Transgenerational Actions of Environmental Compounds on Reproductive Disease and Identification of Epigenetic Biomarkers of Ancestral Exposures
http://www.plosone.org/article/info:doi/10.1371/journal.pone.0031901
Mohan Manikkam#, Carlos Guerrero-Bosagna#, Rebecca Tracey, Md. M. Haque, Michael K. Skinner*
Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
Abstract
Environmental factors during fetal development can induce a permanent epigenetic change in the germ line (sperm) that then transmits epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of adult-onset disease in the absence of any subsequent exposure. The epigenetic transgenerational actions of various environmental compounds and relevant mixtures were investigated with the use of a pesticide mixture (permethrin and insect repellant DEET), a plastic mixture (bisphenol A and phthalates), dioxin (TCDD) and a hydrocarbon mixture (jet fuel, JP8). After transient exposure of F0 gestating female rats during the period of embryonic gonadal sex determination, the subsequent F1–F3 generations were obtained in the absence of any environmental exposure. The effects on the F1, F2 and F3 generations pubertal onset and gonadal function were assessed. The plastics, dioxin and jet fuel were found to promote early-onset female puberty transgenerationally (F3 generation). Spermatogenic cell apoptosis was affected transgenerationally. Ovarian primordial follicle pool size was significantly decreased with all treatments transgenerationally. Differential DNA methylation of the F3 generation sperm promoter epigenome was examined. Differential DNA methylation regions (DMR) were identified in the sperm of all exposure lineage males and found to be consistent within a specific exposure lineage, but different between the exposures. Several genomic features of the DMR, such as low density CpG content, were identified. Exposure-specific epigenetic biomarkers were identified that may allow for the assessment of ancestral environmental exposures associated with adult onset disease.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Pollutants long gone, but disease carries on
Pollutants long gone, but disease carries on
http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/338832/title/Pollutants_long_gone,_but_disease_carries_on
"Certain chemicals cause epigenetic changes that foster illness in rats' offspring"
Metals from hip replacements present toxic risk for millions, investigation warns
Metals from hip replacements present toxic risk for millions, investigation warns
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504763_162-57387520-10391704/metals-from-hip-replacements-present-toxic-risk-for-millions-investigation-warns/
"(CBS News) Millions of people with metal on metal hip replacements may have been exposed to dangerously high levels of toxins that seeped into their bloodstreams, warned the researchers behind a British Medical Journal and BBC Newsnight investigation."
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504763_162-57387520-10391704/metals-from-hip-replacements-present-toxic-risk-for-millions-investigation-warns/
"(CBS News) Millions of people with metal on metal hip replacements may have been exposed to dangerously high levels of toxins that seeped into their bloodstreams, warned the researchers behind a British Medical Journal and BBC Newsnight investigation."
Environmental Obesogens Make Children and Adults Fat
Environmental Obesogens Make Children and Adults Fat
http://www.i-sis.org.uk/Environmental_Obesogens_make_children_and_adults_fat.php
http://www.i-sis.org.uk/Environmental_Obesogens_make_children_and_adults_fat.php
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Early diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccination associated with higher female mortality and no difference in male mortality in a cohort of low birthweight children: an observational study within a randomised trial
Early diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccination associated with higher female mortality and no difference in male mortality in a cohort of low birthweight children: an observational study within a randomised trial
http://adc.bmj.com/content/early/2012/02/13/archdischild-2011-300646.short?g=w_adc_ahead_tab
http://adc.bmj.com/content/early/2012/02/13/archdischild-2011-300646.short?g=w_adc_ahead_tab
Arch Dis Child doi:10.1136/archdischild-2011-300646
Background: Studies from low-income countries have suggested that diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP) vaccine provided after Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccination may have a negative effect on female survival. The authors examined the effect of DTP in a cohort of low birthweight (LBW) infants.
Methods: 2320 LBW newborns were visited at 2, 6 and 12 months of age to assess nutritional and vaccination status. The authors examined survival until the 6-month visit for children who were DTP vaccinated and DTP unvaccinated at the 2-month visit.
Results: Two-thirds of the children had received DTP at 2 months and 50 deaths occurred between the 2-month and 6-month visits. DTP vaccinated children had a better anthropometric status for all indices than DTP unvaccinated children. Small mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) was the strongest predictor of mortality. The death rate ratio (DRR) for DTP vaccinated versus DTP unvaccinated children differed significantly for girls (DRR 2.45; 95% CI 0.93 to 6.45) and boys (DRR 0.53; 95% CI 0.23 to 1.20) (p=0.018, homogeneity test). Adjusting for MUAC, the overall effect for DTP vaccinated children was 2.62 (95% CI 1.34 to 5.09); DRR was 5.68 (95% CI 1.83 to 17.7) for girls and 1.29 (95% CI 0.56 to 2.97) for boys (p=0.023, homogeneity test). While anthropometric indices were a strong predictor of mortality among boys, there was little or no association for girls.
Conclusion: Surprisingly, even though the children with the best nutritional status were vaccinated early, early DTP vaccination was associated with increased mortality for girls.
Toxic chemical found under O.C. building
Toxic chemical found under O.C. building
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-toxic-building-20120228,0,6688148.story
"Levels of tetrachloroethylene exceeding safety standards are found beneath offices used by Orange County agencies, including the Sheriff's Department and Social Services Agency. The building is already the subject of two lawsuits."
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-toxic-building-20120228,0,6688148.story
"Levels of tetrachloroethylene exceeding safety standards are found beneath offices used by Orange County agencies, including the Sheriff's Department and Social Services Agency. The building is already the subject of two lawsuits."
Low Levels of Omega-3 Fatty Acids May Cause Memory Problems
Low Levels of Omega-3 Fatty Acids May Cause Memory Problems
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/02/120227162549.htm
"A diet lacking in omega-3 fatty acids, nutrients commonly found in fish, may cause your brain to age faster and lose some of its memory and thinking abilities, according to a study published in the February 28, 2012, print issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. Omega-3 fatty acids include the nutrients called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)."
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/02/120227162549.htm
"A diet lacking in omega-3 fatty acids, nutrients commonly found in fish, may cause your brain to age faster and lose some of its memory and thinking abilities, according to a study published in the February 28, 2012, print issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. Omega-3 fatty acids include the nutrients called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)."
Monday, February 27, 2012
Infant mortality rates regressed against number of vaccine doses routinely given: is there a biochemical or synergistic toxicity?
Infant mortality rates regressed against number of vaccine doses routinely given: is there a biochemical or synergistic toxicity?
http://het.sagepub.com/content/30/9/1420.long
http://het.sagepub.com/content/30/9/1420.long
Miller NZ, Goldman GS. Hum Exp Toxicol. 2011 Sep;30(9):1420-8.
"The infant mortality rate (IMR) is one of the most important indicators of the socio-economic well-being and public health conditions of a country. The US childhood immunization schedule specifies 26 vaccine doses for infants aged less than 1 year--the most in the world--yet 33 nations have lower IMRs. Using linear regression, the immunization schedules of these 34 nations were examined and a correlation coefficient of r = 0.70 (p < 0.0001) was found between IMRs and the number of vaccine doses routinely given to infants. Nations were also grouped into five different vaccine dose ranges: 12-14, 15-17, 18-20, 21-23, and 24-26. The mean IMRs of all nations within each group were then calculated. Linear regression analysis of unweighted mean IMRs showed a high statistically significant correlation between increasing number of vaccine doses and increasing infant mortality rates, with r = 0.992 (p = 0.0009). Using the Tukey-Kramer test, statistically significant differences in mean IMRs were found between nations giving 12-14 vaccine doses and those giving 21-23, and 24-26 doses. A closer inspection of correlations between vaccine doses, biochemical or synergistic toxicity, and IMRs is essential."
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Toxic houses often fall through cracks
Toxic houses often fall through cracks
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/s_782914.html
"When buying real estate in Pennsylvania, the rules are simple.
"The seller has the duty to disclose and the buyer has the duty to inspect. Otherwise, the buyer buys at his own peril," said Jerry Little, a New Kensington attorney who specializes in real estate law.
Peril is something that a home buyer actually might face if the house in question contained a clandestine methamphetamine laboratory. Renters face that peril if a landlord is not forthcoming.
The peril lies in the health hazards posed by chemical contamination that occurs during the manufacture of the illicit, highly addictive drug.
"You have a situation where you are heating up solvents. You are using acids, and they are mixing a lot of this stuff together in the process," said Dave Ellis, agent in charge of the Pennsylvania Attorney General's clandestine lab program.
He said that process gives off toxic fumes.
"The carpets and furniture, anything (with) fabric is always going to absorb fumes," Ellis said."
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/s_782914.html
"When buying real estate in Pennsylvania, the rules are simple.
"The seller has the duty to disclose and the buyer has the duty to inspect. Otherwise, the buyer buys at his own peril," said Jerry Little, a New Kensington attorney who specializes in real estate law.
Peril is something that a home buyer actually might face if the house in question contained a clandestine methamphetamine laboratory. Renters face that peril if a landlord is not forthcoming.
The peril lies in the health hazards posed by chemical contamination that occurs during the manufacture of the illicit, highly addictive drug.
"You have a situation where you are heating up solvents. You are using acids, and they are mixing a lot of this stuff together in the process," said Dave Ellis, agent in charge of the Pennsylvania Attorney General's clandestine lab program.
He said that process gives off toxic fumes.
"The carpets and furniture, anything (with) fabric is always going to absorb fumes," Ellis said."
New studies cast dark cloud over air pollution
New studies cast dark cloud over air pollution
http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736%2812%2960292-X/fulltext?version=printerFriendly
http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736%2812%2960292-X/fulltext?version=printerFriendly
"Evidence of the damaging health effects of air pollution is building after the publication of new studies linking pollutants to stroke, cognitive decline, and heart attack. Sharmila Devi reports."
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Insecticide in infant's first stool linked to underdeveloped motor skills later.
Insecticide in infant's first stool linked to underdeveloped motor skills later.
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/newscience/2012/01/2012-0222-pesticide-baby-motor-skills/
"The motor skills of 2-year-olds - their ability to manipulate their body's movements - are linked to levels of a household pesticide measured in their first stool, finds a large study from the Philippines."
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/newscience/2012/01/2012-0222-pesticide-baby-motor-skills/
"The motor skills of 2-year-olds - their ability to manipulate their body's movements - are linked to levels of a household pesticide measured in their first stool, finds a large study from the Philippines."
Flame retardant linked to autism risk
Flame retardant linked to autism risk
http://www.futurity.org/health-medicine/flame-retardant-linked-to-autism-risk/
"Exposure to flame retardant is linked to smaller offspring with social and learning issues, according to a study with mice."
http://www.futurity.org/health-medicine/flame-retardant-linked-to-autism-risk/
"Exposure to flame retardant is linked to smaller offspring with social and learning issues, according to a study with mice."
Chronic Consumption of Farmed Salmon Containing Persistent Organic Pollutants Causes Insulin Resistance and Obesity in Mice
Chronic Consumption of Farmed Salmon Containing Persistent Organic Pollutants Causes Insulin Resistance and Obesity in Mice
http://www.plosone.org/article/info:doi/10.1371/journal.pone.0025170
Mohammad Madani Ibrahim1,2, Even Fjære1,3, Erik-Jan Lock1, Danielle Naville4, Heidi Amlund1, Emmanuelle Meugnier4, Brigitte Le Magueresse Battistoni4, Livar Frøyland1, Lise Madsen1,3, Niels Jessen5, Sten Lund6, Hubert Vidal4, Jérôme Ruzzin1,7*
http://www.plosone.org/article/info:doi/10.1371/journal.pone.0025170
Mohammad Madani Ibrahim1,2, Even Fjære1,3, Erik-Jan Lock1, Danielle Naville4, Heidi Amlund1, Emmanuelle Meugnier4, Brigitte Le Magueresse Battistoni4, Livar Frøyland1, Lise Madsen1,3, Niels Jessen5, Sten Lund6, Hubert Vidal4, Jérôme Ruzzin1,7*
1 National Institute of Nutrition and Seafood Research, Bergen, Norway, 2 Institute of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway, 3 Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark, 4 INSERM U-1060, INRA U-1235, CarMeN Laboratory, Lyon1 University, Oullins, France, 5 Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark, 6 Department of Internal Medicine and Diabetes and Institute of Experimental Clinical Research, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark, 7 Department of Biology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
Abstract
Background
Dietary interventions are critical in the prevention of metabolic diseases. Yet, the effects of fatty fish consumption on type 2 diabetes remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate whether a diet containing farmed salmon prevents or contributes to insulin resistance in mice.
Methodology/Principal Findings
Adult male C57BL/6J mice were fed control diet (C), a very high-fat diet without or with farmed Atlantic salmon fillet (VHF and VHF/S, respectively), and Western diet without or with farmed Atlantic salmon fillet (WD and WD/S, respectively). Other mice were fed VHF containing farmed salmon fillet with reduced concentrations of persistent organic pollutants (VHF/S-POPs). We assessed body weight gain, fat mass, insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, ex vivo muscle glucose uptake, performed histology and immunohistochemistry analysis, and investigated gene and protein expression. In comparison with animals fed VHF and WD, consumption of both VHF/S and WD/S exaggerated insulin resistance, visceral obesity, and glucose intolerance. In addition, the ability of insulin to stimulate Akt phosphorylation and muscle glucose uptake was impaired in mice fed farmed salmon. Relative to VHF/S-fed mice, animals fed VHF/S-POPs had less body burdens of POPs, accumulated less visceral fat, and had reduced mRNA levels of TNFα as well as macrophage infiltration in adipose tissue. VHF/S-POPs-fed mice further exhibited better insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance than mice fed VHF/S.
Conclusions/Significance
Our data indicate that intake of farmed salmon fillet contributes to several metabolic disorders linked to type 2 diabetes and obesity, and suggest a role of POPs in these deleterious effects. Overall, these findings may participate to improve nutritional strategies for the prevention and therapy of insulin resistance.
Citation: Ibrahim MM, Fjære E, Lock E-J, Naville D, Amlund H, et al. (2011) Chronic Consumption of Farmed Salmon Containing Persistent Organic Pollutants Causes Insulin Resistance and Obesity in Mice. PLoS ONE 6(9): e25170. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0025170
Neuropsychological Measures of Attention and Impulse Control among 8-Year-Old Children Exposed Prenatally to Organochlorines
Neuropsychological Measures of Attention and Impulse Control among 8-Year-Old Children Exposed Prenatally to Organochlorines
http://ehp03.niehs.nih.gov/article/info:doi/10.1289/ehp.1104372
Sharon K. Sagiv, Sally W. Thurston, David C. Bellinger, Larisa M. Altshul, Susan A. Korrick
http://ehp03.niehs.nih.gov/article/info:doi/10.1289/ehp.1104372
Sharon K. Sagiv, Sally W. Thurston, David C. Bellinger, Larisa M. Altshul, Susan A. Korrick
Abstract
Background: We previously reported associations between organochlorines and ADHD-related behaviors among boys and girls using a teacher's rating scale in the New Bedford cohort at 8 years.
Objectives: To corroborate these findings using neuropsychological measures of inattentive and impulsive behaviors.
Methods: We investigated the association between cord serum polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and p,p'-dichlorodiphenyl dichloroethylene (p,p'-DDE) and attention and impulse control using a Continuous Performance Test (CPT) and components of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Third Edition (WISC-III). Participants came from a prospective cohort of children born 1993-1998 to mothers residing near a PCB-contaminated harbor in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Median (range) cord serum levels for the sum of 4 prevalent PCBs (ΣPCB4) (congeners 118,138,153,180) and p,p'-DDE were 0.19 (0.01-2.59) and 0.31 (0-14.93) ng/g serum, respectively.
Results: We detected associations between PCBs and neuropsychological deficits for 578 and 584 children with CPT and WISC-III measures, respectively, but only among boys. For example, boys with higher exposure to ΣPCB4 had a higher rate of CPT errors of omission (Rate Ratio for the exposure interquartile range (IQR) = 1.12; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.98, 1.27), and slower WISC-III processing speed (change in score for the IQR= -1.9; 95% CI: -3.5, -0.4). Weaker associations were found for p,p'-DDE. For girls, associations were in the opposite direction for the CPT and null for the WISC-III.
Conclusions: These results support an association between organochlorines (mainly PCBs) and neuropsychological measures of attention among boys only. Sex-specific effects should be considered in studies of organochlorines and neurodevelopment.
Citation: Sagiv SK, Thurston SW, Bellinger DC, Altshul LM, Korrick SA 2012. Neuropsychological Measures of Attention and Impulse Control among 8-Year-Old Children Exposed Prenatally to Organochlorines. Environ Health Perspect :-. http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1104372
Nutrition Can Modulate the Toxicity of Environmental Pollutants: Implications in Risk Assessment and Human Health
Nutrition Can Modulate the Toxicity of Environmental Pollutants: Implications in Risk Assessment and Human Health
http://ehp03.niehs.nih.gov/article/info:doi/10.1289/ehp.1104712
Bernhard Hennig, Lindell Ormsbee, Craig J. McClain, Bruce A. Watkins, Bruce Blumberg, Leonidas G. Bachas, Wayne Sanderson, Claudia Thompson, William A. Suk
Abstract Top
Background: The paradigm of human risk assessment includes many variables that must be viewed collectively in order to improve human health and prevent chronic disease. The pathology of chronic diseases is complex, though, and may be influenced by exposure to environmental pollutants, a sedentary lifestyle and poor dietary habits. Much emerging evidence suggests that nutrition can modulate the toxicity of environmental pollutants, which may alter human risks associated with toxicant exposures.
Objectives: This commentary discusses the basis for recommending that nutrition be considered as a critical variable in disease outcomes associated with exposure to environmental pollutants, thus establishing the importance of incorporating nutrition within the context of cumulative risk assessment.
Discussion: There is a convincing body of research indicating that nutrition is a modulator of vulnerability to environmental insults; thus, it is timely to consider nutrition as a vital component of human risk assessment. Nutrition may serve as either an agonist or antagonist (e.g. high fat foods or foods rich in antioxidants, respectively) of the health impacts associated with exposure to environmental pollutants. Dietary practices and food choices may help explain the large variability observed in human risk assessment.
Conclusion: We recommend that nutrition and dietary practices be incorporated into future environmental research and the development of risk assessment paradigms. Healthful nutrition interventions might be a powerful approach to reduce disease risks associated with many environmental toxic insults, and should be considered a variable within the context of cumulative risk assessment, and where appropriate, a potential tool for subsequent risk reduction.
Citation: Hennig B, Ormsbee L, McClain CJ, Watkins BA, Blumberg B, Bachas LG, et al. 2012. Nutrition Can Modulate the Toxicity of Environmental Pollutants: Implications in Risk Assessment and Human Health. Environ Health Perspect :-. http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1104712
http://ehp03.niehs.nih.gov/article/info:doi/10.1289/ehp.1104712
Bernhard Hennig, Lindell Ormsbee, Craig J. McClain, Bruce A. Watkins, Bruce Blumberg, Leonidas G. Bachas, Wayne Sanderson, Claudia Thompson, William A. Suk
Abstract Top
Background: The paradigm of human risk assessment includes many variables that must be viewed collectively in order to improve human health and prevent chronic disease. The pathology of chronic diseases is complex, though, and may be influenced by exposure to environmental pollutants, a sedentary lifestyle and poor dietary habits. Much emerging evidence suggests that nutrition can modulate the toxicity of environmental pollutants, which may alter human risks associated with toxicant exposures.
Objectives: This commentary discusses the basis for recommending that nutrition be considered as a critical variable in disease outcomes associated with exposure to environmental pollutants, thus establishing the importance of incorporating nutrition within the context of cumulative risk assessment.
Discussion: There is a convincing body of research indicating that nutrition is a modulator of vulnerability to environmental insults; thus, it is timely to consider nutrition as a vital component of human risk assessment. Nutrition may serve as either an agonist or antagonist (e.g. high fat foods or foods rich in antioxidants, respectively) of the health impacts associated with exposure to environmental pollutants. Dietary practices and food choices may help explain the large variability observed in human risk assessment.
Conclusion: We recommend that nutrition and dietary practices be incorporated into future environmental research and the development of risk assessment paradigms. Healthful nutrition interventions might be a powerful approach to reduce disease risks associated with many environmental toxic insults, and should be considered a variable within the context of cumulative risk assessment, and where appropriate, a potential tool for subsequent risk reduction.
Citation: Hennig B, Ormsbee L, McClain CJ, Watkins BA, Blumberg B, Bachas LG, et al. 2012. Nutrition Can Modulate the Toxicity of Environmental Pollutants: Implications in Risk Assessment and Human Health. Environ Health Perspect :-. http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1104712
Single-strand DNA breaks in human hair root cells exposed to mobile phone radiation.
Single-strand DNA breaks in human hair root cells exposed to mobile phone radiation.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22348707
Cam ST, Seyhan N.
Int J Radiat Biol. 2012 Feb 21. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22348707
Cam ST, Seyhan N.
Int J Radiat Biol. 2012 Feb 21. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
Abstract Purpose: To analyze the short term effects of radiofrequency radiation (RFR) exposure on genomic deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of human hair root cells.
Subjects and methods: Hair samples were collected from 8 healthy human subjects immediately before and after using a 900-MHz GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) mobile phone for 15 and 30 minutes. Single-strand DNA breaks of hair root cells from the samples were determined using the 'comet assay'.
Results: The data showed that talking on a mobile phone for 15 or 30 minutes significantly increased (p< .05) single-strand DNA breaks in cells of hair roots close to the phone. Comparing the 15-min and 30-min data using the paired t-test also showed that significantly more damages resulted after 30 minutes than after 15 minutes of phone use.
Conclusions: A short-term exposure (15 and 30 minutes) to RFR (900-MHz) from a mobile phone caused a significant increase in DNA single-strand breaks in human hair root cells located around the ear which is used for the phone calls.
PMID: 22348707 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Monsanto's Minions Attack, Whole Fraud Revisited
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It's hard to argue with consumers' right to know what's in our food. That's why nine out of ten people support labels for genetically engineered food.
Meanwhile in California, signature gathering to put the GMO Labeling Initiative on the ballot is underway. Thousands of campaign volunteers and paid petition gatherers are already out in the streets, in front of grocery stores, college campuses, and other areas with high pedestrian traffic. We're on track to meet our goal of collecting the 750,000 - 850,000 signatures we need to be sure we'll have the 560,000 to qualify our measure for the November 2012 election. But OCA and our allies need your help now more than ever!
Unlike Whole Foods Market, OCA and our lobbying ally, the Organic Consumers Fund, put our money where our mouth is. With the 2012 California Ballot Initiative, and GMO labeling legislation gaining momentum in Vermont, Connecticut, Hawaii and other states, we have a real chance to hit Monsanto, corporate agribusiness, and thev supermarket chains with the skull and crossbones they fear so much: mandatory labels on genetically engineered food. We also continue our struggle to strengthen organic standards and significantly expand the market for organic food and products, especially those produced locally and regionally. And of course we continue to educate and mobilize the public on a wide range of crucial issues such as global warming, Fair Trade, children's health, and alternative medicine.
On February 22, hundreds of people rallied at the State Capitol in Honolulu in support of Senate Bill 2279, a bill requiring the mandatory labeling of genetically modified foods. The following videos are beautiful and inspiring! Watch our Anti-GMO Hawaiian brothers and sisters mobilizing to protect the food supply.
In Connecticut, on Wednesday, February 22, the General Assembly's Environment Committee held a public hearing on HB 5117, a bill mandating the labeling of genetically modified foods. Vegetable farmer Bob Burns, who owns Aiki Farms in Ledyard, testified in support of the bill. Burns has been rallying support among legislators and farmers, emphasizing consumers' right to know.
Two weeks ago, we published OCA Director Ronnie Cummins's essay on Whole Foods Market, 
Occupy Our Food Supply is bringing together the Occupy, sustainable farming, food justice, and environmental movements for a global day of action on February 27. Thousands of activists, writers, and food advocates - including Vandana Shiva, Willie Nelson, Anna and Frances Moore Lappé, Michael Pollan and Raj Patel - will join together to creatively resist corporate control of our food supply and take action to build healthy, accessible food systems for all. 
The U.S. Department of Agriculture is ready to approve a new corn variety that is genetically engineered by Dow Chemical to survive massive spraying with the super-toxic herbicide 2,4-D. This dangerous chemical was a deadly component of the Agent Orange chemical warfare program in Vietnam that has killed or seriously injured millions of Vietnamese and returning U.S military Vietnam veterans.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
What a way to treat a war hero
What a way to treat a war hero
http://www.thestar.co.uk/news/local/what_a_way_to_treat_a_war_hero_1_4267876
http://www.thestar.co.uk/news/local/what_a_way_to_treat_a_war_hero_1_4267876
"A GULF War veteran from Sheffield says he is battling the constant side effects of vaccines and pills meant to protect him from chemical and biological warfare 21 years ago."
Genetics and man-made chemicals equally to blame, say researchers
Genetics and man-made chemicals equally to blame, say researchers
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2012/0221/1224312116516.html
"AUTISM: RESEARCHERS AROUND the world continue to struggle with the complexity of autism. They now believe that genetic factors and brain changes triggered by man-made chemicals in the environment are equally to blame for the development of autism in young children."
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2012/0221/1224312116516.html
"AUTISM: RESEARCHERS AROUND the world continue to struggle with the complexity of autism. They now believe that genetic factors and brain changes triggered by man-made chemicals in the environment are equally to blame for the development of autism in young children."
Solvent exposure at work, home may increase risk of Parkinson's disease.
Solvent exposure at work, home may increase risk of Parkinson's disease.
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/newscience/2011/12/2012-0220-solvent-increases-parkinsons-risk/
"Even relatively limited exposure to some common chemical solvents at work or through hobbies may increase the risk of having Parkinson's disease (PD), report researchers who found a higher risk regardless of the number of exposures, their duration or lifetime totals. They also found that the first symptoms of the disease – the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the United States – may not surface until decades after exposure."
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/newscience/2011/12/2012-0220-solvent-increases-parkinsons-risk/
"Even relatively limited exposure to some common chemical solvents at work or through hobbies may increase the risk of having Parkinson's disease (PD), report researchers who found a higher risk regardless of the number of exposures, their duration or lifetime totals. They also found that the first symptoms of the disease – the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the United States – may not surface until decades after exposure."
Organic farmers take on Monsanto over patent lawsuits
Organic farmers take on Monsanto over patent lawsuits
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/environment/la-me-gs-organic-farmers-sue-monsanto-to-stop-patent-suits-20120217,0,626461.story
"After years of taking farmers to court to assert their patent rights, agri-giantMonsanto Co.is being sued by farmers. Lots of farmers.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/environment/la-me-gs-organic-farmers-sue-monsanto-to-stop-patent-suits-20120217,0,626461.story
"After years of taking farmers to court to assert their patent rights, agri-giantMonsanto Co.is being sued by farmers. Lots of farmers.
Judge Naomi Buchwald heard oral arguments Jan. 31 in federal district court in Manhattan on OSGATA et al. vs. Monsanto, the latest courtroom action on a suit filed almost a year ago. Responding to what they say is a climate of fear created by Monsanto's long series of patent infringement lawsuits, a group representing as many as 25% of the nation's organic farmers (as well as other non-organic farmers) have sued the global biotech company to allow them to grow in peace."
Smart Living: Toxins in makeup
Smart Living: Toxins in makeup
http://austin.ynn.com/content/living/283153/smart-living--toxins-in-makeup
"The cosmetic world has revolutionized the way we age, but since the FDA doesn't check ingredients in beauty products, it can be hard to regulate harmful toxins in cosmetics."
http://austin.ynn.com/content/living/283153/smart-living--toxins-in-makeup
"The cosmetic world has revolutionized the way we age, but since the FDA doesn't check ingredients in beauty products, it can be hard to regulate harmful toxins in cosmetics."
Monday, February 20, 2012
Scientists Find New Dangers in Tiny but Pervasive Particles in Air Pollution
Scientists Find New Dangers in Tiny but Pervasive Particles in Air Pollution
"Fine atmospheric particles — smaller than one-thirtieth of the diameter of a human hair — were identified more than 20 years ago as the most lethal of the widely dispersed air pollutants in the United States. Linked to both heart and lung disease, they kill an estimated 50,000 Americans each year. But more recently, scientists have been puzzled to learn that a subset of these particles, called secondary organic aerosols, has a greater total mass, and is thus more dangerous, than previously understood."
Breathing Easy - Aspiring to be scent-free
Breathing Easy – Aspiring to be scent-free
"Many of our guests and staff experience sensitivities to chemicals that are found in many items used in everyday life. These include laundry soaps, dryer sheets, cleaning products, personal care products and perfumes. Symptoms of sensitivities can include wheezing, difficulty breathing, a sense of heaviness in the chest, a feeling of panic, scratchy throat and nose, itchy, watering eyes, fatigue and more."
Unsafe levels of lead still found in California youths
Unsafe levels of lead still found in California youths
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-lead-poisoning-20120219,0,6301977,full.story
"Despite enormous strides over the last 20 years in protecting children from the metal, health workers still find unsafe levels in thousands of youngsters every year. At the same time, programs to combat lead poisoning are being slashed.
One-year-old Nelly Gomez refused to eat. Anything she swallowed, she immediately threw up.
Thinking Nelly had indigestion, her parents took her to a nearby clinic in MacArthur Park. A blood test revealed a diagnosis that surprised and worried them: lead poisoning."
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-lead-poisoning-20120219,0,6301977,full.story
"Despite enormous strides over the last 20 years in protecting children from the metal, health workers still find unsafe levels in thousands of youngsters every year. At the same time, programs to combat lead poisoning are being slashed.
One-year-old Nelly Gomez refused to eat. Anything she swallowed, she immediately threw up.
Thinking Nelly had indigestion, her parents took her to a nearby clinic in MacArthur Park. A blood test revealed a diagnosis that surprised and worried them: lead poisoning."
Attacks paid for by big business are 'driving science into a dark era'
Attacks paid for by big business are 'driving science into a dark era'
http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/2012/feb/19/science-scepticism-usdomesticpolicy/print
http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/2012/feb/19/science-scepticism-usdomesticpolicy/print
"As Fedoroff pointed out, university and government researchers are hounded for arguing that rising carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere are changing the climate. Their emails are hacked while Facebook campaigns call for their dismissal from their posts, calls that are often backed by rightwing politicians. At the last Republican party debate in Florida, Rick Santorum insisted he should be the presidential nominee simply because he had cottoned on earlier than his rivals Newt Gingrich or Mitt Romney to the "hoax" of global warming."
Is 'new car smell' toxic?
Is 'new car smell' toxic?
http://www.foxnews.com/health/2012/02/20/is-new-car-smell-toxic/
"When buying a new car, many people look forward to having that 'new car smell.'
http://www.foxnews.com/health/2012/02/20/is-new-car-smell-toxic/
"When buying a new car, many people look forward to having that 'new car smell.'
But a study says inhaling that scent could actually fill your body with toxic fumes.
Researchers from the Ecology Center in Ann Arbor, Mich., tested dashboards, steering wheels, armrests and seats of more than 200 new cars – and found more than 275 chemicals."
Ailing US people find refuge from radio waves
Ailing US people find refuge from radio waves
http://www.aljazeera.com/video/americas/2012/02/20122189014951813.html
"West Virginia's National Radio Quiet Zone offers respite to those who feel their health affected by radio waves."
http://www.aljazeera.com/video/americas/2012/02/20122189014951813.html
"West Virginia's National Radio Quiet Zone offers respite to those who feel their health affected by radio waves."
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Chromium-6 in some wells more than 1,000 times above state goal; health implications unclear
Chromium-6 in some wells more than 1,000 times above state goal; health implications unclear
http://www.mydesert.com/article/20120219/NEWS07/202190314/Tainted-water-Chromium-6-above-California-goal-Desert-Sun-investigation
"Hexavalent chromium, a potentially cancer-causing heavy metal made famous by activist Erin Brockovich, is found in drinking water supplies throughout most of the Coachella Valley at 150 to more than 1,000 times above California's public health goal, a Desert Sun review of local water agencies' well-testing results found.
http://www.mydesert.com/article/20120219/NEWS07/202190314/Tainted-water-Chromium-6-above-California-goal-Desert-Sun-investigation
"Hexavalent chromium, a potentially cancer-causing heavy metal made famous by activist Erin Brockovich, is found in drinking water supplies throughout most of the Coachella Valley at 150 to more than 1,000 times above California's public health goal, a Desert Sun review of local water agencies' well-testing results found.
The National Toxicology Program of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services concluded in 2008 that hexavalent chromium, or chromium-6, in drinking water shows "clear evidence" of causing cancer in laboratory animals. And a 2010 draft toxicological review by the EPA found the contaminant in tap water is "likely to be carcinogenic to humans."
But scientific study on chromium-6 is ongoing, and some recent findings call into question at what levels and under what circumstances ingesting the metal may cause cancer."
Scientists Find New Dangers in Tiny but Pervasive Particles in Air Pollution
Scientists Find New Dangers in Tiny but Pervasive Particles in Air Pollution
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/19/science/earth/scientists-find-new-dangers-in-tiny-but-pervasive-particles-in-air-pollution.html?_r=1
"Fine atmospheric particles — smaller than one-thirtieth of the diameter of a human hair — were identified more than 20 years ago as the most lethal of the widely dispersed air pollutants in the United States. Linked to both heart and lung disease, they kill an estimated 50,000 Americans each year. But more recently, scientists have been puzzled to learn that a subset of these particles, called secondary organic aerosols, has a greater total mass, and is thus more dangerous, than previously understood."
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/19/science/earth/scientists-find-new-dangers-in-tiny-but-pervasive-particles-in-air-pollution.html?_r=1
"Fine atmospheric particles — smaller than one-thirtieth of the diameter of a human hair — were identified more than 20 years ago as the most lethal of the widely dispersed air pollutants in the United States. Linked to both heart and lung disease, they kill an estimated 50,000 Americans each year. But more recently, scientists have been puzzled to learn that a subset of these particles, called secondary organic aerosols, has a greater total mass, and is thus more dangerous, than previously understood."
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Repairs force disabled red-zoner to sleep outdoors
Repairs force disabled red-zoner to sleep outdoors
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/6434373/Repairs-force-disabled-red-zoner-to-sleep-outdoors
"A Christchurch woman with a rare medical condition has been forced to sleep outdoors or suffer migraines and insomnia because of repairs in her earthquake-damaged street.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/6434373/Repairs-force-disabled-red-zoner-to-sleep-outdoors
"A Christchurch woman with a rare medical condition has been forced to sleep outdoors or suffer migraines and insomnia because of repairs in her earthquake-damaged street.
Anne Gastinger, of Dallington, has electromagnetic hypersensitivity, or an adverse reaction to electromagnetic waves and wi-fi, and severe chemical allergies, including to treated wood."
FMRI reveals abnormal central processing of sensory and pain stimuli in ill Gulf War veterans.
FMRI reveals abnormal central processing of sensory and pain stimuli in ill Gulf War veterans.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22327017
Gopinath K, Gandhi P, Goyal A, Jiang L, Fang Y, Ouyang L, Ganji S, Buhner D, Ringe W, Spence J, Biggs M, Briggs R, Haley R.
Neurotoxicology. 2012 Feb 4. [Epub ahead of print]
Source
Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States; Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States; Department of Radiology & Imaging Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, United States.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22327017
Gopinath K, Gandhi P, Goyal A, Jiang L, Fang Y, Ouyang L, Ganji S, Buhner D, Ringe W, Spence J, Biggs M, Briggs R, Haley R.
Neurotoxicology. 2012 Feb 4. [Epub ahead of print]
Source
Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States; Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States; Department of Radiology & Imaging Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, United States.
Abstract
Many veterans chronically ill from the 1991 Gulf War exhibit symptoms of altered sensation, including chronic pain. In this study of 55 veterans of a Construction Battalion previously examined in 1995-1996 and 1997-1998, brain activation to innocuous and noxious heat stimuli was assessed in 2008-2009 with a quantitative sensory testing fMRI protocol in control veterans and groups representing three syndrome variants. Testing outside the scanner revealed no significant differences in warm detection or heat pain threshold among the four groups. In the fMRI study, Syndrome 1 and Syndrome 2, but not Syndrome 3, exhibited hypo-activation to innocuous heat and hyper-activation to noxious heat stimuli compared to controls. The results indicate abnormal central processing of sensory and painful stimuli in 2 of 3 variants of Gulf War illness and call for a more comprehensive study with a larger, representative sample of veterans.
Many veterans chronically ill from the 1991 Gulf War exhibit symptoms of altered sensation, including chronic pain. In this study of 55 veterans of a Construction Battalion previously examined in 1995-1996 and 1997-1998, brain activation to innocuous and noxious heat stimuli was assessed in 2008-2009 with a quantitative sensory testing fMRI protocol in control veterans and groups representing three syndrome variants. Testing outside the scanner revealed no significant differences in warm detection or heat pain threshold among the four groups. In the fMRI study, Syndrome 1 and Syndrome 2, but not Syndrome 3, exhibited hypo-activation to innocuous heat and hyper-activation to noxious heat stimuli compared to controls. The results indicate abnormal central processing of sensory and painful stimuli in 2 of 3 variants of Gulf War illness and call for a more comprehensive study with a larger, representative sample of veterans.
PMID: 22327017 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
We are all amazed on the power of wireless technology.
We are all amazed on the power of wireless technology.
http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120217/DICKSON07/302170123/Not-smart-meters-restriction-daily-life
http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120217/DICKSON07/302170123/Not-smart-meters-restriction-daily-life
"From convenience to efficiency and cost savings, there's plenty to rave about.
So why were citizens up in arms, blockading trucks and opposing mandatory installation of smart meters in Marin County in California in January 2011?"
American Lung Association
American Lung Association
How To Know If There Is A Problem
http://www.lung.org/healthy-air/home/resources/how-to-know-if-theres-problem.html
"Concerned that the air in your home or workplace may be harming your health or someone else's? Do a little digging to find the likely culprit. Walk through the building and ask a few questions to discover if the indoor air is causing a problem. Then click on links to learn more about potential sources of indoor air pollution."
How To Know If There Is A Problem
http://www.lung.org/healthy-air/home/resources/how-to-know-if-theres-problem.html
"Concerned that the air in your home or workplace may be harming your health or someone else's? Do a little digging to find the likely culprit. Walk through the building and ask a few questions to discover if the indoor air is causing a problem. Then click on links to learn more about potential sources of indoor air pollution."
County residents leading SmartMeter rejections; Progressive hotbeds Santa Cruz, Marin, SF lead list
County residents leading SmartMeter rejections; Progressive hotbeds Santa Cruz, Marin, SF lead list
http://www.mercurynews.com/breaking-news/ci_19989842
http://www.mercurynews.com/breaking-news/ci_19989842
"Santa Cruzans are putting their wallets where their bullhorns once were. Having helped win a key concession from state regulators on SmartMeters, more than 700 county residents have decided to pay for older analog power meters rather than opting for newer wireless technology. The number leads all counties — second place doesn't even come close — and comprises about 16 percent of such utility customers statewide."
Most and least toxic cars? Tests rank 200 models
Most and least toxic cars? Tests rank 200 models
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/greenhouse/post/2012/02/most-and-least-toxic-cars-tests-score-200-models/1?csp=34news#.T0ALV3nQuSo
"Ever wonder about that "new car" smell? In a report Wednesday that tests more than 200 vehicles, an environmental group says this off-gassing of chemicals is notably lower in some cars such as the Honda Civic ,Toyota Prius and Honda CR-Z. Overall, there's good news. Cars are reducing their use of chemicals, and the best have eliminated hazardous flame retardants and PVC (polyvinyl chloride), according to the fourth consumer guide on the topic by the non-profit, Ann Arbor-Mich. based Ecology Center."
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/greenhouse/post/2012/02/most-and-least-toxic-cars-tests-score-200-models/1?csp=34news#.T0ALV3nQuSo
"Ever wonder about that "new car" smell? In a report Wednesday that tests more than 200 vehicles, an environmental group says this off-gassing of chemicals is notably lower in some cars such as the Honda Civic ,Toyota Prius and Honda CR-Z. Overall, there's good news. Cars are reducing their use of chemicals, and the best have eliminated hazardous flame retardants and PVC (polyvinyl chloride), according to the fourth consumer guide on the topic by the non-profit, Ann Arbor-Mich. based Ecology Center."
Friday, February 17, 2012
Inhalation exposure of children to fragrances present in scented toys.
Inhalation exposure of children to fragrances present in scented toys.
Masuck I, Hutzler C, Jann O, Luch A. Indoor Air. 2011 Dec;21(6):501-11. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0668.2011.00727.x. Epub 2011 Jun 16.
Source
Department of Product Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany. Ines.Masuck@bfr.bund.de
Abstract
When utilized in the perfuming of children's toys, fragrances capable of inducing contact allergy in human skin may also become bioavailable to children via the inhalation route. The aim of this study was to determine the area-specific emission rates of 24 fragrances from a plasticized PVC reference material that was meant to mimic a real plastic toy. This material was introduced into an emission chamber for 28 days at handling conditions or at worst-case conditions. As a result, fragrances can be separated into three categories according to their emission rates ranging from 0.0041 to 16.2 mg/m² × h, i.e., highly volatile, semivolatile, and low-volatile compounds. Compounds of the first and second categories were monitored with decreasing emission rates. Substances of the third category were detected with increasing emission rates over time. Further, higher temperatures led to higher emission rates. The emission concentration of fragrances from four real scented toys varied between 1.10 and 107 μg/m³ at day 1 in the test chamber. Therefore, short-term inhalation exposure to fragrances originating from toys was in the range of 0.53-2700 ng/kg BW/d for the children of age 1 and older. Long-term exposure to these fragrances was calculated in the range of 2.2-220 ng/kg BW/d.
PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Besides household products and cosmetics, fragrances can be found in toys for children. Some fragrances are known contact allergens in the skin, but there is a lack of information on their effects in the human respiratory tract. Here, we analyzed and categorized fragrances present in a plasticized PVC reference material according to their emission profiles and volatility. We also demonstrate that volatile fragrances are being emitted from real toys and thus may get inhaled under consumer conditions to different extents.
PMID: 21615504 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Food Fight Spreads Across the Nation
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Thanks to the thousands of you who took action in response to the lead article we ran two weeks ago. We've expanded the article and added more action items. Please check it out.
California Update: The historic 2012 California Right2Know/Label GMOs ballot initiative is poised to enter the signature gathering phase this coming weekend. With thousands of volunteers trained, we feel confident we can get the 800,000 signatures we need before the April 18 deadline, but we need your help.
The Truth In Labeling Coalition reports that Senator Barbara Boxer and Representative Peter DeFazio's request that their colleagues join them in writing to the Food & Drug Administration in support of the Just Label It petition for GMO labels has been answered by Reps. Hanna (NY), Pingree (ME), Kucinich (OH), McGovern (MA), Moran (VA), Stark (CA), Farr (CA), George Miller (CA) and Polis (CO), as well as Sens. Begich (AK), Tester (MT) and Wyden (OR). There are many more congresspersons who support consumers' right to know about GMOs.
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