 mu/m(3)). The animals were exposed to silver nanoparticles (average diameter 18-19 nm) for 6 hours/day, 5 days/week, for 13 weeks in a whole-body inhalation chamber. In addition to mortality and clinical observations, body weight, food consumption, and pulmonary function tests were recorded weekly. At the end of the study, the rats were subjected to a full necropsy, blood samples were collected for hematology and clinical chemistry tests, and the organ weights were measured. Bile-duct hyperplasia in the liver increased dose-dependently in both the male and female rats. Histopathological examinations indicated dose-dependent increases in lesions related to silver nanoparticle exposure, including mixed inflammatory cell infiltrate, chronic alveolar inflammation, and small granulomatous lesions. Target organs for silver nanoparticles were considered to be the lungs and liver in the male and female rats. NOAEL (no observable adverse effect level) of 100 mug/m(3) is suggested from the experiments.

PMID: 19033393 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

NEWS: Chemicals causing fragrance can be dangerous

Comment:  This was a nice write up on Steinemann's study that made theh dangers of fragrance real to the mainstream population.

Chemicals causing fragrance can be dangerous  

http://www.nhregister.com/articles/2008/11/26/opinion/doc492d4214d2c89772087215.txt

Wednesday, November 26, 2008   
By Nancy Alderman  
 

HAVE you noticed that when you walk into stores like Bed Bath and Beyond or Pier 1, the smell from their scented candles and potpourri is overwhelming?

Have you noticed that air fresheners, dryer sheets or heavily scented washing machine soap have a potent aroma?

Have you ever stopped to think what is in these products that cause strong fragrances?

The answer is that the odors are produced by a soup of chemicals, and some of these compounds may not be very good for you.

 

<snip>

Oxidative stress "extremely powerful" in the airways of children with asthma

Oxidative stress "extremely powerful" in the airways of children with asthma

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19032232?dopt=AbstractPlus

Dut R, Dizdar EA, Birben E, Sackesen C, Soyer OU, Besler T, Kalayci O.
Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Pediatric Allergy and Asthma Unit.

1: Allergy. 2008 Dec;63(12):1605-9.

Background:
There is ample evidence for the existence of a systemic oxidative stress in childhood asthma but relatively little information on the oxidant stress in the airways.

Objective:
To determine the extent of oxidant/antioxidant imbalance and describe its determinants in the airways of asthmatic children including asthma severity and the genotype of the antioxidant enzymes.

Methods:
One hundred and ten children with mild asthma, 30 children with moderate asthma and 191 healthy controls were included in the study. Exhaled breath condensate (EBC) was collected from all children with EcoScreen((R)). Levels of malondialdehyde were measured as the indicator of oxidative stress, and of reduced glutathione as the indicator of antioxidant defense. Children were genotyped for the presence of null variants of glutathione S transferase (GST) T1 and GSTM1, and ile105val variant of GSTP1. Risk factors were analyzed with multivariate logistic regression.

Results:
EBC contained significantly higher levels of malondialdehyde and lower levels of reduced glutathione in asthmatic children compared with healthy controls (P < 0.001 for each), whereas there was no difference between mild and moderate asthmatics. Multivariate logistic regression identified asthma as the only independent factor contributing to oxidative stress. Genotypes of the antioxidant enzymes had no effect on the oxidative burden.

Conclusions:
Asthma is associated with an extremely powerful oxidative stress not only in the systemic circulation but also in the airways.

PMID: 19032232 [PubMed - in process]

Differential heat shock protein responses to strenuous standardized exercise in chronic fatigue syndrome patients and matched healthy controls.

Clin Invest Med. 2008 Dec 1;31(6):E319.

Differential heat shock protein responses to strenuous standardized exercise in chronic fatigue syndrome patients and matched healthy controls.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19032901?dopt=AbstractPlus

Thambirajah AA, Sleigh K, Stiver HG, Chow AW.

. email@email.com.

Purpose: Since physical exertion is known to exacerbate the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and metabolic changes and including oxidative stress can modulate heat shock protein (HSP) expression responses, we sought to determine whether HSP expression is altered in CFS patients before and after exercise. Heat shock proteins (HSPs) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were examined from 6 chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) patients and 7 controls before and after a standardized treadmill exercise. Basal hsp27 was significantly higher among CFS patients compared to controls, and decreased immediately post-exercise, remaining below basal levels even at 7 days. A similar pattern was observed for HSP60, which gradually decreased in CFS patients but increased in controls post-exercise. These findings suggest an abnormal adaptive response to oxidative stress in CFS, and raise the possibility that HSP profiling may provide a more objective biologic marker for this illness. Methods: HSP27, HSP60, HSP70 and HSP90 expression from 6 CFS patients and 7 age- and sex-matched controls were examined by western blot analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells immediately before, after, and at 1 day and 7 days following a standardized treadmill exercise. Results: Basal HSP27 was higher among CFS patients than in controls (0.54 +/- 0.13 vs. 0.19 +/- 0.06, mean +/- SEM; P < 0.01). In addition, these levels in CFS patients decreased immediately post-exercise (0.25 +/- 0.09; P < 0.05) and remained below basal levels at day 1 post-exercises (0.18 +/- 0.05; P < 0.05). P < 0.05). This declining expression of HSP27 during the post-exercise period among CFS patients was confirmed by one-way ANOVA analysis with repeated measures (P < 0.05). In contrast, HSP27 levels remained relatively constant following exercise among control subjects. Similar patterns of declining HSP levels in CFS patients were also observed for HSP60 (0.94 +/- 0.40 vs. 1.32 +/- 0.46; P < 0.05), and for HSP90 (0.34 +/- 0.09 vs. 0.49 +/- 0.10; P < 0.05) at day 7 post-exercise compared with basal levels, respectively. In contrast, HSP60 levels in control subjects increased at day 1 (1.09 +/- 0.27) and day 7 (1.24 +/- 0.50) post-exercise compared to corresponding levels immediately post-exercise (0.55 +/- 0.06) (P < 0.05, respectively). Conclusion: These preliminary findings suggest an abnormal or defective adaptive response to oxidative stress in CFS, and raise the possibility that HSP profiling may provide a more objective biologic marker for this illness.

PMID: 19032901 [PubMed - in process]

NEWSLETTER: MCS America News - December 2008

MCSA NEWS
December 2008, Volume 3, Issue 12

 

Entire PDF Edition: http://mcs-america.org/december2008.pdf  (View, Download, and Print)
NEW!  Entire Online Edition: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsdecember2008.htm   (View as a Webpage)

 

Direct Links to Articles Inside This Issue:

 

Gulf War Illness is Real Says Panel: Caused by Exposure to Toxic Chemicals

PDF Version:    http://mcs-america.org/December2008pg12.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsdecember2008.htm#_Gulf_War_Illness

 

Disability Accommodations

PDF Version:    http://mcs-america.org/December2008pg345.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsdecember2008.htm#_Disability_Accommodations

 

Fibromyalgia Diagnosis and Treatment Part 2

PDF Version:    http://mcs-america.org/December2008pg67891011.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsdecember2008.htm#_Fibromyalgia_Diagnosis_and

 

Selecting Safe Building Materials

PDF Version:    http://mcs-america.org/December2008pg121314.pdf  

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsdecember2008.htm#_Selecting_Safe_Building

 

Wood Smoke and Black Carbon Soot:  A Major Contributor to Global Warming

PDF Version:    http://mcs-america.org/December2008pg1516.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsdecember2008.htm#_Wood_Smoke_and

 

Fibromyalgia and Cerebral Blood Flow to the Brain

PDF Version:    http://mcs-america.org/December2008pg1718.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsdecember2008.htm#_Fibromyalgia_and_Cerebral

 

New MCS Hospital Protocol

PDF Version:    http://mcs-america.org/December2008pg19.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsdecember2008.htm#_New_MCS_Hospital

 

Dr. William Rea Pleads for Help

PDF Version:    http://mcs-america.org/December2008pg2021.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsdecember2008.htm#_Dr._William_Rea

 

Obama's Environmental Promise

PDF Version:    http://mcs-america.org/December2008pg22.pdf

Online Version:    http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsdecember2008.htm#_Obama_Environmental_Promise

 

Scientists Say Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is Not Sleepiness

PDF Version:    http://mcs-america.org/December2008pg232425.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsdecember2008.htm#_Scientists_Say_Chronic

 

Obama to Hear Your Vision

PDF Version:    http://mcs-america.org/December2008pg2627.pdf

Online Version:   http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsdecember2008.htm#_Obama_to_Hear

 

Patient Support and Resources

PDF Version:    http://mcs-america.org/December2008pg2829303132333435.pdf

Online Version:   http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsdecember2008.htm#_Resources_and_Support

 

Community News

PDF Version:    http://mcs-america.org/December2008pg36.pdf

Online Version:   http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsdecember2008.htm#_Community_News

 

Featured Research Studies

PDF Version:    http://mcs-america.org/December2008pg373839.pdf

Online Version:    http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsdecember2008.htm#_Featured_Research_Studies_

 

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Endocrine Disruptors in the Workplace, Hair Spray, Folate Supplementation, and Risk of Hypospadias: Case-control Study

Endocrine Disruptors in the Workplace, Hair Spray, Folate Supplementation, and Risk of Hypospadias: Case-control Study

http://www.ehponline.org/docs/2008/11933/abstract.pdf

Gillian Ormond, Mark J. Nieuwenhuijsen, Paul Nelson, Mireille B. Toledano, Nina Iszatt, Sara Geneletti, and Paul Elliott

doi: 10.1289/ehp.11933 (available at http://dx.doi.org/)

Online 20 November 2008

 

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Hypospadias is one of the commonest urogenital congenital anomalies affecting baby boys. Prevalence estimates in Europe range from 4 to 24 per 10,000 births, depending on definition with higher rates reported from the United States. Relatively little is known about potential risk factors, but a role for endocrine disrupting chemicals has been proposed.

OBJECTIVE: To elucidate risk of hypospadias associated with occupational exposure of the mother to endocrine disruptor chemicals, use of folate supplementation during pregnancy, and vegetarianism.

DESIGN: Case-control study of 471 hypospadias cases referred to surgeons, and 490 randomly selected birth controls, born 1 January 1997 to 30 September 1998, south-east England. Telephone interview of mothers, including information on folate supplementation during pregnancy and vegetarianism, and a job exposure matrix to classify occupational exposure.

RESULTS: In multiple logistic regression analysis, there were increased risks for self-reported occupational exposure to hairspray (exposed vs non exposed OR 2.39 95% CI 1.40, 4.17), and phthalate exposure obtained by a job exposure matrix (OR 3.12 95% CI 1.04, 11.46). There was a significant protective effect of folate use during the first three months of pregnancy (OR 0.64 95% CI 0.44, 0.93). Vegetarianism was not associated with hypospadias risk.

CONCLUSIONS: Excess risks of hypospadias associated with occupational exposures to phthalates and hair spray suggest that anti-androgenic endocrine disrupting chemicals may play a role in hypospadias. Folate supplementation in early pregnancy may be

protective.

The Synergistic Toxicity of Pesticide Mixtures: Implications for Risk Assessment and the Conservation of Endangered Pacific Salmon

The Synergistic Toxicity of Pesticide Mixtures: Implications for Risk Assessment and the Conservation of Endangered Pacific Salmon

http://www.ehponline.org/docs/2008/0800096/abstract.html

Cathy A. Laetz, David H. Baldwin, Tracy K. Collier, Vincent Hebert, John D. Stark, and Nathaniel L. Scholz

 

Abstract

Background: Mixtures of organophosphate and carbamate pesticides are commonly detected in

freshwater habitats that support threatened and endangered species of Pacific salmon

(Oncorhynchus sp.). These pesticides inhibit the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and

thus have potential to interfere with behaviors that may be essential for salmon survival. While

the effects of individual anticholinesterase insecticides on aquatic species have been studied for

decades, the neurotoxicity of mixtures is still poorly understood.

Objectives: We assessed whether chemicals in a mixture act in isolation (resulting in additive

AChE inhibition) or whether components interact to produce either antagonistic or synergistic

toxicity.

Methods: We measured brain AChE inhibition in juvenile coho salmon (O. kisutch) exposed to

sublethal concentrations of the organophosphates diazinon, malathion, and chlorpyrifos as well

as the carbamates carbaryl and carbofuran. Concentrations of individual chemicals were

normalized to their respective EC50 concentrations and collectively fit to a non-linear regression.

This curve was used to determine whether toxicological responses to binary mixtures were

additive, antagonistic, or synergistic.

Results: Addition and synergism were both observed, with a greater degree of synergism at

higher exposure concentrations. Several combinations of organophosphates were lethal at

concentrations that were sublethal in single chemical trials.

Conclusion: Single chemical risk assessments are likely to underestimate the impacts of these

insecticides on salmon in river systems where mixtures occur. Moreover, mixtures of pesticides

that have been commonly reported in salmon habitats may pose a more important challenge for

species recovery than previously anticipated.

Nanotechnology-based electrochemical sensors for biomonitoring chemical exposures

Nanotechnology-based electrochemical sensors for biomonitoring chemical exposures

http://www.nature.com/jes/journal/vaop/ncurrent/abs/jes200871a.html

Richard C Barry^a, Yuehe Lin^b, Jun Wang^b, Guodong Liu^b,c and Charles A Timchalk^a

1. ^aBiological Monitoring and Modeling Group, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington, USA
2. ^bInterfacial and Nanoscale Science Facility, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington, USA
3. ^cDepartment of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA

Correspondence: Dr. Charles A. Timchalk, Biological Monitoring and Modeling Group, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, MSIN: P7-59, 902 Battelle Blvd., Richland, WA 99352, USA. Tel.: +1 509 376 0434; Fax: +1 509 376-9064; E-mail: charles.timchalk@pnl.gov

Received 21 February 2008; Revised 30 July 2008; Accepted 23 September 2008; Published online 19 November 2008.

Top of page

Abstract

The coupling of dosimetry measurements and modeling represents a promising strategy for deciphering the relationship between chemical exposure and disease outcome. To support the development and implementation of biological monitoring programs, quantitative technologies for measuring xenobiotic exposure are needed. The development of portable nanotechnology-based electrochemical (EC) sensors has the potential to meet the needs for low cost, rapid, high-throughput, and ultrasensitive detectors for biomonitoring an array of chemical markers. Highly selective EC sensors capable of pM sensitivity, high-throughput and low sample requirements (<50 l) are discussed. These portable analytical systems have many advantages over currently available technologies, thus potentially representing the next generation of biomonitoring analyzers. This paper highlights research focused on the development of field-deployable analytical instruments based on EC detection. Background information and a general overview of EC detection methods and integrated use of nanomaterials in the development of these sensors are provided. New developments in EC sensors using various types of screen-printed electrodes, integrated nanomaterials, and immunoassays are presented. Recent applications of EC sensors for assessing exposure to pesticides or detecting biomarkers of disease are highlighted to demonstrate the ability to monitor chemical metabolites, enzyme activity, or protein biomarkers of disease. In addition, future considerations and opportunities for advancing the use of EC platforms for dosimetric studies are discussed.

Keywords:

biomonitoring, dosimetry, electrochemical sensors, exposure assessment

Are patients with chronic fatigue syndrome just 'tired' or also 'sleepy'?

J Sleep Res. 2008 Oct 7. [Epub ahead of print]

Are patients with chronic fatigue syndrome just 'tired' or also 'sleepy'?

Neu D, Hoffmann G, Moutrier R, Verbanck P, Linkowski P, LE Bon O.

University Hospital Brugmann, Sleep Laboratory, Université Libre de Bruxelles (U.L.B), Brussels, Belgium.

Summary It is presently unclear whether chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) patients exhibit daytime sleepiness in addition to fatigue. Both, fatigue, such as that seen in CFS patients, and excessive daytime sleepiness, such as in sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (SAHS), remain poorly understood. Both daytime conditions are generally related to unrefreshing sleep and show affective symptoms. This study's objective was to contribute to the understanding of the relationship between fatigue and sleepiness in CFS patients not co-morbid for primary sleep or psychiatric disorders. We compared 16 untreated CFS patients (mean age 32.8, all females) with 13 untreated SAHS (mean age 47.7, all females) patients and 12 healthy controls (mean age 32.2, all females). Objective sleepiness was measured using multiple sleep latency tests (MSLT). Subjective sleepiness and fatigue were assessed with the Epworth Sleepiness Scale and the Fatigue Severity Scale, respectively. Mean Sleep Latency (SL) on the MSLT was significantly shorter in SAHS patients than in CFS patients and CFS patients showed significantly shorter mean SL than matched controls but within normal range. Subjective sleepiness was greatest in SAHS patients and subjective fatigue was highest in CFS patients. Affective symptoms showed highest intensities in CFS patients. While higher than the control group on all measures, compared to SAHS, the CFS group had higher subjective fatigue and lower subjective and objective sleepiness. Despite possible overlap in symptoms and signs of both daytime conditions, our data indirectly support the clinical distinction between fatigue and sleepiness.

PMID: 19021860 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Hemodynamic Response to Postural Shift in Women with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities.

Biol Res Nurs. 2008 Nov 17. [Epub ahead of print]

Hemodynamic Response to Postural Shift in Women with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19017670?dopt=AbstractPlus

McFetridge-Durdle J, Routledge F, Sampalli T, Fox R, Livingston H, Adams B.

Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a chronic condition prevalent in women; the symptoms are reproducible with repeated low-level chemical exposure. Evidence gathered through clinical observations suggests that women with MCS may be at risk for autonomic nervous system dysfunction as evidenced by abnormal heart rate and pulse pressure responses to exercise. The primary objective of this study was to describe the hemodynamic response to postural shift in 17 women with MCS. Using impedance cardiography, hemodynamic measures were taken while sitting and immediately upon standing. The hemodynamic response to standing was increased heart rate (p < .0001), decreased stroke volume (p = .002), decreased left ventricular ejection time (p < .0001), increased diastolic blood pressure (p = .01), and increased systemic vascular resistance (p =.002). Although this pattern of hemodynamic response was normal, the magnitude of the changes was considerably less than those observed previously in healthy participants. These findings warrant further investigation.

PMID: 19017670 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

NEWS: Bug bombs don't just kill pests: People, pets also sickened by foggers

Bug bombs don't just kill pests: People, pets also sickened by foggers

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/printer2/index.asp?ploc=t&refer=http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/388404_bugbomb19.html

 

After his girlfriend's black Lab mix got fleas from a visiting pooch, Jim Avent set off eight bug bombs in various rooms of her sprawling house in Woodinville.

Dashing for the open sliding-glass door, Avent was partway across the kitchen when he was overcome by the fumes.

He fell to the ground and strained to drag himself to the threshold.

"I was hanging halfway in the house, halfway out of the house, gagging," Avent said. "I couldn't move. I couldn't sit up. I couldn't talk."

<snip>

ACTIVISM: Tell Obama Your Vision (MCS)

President-Elect Obama is hard at work getting this country back on track, but he's counting on input from all of us.  And he needs to hear about MCS issues, especially with the recent announcement that Gulf War Syndrome is real and linked to vaccines and pesticides.  We need a similar government panel to examine and report on MCS.  

I just wrote in to share my vision for where President-Elect Obama should lead the country in regards to MCS.  Specifically,

1. Funding is needed for programs that educate both health care professionals and the general public about MCS. 
2. A committee is also needed to help coordinate health agency research, promote the exchange of information, hold federal agencies accountable, ensure workplace accommodations, and give advocates a voice in policy decisions. 
3. More research of integrity is needed as it offers the greatest prospect of returning people with MCS to healthy, productive lives. 

I thought you might want to write in too.  Here is the link to change.gov where you can write via email.  http://www.change.gov/yourvision

Here is the full letter I wrote.  Feel free to use any or all of it if it if you desire.  You can copy the text below or download it as a Word document for editing at: http://mcs-america.org/obama.doc
 
Dear President-Elect Obama,
 
As you acknowledge the failed leadership of the past eight years, which you confirm has impacted the EPA, and begin to work toward your campaign promise to hold the principle of scientific integrity as an absolute, I would like to bring your awareness to Americans already injured, a concern that requires immediate attention.
 
Sensitivity to environmental pollution and chemicals has been researched by scientists for 60 years.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently recognized chemical sensitivity as one symptom of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), yet diagnostic tests and effective medical treatments have yet to be discovered.  For afflicted Americans, proper diagnosis through confirmatory diagnostic testing would mean better care, treatment, and outcome, all of which would improve many lives and prevent additional disability.

Here are a few documented and published facts about multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS):

• Several studies published between 1993 and 2005 suggest that at least 45 million men, women, and children in the US report various chemical sensitivities.  Seventy percent of these people have not been diagnosed properly by a health care provider. 
• Brain scans show reduced blood flow to the brain of MCS subjects when under chemical exposure.
  Numerous physical abnormalities have been identified in MCS subjects, including brain inflammation, oxidative stress, excitotoxicity, cardiac and airway disease, auto-immune disorders, and many others.
• Mast cell activation and disorders of porphyrin metabolism have been linked to MCS.
• Genetic differences relating to detoxification processes are present more often in those with MCS than those without.
  Studies have shown that avoiding inciting chemicals and proper environmental control is the most efficacious treatment known to date.  Ninety-five percent of patients report improvement upon practicing avoidance and 94% report improvement upon moving to a chemical free living space.
• *Citations are available  at:  http://mcs-america.org/MCSPositionStatement.htm.

 

MCS is already formally recognized by the governments of Germany, Canada, and Denmark.  Last year, more than one half of state governors proclaimed the month of May as MCS and/or Toxic Injury Awareness Month.  The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Health Observance Calendar lists May as MCS Awareness Month. But this is not enough for American's who have already suffered injury as a result of poorly regulated chemicals and lack of scientific integrity.
 

• Funding is needed for programs that educate both health care professionals and the general public about MCS. 
• A committee is also needed to help coordinate health agency research, promote the exchange of information, hold federal agencies accountable, ensure workplace accommodations, and give advocates a voice in policy decisions. 
• More research of integrity is needed as it offers the greatest prospect of returning people with MCS to healthy, productive lives.  

 

I hope I can count on your help in this important matter and look forward to your response.
 
Sincerely,
 

Lourdes Salavador

Clinical trials validate the severity of persistent Lyme disease symptoms.

Med Hypotheses. 2008 Nov 12. [Epub ahead of print]

Clinical trials validate the severity of persistent Lyme disease symptoms.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19013025?dopt=AbstractPlus

Cameron DJ.

First Medical Associates, 175 Main Street, Mt. Kisco, New York 10549, United States.

BACKGROUND: Persistent Lyme Disease Symptoms (PLDS) have included fatigue, headaches, poor concentration and memory, lightheadedness, joint pain, and mood disturbances. Evidence-based guidelines committees disagree over the severity of PLDS. The 2004 International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) concluded that PLDS are severe. The 2006 Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA) guidelines committee concluded that PLDS are nothing more than the "aches and pains of daily living" and an ad hoc International Lyme group concluded that PLDS are "symptoms common in persons who have never had Lyme disease." HYPOTHESIS: Clinical trials validate the severity of persistent Lyme disease symptoms. EVALUATION OF THE HYPOTHESIS: There are 22 standardized instruments used to measure the severity of PLDS among the four published National Institutes of Health (NIH) sponsored double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trials (RCTs). VALIDATING THE HYPOTHESIS: All four NIH sponsored RCTs validate the severity of PLDS. PLDS are as severe as symptoms seen in other serious chronic illnesses, and result in a quality of life lower than for the general population as determined by 22 standardized measures of QOL, including fatigue, pain, role function, psychopathology, and cognition. None of the four RCTs support the IDSA hypothesis that PLDS are nothing more than "the aches and pains of daily living" nor the ad hoc International Lyme group conclusion that PLDS are "symptoms common in persons who have never had Lyme disease." IMPLICATIONS OF THE HYPOTHESIS: If the QOL of life for these patients is as poor as for patients with other serious chronic diseases, their symptoms need to be addressed by their doctors. Studies differ as to the precise cause of PLDS, the most effective treatments, and whether a cure is possible. But the fact that there is disagreement is not a license for physicians to ignore or turn away patients complaining of PLDS, or to dismiss their symptoms as purely psychosomatic. For physicians, the goal or purpose of treating PLDS should be the same as their purpose in treating other chronic illnesses that result in a poor QOL: vigorous pursuit of a cure, and where a cure proves impossible, amelioration of patients' symptoms and suffering. Even if this hypothesis fails to be apply to more than a fraction of the total Lyme disease population, this still represents a significant number of patients, and these findings could address a neglected aspect of caring for patients with Lyme disease.

PMID: 19013025 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Opportunity to participate in MCS research

From Pamela Reed Gibson, who wrote the MCS Survival Guide book and ILRU accommodation guide (not exact titles) along with much other research.
 
Hi Folks,

I wanted to let you know that my students and I have 2 new studies ready to begin and to ask your help in publicizing them. Here is a blurb about each and they can both be accessed on my research website at www.mcsresearch.net

Experiencing Environmental Sensitivities

We are interested in interviewing people who have had environmental sensitivities for 5 years or more. The interview will last approximately 30 minutes and will explore the phenomenology of what it is like to experience sensitivities and to interact with others in a chemical culture. If you are interested in participating, please go to www.mcsresearch.net and click on current studies to open the consent form and to complete the short demographic questionnaire.

If you do not have computer access or cannot use a computer, please contact our lab for a hard copy of the short demographic survey. You can call us at 540-568-6195. 
 
Clients' Perceptions of Services from Mental Health Providers for Persons with Environmental Sensitivities

In this study we will examine people's perceptions of any services they have received from psychological providers. People with ES end up in the offices of mental health providers for a variety of reasons: for counseling, for evaluations in regard to disability applications or as requested by Vocational Rehabilitation, or when referred by a physician who perceives the problem to be psychological. There may be other reasons as well. We are interested in the treatment that people receive, whether they are accommodated by these providers, and their perceptions of how knowledgeable mental health providers are regarding sensitivities. In addition, as part of this study we invite anyone who has received a psychological evaluation from a psychologist to submit it so we can examine how people with sensitivities are being construed by psychologists. There has for a long time been a movement to frame MCS/ES as a psychological illness. We believe it is physical and would like to attempt to begin discussion of the ways that persons with MCS are framed in evaluations. If you are willing to participate go to www.mcsresearch.net and click on current studies to follow the link or go directly to the link below to take our survey of psychological services on Qualtrics:
http://jmu.qualtrics.com/SE?SID=SV_6DpHHiwHSysPFgE&SVID=Prod  

If you are unable to take the survey online or know someone who would like to participate without taking the survey on line, we can be contacted for either an e-mail copy or a hard copy of the survey. Phone 540-568-6195 or e-mail gibsonpr@jmu.edu.

Protocol for Care of Hospital Patients with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS)

Mabel has also put a scent free workplace policy in place at David Thompson Health Region.  It can be downloaded here.  Again, it is my hope that others will use this document in their area as a basis to develop similar hospital regulations.

Scent Free Workplace Policy
http://mcs-america.org/ScentFreeWorkplace.pdf

 

----- Original Message -----

I would like to congratulate Mabel, an acute care manager, who recently worked hard to establish a protocol for the care of MCS hospital patients in the Alberta, Canada area.

This protocol is now in use in the hospital setting in the David Thompson Health Region and outlines safety measures to use with MCS patients.  It specifies what products and materials may or may not be usable and includes:

1.  Sources to purchase recommended materials. 

2.  Clinical signs to watch for in the patient that would indicate exposure.

3.  Establishes the type of remedial action to take when an exposure occurs.

This is a wonderful document capable of ensuring a safer hospital stay and better treatment by staff.  No hospital should be without one.  I applaud Mabel for getting this protocol into the hospital regulations of her region.  She stands at the forefront of much needed change.

It is my hope that others will use this document in their area as a basis to develop similar hospital regulations.  It is crucial that all hospitals and health care facilities are not only familiar with MCS, but also are prepared and able to make the needed accommodations to ensure a safe patient stay.

The document can be viewed at:
http://mcs-america.org/MCSHospitalPatientProtocol.pdf

Once again, great job Mabel!

Lourdes Salvador
www.mcs-america.org

Gulf War Research Panel Finds 1 in 4 Veterans Suffers from Illness Caused by Toxic Exposure

Gulf War Research Panel Finds 1 in 4 Veterans Suffers from Illness Caused by Toxic Exposure

http://sph.bu.edu/insider/images/stories/resources/annual_reports/mon11amrelease.doc

 

Washington, DC – (Nov. 17, 2008) – At least one in four of the 697,000 U.S. veterans of the 1991 Gulf War suffer from Gulf War illness, a condition caused by exposure to toxic chemicals, including pesticides and a drug administered to protect troops against nerve gas, and no effective treatments have yet been found, a federal panel of scientific experts and veterans concludes in a landmark report released Monday. 

Protocol for Care of Hospital Patients with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS)

I would like to congratulate Mabel, an acute care manager, who recently worked hard to establish a protocol for the care of MCS hospital patients in the Alberta, Canada area.

This protocol is now in use in the hospital setting in the David Thompson Health Region and outlines safety measures to use with MCS patients.  It specifies what products and materials may or may not be usable and includes:

1.  Sources to purchase recommended materials. 

2.  Clinical signs to watch for in the patient that would indicate exposure.

3.  Establishes the type of remedial action to take when an exposure occurs.

This is a wonderful document capable of ensuring a safer hospital stay and better treatment by staff.  No hospital should be without one.  I applaud Mabel for getting this protocol into the hospital regulations of her region.  She stands at the forefront of much needed change.

It is my hope that others will use this document in their area as a basis to develop similar hospital regulations.  It is crucial that all hospitals and health care facilities are not only familiar with MCS, but also are prepared and able to make the needed accommodations to ensure a safe patient stay.

The document can be viewed at:
http://mcs-america.org/MCSHospitalPatientProtocol.pdf

Once again, great job Mabel!

Lourdes Salvador
www.mcs-america.org

Aluminium and lead: molecular mechanisms of brain toxicity

Aluminium and lead: molecular mechanisms of brain toxicity

FULL TEXT:  http://www.springerlink.com/content/n2577l6701144654/fulltext.pdf

Sandra V. Verstraeten¹, Lucila Aimo² and Patricia I. Oteiza² 

(1)	Department of Biological Chemistry, IIMHNO (UBA) and IQUIFIB (UBA-CONICET), School of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina

(2)	Departments of Nutrition and Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA

Received: 3 July 2008  Accepted: 15 July 2008  Published online: 31 July 2008

Abstract  The fact that aluminium (Al) and lead (Pb) are both toxic metals to living organisms, including human beings, was discovered a long time ago. Even when Al and Pb can reach and accumulate in almost every organ in the human body, the central nervous system is a particular target of the deleterious effects of both metals. Select human population can be at risk of Al neurotoxicity, and Al is proposed to be involved in the etiology of neurodegenerative diseases. Pb is a widespread environmental hazard, and the neurotoxic effects of Pb are a major public health concern. In spite of the numerous efforts and the accumulating evidence in this area of research, the mechanisms of Al and Pb neurotoxicity are still not completely elucidated. This review will particularly address the involvement of oxidative stress, membrane biophysics alterations, deregulation of cell signaling, and the impairment of neurotransmission as key aspects involved Al and Pb neurotoxicity.

Keywords  Aluminium - Lead - Neurotransmission - Oxidative stress - Neurotoxicity - Cell signaling - Calcium - Toxicology

Occupational rhinitis in damp and moldy workplaces.

Am J Rhinol. 2008 Sep-Oct;22(5):457-62. Links

Occupational rhinitis in damp and moldy workplaces.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18954502?dopt=AbstractPlus

 

Karvala K, Nordman H, Luukkonen R, Nykyri E, Lappalainen S, Hannu T, Toskala E.

Occupational Medicine Team, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland. kirsi.karvala@ttl.fi

BACKGROUND: Numerous studies confirm the association between exposure to indoor air dampness and molds and different health outcomes. Of these, upper respiratory tract problems are the most commonly reported work-related symptoms in damp indoor environments. The aim of this study was to describe a clinically investigated patient series with occupational rhinitis induced by molds. METHODS: Nasal provocation test (NPT) with commercial fungal allergens was performed in 369 patients during 1995-2004 at the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health. Of these, 60 (16%) were positive. In addition to positive NPT, the diagnosis of occupational rhinitis was based on verified exposure to molds, work-related nasal symptoms, and clinical investigations. We wanted to review the patient files of these 60 patients retrospectively, and 56 patients gave their informed consent. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 43.7 years (SD +/- 9.5). Fifty (89.3%) patients were women. In 23% of the patients, IgE-mediated allergy to molds could be established. Atopy significantly increased IgE sensitization to molds (OR, 10.3 [95% CI, 2.0-52.5]). The most common mold to induce occupational rhinitis was Aspergillus fumigatus. Exposure time was over 5 years in 63% of the patients. Association between the IgE sensitization to molds and exposure level was statistically significant (Fisher's exact test, p = 0.046). CONCLUSION: This is the first clinically investigated series on occupational rhinitis in relation to a moldy environment. Based on our findings, we conclude that molds growing in conjunction with moisture damages can induce occupational rhinitis. IgE-mediated allergy to molds was not common. Atopy and significant exposure level increased IgE sensitization to molds. zri00508.

PMID: 18954502 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Occurrence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in indoor dust.

Sci Total Environ. 2008 Oct 1;404(1):26-35. Epub 2008 Jul 15. Links

Occurrence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in indoor dust.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18632138?dopt=AbstractPlus

Hwang HM, Park EK, Young TM, Hammock BD.

Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, One Shields Ave., Davis, CA 95616, USA. hmhwang@ucdavis.edu

Human exposure to indoor dust enriched with endocrine-disrupting chemicals released from numerous indoor sources has been a focus of increasing concern. Longer residence times and elevated contaminant concentrations in the indoor environment may increase chances of exposure to these contaminants by 1000-fold compared to outdoor exposure. To investigate the occurrence of semi-volatile endocrine-disrupting chemicals, including PBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers), PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), phthalates, pyrethroids, DDT (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) and its metabolites, and chlordanes, indoor dust samples were collected from household vacuum cleaner bags provided by 10 apartments and 1 community hall in Davis, California, USA. Chemical analyses show that all indoor dust samples are highly contaminated by target analytes measured in the present study. Di-(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate was the most abundant (104-7630 microg/g) in all samples and higher than other target analytes by 2 to 6 orders of magnitude. PBDEs were also found at high concentrations (1780-25,200 ng/g). Although the use of PCBs has been banned or restricted for decades, some samples had PCBs at levels that are considered to be concerns for human health, indicating that the potential risk posed by PCBs still remains high in the indoor environment, probably due to a lack of dissipation processes and continuous release from the sources. Although the use of some PBDEs is being phased out in some parts of the U.S., this trend may apply to PBDEs as well. We can anticipate that exposure to PBDEs will continue as long as the general public keeps using existing household items such as sofas, mattresses, and carpets that contain PBDEs. This study provides additional information that indoor dust is highly contaminated by persistent and endocrine-disrupting chemicals.

PMID: 18632138 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

A role for the body burden of aluminium in vaccine-associated macrophagic myofasciitis and chronic fatigue syndrome.

Med Hypotheses. 2008 Nov 10. [Epub ahead of print]

A role for the body burden of aluminium in vaccine-associated macrophagic myofasciitis and chronic fatigue syndrome.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19004564?dopt=AbstractPlus

Exley C, Swarbrick L, Gherardi RK, Authier FJ.

Birchall Centre for Inorganic Chemistry and Materials Science, Lennard-Jones Laboratories, Keele University, Staffordshire ST5 5BG, UK.

Macrophagic myofasciitis and chronic fatigue syndrome are severely disabling conditions which may be caused by adverse reactions to aluminium-containing adjuvants in vaccines. While a little is known of disease aetiology both conditions are characterised by an aberrant immune response, have a number of prominent symptoms in common and are coincident in many individuals. Herein, we have described a case of vaccine-associated chronic fatigue syndrome and macrophagic myofasciitis in an individual demonstrating aluminium overload. This is the first report linking the latter with either of these two conditions and the possibility is considered that the coincident aluminium overload contributed significantly to the severity of these conditions in this individual. This case has highlighted potential dangers associated with aluminium-containing adjuvants and we have elucidated a possible mechanism whereby vaccination involving aluminium-containing adjuvants could trigger the cascade of immunological events which are associated with autoimmune conditions including chronic fatigue syndrome and macrophagic myofasciitis.

PMID: 19004564 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Gene profiling of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis.

Curr Rheumatol Rep. 2008 Dec;10(6):482-91.

Gene profiling of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19007540?dopt=AbstractPlus

Kerr JR.

St. George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London SW17 0RE, United Kingdom. jkerr@sgul.ac.uk.

Chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) is a multisystem disease, the pathogenesis of which remains undetermined. Following two microarray studies, we reported the differential expression of 88 human genes in patients with CFS; 85 of these genes were upregulated and 3 were downregulated. The top functional categories of these 88 genes were hematologic disease and function, immunologic disease and function, cancer, cell death, immune response, and infection. Clustering of quantitative polymerase chain reaction data from CFS/ME patients revealed seven subtypes with distinct differences in Short Form (SF)-36 scores, clinical phenotypes, and severity. Gene signatures in each subtype implicate five human genes as possible targets for specific therapy. Development of a diagnostic test for subtype status is now a priority. The possibility that these subtypes represent individual host responses to particular microbial infections is being investigated and may provide another route to specific therapies for CFS patients.

PMID: 19007540 [PubMed - in process]

Autonomic dysfunction in fibromyalgia syndrome: postural orthostatic tachycardia.

Curr Rheumatol Rep. 2008 Dec;10(6):463-6.

Autonomic dysfunction in fibromyalgia syndrome: postural orthostatic tachycardia.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19007537?dopt=AbstractPlus

Staud R.

Department of Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, PO Box 100221, D2-39, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA. staudr@ufl.edu.

Although fibromyalgia (FM) syndrome is defined by chronic widespread pain and tenderness, additional symptoms, including disabling fatigue and dizziness, are often reported by patients with this chronic illness. Although nonrestorative sleep may play an important role for chronic fatigue in FM, other mechanisms, including dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), need to be considered. Many important biological functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, respirations, and bowel function, are tightly regulated by the ANS. However, dysfunction of the ANS is common in FM and often becomes quite apparent after positional changes from supine to upright. Although such positional changes sometimes result in syncope, they are more often associated with palpitations and dizziness. Head-up tilt table testing can be used to evaluate autonomic dysfunction and is frequently helpful for the work-up of FM complaints, including fatigue, dizziness, and palpitations. One of the most common events experienced by FM patients during tilt table testing is postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, which is defined as a heart rate increase of more than 30 beats per minute after more than 3 minutes of standing upright.

PMID: 19007537 [PubMed - in process]

Pilot study of personal, indoor and outdoor exposure to benzene, formaldehyde and acetaldehyde.

Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 1999;6(2):95-102.

Pilot study of personal, indoor and outdoor exposure to benzene, formaldehyde and acetaldehyde.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19009413?dopt=AbstractPlus

Gonzalez-Flesca N, Cicolella A, Bates M, Bastin E.

INERIS, Parc Technologique ALATA, B.P.2, 60550, Verneuil en Halatte, FRance.

There is a lack of data for health risk assessment of long term personal exposure to certain ubiquitous air pollutants present particularly in urban atmospheres. The relationship between ambient background concentrations and personal exposure is often unknown.A pilot campaign to measure indoor concentrations, outdoor concentrations and personal exposure to benzene, formaldehyde and acetaldehyde was conducted in a medium sized French town. A strong contribution to total personal exposure was observed from indoor sources, especially for formaldehyde and acetaldehyde, suggesting that indoor sources are dominant for these compounds. For benzene, the average personal exposure exceeded a 10 mugm(-3) limit value, although this was not the case for the ambient background concentration. For formaldehyde, the limit level was also exceeded. Observations suggest that true personal exposure cannot be determined directly from measurements pertaining from fixed ambient background monitoring stations. It is hoped that this will be taken into consideration by the bodies responsible for monitoring air pollution and the future European Air Quality Directive.

PMID: 19009413 [PubMed - in process]

Association between school absence and physical function in paediatric CFS/ME.

Arch Dis Child. 2008 Nov 11. [Epub ahead of print]

Association between school absence and physical function in paediatric CFS/ME.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19001477?dopt=AbstractPlus

Crawley E, Sterne J.

Bristol University, United Kingdom.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate factors associated with school attendance and physical function in paediatric Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalopathy (CFS/ME). DESIGN: Cross sectional study. SETTING: Regional specialist CFS/ME service. Patients: Children and young people aged <18. OUTCOME MEASURES: Self reported school attendance and physical function measured using the physical function subscale of the SF36. METHODS: Linear and logistic regression analysis of data from self completed assessment forms on children attending a regional specialist service between 2004 and 2007. Analyses were done in two groups of children: (1) with a completed Spence Children's Anxiety Scale (SCAS) and (2) with a completed Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). RESULTS: Of 211 children with CFS/ME, 62% attended 40% of school or less. In children with completed SCAS, those with better physical function were more likely to attend school (adjusted OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.36 to 2.13). This was also true for those with completed HADS (adjusted OR 2.05 95% CI 1.4, 3.01). Increasing fatigue and pain and low mood were associated with worse physical function. There was no evidence that anxiety, gender, age at assessment, family history of CFS/ME or time from onset of symptoms to assessment in clinic were associated with school attendance or physical function. Implications: Paediatricians should recognise that reduced school attendance is associated with reduced physical function rather than anxiety. Improving school attendance in children with CFS/ME should focus on evidence-based interventions to improve physical function, particularly concentrating on interventions that are likely to reduce pain and fatigue.

PMID: 19001477 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Memory and attention problems in children with CFS/ME.

Arch Dis Child. 2008 Nov 11. [Epub ahead of print]

Memory and attention problems in children with CFS/ME.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19001478?dopt=AbstractPlus

Haig-Ferguson A, Tucker P, Eaton N, Hunt L, Crawley E.

University of Bristol, United Kingdom.

OBJECTIVE: To understand more about the problems children with CFS/ME experience with their memory and attention, and to test the feasibility of quantitative measurement of both memory and attention. DESIGN: 4 item semi-structured questionnaire and Neuropsychological test battery with 10 psychometric subtests. SETTING: Family home of the child taking part. Patients: 20 children with a diagnosis of CFS/ME and experiencing memory and/or concentration problems were recruited between April and October 2007 from a regional CFS/ME clinical service (Female=13; Average age 13.5yrs; Range 8 - 16 yrs). METHODS: Each child, parent and teacher was asked to describe the child's memory and attention problems. Responses were subject to thematic analysis by two independent researchers. In addition each child completed a battery of 10 tests to measure: Processing speed; Attention; Immediate and Delayed Memory; Working Memory; Executive Function. Raw scores were converted into age-scaled scores and the children's psychometric scores on the 10 tests taken were compared with normative data using t-tests. RESULTS: Children with CFS/ME, their parents and teachers described problems with focussed attention, sustained attention, recall and stress. Children's scores were compared to normative data. Scores for sustained attention (mean 8.1, 95% CI 6.3-9.9), switching attention (7.5, 5.5-9.4), divided attention (6.9, 5.5-8.2), auditory learning (8.2, 6.8-9.6) and immediate recall (8.7, 7.3-10.0) appeared lower than the normative mean of 10. CONCLUSIONS: Children with CFS/ME appear to experience problems with attention, which may have adverse implications for verbal memory. These cognitive problems may explain some of the educational difficulties associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

PMID: 19001478 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]