Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Franken seeks ingredient labeling for household cleansers
http://www.kare11.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=825520&catid=391

"You know what's in your food and many beauty products. Senator Al Franken wants to make it possible to see exactly what's in your household cleaning products as well. The Minnesota Democrat introduced a bill in the U.S. Senate requiring producers to fully disclose all ingredients on their product labels, including those suspected of causing long-term harm. Currently the warnings on cleansers are designed to prevent immediate harm due to swallowing, splashing in eyes or other unintended uses.""

EPA unveils plan to review 6 controversial chemicals, reform US toxics policy

EPA unveils plan to review 6 controversial chemicals, reform US toxics policy
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/news/epa-chemicals

"President Obama's top environmental official announced a new push to transform the way the nation regulates toxic chemicals that may endanger people and the environment. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa Jackson called the workings of a 1976 law 'inordinately cumbersome and time-consuming' and said the administration will promote a new chemical law in Congress.In the meantime, the EPA will analyze and regulate six high-profile, widely used chemicals that have raised health concerns, including BPA and phthalates."

NEWSLETTER: MCS America News - October 2009

MCSA NEWS
October 2009, Volume 4, Issue 10

Entire PDF Edition: http://mcs-america.org/september2009.pdf (View, Download, and Print)
NEW! Entire Online Edition: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsseptember2009.htm (View as a Webpage)

Direct Links to Articles Inside This Issue:

Getting to the Point

How to Effectively Communicate MCS

PDF Version: http://mcs-america.org/October2009pg12345678910.pdf

Online Version: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsoctober2009.htm#_Getting_to_the

Social Security Disability

Appeals

PDF Version: http://mcs-america.org/October2009pg1112.pdf

Online Version: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsoctober2009.htm#_Walkup_Talks_Disability_

Asthma May Be Linked to Toxic Exposures

PDF Version: http://mcs-america.org/October2009pg13.pdf

Online Version: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsoctober2009.htm#_Asthma_May_Be

Stephen's Healthy Housing Column

Time to Look at Your House as a System

PDF Version: http://mcs-america.org/October2009pg14151617.pdf

Online Version: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsoctober2009.htm#_Welcome_to_MCS_2

AMA to Train Health Providers on Health Effects of Toxic Chemical Exposures

PDF Version: http://mcs-america.org/October2009pg1819.pdf

Online Version: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsoctober2009.htm#_AMA_to_Train

Cell Phones Proven Dangerous

PDF Version: http://mcs-america.org/October2009pg20.pdf

Online Version: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsoctober2009.htm#_Cell_Phones_Proven

Gene Responsible for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Identified

PDF Version: http://mcs-america.org/October2009pg21.pdf

Online Version: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsoctober2009.htm#_Gene_Responsible_for

Hep B Vaccines Triples Risk of Autism

PDF Version: http://mcs-america.org/October2009pg22.pdf

Online Version: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsoctober2009.htm#_Hep_B_Vaccine

Mold Linked to Allergies

PDF Version: http://mcs-america.org/October2009pg23.pdf

Online Version: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsoctober2009.htm#_Mold_Linked_to

Vaccines, Infections, & Consumer Goods May Lead to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

PDF Version: http://mcs-america.org/October2009pg24.pdf

Online Version: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsoctober2009.htm#_Vaccines,_Infections,_&

Patient Support and Resources

PDF Version: http://mcs-america.org/October2009pg2526272829303132.pdf

Online Version: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsoctober2009.htm#_Resources_and_Support

Community News

PDF Version: http://mcs-america.org/October2009pg33.pdf

Online Version: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsoctober2009.htm#_Community_News_7

Featured Research Studies

PDF Version: http://mcs-america.org/October2009pg343536.pdf

Online Version: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsoctober2009.htm#_Featured_Research_Studies_6

Multiple Chemical Sensitivities America
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EPA Announces Research Strategy to Study Nanomaterials

EPA Announces Research Strategy to Study Nanomaterials
http://www.epa.gov/nanoscience

"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today outlined a new research strategy to better understand how manufactured nanomaterials may harm human health and the environment. Nanomaterials are materials that are between approximately one and 100 nanometers. A nanometer is approximately 1/100,000 the width of a human hair. These materials are currently used in hundreds of consumer products, including sunscreen, cosmetics and sports equipment."

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Controversial neurosurgeon's license won't be renewed

Controversial neurosurgeon's license won't be renewed

http://www.mountainx.com/news/2009/093009buzz5

"For the past decade Rosner has been performing a medical procedure undertaken by only a handful of the nation's neurosurgeons: cutting away bits of the spine and the back of the skull to treat neurological conditions found among patients often diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia. Rosner, an expert in trauma neurosurgery before his current work, practices out of a small office in Fletcher next to Park Ridge Hospital, where he has performed his surgeries."

Fundraiser Sunday to benefit victim of mold poisoning

Fundraiser Sunday to benefit victim of mold poisoning
http://www.shorenewstoday.com/news.php?id=4638

"Jennifer Parker has lived in a tent since contracting mycotoxicosis. Members of the community will gather at American Legion Post 352 Sunday to raise funds for Jennifer Parker, who has been suffering from a mold poisoning that has forced her to live in a tent in her parents' backyard."

EPA suggests testing for PCBs

EPA suggests testing for PCBs
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2009/09/29/epa_suggests_testing_caulk_in_older_buildings?mode=PF

"The US Environmental Protection Agency is recommending that owners of older buildings, including schools, test brittle, aging masonry and window caulking for high levels of chemicals believed to cause cancer."

EPA gives Congress a heads-up on toxic chemicals

EPA gives Congress a heads-up on toxic chemicals

http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2009-09-29-epa-toxins_N.htm

"The Obama administration is announcing new principles to guide Congress in updating the 33-year-old law that governs how the Environmental Protection Agency controls toxic chemicals, saying the current law is inadequate to protect against risks."

MCS house for rent

MCS House for Rent

Comment: NFI... please contact them with any questions or concerns.

MCS House for Rent

Safer MCS house in Santa Fe, NM. Spacious 3BD/2BA,

very clean, mostly furnished, tall ceilings, tile floors,

private landscaped yard, w/d, in -floor radiant, solar &

electric heat. Pesticide Free over 8 years. Available from

November - May (possibly longer?) $1650 + util.

Sorry, no pets or Section 8. Please email me for pictures

and phone number. aornm@comcast.net

Children Living Near Agricultural Pesticide Use Have Higher Cancer Rate

Children Living Near Agricultural Pesticide Use Have Higher Cancer Rate
http://www.beyondpesticides.org/dailynewsblog/?p=2480

"A new study reveals that children exposed to agricultural pesticides applied near their home have up to twice the risk of developing the most common form of childhood leukemia..."

Lyme disease doc gets 'Under Our Skin'

Lyme disease doc gets 'Under Our Skin'
http://www.tallahassee.com/article/20090918/ENT/909180313/Lyme-disease-doc-gets--Under-Our-Skin-

"There's an old barroom pick-up line in the South that goes something along the lines of: "You're so good looking, I'd like to take you home and check you for ticks." No, it never works. But after watching the truly chilling and unsettling Lyme disease documentary "Under Our Skin," you may want to keep a good friend handy to give you an inch-by-inch body inspection every time you've returned from walking or camping in the woods."

Plane toxins 'brain damage link'

Plane toxins 'brain damage link'
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8270972.stm

"Toxins found in airliner air systems can be linked to the neurological symptoms suffered by some pilots, according to researchers. For years pilots and cabin crew have blamed their long-term exposure to jet engine fumes for symptoms such as memory loss and muscle spasms. Now a neurophysiologist says the symptoms can only be explained by exposure to onboard organophosphates."

Monday, September 28, 2009

Monsanto, Cousins Face Series of Lawsuits in Sauget, MO.

Monsanto, Cousins Face Series of Lawsuits in Sauget, MO.
http://www.organicconsumers.org/articles/article_19231.cfm

"Seven civil lawsuits have been filed so far this year in St. Clair County Circuit Court that name four of the original Monsanto's corporate relatives - Pharmacia, Solutia, Pfizer and Monsanto AG Products. The suits allege environmental and health abuses involving the release of toxic PCBs and dioxins."

Experts Say Industry Food Labels Deceptive

Experts Say Industry Food Labels Deceptive
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/09/06/eveningnews/main5291352.shtml

"Manufacturers Add "Smart Choices" Labels to Packages, Mimicking Government Nutrition Labels; Bid to Push Processed Foods?"

Schoolgirl dies after cervical cancer vaccination

Schoolgirl dies after cervical cancer vaccination

http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2009/sep/28/hpv-cervical-cancer-vaccine-death

"An urgent investigation has been launched after a 14-year-old girl died shortly after receiving a cervical cancer vaccination at her school."

Senators Introduce Bill to Protect Consumers from Formaldehyde in Composite Wood Products

Senators Introduce Bill to Protect Consumers from Formaldehyde in Composite Wood Products
http://afhh.org/res/res_pubs/alert_sept09.pdf

"On September 11, U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D, MN) and Mike Crapo (R, ID) introduced legislation to establish national health standards for formaldehyde in composite wood products. The bill would cover both domestic products and foreign imports. With broad support from the wood products industry as well as environmental, health and labor organizations, it is widely expected to be enacted without significant controversy."

Inhaling a Heart Attack: How Air Pollution Can Cause Heart Disease

Inhaling a Heart Attack: How Air Pollution Can Cause Heart Disease
http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS129768+08-Sep-2009+PRN20090908

"University of Michigan tests show short-term exposure to fine particle air pollution can drive up high blood pressure, raise risk of heart attack."

EPA announces plans to step up chemical regulation

EPA announces plans to step up chemical regulation
http://networkedblogs.com/p12989213

"The Environmental Protection Agency's toxics chief says his agency has plans to dramatically ramp up regulation of toxic chemicals and could go as far as banning some existing chemicals that pose threats to human health."

Bill puts emphasis on improving school building air quality

Bill puts emphasis on improving school building air quality
http://www.weac.org/news_and_publications/09-09-08/Bill_puts_emphasis_on_improving_school_building_air_quality.aspx

"Providing for our students' education can mean more than textbooks and curriculum – it can mean a safe place to learn with clean air to breathe."

Mercury limits suspended for H1N1 vaccine to improve access

Mercury limits suspended for H1N1 vaccine to improve access
http://www.klewtv.com/news/local/61286912.html

In a news release, officials said Secretary of Health Mary Selecky is temporarily suspending Washington's limit on the amount of mercury (thimerosal) allowed in H1N1 (swine flu) vaccine given to pregnant women and children under three.

Montgomery Wants to Know: Will That Road Make You Sick?

Montgomery Wants to Know: Will That Road Make You Sick?
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/09/27/AR2009092702890.html

"Montgomery County officials want to know if that new road might make you wheeze. Officials on Tuesday will propose requiring health studies before major roads are approved. They want to gauge how vehicle exhaust will affect minors, seniors, women who might have children, heart patients and others."

Officials knew for decades that Scofieldtown park was contaminated

Officials knew for decades that Scofieldtown park was contaminated
http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/ci_13429665

"In the woods on the northern edge of Scofieldtown Park are remnants of its days as a landfill. Containers lay strewn among the trees -- milk and 7UP bottles that haven't been used since the 1950s."

Dangers the eye cannot see

Dangers the eye cannot see
http://www.news.com.au/adelaidenow/story/0,22606,26137025-5006301,00.html

"NO matter where you live, the air you breathe, the water you drink and the food you eat is likely to be contaminated. The list of ingredients in your chemical cocktail is growing. There are nanoparticles from some toothpastes, cosmetics and sunscreens, persistent chemicals from fire-fighting foams and traces of drugs that were once taken by other people. But the sad truth is, even the world's best environmental scientists simply don't know how to clean up the mess."

Late Lessons from Early Warnings: the Precautionary Principle 1896-2000 (Conference Call)

Late Lessons from Early Warnings: the Precautionary Principle 1896-2000
a conversation with David Gee
http://www.healthandenvironment.org/partnership_calls/6617

Thursday, October 15, 2009 at 10 AM Pacific / 1 PM Eastern

Join CHE on for an international conversation with David Gee, Senior Advisor at the European Environment Agency (EEA). Michael Lerner, President of Commonweal, will discuss with Gee a wide variety of topics of importance to environmental and human health, including chemical science and policy, recent work in the field of EMF science and the far-reaching framework of ecological health and the implications such a framework has for policy changes.

RSVP for this call
http://www.healthandenvironment.org/partnership_calls/6617

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Chemical drift moves from field to legislature

Chemical drift moves from field to legislature
http://www.sj-r.com/business/x576523502/Chemical-drift-becomes-issue-for-legislature-farmers

"An Illinois Senate committee will hold a public hearing in Springfield this week to take testimony on the issue of farm chemical drift."

Mold forces family from Eldersburg home

Mold forces family from Eldersburg home
http://www.carrollcountytimes.com/articles/2009/09/27/news/local_news/03_mold_in_eldersburg_home.txt

"The Koerner family stood by their van and looked back at their house on Berkley Drive. The modest 22-year-old home looks inviting and harmless. They say it is anything but. For the past three months, the Koerners have been living out of their van and an Elkridge hotel because mold has taken over their home. Their ordeal started about four years ago. About five months after they bought the house, the four Koerner children started coming down with sore throats and headaches."

Flu Vaccine Exposed: Think Twice!

Flu Vaccine Exposed: Think Twice!
http://thetruthaboutmcs.blogspot.com/2009/09/flu-vaccine-exposed-think-twice.html

Key Words: vaccine, vaccination, immunization, flu, swine flu, H1N1, 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

Saturday, September 26, 2009

Shots in the Dark, Part 1

Shots in the Dark, Part 1
http://thetruthaboutmcs.blogspot.com/2009/09/shots-in-dark-part-1.html
This is the first of a 9 part video series that totals a 90 minute documentary. It is the best and most well-researched presentation on vaccination concerns. A must watch! At the end of the video, click the link for part 2 and so on until you've seen all 9.

Key Words: autism, vaccines, vaccination, 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

N.B. to test residents after toxic chemical spill

N.B. to test residents after toxic chemical spill
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20090926/chemical_bloodtest_090926/20090926?hub=Canada

"Nearly a year after a toxic chemical spill in Fredericton, N.B., health officials have agreed to test blood samples from people who live near the contaminated site."

Diesel fumes unhealthy, MD tells train protest

Diesel fumes unhealthy, MD tells train protest
http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/701596

"Toronto's medical officer of health launched his latest salvo today in the war of words with Metrolinx over a controversial proposal to run about 400 diesel trains a day to Brampton and Georgetown. Dr. David McKeown took the unusual step of speaking at a political protest organized by the Clean Train Coalition, telling residents he remains concerned about the health impacts of Metrolinx's proposal to expand diesel rail service in the Georgetown corridor."

Health dangers of sewer water snowmaking should be considered

Health dangers of sewer water snowmaking should be considered
http://www.indiancountrytoday.com/national/61480137.html

"FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – A group of concerned citizens will not let the potential health risks of using treated sewage effluent to make snow at the Snowbowl ski area on the San Francisco Peaks outside of Flagstaff get swept under the rug on a technicality."

Meteorologically estimated exposure but not distance predicts asthma symptoms in schoolchildren in the environs of a petrochemical refinery: a cross-sectional study

Neil White , Jim teWaterNaude , Anita van der Walt , Grant Ravenscroft , Wesley Roberts and Rodney Ehrlich

Environmental Health 2009, 8:45doi:10.1186/1476-069X-8-45


Published:	25 September 2009

Abstract (provisional)

Background

Community concern about asthma prompted an epidemiological study of children living near a petrochemical refinery in Cape Town, South Africa. Because of resource constraints and the complexity of refinery emissions, neither direct environmental measurements nor modelling of airborne pollutants was possible. Instead a meteorologically derived exposure metric was calculated with the refinery as the putative point source. The study aimed to determine whether (1) asthma symptom prevalences were elevated compared to comparable areas in Cape Town and (2) whether there was an association between asthma symptom prevalences and the derived exposure metric.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out of all consenting school children aged 11 to 14 years attending schools in a defined area, utilizing the International Study of Asthma and Allergy in Childhood (ISAAC) written and video questionnaires. Information was collected on potential confounders, e.g. parental history of atopic disease, active and passive smoking by the participant, birth order, number of children in the home and distance from a major road. The exposure metric combined residential distance of each child from the refinery with a wind vector in the form of wind speed, wind direction and proportion of the year blown.

Results

A total of 2,361 children from 17 schools met the criteria for inclusion. In multivariate analysis, meteorologically estimated exposure (MEE), but not simple distance from the refinery, was positively associated with having to take an inhaler to school [odds ratio per interquartile range (OR) 1.22, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06 - 1.40], and with a number of video elicited asthma symptoms, including recent waking with wheezing (OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.06-1.66) and frequent wheezing at rest (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.05 - 1.54). Symptom prevalences were higher than in other areas of the city, with frequent waking with wheezing being in great excess (OR 8.92, 95% CI 4.79-16.63).

Conclusions

The results support the hypothesis of an increased prevalence of asthma symptoms among children in the area as a result of refinery emissions and provide a substantive basis for community concern. The methodology also provides a low cost means of testing hypotheses about point source pollutant effects on surrounding populations of children.

New Concerns Raised About Chemical in Leading Baby Shampoo

New Concerns Raised About Chemical in Leading Baby Shampoo
http://safecosmetics.org//article.php?id=569

"A peer-reviewed paper in the Journal of the Dermatology Nurses' Association raises fresh concerns that a chemical preservative used in America's leading baby shampoo may be causing increased rates of allergic contact dermatitis, an inflammation of the skin that varies from mild irritation to rashes and open sores."

Friday, September 25, 2009

Quantitative volatile metabolite profiling of common indoor fungi: relevancy for indoor air analysis.

Quantitative volatile metabolite profiling of common indoor fungi: relevancy for indoor air analysis.

Schuchardt S, Kruse H.

J Basic Microbiol. 2009 Aug;49(4):350-62.

Institute of Toxicology and Pharmacology for Natural Scientists, University Medical School Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany. sven.schuchardt@item.fraunhofer.de

Microorganisms such as bacteria and molds produce an enormous variety of volatile metabolites. To determine whether typical microbial volatile metabolites can be used as indicator compounds for the detection of hidden mold in indoor environments, we examined 14 typical indoor fungal strains for their growth rates and their capability to produce volatile organic compounds (VOC) on standard clinical media and on agar medium made from building materials. Air samples from Headspace Chambers (HSC) were adsorbed daily on Tenax TA tubes and analyzed by thermal desorption gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. In parallel, metabolic activity was measured by determining oxygen demand, the microbial biomass was assessed by dry weighing. Profiling of the volatile metabolites showed that VOC production depended greatly on fungal strain, culture medium, biological activity, and time. The laboratory-derived maximum emission rates were extrapolated to approximate indoor air concentrations in a hypothetical mold-infested room. The extrapolated indoor air data suggest that most of the microbial-produced VOC concentrations were below the analytical detection limit for conventional indoor air analysis. Additionally, conducted indoor air analysis in mold homes confirmed these findings for the most part. The present findings raise doubts about the utility of indicator VOC for the detection of hidden mold growth in indoor environments. 2009 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

PMID: 19219900 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Experimental inhalation of fragrance allergens in predisposed subjects: Effects on skin and airways.

Experimental inhalation of fragrance allergens in predisposed subjects: Effects on skin and airways.

Schnuch A, Oppel E, Oppel T, Römmelt H, Kramer M, Riu E, Darsow U, Przybilla B, Nowak D, Jörres RA.
Br J Dermatol. 2009 Sep 22. [Epub ahead of print]

Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK); University of Göttingen, Göttingen / Germany.

Abstract

Background: Exposure to fragrances is increasingly encountered in the environment. Some fragrances are known as important skin and potential airway sensitizers.

Objectives: We investigated whether patients with contact allergy to isoeugenol (ISO) or hydroxyisohexyl-3-carboxaldehyde (HICC) would react to inhalation exposure on the level of the airways and skin.

Methods: Eleven patients sensitized to ISO and 10 patients sensitized to HICC were exposed for 60 min to 1000 mug/m(3) of these compounds in an exposure chamber at rest, and to 1000 mug/m(3) geraniol as control. Patients wore protective clothing to prevent skin exposure. Assessments were performed prior to exposures, and immediately, 2, 5, 24 and 72 h afterwards.

Results: There were no significant changes in lung function but a tendency towards an increased bronchial hyperresponsiveness after exposure to any of the compounds. Laboratory parameters of inflammation did not indicate responses. Single patients reported respiratory symptoms unrelated to objective measures. In contrast, the observed skin symptoms corresponded to the patients' specific sensitization. Four patients reported symptoms compatible with a delayed-type hypersensitivity, and two of them demonstrated a flare-up after ISO. Upon re-exposure they did not respond to a lower, more realistic level of ISO.

Conclusion: Inhalation of high concentrations of fragrance contact allergens apparently posed a risk for single patients to develop manifest hematogenic contact dermatitis, while the changes in the respiratory tract were limited to symptoms in some subjects, without objective changes.

PMID: 19772525 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

The capsaicin cough reflex in patients with symptoms elicited by odorous chemicals.

The capsaicin cough reflex in patients with symptoms elicited by odorous chemicals.

Int J Hyg Environ Health. 2009 Sep 19. [Epub ahead of print]
Holst H, Arendt-Nielsen L, Mosbech H, Vesterhauge S, Elberling J.

The Danish Research Centre for Chemical Sensitivities, Department of Dermato-Allergology, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.

Patients with multiple chemical sensitivity and eczema patients with airway symptoms elicited by odorous chemicals have enhanced cough reflex to capsaicin when applying the tidal breathing method. The aims of the present study were to test whether the capsaicin induced cough reflex was enhanced when applying the single breath inhalation method in similar groups of patients with symptoms related to odorous chemicals e.g. other persons wearing of perfume; and to investigate to what extent the reporting of lower airway symptoms influenced the cough reflex. Sixteen patients fulfilling Cullen's criteria for multiple chemical sensitivity and 15 eczema patients with airway symptoms elicited by odorous chemicals were compared with 29 age-matched, healthy controls. We measured C5 - the capsaicin concentration causing five coughs or more - using the single breath inhalation test. No difference was found between groups in age, body mass index or pulmonary function. The median C5 were 129mumol/L (control group), 48mumol/L (multiple chemical sensitivity patients), 32mumol/L (eczema patients). The reporting of lower airway symptoms from odorous chemicals was significantly (p<0.05) correlated to increased cough reflex sensitivity to capsaicin, independent of patient group or co-existence of asthma. The results suggest that the C5 is not reliable for diagnosing MCS but C5 can be used to verify presence of lower airway symptoms related to odorous chemicals.

PMID: 19773199 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Calif. bans high-emission paint thinners, solvents

Calif. bans high-emission paint thinners, solvents
http://www.centredaily.com/news/nation/story/1526547.html

"California air regulators approved strict regulations Thursday for aerosol air fresheners, paint thinners and solvents as a way to lessen smog-forming emissions and reduce a health threat."

A comparison of classification methods for predicting Chronic Fatigue Syndrome based on genetic data

A comparison of classification methods for predicting Chronic Fatigue Syndrome based on genetic data.
Huang LC, Hsu SY, Lin E. J Transl Med. 2009 Sep 22;7(1):81. [Epub ahead of print]

ABSTRACT:

BACKGROUND: In the studies of genomics, it is essential to select a small number of genes that are more significant than the others for the association studies of disease susceptibility. In this work, our goal was to compare computational tools with and without feature selection for predicting chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) using genetic factors such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).

METHODS: We employed the dataset that was original to the previous study by the CDC Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Research Group. To uncover relationships between CFS and SNPs, we applied three classification algorithms including naive Bayes, the support vector machine algorithm, and the C4.5 decision tree algorithm. Furthermore, we utilized feature selection methods to identify a subset of influential SNPs. One was the hybrid feature selection approach combining the chi-squared and information-gain methods. The other was the wrapper-based feature selection method.

RESULTS: The naive Bayes model with the wrapper-based approach performed maximally among predictive models to infer the disease susceptibility dealing with the complex relationship between CFS and SNPs.

CONCLUSION: We demonstrated that our approach is a promising method to assess the associations between CFS and SNPs.

PMID: 19772600 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Functional somatic syndrome in dental practice

Spare me!!!!!

[Functional somatic syndrome in dental practice]
[Article in Japanese]

Journal: Nippon Rinsho. 2009 Sep;67(9):1749-54.

Author: Inamitsu T.

Affiliation: Section of Psychosomatic Medicine, Fukuoka Dental College.

NLM Citation: PMID: 19768911

Functional somatic syndromes (FSSs) are common in dental as well as
medical practice. Many patients with unexplained symptoms in
oro-maxillo-facial areas visit dentists, but they are not diagnosed
and treated properly.

Temporomandibular disorder, atypical facial pain, and glossodynia
(burning mouth syndrome) are included in dental FSSs. These diseases
overlap with each other and with FSSs in other organs, such as
myofacial pain syndrome, tension-type headache, fibromyalgia, and
chronic fatigue syndrome. T

hey coexist with mental disorders, such as anxiety disorder, mood
disorder, and somatoform disorder. Multidisciplinary and holistic
approaches should be applied to dental FSSs; pharmacological therapy
(antidepressants), physical therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Clinicians have to support a patient in"enjoying his/her life with
symptoms". Dental specialists in "oral medicine" with psychosomatic
viewpoints are now required.

Fw: [MCSAfeeds] Environmental chemicals found in breast milk and high incidence of testicular cancer

Environmental chemicals found in breast milk and high incidence of testicular cancer
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2009-09/w-ecf092209.php

"A comparison of breast milk samples from Denmark and Finland revealed a significant difference in environmental chemicals which have previously been implicated in testicular cancer or in adversely affecting development of the fetal testis in humans and animals. This finding is published today in the International Journal of Andrology."

Strawberry pesticide leaves sour taste

Strawberry pesticide leaves sour taste
http://www.nature.com/news/2009/090924/full/news.2009.943.html

"Methyl iodide use by Californian farmers up for review."

Workplace Exposures Rise as Osha Health Inspections Fall

Workplace Exposures Rise as Osha Health Inspections Fall
http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2009/09/24-2

"OSHA Drifts in Wrong Direction by Further Misallocating Scarce Resources"

ABC News: Feeling Chronically Fatigued?

ABC News

Feeling Chronically Fatigued?

How to know if you are jsut tired or have chronic fatigue syndrome.

http://abcnews.go.com/Video/playerIndex?id=8664151

School drinking water contains toxins

School drinking water contains toxins
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hEpf0375MBi6RN8Z2dW6qMRfaIfAD9AU4G8G0

"Over the last decade, the drinking water at thousands of schools across the country has been found to contain unsafe levels of lead, pesticides and dozens of other toxins."

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Allergen rules may alter scents of great perfumes

Allergen rules may alter scents of great perfumes
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20090924/lf_nm_life/us_perfume_allergens

"Perfume makers, sniffers and vendors are upset over the International Fragrance Association's (IFRA) latest rules governing what can go into a scent's formula."

Can planes be poisonous?

Can planes be poisonous?
http://news.bbc.co.uk/today/hi/today/newsid_8270000/8270978.stm

"The BBC has been told of new research linking toxins found in the air systems of commercial airliners and neurological damage suffered by pilots."

Long-term persistence of vaccine-derived aluminum hydroxide is associated with chronic cognitive dysfunction

Long-term persistence of vaccine-derived aluminum hydroxide is associated with chronic cognitive dysfunction
In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 20 August 2009
Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry
Maryline Couette et al.

Macrophagic myofasciitis (MMF) is an emerging condition, characterized by specific muscle lesions assessing long-term persistence of aluminum hydroxide within macrophages at the site of previous immunization. Affected patients mainly complain of arthromyalgias, chronic fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. We designed a comprehensive battery of neuropsychological tests to prospectively delineate MMF-associated cognitive dysfunction (MACD). Compared to control patients with arthritis and chronic pain, MMF patients had pronounced and specific cognitive impairment. MACD mainly affected (i) both visual and verbal memory; (ii) executive functions, including attention, working memory, and planning; and (iii) left ear extinction at dichotic listening test. Cognitive deficits did not correlate with pain, fatigue, depression, or disease duration. Pathophysiological mechanisms underlying MACD remain to be determined. In conclusion, long-term persistence of vaccine-derived aluminum hydroxide within the body assessed by MMF is associated with cognitive dysfunction, not solely due to chronic pain, fatigue and depression.

Are You Tired of Stores That Use Scent Machines? | Bella Poll ...

Are You Tired of Stores That Use Scent Machines? | Bella Poll ...
By BellaSugar

The other day, after it was revealed that Abercrombie & Fitch spent more than $3 million on pumping one of their colognes, Fierce, through their stores, many of you wrote in to say how little you loved the scent being wafted through A&F. And now, the New York Post is reporting that a new NYC Hollister store at the corner of Houston and Broadway is being protested by people made miserable by fragrance being pumped from the store out onto the street. A similar situation occurred with a Diane Von Furstenberg store last July, and it seems that instances of people getting angry about, and sick from, the overuse of scent machines just keep getting more frequent. Do you think these are isolated instances of overproduction in the smell department, or are these scent machines generally a problem? And how bad would it have to be for you to protest one of these stinky stores?

VOTE at

http://www.bellasugar.com/5186148

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Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Is a cell phone dangerous to use?

Is a cell phone dangerous to use?
http://www.tctimes.com/articles/2009/09/23/news/doc4ab92cca37b37525093029.txt

"A 26-page report published by International Electromagnetic Fields Collaborative states that independent research consistently shows an elevated risk of brain tumors from cellular phone use. Study links use to brain cancer."

Seeking Chemical Culprits for Those Deformities

Seeking Chemical Culprits for Those Deformities
http://www.miller-mccune.com/science_environment/seeking-chemical-culprits-for-those-deformities-1483.print

The term "endocrine disruptor" had not been coined when Rachel Carson was alive, but she was onto them. Carson's groundbreaking 1962 book on the dangers of synthetic pesticides, Silent Spring, was prescient in many ways. She wrote about what she termed "insecticide storage:" "There are indications that these chemicals lodge in tissues concerned with the manufacture of germ cells as well as in the cells themselves. Accumulations of insecticides have been discovered in the sex organs of a variety of birds and mammals. ... Probably as an effect of such storage in the sex organs, atrophy of the testes has been observed in experimental mammals. Young rats exposed to methoxychlor had extraordinarily small testes."

National study finds mercury in fish in every stream tested

National study finds mercury in fish in every stream tested
http://www.wkowtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=11179683

"Last month, the United States Geological Survey found there was mercury in every fish it tested in 291 streams across the country. About one-fourth of the fish had mercury levels higher than what's considered healthy for people who eat fish regularly."

Judge overturns approval of Roundup Ready beets

Judge overturns approval of Roundup Ready beets
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iLcT-t8aBFaSju5et0uymAt-EbHgD9ASM7J80

"A federal judge overturned government approval of a variety of sugar beet genetically engineered to resist a popular weed killer produced by agricultural giant Monsanto, according to a ruling released Tuesday."

High level of toxins detected in shoes

High level of toxins detected in shoes
http://www.busrep.co.za/index.php?fArticleId=5175236&fSectionId=563&fSetId=662

"High levels of toxic chemicals have been found in the shoes of well-known South African retailers, raising concern about the health hazards contained in these "throwaway items" the world over."

TAU Invention Busts Dust

TAU Invention Busts Dust
http://www.aftau.org/site/News2?page=NewsArticle&id=10541

"TAU's "Dust Alert" exposes dangerous invisible pollution, pollen and construction waste."

Upcoming Workshops from ICEH Bulletin

Online Calendar. Environmental health events are listed in a searchable calendar: http://www.healthandenvironment.org/cgi-bin/searchevents.cgi

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Neurologic signs common with fibromyalgia

Neurologic signs common with fibromyalgia
http://www.reuters.com/article/healthNews/idUSTRE58L40T20090922

"Fibromyalgia isn't all in your head, new research suggests. In a study, researchers found that people with fibromyalgia were more likely than those without the chronic pain condition to have poor balance, tingling and weakness in the arms and legs, and other "neurologic" signs and symptoms."

Association between leukocyte telomere shortening and exposure to traffic pollution: a cross-sectional study on traffic officers and indoor office workers

http://www.ehjournal.net/content/8/1/41

Mirjam Hoxha , Laura Dioni , Matteo Bonzini , Angela Cecilia Pesatori , Silvia Fustinoni , Domenico Cavallo , Michele Carugno , Benedetta Albetti , Barbara Marinelli , Joel Schwartz , Pier Alberto Bertazzi and Andrea Baccarelli

Environmental Health 2009, 8:41doi:10.1186/1476-069X-8-41


Published:	21 September 2009

Abstract (provisional)

Background

Telomere shortening in blood leukocytes has been associated with increased morbidity and death from cardiovascular disease and cancer, but determinants of shortened telomeres, a molecular feature of biological aging, are still largely unidentified. Traffic pollution has been linked with both cardiovascular and cancer risks, particularly in older subjects. Whether exposure to traffic pollution is associated with telomere shortening has never been evaluated.

Methods

We measured leukocyte telomere length (LTL) by real-time PCR in blood DNA from 77 traffic officers exposed to high levels of traffic pollutants and 57 office workers (referents). Airborne benzene and toluene, as tracers for traffic exposure, were measured using personal passive samplers and gas-chromatography/flame-ionization detector analysis. We used covariate-adjusted multivariable models to test the effects of the exposure on LTL and obtain adjusted LTL means and 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs).

Results

Adjusted mean LTL was 1.10 (95%CI 1.04-1.16) in traffic officers and 1.27 in referents (95%CI 1.20-1.35) [p<0.001]. LTL decreased in association with age in both traffic officers (p=0.01) and referents (p=0.001), but traffic officers had shorter LTL within each age category. Among traffic officers, adjusted mean relative LTL was shorter in individuals working in high (n=45, LTL=1.02, 95%CI 0.96-1.09) compared to low traffic intensity (n=32, LTL=1.22, 95%CI 1.13-1.31) [p<0.001]. In the entire study population, LTL decreased with increasing levels of personal exposure to benzene (p=0.004) and toluene (p=0.008).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that leukocyte telomere length is shortened in subjects exposed to traffic pollution, suggesting evidence of early biological aging and disease risk.

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Wednesday, September 30, 2009

MCSA NEWSOctober 2009, Volume 4, Issue 10

MCSA NEWSOctober 2009, Volume 4, Issue 10

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Monday, September 28, 2009

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Saturday, September 26, 2009

Meteorologically estimated exposure but not distance predicts asthma symptoms in schoolchildren in the environs of a petrochemical refinery: a cross-sectional study

Abstract (provisional)

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Friday, September 25, 2009

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Association between leukocyte telomere shortening and exposure to traffic pollution: a cross-sectional study on traffic officers and indoor office workers

Abstract (provisional)

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Blog Archive

MCSA NEWS
October 2009, Volume 4, Issue 10

MCSA NEWS
October 2009, Volume 4, Issue 10