Neuropsychological functioning of U.S. Gulf War veterans 10 years after the war.

Neuropsychological functioning of U.S. Gulf War veterans 10 years after the war.

J Int Neuropsychol Soc. 2009 Jul 29:1-13. [Epub ahead of print]

Toomey R, Alpern R, Vasterling JJ, Baker DG, Reda DJ, Lyons MJ, Henderson WG, Kang HK, Eisen SA, Murphy FM.

Research Service, Boston VA Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts.

Many U.S. Gulf War-era veterans complained of poor cognition following the war. This study assessed neuropsychological functioning in veterans 10 years after the war through objective tests. 2189 Gulf War-era veterans (1061 deployed, 1128 non-deployed) were examined at 1 of 16 U.S. Veterans Affairs medical centers. Outcomes included neuropsychological domains derived from factor analysis and individual test scores. Deployed veterans performed significantly worse than non-deployed veterans on 2 of 8 factors (motor speed & sustained attention, analysis not corrected for multiple comparisons) and on 4 of 27 individual test variables (Trails A & B, California Verbal Learning Test - List B, and Continuous Performance Test sensitivity, with only Trails B surviving Bonferroni correction). Within deployed veterans, Khamisiyah exposure was negatively correlated with motor speed after controlling for emotional distress. Depressive symptoms and self-reported exposure to toxicants were independently and significantly associated with worse sustained attention. Other factors were also associated with self-reported exposures. The findings were not a result of differential effort across groups. Gulf War deployment is associated with subtle declines of motor speed and sustained attention, despite overall intact neuropsychological functioning. Evidence suggests that toxicant exposures influence both these functions, and depressive symptoms also influence attention. (JINS, 2009, 1-13.).

PMID: 19640317 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Even Healthy Lungs Labor At Acceptable Ozone Levels

Even Healthy Lungs Labor At Acceptable Ozone Levels
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/07/090723175500.htm?tr=y&auid=5136619

"Ozone exposure, even at levels deemed safe by current clean air standards, can have a significant and negative effect on lung function, according to researchers at the University of California Davis."

Toxicity of play sand worries parents

Toxicity of play sand worries parents
http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/lifestyles/home_garden/article/H-SAND31_20090730-185807/283133/

"Cindy Bennett's only initial concern with the sandbox in her son's first outdoor play set was the mess it would create. She never thought the threat of cancer would be the issue that would keep Angus' sandbox empty to this day."

New 'Study' Fails to Analyze Key Health Benefits of Organic Food

New 'Study' Fails to Analyze Key Health Benefits of Organic Food
http://www.mulchblog.com/2009/07/new-study-fails-to-analyze-key-health-benefits-of-organic-food.html

Comment:  Besides nutrients, these studies fail to consider that the main reason people eat organic is NOT because they thing organic is more nutritious!  It's because organic doesn't use toxic synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides which have been found on the final product and linked over and over again to many health ailments. These are nothing more than mainstream agriculture and chemical company funded and biased studies to try to convince people to buy commercially grown produce. Are we buying it?  No way!

"A report from a group of English researchers who claim to have conducted "the most extensive systematic review of the available published literature on nutrient content of organic food ever conducted," downplayed their own results that favored organic food, and failed to consider the use of toxic pesticides or chemical additives when forming their conclusions."

Up in the Air: New Worries About 'Fume Events' on Planes

Up in the Air: New Worries About 'Fume Events' on Planes
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204900904574302293012711628.html  

"Any frequent flier knows that air on a plane can get pretty foul. But can it be toxic?"

Chinese Workers Say Illness Is Real, Not Hysteria

Chinese Workers Say Illness Is Real, Not Hysteria
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/30/world/asia/30jilin.html?_r=1&pagewanted=print

"Tian Lihua was just beginning her morning shift when she felt a wave of nausea, then numbness in her limbs and finally dizziness that gave way to unconsciousness. In the days that followed, more than 1,200 fellow employees at the textile mill where Ms. Tian works would be felled by these and other symptoms, including convulsions, breathing difficulties, vomiting and temporary paralysis."

NEWSLETTER: MCS America News - August 2009

MCSA NEWS
August 2009, Volume 4, Issue 8

 

Entire PDF Edition: http://mcs-america.org/august2009.pdf  (View, Download, and Print)
NEW!  Entire Online Edition: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsaugust2009.htm   (View as a Webpage)

 

 

Direct Links to Articles Inside This Issue:

 

The Facts About Cell Phone Radiation with Andrew Goldsworthy

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/August2009pg12345.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsaugust2009.htm#_The_Facts_About

 

Social Security Disability, Step 5, Vocational with Michael J. Walkup

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/August2009pg67.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsaugust2009.htm#_The_History_of_

 

Vaccine Adjuvant Linked to Autism and Cellular Damage

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/August2009pg89.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsaugust2009.htm#_Vaccine_Adjuvant_Linked

 

Hope for Singles with Chemical Sensitivity

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/August2009pg10.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsaugust2009.htm#_Hope_for_Singles

 

Time to Look at Your Living Space in a Different Light with Stephen Collette

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/August2009pg11121314.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsaugust2009.htm#_Welcome_to_MCS_1

 

Dampness Linked to Allergies

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/August2009pg15.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsaugust2009.htm#_Dampness_Linked_to

 

Q&A  Controlling Head Lice

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/August2009pg16.pdf 

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsaugust2009.htm#_Welcome_to_Multiple

 

Q&A  Treatment Not Working

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/August2009pg17.pdf 

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsaugust2009.htm#_Proposed_Treatment_of

 

Toxic Exposures and Dose Additive Effects

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/August2009pg18.pdf 

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsaugust2009.htm#_Toxic_Exposures_and

 

Drugs Contaminate Drinking Water

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/August2009pg19.pdf 

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsaugust2009.htm#_Drugs_Contaminate_Drinking

 

Indoor Air More Polluted

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/August2009pg20.pdf 

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsaugust2009.htm#_Indoor_Air_More

 

Patient Support and Resources

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/August2009pg2122232425262728.pdf 

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsaugust2009.htm#_Resources_and_Support

 

Community News

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/August2009pg29.pdf 

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsaugust2009.htm#_Community_News_5

 

Featured Research Studies

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/August2009pg303132.pdf 

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsaugust2009.htm#_Featured_Research_Studies_4

 

Multiple Chemical Sensitivities America
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34 hospitalized when they're overcome by perfume

34 hospitalized when they're overcome by perfume
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/tx/6553436.html

"At first, fire officials suspected that carbon monoxide or some other poisonous fumes might have sickened almost 150 people at a Fort Worth bank call center."

'We don't know where that money went'

'We don't know where that money went'

http://www.yourkanata.com/article/15050

 

"Nortel's long-term disability has no insurance policy."

Veterans and Agent Orange

The National Academies Press (2008)

Veterans and Agent Orange

http://books.nap.edu/openbook.php?isbn=0309138841&page=55_

Highway 101 no-spray pilot project to continue

Highway 101 no-spray pilot project to continue
http://www.southlincolncountynews.com/V2_news_articles.php?heading=0&page=72&story_id=971

"Oregon Department of Transportation Regional Director Jane Lee, in a letter dated July 16, announced that the original 25-mile no-spray pilot project from Newport south to the Lane County line will continue until at least 2011, despite the Oregon Legislature's failure to fund a larger project that would have included all of Lane County and much of U.S. Highway 101."

WVa school wants tests near proposed power line

WVa school wants tests near proposed power line

http://www.newsday.com/wva-school-wants-tests-near-proposed-power-line-1.1330204

 

"Jefferson County officials want information on how a proposed high voltage power line might affect the environment around an elementary school."

Urinary porphyrin excretion in normal children and adolescents.

Urinary porphyrin excretion in normal children and adolescents.

Clin Chim Acta. 2009 Jul;405(1-2):104-9. Epub 2009 Apr 24.

Woods JS, Martin MD, Leroux BG, DeRouen TA, Bernardo MF, Luis HS, Leitão JG, Simmonds PL, Rue TC.

Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA. jwoods@u.washington.edu

BACKGROUND: Urinary porphyrins are diagnostic of various metabolic disorders and xenobiotic exposures, but comprehensive normative data for urinary porphyrin concentrations in children are currently unavailable.

 

METHODS: Subjects were participants in a prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial of dental materials safety, 8 to 12 y at inception, who were followed longitudinally for 7 y after baseline with an extensive battery of neurobehavioral, neurological, renal function and urinary porphyrin assessments. Porphyrins were quantified by HPLC. Linear regression analyses were used to measure associations of porphyrin levels with age and gender.

 

RESULTS: Mean concentrations, 95% confidence intervals, and 10th, 50th, and 90th percentiles for all 5 typically excreted urinary porphyrins are presented by year of age and by gender. Unadjusted urinary concentrations (microg/l) of all 5 porphyrins remained relatively constant throughout the age range of 8-18 y for both males and females. In contrast, creatinine-adjusted urinary porphyrin concentrations (microg/g) declined significantly throughout this age range in both genders. Boys had significantly higher pentacarboxyl- and copro-porphyrin levels compared with girls both before and after creatinine adjustment.

 

CONCLUSIONS: Normative longitudinal data provided herein may facilitate the clinical assessment of pediatric metabolic disorders and may be of particular relevance in evaluating porphyrin changes as a biological indicator of disease or xenobiotic exposures among children and adolescents.

PMID: 19394319

Teens Trying To Turn College Dorm Rooms Green

Teens Trying To Turn College Dorm Rooms Green
http://cbs5.com/consumer/teens.turning.green.2.1103558.html

 

"It's back to school season and a group of eco-friendly teens wants consumers to be aware of "green" options when it comes to filling a college dorm room."

Former tenant sued for 'tweeting' about mold

Former tenant sued for 'tweeting' about mold
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5jU9B8H37eDcZiK0oA1ahSqldBFkg

"A Chicago real estate management company is suing a former tenant for defamation for complaining on Twitter about mold in her apartment."

Useful information on the Influenza A (Swine flu)

Useful information on the Influenza A (Swine flu)
http://www.theoneclickgroup.co.uk/documents/vaccines/Swine%20Flu%2C%20Dr%20Sarah%20Myhill%2C%20July%202009.pdf

 

This is perhaps the most logical and truthful information about the Swine Flu. 

Small Farms Challenge Expansion of FDA's Authority

Small Farms Challenge Expansion of FDA's Authority
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124873329161184987.html

"Small to mid-size farms and those growing organic foods are challenging the congressional effort to expand the Food and Drug Administration's food-safety powers."

Two Frogs, Two Pesticides and their Toxicity

Two Frogs, Two Pesticides and their Toxicity
http://eponline.com/articles/2009/07/27/two-frogs-two-pesticides-and-their-toxicity.aspx

"Two pesticides used in highly populated agricultural areas of California appear to be killing frogs that live and breed in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, according to results from a study published in the August 2009 issue of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry."

Declining Reproductive Health, Dangerous Chemicals, and a New Way Forward

Reproductive Roulette  
Declining Reproductive Health, Dangerous Chemicals, and a New Way Forward   
http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/2009/07/reproductive_roulette.html  

"Reproductive health in the United States is headed in the wrong direction; fertility problems, miscarriages, preterm births, and birth defects are all increasing."

Phthalate chemical in IV feeding tubes linked to preemie liver problems, German study suggests

Phthalate chemical in IV feeding tubes linked to preemie liver problems, German study suggests  
http://www.cbc.ca/cp/health/090727/x072702A.html 

"A chemical used in many plastic products and already under scrutiny for potential health risks is suspected of raising the risk of liver problems in premature babies, according to a new study. The small study in a German hospital suggests a chemical known as a phthalate, used in some intravenous feeding bags and tubing, may raise preemies' chances for liver damage."

Chemical drift a growing concern for rural residents

Chemical drift a growing concern for rural residents
http://www.pjstar.com/news/x1522163081/Chemical-drift-a-growing-concern-for-rural-residents

"Lawmakers grapple with ways to create notification system.  Paul Hahn, owner of Mackinaw Valley Vineyard, has battled chemical drift from nearby farm fields for more than a decade, and this year his vines got slammed by drift from the herbicide 2,4-D."

Allergic teacher's sacking 'unjust'

Allergic teacher's sacking 'unjust'
http://www.northernstar.com.au/story/2009/07/25/allergic-teachers-sacking-is-unjust/

"A BYRON Bay school teacher is heading back to work after winning a landmark court case which arose when she was sacked because she was allergic to parts of the school."

Dry cleaners leave a toxic legacy

Dry cleaners leave a toxic legacy
http://www.chicagotribune.com/health/chi-dry-cleaners-pollution-bd26-jul26,0,5184515.story

  "For decades, one of the nation's most widely used dry cleaning solvents was billed as a marvel of modern chemistry that could safely remove dirt and stains from clothing.  Shops sprang up to take advantage of the chemical, perchloroethylene, also known as PCE or perc. People became familiar with the sharp odor of clothes freshly removed from plastic wrap, a sign that perc was used to clean them.  But over the years, with little if any notice to the public, the often sloppy use of perchloroethylene has poisoned hundreds of sites in Illinois. As scientists linked perc exposure to cancer, liver damage, neurological problems and other ailments, regulators found problems in virtually every town with a dry cleaner."

What is Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS)?

What is Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS)?
http://www.mcs-america.org/index_files/MCS.htm

Controlled human exposures to ambient pollutant particles in susceptible populations

http://www.ehjournal.net/content/8/1/33

 

Yuh-Chin T Huang and Andrew J Ghio

Environmental Health 2009, 8:33doi:10.1186/1476-069X-8-33

Published:	25 July 2009

Abstract (provisional)

Epidemiologic studies have established an association between exposures to air pollution particles and human mortality and morbidity at concentrations of particles currently found in major metropolitan areas. The adverse effects of pollution particles are most prominent in susceptible subjects, including the elderly and patients with cardiopulmonary diseases. Controlled human exposure studies have been used to confirm the causal relationship between pollution particle exposure and adverse health effects. Earlier studies enrolled mostly young healthy subjects and have largely confirmed the capability of particles to cause adverse health effects shown in epidemiological studies. In the last few years, more studies involving susceptible populations have been published. These recent studies in susceptible populations, however, have shown that the adverse responses to particles appear diminished in these susceptible subjects compared to those in healthy subjects. The present paper reviewed and compared control human exposure studies to particles and sought to explain the "unexpected" response to particle exposure in these susceptible populations and make recommendations for future studies. We found that the causes for the discrepant results are likely multifactorial. Factors such as medications, the disease itself, genetic susceptibility, subject selection bias that is intrinsic to many controlled exposure studies and nonspecificity of study endpoints may explain part of the results. Future controlled exposure studies should select endpoints that are more closely related to the pathogenesis of the disease and reflect the severity of particle-induced health effects in the specific populations under investigation. Future studies should also attempt to control for medications and genetic susceptibility. Innovative study design, such as exposing subjects to filtered air and ambient levels of particles and assessing the improvement in biological endpoints during filtered air exposure, may allow the inclusion of higher risk patients who are likely the main contributors for the increased particle-induced health effects in epidemiological studies.

How to have healthier air in your home

How to have healthier air in your home
http://www.latimes.com/features/health/la-he-toxic-home27-2009jul27,0,4449703.story

"Open windows, be careful with cleaners and check housewares.  Good ventilation is probably the single most important step you can take toward making your home healthier, experts say. For the most part, the air you breathe while you're at home isn't nearly as clean as the air you breathe while you're outside (even if the outdoor air is fairly smoggy)."

USA Vaccination Exemption Forms and Information

USA Vaccination Exemption Forms and Information (state by state)

http://www.oasisadvancedwellness.com/learning/vaccination-exemption.html

Beware these household chemicals

Beware these household chemicals
http://www.latimes.com/features/health/la-hew-toxic-home-vocs27-2009jul27,0,3534493.story

"Two specific groups of chemicals are the source of considerable concern these days -- volatile organic compounds and phthalates. Here's what you need to know about how they affect your air."

In search of a nontoxic home

In search of a nontoxic home  
http://www.latimes.com/features/health/la-he-toxic-home-intro27-2009jul27,0,6043259.story
"Sensitive to an array of pollutants, Kathy Hemenway uprooted herself to find a clean environment. Should the rest of us worry?"

From the Los Angeles Times  

Chemtrails News LA, USA News Segment on Chemtrails

Chemtrails News LA, USA News Segment on Chemtrails
http://thetruthaboutmcs.blogspot.com/2009/07/chemtrails-news-la-usa-news-segment-on.html



Key Words: mcs, ultiple chemical sensitivity, chemical sensitivity, chemical sensitivities, multiple chemical sensitivities, MCS, EI, environmental illness, sick building syndrome, idiopathic environmental intolerance, fibromyalgia, chronic fatiuge, FM, CFS, mold illness, clinical ecology, alternative medicine, environmental medicine, neuropathy, encephalopathy, toxic, chemical, chemtrails

I'm allergic to wi-fi waves

I'm allergic to wi-fi waves
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/features/2552553/Wi-fi-waves-make-top-DJ-Dave-Miller-sick.html

"FOR Steve Miller a trip to his local High Street is a living hell that makes him sick, dizzy and confused.  Pubs make him feel the same and he can't use trains, airports or hotels without experiencing head-banging agony. But Steve doesn't suffer from some strange phobia. He is allergic to wi-fi."

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity: Toxicological and Sensitivity Mechanisms

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity:  Toxicological and Sensitivity Mechanisms
Full Text at:  http://thetenthparadigm.org/mcs09.htm

Abstract:
Cases of multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) are reported to be initiated by seven classes of chemicals. Each of the seven acts along a specific pathway, indirectly producing increases in NMDA activity in the mammalian body. Members of each of these seven classes have their toxicant responses lowered by NMDA antagonists, showing that the NMDA response is important for the toxic actions of these chemicals. The role of these chemicals acting as toxicants, in initiating cases of MCS has been confirmed by genetic evidence showing that six genes that influence the metabolism of these chemicals, all influence susceptibility to MCS. It is likely that chemicals act along these same pathways, leading to increased NMDA activity when they trigger sensitivity responses in MCS patients.

The chronic nature of MCS and also related multisystem illnesses is thought to be produced by a biochemical vicious cycle mechanism, the NO/ONOO- cycle, which is initiated by various stressors that increase nitric oxide and peroxynitrite levels (with some but not others acting via NMDA stimulation). The NO/ONOO- cycle is based on well documented individual mechanisms. The interaction of this cycle with previously documented MCS mechanisms, notably neural sensitization and neurogenic inflammation, explains many of the previously unexplained properties of MCS. This overall mechanism is also supported by physiological correlates found in MCS and related multisystem illnesses, objectively measurable responses to low level chemical exposure in MCS patients, many studies of apparent animal models of MCS and also evidence from therapeutic trials of MCS-related illnesses. Some have argued that MCS is a psychogenic illness, but this view is completely inconsistent with this diverse data on MCS and related illnesses and the literature claiming psychogenesis of MCS is deeply flawed. In addition, two rare predictions that can be used to test psychogenesis both lead to rejection of the psychogenic hypothesis. While the NO/ONOO- cycle mechanism for MCS is supported by many different observations, there are also multiple areas where further study is needed.

Another Source of Phthalate Exposure: Pills

Another Source of Phthalate Exposure: Pills
A new study finds that the coating on pills can make phthalates levels in the body spike 100-fold.
http://www.thedailygreen.com/environmental-news/latest/phthalates-pills-47072302?src=nl&mag=tdg&list=dgr

Quote of the Day

If everyone is thinking alike, then somebody isn't thinking.
- George S. Patton

State probe: Christmas ornament was hazardous

State probe: Christmas ornament was hazardous
http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_12902266

"A gingerbread man ornament, taken from a Layton-area home, was identified as the source of a chemical considered likely to cause cancer. Utah health officials are warning about similar molded plastic decorations, which could be hazardous.   It took months for environmental investigators to nab the culprit, a gingerbread man."

EPA Grant to University of Chicago for Research on Food Allergy Triggers

EPA Grant to University of Chicago for Research on Food Allergy Triggers
http://www.epa.gov/ncer/uchicago/foodallergy/  

"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded a $433,100 grant to the University of Chicago to investigate how allergic reactions to food are initiated. The research is expected to lead to improved methods to assess whether pesticides produced in genetically engineered plants can trigger food allergies, which impact more than 11 million Americans each year. The study is funded through EPA's Science to Achieve Results program (STAR)."

Electromagnetic Sensitivity Awareness Month in Canada

Canada just declared August as Electromagnetic Sensitivity Awareness Month!

Letter and Proclamation at:  http://colwood.fileprosite.com/FileStorage/0F1380D9502E4153B38C355BAB43124F-Mayors%20Press%20Release%20-%20EMS%20Sensitivity%20Month.pdf

Pesticide Exposure Linked to Parkinson's, Alzheimer's Disease

Pesticide Exposure Linked to Parkinson's, Alzheimer's Disease
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/706374

"Two new studies have added to the growing body of evidence pointing to a link between pesticide exposure and the risk for neurological disorders."

Prenatal Air Pollution Exposure Linked to Lower IQ

Prenatal Air Pollution Exposure Linked to Lower IQ
http://www.medpagetoday.com/PublicHealthPolicy/EnvironmentalHealth/15209

 
"Prenatal exposure to pervasive air pollutants may adversely affect a child's intelligence by preschool, researchers found."

Chronic fatigue sufferers largely ignored

Chronic fatigue sufferers largely ignored
http://www.vancouversun.com/health/Chronic+fatigue+sufferers+largely+ignored/1452610/story.html

"Greg Dust, who has chronic fatigue syndrome, says the condition derailed his career as a teacher.  In a world where most people function on a shortage of sleep, chronic fatigue syndrome is the Rodney Dangerfield of diseases -- it gets no respect. And in Canada, it gets little or no money.  It's so bad that sufferers, estimated to number four million in the U.S. and 400,000 here, have to fund the research themselves to come up with a simple blood test just to diagnose the syndrome."

"Mono" linked to chronic fatigue syndrome in teens

"Mono" linked to chronic fatigue syndrome in teens
http://www.vancouversun.com/health/Mono+linked+chronic+fatigue+syndrome+teens/1817020/story.html

"Researchers monitored 301 adolescents with mononucleosis. Six months after the diagnosis, 70 patients (24 percent) had not made a full recovery."

Anticardiolipin antibodies in the sera of patients with diagnosed chronic fatigue syndrome.

Anticardiolipin antibodies in the sera of patients with diagnosed chronic fatigue syndrome.

Journal: J Clin Lab Anal. 2009 Jul 21;23(4):210-212. [Epub ahead of print]

Hokama Y, Campora CE, Hara C, Kuribayashi T, Le Huynh D, Yabusaki K.

Department of Pathology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Mânoa, Honolulu, Hawaii.

NLM Citation: PMID: 19623655

Examination of anticardiolipin antibodies (ACAs) in the sera of patients clinically diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) using an enzyme-linked immunoassay procedure demonstrated the presence of immunoglobulin M isotypes in 95% of CFS serum samples tested.

The presence of immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin A isotypes were also detected in a subset of the samples.

Future studies will focus on elucidating whether alterations to mitochondrial inner membranes and/or metabolic functions play a possible role in the expression of ACAs.

Play explores fatigue illness in marriage

Play explores fatigue illness in marriage
http://universe.byu.edu/node/1083

"Many people go through life wishing they had enough time in the day to do the things they need to before it's time for bed. But for some, bedtime comes sooner and more often than normal, making it difficult to do anything at all.  Chronic fatigue syndrome is the theme behind the new play "Standing Still Standing," a dramatic production by Bluelight Stage and Leilani Productions, in association with New Play Project. Directed by Landon Wheeler on the stage of the Provo Theatre, it is a comedic play depicting the struggle many people go through in their fight to stay awake on a daily basis."

Chinese drywall leaving home toxic after it's removed

Chinese drywall leaving home toxic after it's removed
http://www.winknews.com/news/local/51335127.html  

"A Charlotte County couple has had enough of the Chinese drywall in their home. Now, they are taking matters into their own hands... literally. They ripped it out, thinking that would solve their problem, but it didn't."

Fw: [MCSAfeeds] South Whitehall Township woman says she'll fight ruling that 'bubble' must be removed

South Whitehall Township woman says she'll fight ruling that 'bubble' must be removed  
http://www.mcall.com/news/local/all-5bubble.6965544jul22,0,5168076.story

A panel of Commonwealth Court judges has affirmed a Lehigh County judge's decision to order a South Whitehall couple to remove an allergen-free building known as the ''bubble'' from their property.  But Elizabeth Feudale, who says the bubble is essential to her health, said she and her husband, Craig Bowes, will continue fighting to keep the 11-by-14-foot structure on their property.  ''We're not laying down for them, that's for sure,'' said Feudale, 53. ''We're going to do what we have to do to keep me alive.''

Ottawa architect Phillip Sharp designed for the environmentally hypersensitive

Ottawa architect Phillip Sharp designed for the environmentally hypersensitive
http://communities.canada.com/ottawacitizen/blogs/designingottawa/archive/2009/07/22/ottawa-architect-phillip-sharp-pioneered-housing-for-people-with-environmental-sensitivity.aspx   

"Phil did a considerable amount of work in social housing, including a pioneering project for those with extreme environmental sensitivities."
 

Pa. court upholds ruling to remove 'bubble' home

Pa. court upholds ruling to remove 'bubble' home 
http://www.ldnews.com/news/ci_12884461

 

"A Pennsylvania appeals court has upheld a Lehigh County judge's ruling that a man must remove a modular housing unit from his property. But Craig Bowes and his wife, Elizabeth Feudale, maintain that the structure's anti-allergen properties are critical to Feudale's health and plan to appeal the July 7 Commonwealth Court ruling."
 
 

San Rafael council OKs antennas near Ecology House

San Rafael council OKs antennas near Ecology House  
http://www.marinij.com/marinnews/ci_12880530
"Cell phone antennas will be installed near a home for chemically sensitive people in East San Rafael, despite residents' pleas to move the high-tech equipment elsewhere."

 

Comment:  Please write or call San Rafael City Council with complaints about this.  They need to hear from more than just EH residents.  This is an outrage!

A Bill Moyers essay on health care.

A Bill Moyers essay on health care.
http://thetruthaboutmcs.blogspot.com/2009/07/bill-moyers-essay-on-health-care.html

Bill Moyers Journal airs Friday nights at 9 pm on PBS, check your local listings. http://www.pbs.org/moyers/j...



Key Words: multiple chemical sensitivity, chemical sensitivity, chemical sensitivities, multiple chemical sensitivities, MCS, EI, environmental illness, sick building syndrome, idiopathic environmental intolerance, fibromyalgia, chronic fatiuge, FM, CFS, mold illness, clinical ecology, alternative medicine, environmental medicine, neuropathy, encephalopathy, toxic, chemical

Team 4: Asthma Increasing Among Pittsburgh-Area Kids

Team 4: Asthma Increasing Among Pittsburgh-Area Kids
http://www.thepittsburghchannel.com/team4/20120431/detail.html

Check this out:
In Allegheny County, a 60 percent increase in the rate of school children with asthma.
In Butler County, a 63 percent increase.
In Greene County, a 79 percent spike.
Those are the kind of numbers that made us ask, "What's going on?"

Children's IQ can be affected by mother's exposure to urban air pollutants

Children's IQ can be affected by mother's exposure to urban air pollutants  
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2009-07/cums-cic072009.php

"Prenatal exposure to environmental pollutants known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can adversely affect a child's intelligence quotient or IQ, according to new research by the the Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health (CCCEH) at the Mailman School of Public Health. PAHs are chemicals released into the air from the burning of coal, diesel, oil and gas, or other organic substances such as tobacco. In urban areas motor vehicles are a major source of PAHs. The study findings are published in the August 2009 issue of Pediatrics."
 
 

Airline Staff Illness Increases Toxic Air Fears

Airline Staff Illness Increases Toxic Air Fears
http://www.comparecarhire.co.uk/news/airline-staff-illness-increases-toxic-air-fears-5386129.html

Comment:  Some good statistics here!

"A new survey that has been given to pilots, as well as crew members, for different airlines as now risen concerns over whether passengers on planes are inhaling contaminated air. The survey found out that an alarmingly high level of illnesses have contracted since they started working in the airline industry."

Non-Smoking Policies in Public Housing

Non-Smoking Policies in Public Housing
http://www.hud.gov/offices/pih/publications/notices/09/pih2009-21.pdf

Purpose. This notice strongly encourages Public Housing Authorities (PHAs)
to implement
non-smoking policies in some or all of their public housing units. According
to the American
Lung Association, cigarette smoking is the number one cause of preventable
disease in the
United States. The elderly and young populations, as well as people with
chronic illnesses, are
especially vulnerable to the adverse effects of smoking. This concern was
recently addressed by
the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, P.L. 111-31, signed
by the President
on June 22, 2009. Because Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) can migrate
between units in
multifamily housing, causing respiratory illness, heart disease, cancer, and
other adverse health
effects in neighboring families, the Department is encouraging PHAs to adopt
non-smoking
policies. By reducing the public health risks associated with tobacco use,
this notice will enhance
the effectiveness of the Department's efforts to provide increased public
health protection for
residents of public housing. Smoking is also an important source of fires
and fire-related deaths
and injuries. Currently, there is no Departmental guidance on smoking in
public housing.

5 Basics for Non-Toxic Cleaning

5 Basics for Non-Toxic Cleaning
http://www.care2.com/greenliving/five-basics-for-nontoxic-cleaning.html

"Learning to clean from scratch—making homemade recipes—can truly work if you take time to understand a bit about the chemistry behind how the materials work. Here are the five ingredients that I find to be the safest, most effective, and useful for cleaning."

 

Comment:  The "disinfectant" section recommends essential oils.  Vinegar and peroxide can be used back to back instead.

Myriad chemicals enter environment

Myriad chemicals enter environment

http://www.venturacountystar.com/news/2009/jul/19/myriad-chemicals-enter-environment/

"Hazardous materials spill in Ventura County. A lot.  There were 100 gallons of acetone, styrene and other flammable chemicals dumped into an Oxnard street after a 2007 tractor-trailer crash.  More than 200 gallons of sulfuric acid emptied into Ventura's storm drains after a spill at a linen supply company in 2006.  A few cups of cyanide after an unsuccessful suicide attempt in Oxnard had to be dealt with. And then there are the more than 15,000 gallons of gas and diesel spilled after car accidents, 10 million gallons of sewage that flowed into the county's streams and more than 540,000 gallons of crude oil that spilled onto the ground during oil production.  All told, more than 13 million gallons of pollutants have spilled on the ground and into the waterways around Ventura County in the past five years."

The Idiopathic Environmental Intolerance Symptom Inventory: Development, Evaluation, and Application

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine:

July 2009 - Volume 51 - Issue 7 - pp 838-847

doi: 10.1097/JOM.0b013e3181a7f021

 

Original Articles

The Idiopathic Environmental Intolerance Symptom Inventory: Development, Evaluation, and Application

 

Andersson, Maria J. E. MSc; Andersson, Linus MSc; Bende, Mats MD, PhD; Millqvist, Eva MD, PhD; Nordin, Steven PhD

 

Abstract

 

Objective: To develop, evaluate, and apply a questionnaire-based instrument for investigation of specific symptoms in idiopathic environmental intolerance (IEI), called the Idiopathic Environmental Intolerance Symptom Inventory (IEISI).

 

Methods: Participants with IEI to chemicals responded to 82 candidate symptoms and to three subscales of the Quick Environmental Exposure and Sensitivity Inventory (QEESI) at a test (n = 207) and retest (n = 193) occasion.

 

Results: The 27 most commonly reported symptoms were selected and grouped into five symptom categories. Internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and concurrent validity were found to be satisfying. Cluster analysis identified two subgroups of IEI to chemicals.

 

Conclusions: The results provide support for the IEISI being a reliable, valid, and fast tool for the study of specific symptom prevalence in IEI and encourage further study of subgroups.

Contact sensitization to fragrances in the general population: a Koch's approach may reveal the burden of disease.

Contact sensitization to fragrances in the general population: a Koch's approach may reveal the burden of disease.

Br J Dermatol. 2009 Apr;160(4):729-35. Epub 2009 Feb 4.

Thyssen JP, Menné T, Linneberg A, Johansen JD.

National Allergy Research Centre, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Gentofte University Hospital, Gentofte, Denmark. jacpth01@geh.regionh.dk

BACKGROUND: Contact sensitization to fragrance mix (FM) I and Myroxylon pereirae (MP) is common among European patients with dermatitis. Recently, FM II was included in the European baseline series as an additional marker of fragrance sensitization. OBJECTIVES: This literature review aims to assess the prevalence of fragrance sensitization in the general population, and to suggest how future population-based studies and questionnaires should be constructed, better to assess the prevalence and burden of fragrance sensitization. This is of relevance as it is often difficult to establish causality in biological systems. METHODS: A systematic review of the literature was carried out by searching Pubmed-Medline, Biosis and contact dermatitis textbooks. RESULTS: Nineteen studies were identified, of which 13 were performed among adults. Sample sizes varied between 82 and 2545 tested subjects, and 11 648 subjects were tested in total. The median prevalence of FM and MP sensitization among adults was 2.3% (women, 1.7%; men, 1.3%) and 1.1% (women, 1.4%; men, 0%), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the reliability of patch test data from the general population and exposure data obtained from patients with dermatitis, the prevalence and burden of fragrance sensitization in the general population is significant.

PMID: 19210499 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Nowhere to hide: Chemical toxicants and the unborn child.

Nowhere to hide: Chemical toxicants and the unborn child.

Reprod Toxicol. 2009 Jul;28(1):115-116. Epub 2009 Mar 31. LinkOut

Genuis SJ.

University of Alberta, Faculty of Medicine, 2935-66 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6K 4C1.

Contemporary reproductive aged women and their offspring are facing an unprecedented onslaught of toxicant exposures from myriad sources in their day-to-day life. Public health recommendations regarding optimal diet and nutrition in pregnancy must incorporate several considerations including safety of available foodstuffs, cultural practices and lifestyle issues. Gestational consumption of contaminated seafood remains a potential source of toxicant exposure, including mercury, for the developing child. Health care professionals responsible for the care of women and their developing children need to become apprised of: a) risks associated with toxicant bioaccumulation in pregnancy; b) ongoing information emerging in the important field of reproductive toxicology; and c) strategies within the clinical setting to facilitate nutritional sufficiency and precautionary avoidance of adverse exposure among young women.

PMID: 19596629 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Polychlorinated biphenyls in domestic dust from Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom and United States: implications for human exposure.

Polychlorinated biphenyls in domestic dust from Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom and United States: implications for human exposure.

Chemosphere. 2009 Jun;76(2):232-8. Epub 2009 Apr 7. LinkOut

Harrad S, Ibarra C, Robson M, Melymuk L, Zhang X, Diamond M, Douwes J.

Division of Environmental Health and Risk Management, School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom. S.J.Harrad@bham.ac.uk

Ingestion of indoor dust has been highlighted as an important pathway of exposure to brominated flame retardants. Hence, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were determined in indoor dust from homes in Amarillo/Austin, TX, USA (n=20; median concentration=200 ng Sigma PCB g(-1)); Birmingham, UK (n=20; 48 ng Sigma PCB g(-1)); Toronto, Canada (n=10; 260 ng Sigma PCB g(-1)); and Wellington, New Zealand (n=20; 46 ng Sigma PCB g(-1)). Concentrations in Canadian and US samples were statistically indistinguishable, but exceeded significantly (p<0.05) those in both New Zealand and UK dust. Principal component analysis revealed that while UK samples were enriched comparatively in lower molecular weight congeners; samples from other countries contained proportionally more mid-to-high molecular weight congeners. Concentrations of PCBs determined in air from the same 10 Canadian homes showed concentrations (median=4.9 ng Sigma PCB m(-3)) higher than those reported previously for UK homes (1.8 ng Sigma PCB m(-3)). Interpretation of these data alongside that for dietary exposure from other studies suggest that indoor exposures (i.e. air and dust combined) may be a significant contributor to overall exposure for the majority of the population - ranging from 4.3% to 87% in adults and 1.6-73% in toddlers. While inhalation is the principal indoor pathway under a typical dust ingestion scenario, exposure via dust ingestion exceeds that from either inhalation or diet for a small proportion of North American toddlers.

PMID: 19356786 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Brominated flame retardants and other polyhalogenated compounds in indoor air and dust from two houses in Japan.

Brominated flame retardants and other polyhalogenated compounds in indoor air and dust from two houses in Japan.

Chemosphere. 2009 Jun;76(2):270-7. Epub 2009 Apr 9. LinkOut

 

Takigami H, Suzuki G, Hirai Y, Sakai S.

Research Center for Material Cycles and Waste Management, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2, Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8506, Japan. takigami@nies.go.jp

This study analyzed polyhalogenated compounds (PHCs) such as brominated flame retardants (BFRs) in indoor air and dust samples from two modern homes in Japan. Concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and 2,4,6-tribromophenol (2,4,6-TBP) in exhaust and indoor air of two houses were detected at 10(2)-10(3)pgm(-3) order, which were well above those in outdoor air. For dust samples, the detected polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) and polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furan concentrations resembled values found in our past study. Interestingly, compared to PBDE concentrations, two orders of magnitude higher concentration (13000 ng g(-1)) was observed for hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDs) in a dust sample from one house. Based on the calculation of air/dust partition ratio values (Kad), low Kad values (log Kad <or=0) were obtained for high brominated PBDEs (pentaBDEs - decaBDE), tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), and HBCDs, although indoor air contained higher contents of low chlorinated PCBs, low brominated PBDEs, and 2,4,6-TBP. Attention should be given to exposure to 2,4,6-TBP through inhalation of air as well as dust ingestion. Results of X-ray fluorescence analysis show high bromine concentrations in curtain and roll screen samples possessing a high product loading factor. Furthermore, a preliminary estimation was made of the likely magnitude of inhabitants' exposure to PHCs via inhalation and dust ingestion in the two houses.

PMID: 19361833 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Assessment of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in samples collected from indoor environments in South East Queensland, Australia.

Assessment of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in samples collected from indoor environments in South East Queensland, Australia.

Chemosphere. 2009 Jun;76(2):173-8. Epub 2009 Apr 24. LinkOut

Toms LM, Bartkow ME, Symons R, Paepke O, Mueller JF.

The University of Queensland, National Research Centre for Environmental Toxicology, 39 Kessels Road, Coopers Plains, QLD 4108, Australia. l.toms@uq.edu.au

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are compounds that are used as flame retardants. Human exposure is suggested to be via food, dust and air. An assessment of PBDE exposure via indoor environments using samples of air, dust and surface wipes from eight sites in South East Queensland, Australia was conducted. For indoor air, SigmaPBDEs ranged from 0.5-179 pg/m(3) for homes and 15-487 pg/m(3) for offices. In dust, SigmaPBDEs ranged from 87-733 ng/g dust and 583-3070 ng/g dust in homes and offices, respectively. PBDEs were detected on 9 out of 10 surfaces sampled and ranged from non-detectable to 5985 pg/cm(2). Overall, the congener profiles for air and dust were dominated by BDE-209. This study demonstrated that PBDEs are ubiquitous in the indoor environments of selected buildings in South East Queensland and suggest the need for detailed assessment of PBDE concentrations using more sites to further investigate the factors influencing PBDE exposure in Australia.

PMID: 19394067 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Monitoring and reducing exposure of infants to pollutants in house dust.

Monitoring and reducing exposure of infants to pollutants in house dust.

Rev Environ Contam Toxicol. 2009;201:1-39.

Roberts JW, Wallace LA, Camann DE, Dickey P, Gilbert SG, Lewis RG, Takaro TK.

US Environmental Protection Agency, Reston, VA 22091, USA.

The health risks to babies from pollutants in house dust may be 100 times greater than for adults. The young ingest more dust and are up to ten times more vulnerable to such exposures. House dust is the main exposure source for infants to allergens, lead, and PBDEs, as well as a major source of exposure to pesticides, PAHs, Gram-negative bacteria, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, phthalates, phenols, and other EDCs, mutagens, and carcinogens. Median or upper percentile concentrations in house dust of lead and several pesticides and PAHs may exceed health-based standards in North America. Early contact with pollutants among the very young is associated with higher rates of chronic illness such as asthma, loss of intelligence, ADHD, and cancer in children and adults. The potential of infants, who live in areas with soil contaminated by automotive and industrial emissions, can be given more protection by improved home cleaning and hand washing. Babies who live in houses built before 1978 have a prospective need for protection against lead exposures; homes built before 1940 have even higher lead exposure risks. The concentration of pollutants in house dust may be 2-32 times higher than that found in the soil near a house. Reducing infant exposures, at this critical time in their development, may reduce lifetime health costs, improve early learning, and increase adult productivity. Some interventions show a very rapid payback. Two large studies provide evidence that home visits to reduce the exposure of children with poorly controlled asthma triggers may return more than 100% on investment in 1 yr in reduced health costs. The tools provided to families during home visits, designed to reduce dust exposures, included vacuum cleaners with dirt finders and HEPA filtration, allergy control bedding covers, high-quality door mats, and HEPA air filters. Infants receive their highest exposure to pollutants in dust at home, where they spend the most time, and where the family has the most mitigation control. Normal vacuum cleaning allows deep dust to build up in carpets where it can be brought to the surface and become airborne as a result of activity on the carpet. Vacuums with dirt finders allow families to use the three-spot test to monitor deep dust, which can reinforce good cleaning habits. Motivated families that receive home visits from trained outreach workers can monitor and reduce dust exposures by 90% or more in 1 wk. The cost of such visits is low considering the reduction of risks achieved. Improved home cleaning is one of the first results observed among families who receive home visits from MHEs and CHWs. We believe that proven intervention methods can reduce the exposure of infants to pollutants in house dust, while recognizing that much remains to be learned about improving the effectiveness of such methods.

PMID: 19484587 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

[Health effects of particulate matter exposure: current scientific knowledge]

Pneumologie. 2009 Jul;63(7):363-8. Epub 2009 Jul 9. LinkOut

[Health effects of particulate matter exposure: current scientific knowledge]

[Article in German]

Groneberg DA, Morfeld P, Kraus T, Köhler D, Krug N, Magnussen H, Nowak D, Rabe KF, Schultze-Werninghaus G, Schulz H, Teschler H, Vogelmeier C, Wagner U, Welte T, Voshaar T, Witt C.

Institut für Arbeitsmedizin, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin und Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin. arbeitsmedizin@charite.de

INTRODUCTION: Air quality is not only important for respiratory health but it also influences the homeostasis of the whole human organism. In the past years numerous violations of European Union particulate matter thresholds have been recorded. METHODS: The present study is a selective literature analysis encompassing the epidemiology and pathophysiological effects of particulate matter. RESULTS: Epidemiological studies point to an association between chronic particulate matter exposure and mortality. The most prominent effects on the human body are present in subjects with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions. However, the effects of air pollutants need to be examined critically and the plausibility of thresholds should be evaluated in detail. DISCUSSION: The negative influences of chronic particulate matter exposure have been proven by a multitude of epidemiological and experimental studies. From the viewpoint of primary prevention, air quality plays a crucial role. This encompasses both the outdoor compartment with particulate matter and other pollutants and the indoor compartment with tobacco smoke.

PMID: 19591081 [PubMed - in process]

Commentary: Protecting our children's health: The ultimate government 'stimulus package'.

J Public Health Policy. 2009 Jul;30(2):158-62.LinkOut

Commentary: Protecting our children's health: The ultimate government 'stimulus package'.

Oliver LC.

aOccuptional Health Initiatives, Incorporated, 60 Amory Street, Brookline, Massachusetts, MA 02446-3909, USA.

The Children's Environment and Health Action Plan for Europe has established four Regional Priority Goals (RPG) for the protection of the health of children. Hutter et al (JPHP 2009) have developed and tested an accessible method for addressing one aspect of RPG III: indoor and outdoor air pollution. The study provides an accessible method for use by communities to access effects of air pollution in and around the home on the respiratory health of children. This Commentary reviews that study, as well as other evidence in the scientific literature of effects of indoor and outdoor air pollution on children's respiratory health. In addition, this Commentary discusses the importance of air quality in schools to children's respiratory health and to school attendance and performance, citing supportive dat and urging action on this front.Journal of Public Health Policy (2009) 30, 158-162. doi:10.1057/jphp.2009.8.

PMID: 19597447 [PubMed - in process]