New research sheds light on mysterious fibromyalgia pain
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/12/15/fibromyalgia-research-breakthrough/3991063/
"This new understanding of fibromyalgia will hopefully lead to better treatments, doctors and researchers say."
Monday, December 16, 2013
FDA Wants Proof of Anti-Bacterial Soap Claims
FDA Wants Proof of Anti-Bacterial Soap Claims
http://www.medpagetoday.com/Washington-Watch/FDAGeneral/43453
http://www.medpagetoday.com/Washington-Watch/FDAGeneral/43453
Cytotoxic effects of air freshener biocides in lung epithelial cells.
Cytotoxic effects of air freshener biocides in lung epithelial cells.
Kwon JT, Lee M, Seo GB, Kim HM, Shim I, Lee DH, Kim T, Seo JK, Kim P, Choi K.
Nat Prod Commun. 2013 Sep;8(9):1301-4.
Abstract
Abstract
This study evaluated the cytotoxicity of mixtures of citral (CTR) and either benzisothiazolinone (BIT, Mix-CTR-BIT) or triclosan (TCS, Mix-CTR-TCS) in human A549 lung epithelial cells. We investigated the effects of various mix ratios of these common air freshener ingredients on cell viability, cell proliferation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and DNA damage. Mix-CTR-BIT and Mix-CTR-TCS significantly decreased the viability of lung epithelial cells and inhibited cell growth in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, both mixtures increased ROS generation, compared to that observed in control cells. In particular, cell viability, growth, and morphology were affected upon increase in the proportion of BIT or TCS in the mixture. However, comet analysis showed that treatment of cells with Mix-CTR-BIT or Mix-CTR-TCS did not increase DNA damage. Taken together, these data suggested that increasing the content of biocides in air fresheners might induce cytotoxicity, and that screening these compounds using lung epithelial cells may contribute to hazard assessment.
PMID: 24273871 [PubMed - in process]
Changes in Cerebral Blood Flow during Olfactory Stimulation in Patients with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity: A Multi-Channel Near-Infrared Spectroscopic Study.
Changes in Cerebral Blood Flow during Olfactory Stimulation in Patients with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity: A Multi-Channel Near-Infrared Spectroscopic Study.
Azuma K, Uchiyama I, Takano H, Tanigawa M, Azuma M, Bamba I, Yoshikawa T.
PLoS One. 2013 Nov 21;8(11):e80567. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0080567.
Author information
Abstract
Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is characterized by somatic distress upon exposure to odors. Patients with MCS process odors differently from controls. This odor-processing may be associated with activation in the prefrontal area connecting to the anterior cingulate cortex, which has been suggested as an area of odorant-related activation in MCS patients. In this study, activation was defined as a significant increase in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) because of odorant stimulation. Using the well-designed card-type olfactory test kit, changes in rCBF in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) were investigated after olfactory stimulation with several different odorants. Near-infrared spectroscopic (NIRS) imaging was performed in 12 MCS patients and 11 controls. The olfactory stimulation test was continuously repeated 10 times. The study also included subjective assessment of physical and psychological status and the perception of irritating and hedonic odors. Significant changes in rCBF were observed in the PFC of MCS patients on both the right and left sides, as distinct from the center of the PFC, compared with controls. MCS patients adequately distinguished the non-odorant in 10 odor repetitions during the early stage of the olfactory stimulation test, but not in the late stage. In comparison to controls, autonomic perception and negative affectivity were poorer in MCS patients. These results suggest that prefrontal information processing associated with odor-processing neuronal circuits and memory and cognition processes from past experience of chemical exposure play significant roles in the pathology of this disorder.
PMID: 24278291 [PubMed - in process]
EU Commission Reviews Fragrance Allergens Program
EU Commission Reviews Fragrance Allergens Program
http://www.sacbee.com/2013/12/16/6004003/eu-commission-reviews-fragrance.html
"The IDEA project, endorsed by the EU Commissioner for Health, Tonio Borg, is a multi-stakeholder process designed to provide a broadly agreed and transparent framework for assessing fragrance sensitizers globally. It is an opportunity to build partnerships between the international fragrance industry and its stakeholders to improve the risk assessment of those fragrance ingredients identified as allergens, leading to better consumer protection.:
http://www.sacbee.com/2013/12/16/6004003/eu-commission-reviews-fragrance.html
"The IDEA project, endorsed by the EU Commissioner for Health, Tonio Borg, is a multi-stakeholder process designed to provide a broadly agreed and transparent framework for assessing fragrance sensitizers globally. It is an opportunity to build partnerships between the international fragrance industry and its stakeholders to improve the risk assessment of those fragrance ingredients identified as allergens, leading to better consumer protection.:
AT&T drops cell tower proposal in Olympia's Northeast Neighborhood
AT&T drops cell tower proposal in Olympia's Northeast Neighborhood
A town hall meeting to discuss the Toxic Free Kids and Family Act
A town hall meeting to discuss the Toxic Free Kids and Family Act
Saturday, November 16, 2013
Evidence that Increased Acetaminophen use in Genetically Vulnerable Children Appears to be a Major Cause of the Epidemics of Autism, Attention Deficit with Hyperactivity, and Asthma
Evidence that Increased Acetaminophen use in Genetically Vulnerable Children Appears to be a Major Cause of the Epidemics of Autism, Attention Deficit with Hyperactivity, and Asthma
http://www.greatplainslaboratory.com/home/eng/Acetaminophen.asp
Abstract
"It appears that the marked increase in the rate of autism, asthma, and attention deficit with hyperactivity throughout much of the world may be largely caused by the marked increase in the use of acetaminophen in genetically and/or metabolically susceptible children, and the use of acetaminophen by pregnant women. Toxicity of acetaminophen may cause autism by overloading the defective sulfation pathway catalyzed by phenolsulfotransferase, which is deficient in autism, leading to overproduction of the toxic metabolite N-acetylp- benzoquinone imine (NAPQI). Increased levels of NAPQI reduce the ability to detoxify a host of toxic chemicals in the environment, increasing oxidative stress, which leads to protein, lipid, and nucleic acid damage from free radicals. Epidemiological evidence also supports the association of increased acetaminophen usage with autism, asthma, and attention deficit with hyperactivity. The marked increases in the incidences of autism, asthma, and attention deficit disorder in the United States coincide with the replacement of aspirin by acetaminophen in the 1980s. The characteristic loss of Purkinje cells in the brains of people with autism is consistent with depletion of brain glutathione due to excess acetaminophen usage, which leads to premature brain Purkinje cell death. The anomalous hair mercury concentrations of children with autism are consistent with exposure of growing hair proteins to NAPQI derived from acetaminophen, which competitively inhibits the reaction of mercury with hair sulfhydryl groups. Finally, large-scale faulty production of acetaminophen products, such that the labeled values were exceeded by the true concentrations, in addition to contamination with bacteria and tribromoanisole, may have greatly increased the chances of children receiving overdosages of acetaminophen and potential toxins for perhaps as long as a decade."
http://www.greatplainslaboratory.com/home/eng/Acetaminophen.asp
Abstract
"It appears that the marked increase in the rate of autism, asthma, and attention deficit with hyperactivity throughout much of the world may be largely caused by the marked increase in the use of acetaminophen in genetically and/or metabolically susceptible children, and the use of acetaminophen by pregnant women. Toxicity of acetaminophen may cause autism by overloading the defective sulfation pathway catalyzed by phenolsulfotransferase, which is deficient in autism, leading to overproduction of the toxic metabolite N-acetylp- benzoquinone imine (NAPQI). Increased levels of NAPQI reduce the ability to detoxify a host of toxic chemicals in the environment, increasing oxidative stress, which leads to protein, lipid, and nucleic acid damage from free radicals. Epidemiological evidence also supports the association of increased acetaminophen usage with autism, asthma, and attention deficit with hyperactivity. The marked increases in the incidences of autism, asthma, and attention deficit disorder in the United States coincide with the replacement of aspirin by acetaminophen in the 1980s. The characteristic loss of Purkinje cells in the brains of people with autism is consistent with depletion of brain glutathione due to excess acetaminophen usage, which leads to premature brain Purkinje cell death. The anomalous hair mercury concentrations of children with autism are consistent with exposure of growing hair proteins to NAPQI derived from acetaminophen, which competitively inhibits the reaction of mercury with hair sulfhydryl groups. Finally, large-scale faulty production of acetaminophen products, such that the labeled values were exceeded by the true concentrations, in addition to contamination with bacteria and tribromoanisole, may have greatly increased the chances of children receiving overdosages of acetaminophen and potential toxins for perhaps as long as a decade."
Signs of Early Kidney Damage Found in Some 9/11 Responders
Signs of Early Kidney Damage Found in Some 9/11 Responders
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_142377.html
"Researchers say those who were exposed longest to polluted air at Ground Zero were most affected"
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_142377.html
"Researchers say those who were exposed longest to polluted air at Ground Zero were most affected"
Profile of Cerebrospinal microRNAs in Fibromyalgia.
Profile of Cerebrospinal microRNAs in Fibromyalgia.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24205312
Bjersing JL, Lundborg C, Bokarewa MI, Mannerkorpi K.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24205312
Bjersing JL, Lundborg C, Bokarewa MI, Mannerkorpi K.
PLoS One. 2013 Oct 25;8(10):e78762. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0078762.
Source
Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden.
Source
Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by chronic pain and reduced pain threshold. The pathophysiology involves disturbed neuroendocrine function, including impaired function of the growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor-1 axis. Recently, microRNAs have been shown to be important regulatory factors in a number of diseases. The aim of this study was to try to identify cerebrospinal microRNAs with expression specific for FM and to determine their correlation to pain and fatigue.
Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by chronic pain and reduced pain threshold. The pathophysiology involves disturbed neuroendocrine function, including impaired function of the growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor-1 axis. Recently, microRNAs have been shown to be important regulatory factors in a number of diseases. The aim of this study was to try to identify cerebrospinal microRNAs with expression specific for FM and to determine their correlation to pain and fatigue.
METHODS:
The genome-wide profile of microRNAs in cerebrospinal fluid was assessed in ten women with FM and eight healthy controls using real-time quantitative PCR. Pain thresholds were examined by algometry. Levels of pain (FIQ pain) were rated on a 0-100 mm scale (fibromyalgia impact questionnaire, FIQ). Levels of fatigue (FIQ fatigue) were rated on a 0-100 mm scale using FIQ and by multidimensional fatigue inventory (MFI-20) general fatigue (MFIGF).
The genome-wide profile of microRNAs in cerebrospinal fluid was assessed in ten women with FM and eight healthy controls using real-time quantitative PCR. Pain thresholds were examined by algometry. Levels of pain (FIQ pain) were rated on a 0-100 mm scale (fibromyalgia impact questionnaire, FIQ). Levels of fatigue (FIQ fatigue) were rated on a 0-100 mm scale using FIQ and by multidimensional fatigue inventory (MFI-20) general fatigue (MFIGF).
RESULTS:
Expression levels of nine microRNAs were significantly lower in patients with FM patients compared to healthy controls. The microRNAs identified were miR-21-5p, miR-145-5p, miR-29a-3p, miR-99b-5p, miR-125b-5p, miR-23a-3p, 23b-3p, miR-195-5p, miR-223-3p. The identified microRNAs with significantly lower expression in FM were assessed with regard to pain and fatigue. miR-145-5p correlated positively with FIQ pain (r=0.709, p=0.022, n=10) and with FIQ fatigue (r=0.687, p=0.028, n=10).
Expression levels of nine microRNAs were significantly lower in patients with FM patients compared to healthy controls. The microRNAs identified were miR-21-5p, miR-145-5p, miR-29a-3p, miR-99b-5p, miR-125b-5p, miR-23a-3p, 23b-3p, miR-195-5p, miR-223-3p. The identified microRNAs with significantly lower expression in FM were assessed with regard to pain and fatigue. miR-145-5p correlated positively with FIQ pain (r=0.709, p=0.022, n=10) and with FIQ fatigue (r=0.687, p=0.028, n=10).
CONCLUSION:
To our knowledge, this is the first study to show a disease-specific pattern of cerebrospinal microRNAs in FM. We have identified nine microRNAs in cerebrospinal fluid that differed between FM patients and healthy controls. One of the identified microRNAs, miR-145 was associated with the cardinal symptoms of FM, pain and fatigue.
To our knowledge, this is the first study to show a disease-specific pattern of cerebrospinal microRNAs in FM. We have identified nine microRNAs in cerebrospinal fluid that differed between FM patients and healthy controls. One of the identified microRNAs, miR-145 was associated with the cardinal symptoms of FM, pain and fatigue.
PMID: 24205312
[PubMed - in process]
[PubMed - in process]
Comorbidity of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) in an Australian cohort.
Comorbidity of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) in an Australian cohort.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24206536
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24206536
Reynolds GK, Lewis DP, Richardson AM, Lidbury BA.
J Intern Med. 2013 Nov 9. doi: 10.1111/joim.12161. [Epub ahead of print]
Source
Department of Genome Biology, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra.
Source
Department of Genome Biology, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
Patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) are frequently diagnosed with comorbid postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), suggesting a shared pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between demographic characteristics, autonomic functioning and fatigue levels amongst CFS patients with and without comorbid POTS.
Patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) are frequently diagnosed with comorbid postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), suggesting a shared pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between demographic characteristics, autonomic functioning and fatigue levels amongst CFS patients with and without comorbid POTS.
DESIGN AND SETTING:
All patients presenting to Melbourne CFS Discovery Clinic between 2009 and 2012 completed a 20-min standing task as part of their initial assessment. Heart rate and pulse pressure were recorded at baseline, at 2 min intervals post-standing, at the end of the task and following a recovery period. Average heart rate and pulse pressure variability were calculated from this data. Age, gender, length of illness and self-reported fatigue scores were also recorded. POTS patients were diagnosed by an orthostatic increase in heart rate greater than 30 beats/min, concomitant symptoms of orthostatic intolerance and no orthostatic hypotension. Differences in autonomic functioning between POTS and CFS patients were compared using independent-samples t-tests, while logistic and linear regressions were performed to examine the contribution of autonomic functioning to task completion and perceived fatigue, respectively.
All patients presenting to Melbourne CFS Discovery Clinic between 2009 and 2012 completed a 20-min standing task as part of their initial assessment. Heart rate and pulse pressure were recorded at baseline, at 2 min intervals post-standing, at the end of the task and following a recovery period. Average heart rate and pulse pressure variability were calculated from this data. Age, gender, length of illness and self-reported fatigue scores were also recorded. POTS patients were diagnosed by an orthostatic increase in heart rate greater than 30 beats/min, concomitant symptoms of orthostatic intolerance and no orthostatic hypotension. Differences in autonomic functioning between POTS and CFS patients were compared using independent-samples t-tests, while logistic and linear regressions were performed to examine the contribution of autonomic functioning to task completion and perceived fatigue, respectively.
RESULTS:
Comorbidity of CFS and POTS (CFS-POTS) was observed in 11% (33/306) of patients. CFS-POTS patients were significantly younger (P < 0.001), had a shorter length of illness (P = 0.034), experienced greater task difficulty (P = 0.002) and were able to stand for significantly shorter periods compared to the CFS-only patients (P < 0.001). CFS-POTS patients experienced significantly lower baseline diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.002), and significantly higher heart rate and lower pulse pressures at each standing measurement. Early heart rate changes (P = 0.002) and overall heart rate change (P < 0.001) were significant predictors of completion status, whereas heart rate variability (P < 0.001) and female gender (P <0.001) were significant predictors of increased perceived task difficulty.
Comorbidity of CFS and POTS (CFS-POTS) was observed in 11% (33/306) of patients. CFS-POTS patients were significantly younger (P < 0.001), had a shorter length of illness (P = 0.034), experienced greater task difficulty (P = 0.002) and were able to stand for significantly shorter periods compared to the CFS-only patients (P < 0.001). CFS-POTS patients experienced significantly lower baseline diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.002), and significantly higher heart rate and lower pulse pressures at each standing measurement. Early heart rate changes (P = 0.002) and overall heart rate change (P < 0.001) were significant predictors of completion status, whereas heart rate variability (P < 0.001) and female gender (P <0.001) were significant predictors of increased perceived task difficulty.
CONCLUSIONS:
Haemodynamic and demographic differences between CFS-POTS and CFS-only patients suggest that the former group reflects a distinct subgroup of the CFS population. The findings highlight the utility of screening younger patients with fatigue for POTS, and identified heart rate variability as an important marker of fatigue for CFS patients in general.
Haemodynamic and demographic differences between CFS-POTS and CFS-only patients suggest that the former group reflects a distinct subgroup of the CFS population. The findings highlight the utility of screening younger patients with fatigue for POTS, and identified heart rate variability as an important marker of fatigue for CFS patients in general.
PMID: 24206536
[PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
[PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Lack of evidence for retroviral infections formerly related to chronic fatigue in Spanish Fibromyalgia patients.
Lack of evidence for retroviral infections formerly related to chronic fatigue in Spanish Fibromyalgia patients.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24216038
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24216038
Oltra E, García-Escudero M, Mena-Durán AV, Monsalve V, Cerdá-Olmedo G.
Virol J. 2013 Nov 11;10(1):332. [Epub ahead of print]
Virol J. 2013 Nov 11;10(1):332. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
The etiology of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome (FM/CFS) is currently unknown. A recurrent viral infection is an attractive hypothesis repeatedly found in the literature since it would explain the persistent pain and tiredness these patients suffer from. The initial striking link of two distinct orphan retroviruses: the gamma retroviruses murine leukemia virus (MLV)-related virus and the delta retrovirus T-lymphotropic virus type 2 (HTLV-2) to chronic fatigue have not been confirmed to date.
The etiology of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome (FM/CFS) is currently unknown. A recurrent viral infection is an attractive hypothesis repeatedly found in the literature since it would explain the persistent pain and tiredness these patients suffer from. The initial striking link of two distinct orphan retroviruses: the gamma retroviruses murine leukemia virus (MLV)-related virus and the delta retrovirus T-lymphotropic virus type 2 (HTLV-2) to chronic fatigue have not been confirmed to date.
RESULTS:
Genomic DNA (gDNA) from 75 fibromyalgia patients suffering from chronic fatigue and 79 age-matched local healthy controls were screened for the presence of MLV-related and HTLV-2 related proviral sequences. The XMRV env gene was amplified in 20% of samples tested (24% patients/15% healthy controls). Unexpectedly, no PCR amplifications from independent gDNA preparations of the same individuals were obtained. None of the positive samples showed presence of contaminating murine sequences previously reported by other investigators, neither contained additional regions of the virus making us conclude that the initial env amplification came from spurious air-driven amplicon contaminants. No specific HTLV-2 sequences were obtained at any time from any of the 154 quality-controlled gDNA preparations screened.
Genomic DNA (gDNA) from 75 fibromyalgia patients suffering from chronic fatigue and 79 age-matched local healthy controls were screened for the presence of MLV-related and HTLV-2 related proviral sequences. The XMRV env gene was amplified in 20% of samples tested (24% patients/15% healthy controls). Unexpectedly, no PCR amplifications from independent gDNA preparations of the same individuals were obtained. None of the positive samples showed presence of contaminating murine sequences previously reported by other investigators, neither contained additional regions of the virus making us conclude that the initial env amplification came from spurious air-driven amplicon contaminants. No specific HTLV-2 sequences were obtained at any time from any of the 154 quality-controlled gDNA preparations screened.
CONCLUSIONS:
Previous associations between MLV-related or HTLV-2 retrovirus infection with chronic fatigue must be discarded. Thus, studies showing positive amplification of HTLV-2 sequences from chronic fatigue participants should be revised for possible undetected technical problems.To avoid false positives of viral infection, not only extreme precautions should be taken when nested-PCR reactions are prepared and exhaustive foreign DNA contamination controls performed, but also consistent amplification of diverse regions of the virus in independent preparations from the same individual must be demanded.The fact that our cohort of patients did not present evidence of any of the two types of retroviral infection formerly associated to chronic fatigue does not rule out the possibility that other viruses are involved in inciting or maintaining fibromyalgia and/or chronic fatigue conditions.
Previous associations between MLV-related or HTLV-2 retrovirus infection with chronic fatigue must be discarded. Thus, studies showing positive amplification of HTLV-2 sequences from chronic fatigue participants should be revised for possible undetected technical problems.To avoid false positives of viral infection, not only extreme precautions should be taken when nested-PCR reactions are prepared and exhaustive foreign DNA contamination controls performed, but also consistent amplification of diverse regions of the virus in independent preparations from the same individual must be demanded.The fact that our cohort of patients did not present evidence of any of the two types of retroviral infection formerly associated to chronic fatigue does not rule out the possibility that other viruses are involved in inciting or maintaining fibromyalgia and/or chronic fatigue conditions.
PMID: 24216038 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Researchers tie Gulf War illness to brain damage
Researchers tie Gulf War illness to brain damage
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/03/20/research-ties-gulf-war-illness-to-brain-damage/1982817/
"WASHINGTON — Researchers say they have found physical proof that Gulf War illness is caused by damage to the brain — and that proof may ultimately help civilians who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia."
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/03/20/research-ties-gulf-war-illness-to-brain-damage/1982817/
"WASHINGTON — Researchers say they have found physical proof that Gulf War illness is caused by damage to the brain — and that proof may ultimately help civilians who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia."
State rethinks using herbicide at Piermont Marsh for Tappan Zee Bridge
State rethinks using herbicide at Piermont Marsh for Tappan Zee Bridge
http://www.lohud.com/article/20131106/NEWS/311060058/
"The state is reconsidering plans to spray 200 acres of Piermont Marsh with herbicide as part of the construction of the new Tappan Zee Bridge. In a letter this month to Piermont Mayor Chris Sanders and others, the state Department of Environmental Conservation said it has "changed course after hearing from many of you who expressed concerns" about the initial plans for the marsh."
http://www.lohud.com/article/20131106/NEWS/311060058/
"The state is reconsidering plans to spray 200 acres of Piermont Marsh with herbicide as part of the construction of the new Tappan Zee Bridge. In a letter this month to Piermont Mayor Chris Sanders and others, the state Department of Environmental Conservation said it has "changed course after hearing from many of you who expressed concerns" about the initial plans for the marsh."
Lyme disease advocates to hold educational forum
Lyme disease advocates to hold educational forum'
http://www.fox19.com/story/23935524/lyme-disease-advocates-hold-educational-forum-in-w-price-hill
"The number of Lyme disease cases is on the rise in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Health officials report blacklegged ticks, which transmit Lyme disease, have been found in more than 50 Ohio counties. Other forms of ticks such as the American dog tick, which carries Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and the Lone star tick, which carries Ehrlichiosis, have also been found in Ohio. "
http://www.fox19.com/story/23935524/lyme-disease-advocates-hold-educational-forum-in-w-price-hill
"The number of Lyme disease cases is on the rise in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Health officials report blacklegged ticks, which transmit Lyme disease, have been found in more than 50 Ohio counties. Other forms of ticks such as the American dog tick, which carries Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and the Lone star tick, which carries Ehrlichiosis, have also been found in Ohio. "
NH receives $150,000 to research Lyme disease
NH receives $150,000 to research Lyme disease
http://www.nhregister.com/health/20131107/unh-receives-150000-to-research-lyme-disease
"The University of New Haven has received a $150,000 grant from Lymedisease.org for research into the tick-borne illness, according to a press release."
http://www.nhregister.com/health/20131107/unh-receives-150000-to-research-lyme-disease
"The University of New Haven has received a $150,000 grant from Lymedisease.org for research into the tick-borne illness, according to a press release."
TRPA1 detects environmental chemicals and induces avoidance behavior and arousal from sleep
TRPA1 detects environmental chemicals and induces avoidance behavior and arousal from sleep
http://www.nature.com/srep/2013/131031/srep03100/full/srep03100.html
"Detecting threats and escaping before serious confrontations are important for animals to avoid danger and death. Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1), a member of the TRP superfamily, is expressed in a subset of sensory neurons and mediates nociception evoked by pungent chemicals. Using behavioral testing, we found that TRPA1 knockout mice failed to avoid entering a chamber filled with vapor of formalin, allyl isothiocyanate, and acrolein. The avoidance behavior was blocked by nasal but not subcutaneous administration of a blocker to TRPA1. We also found that TRPA1 knockout mice did not wake when exposed to formalin during sleep. Additionally, the spinal trigeminal nucleus, the first relay neurons of the trigeminal system, showed massive expression of c-Fos after a brief (3 min) exposure to formalin vapor. TRPA1 seems to be a sentinel for environmental chemicals and induces avoidance behaviors and waking by way of the trigeminal system."
http://www.nature.com/srep/2013/131031/srep03100/full/srep03100.html
"Detecting threats and escaping before serious confrontations are important for animals to avoid danger and death. Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1), a member of the TRP superfamily, is expressed in a subset of sensory neurons and mediates nociception evoked by pungent chemicals. Using behavioral testing, we found that TRPA1 knockout mice failed to avoid entering a chamber filled with vapor of formalin, allyl isothiocyanate, and acrolein. The avoidance behavior was blocked by nasal but not subcutaneous administration of a blocker to TRPA1. We also found that TRPA1 knockout mice did not wake when exposed to formalin during sleep. Additionally, the spinal trigeminal nucleus, the first relay neurons of the trigeminal system, showed massive expression of c-Fos after a brief (3 min) exposure to formalin vapor. TRPA1 seems to be a sentinel for environmental chemicals and induces avoidance behaviors and waking by way of the trigeminal system."
Parents Want Schools to Go Green to Avoid Chemical Sensitivity - Erika Lathon - WZTV FOX 17
Parents Want Schools to Go Green to Avoid Chemical Sensitivity - Erika Lathon - WZTV FOX 17
http://fox17.com/news/features/top-stories/stories/parents-want-schools-go-green-avoid-chemical-sensitivity-erika-lathon-17576.shtml
"Some parents say exposure to common cleaning products like bleach is making their children sick at school. Stores like Whole Foods Market say chemical sensitivity and environmental concerns are driving the market for products without harsh chemicals. Members of a grass roots group, Parents for Students Safety want to see more school districts use green cleaning products to protect children and educators. Whole Foods had developed its own Eco rating system and will only carry cleaning products that list ingredients and meet certain guidelines. To raise awareness about chemical sensitivity, Parents for Students Safety is sponsoring a screening of the film "Unacceptable Levels" Thursday at Carmike thoroughbred 20 in Franklin. Click the links below to learn more."
http://fox17.com/news/features/top-stories/stories/parents-want-schools-go-green-avoid-chemical-sensitivity-erika-lathon-17576.shtml
"Some parents say exposure to common cleaning products like bleach is making their children sick at school. Stores like Whole Foods Market say chemical sensitivity and environmental concerns are driving the market for products without harsh chemicals. Members of a grass roots group, Parents for Students Safety want to see more school districts use green cleaning products to protect children and educators. Whole Foods had developed its own Eco rating system and will only carry cleaning products that list ingredients and meet certain guidelines. To raise awareness about chemical sensitivity, Parents for Students Safety is sponsoring a screening of the film "Unacceptable Levels" Thursday at Carmike thoroughbred 20 in Franklin. Click the links below to learn more."
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Common feminine health products riddled with dangerous chemicals - report
Common feminine health products riddled with dangerous chemicals - report
http://rt.com/usa/feminine-products-dangerous-chemicals-345/
"Common feminine care products contain hazardous chemicals including carcinogens, endocrine disruptors and reproductive toxins that can cause cancer among other dangers, a new report shows.
http://rt.com/usa/feminine-products-dangerous-chemicals-345/
"Common feminine care products contain hazardous chemicals including carcinogens, endocrine disruptors and reproductive toxins that can cause cancer among other dangers, a new report shows.
Women's Voices for the Earth (WVE) released Wednesday the report Chem Fatale revealing feminine care products, a $3 billion industry, are marred by toxins and void of crucial regulations, putting the health of millions of women at risk.
The report finds that the products used on or in absorbent parts of the female body are sold with little or no data provided about the ingredients they contain.
The report finds that the products used on or in absorbent parts of the female body are sold with little or no data provided about the ingredients they contain.
"The chemicals used in these products are a real concern given the inevitable exposure to sensitive and absorptive vulvar and vaginal tissue," said Dr. Ami Zota, a professor of occupational and environmental health at George Washington University, in a press release. "
This Is Your Brain on Toxins
This Is Your Brain on Toxins
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/17/opinion/kristof-this-is-your-brain-on-toxins.html?src=recg&_r=1&
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/17/opinion/kristof-this-is-your-brain-on-toxins.html?src=recg&_r=1&
"What are the lessons from the human catastrophe of lead poisoning over so many decades?"
Canary in a Coal Mine
Canary in a Coal Mine
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/959776320/canary-in-a-coal-mine
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/959776320/canary-in-a-coal-mine
"A film about life with M.E., the most prevalent and devastating disease your doctor has never heard of."
Officials in Olympia, D.C. ducked opportunities to protect students from traffic pollution
Officials in Olympia, D.C. ducked opportunities to protect students from traffic pollution
http://www.invw.org/article/officials-in-olympia-dc-d-1392
"In spite of the substantial evidence of air-pollution risks to children who attend schools near large roadways — including lung problems, asthma attacks and heightened absenteeism — policymakers at both the state and federal levels ducked the issue in recent years, records and interviews show.
http://www.invw.org/article/officials-in-olympia-dc-d-1392
"In spite of the substantial evidence of air-pollution risks to children who attend schools near large roadways — including lung problems, asthma attacks and heightened absenteeism — policymakers at both the state and federal levels ducked the issue in recent years, records and interviews show.
The risks were squarely presented. At about the same time in 2008 and 2009, independent groups of officials meeting in Olympia and Washington, D.C., considered and then rejected the notion of banning or severely restricting construction of schools inside the pollution plume emanating up to 500 feet from major roadways.
That lack of action means schools in Washington and across the country continue to be built near the nation's biggest and busiest roads, despite compelling evidence that roadway pollution can set kids' health back for life.
"It's common sense, you'd think that common sense would prevail," said Steve Fischbach, a Rhode Island lawyer who advised the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency during the federal process. "But the number of bad examples shows us that poor siting decisions still go on.""
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Chemicals could be making you gain weight
Chemicals could be making you gain weight
http://www.timescall.com/lifestyles/ci_24291927/chemicals-could-be-making-you-fat
"Everyone knows Americans are fat and getting fatter, and everyone thinks they know why: more eating and less moving.
But the "big two" factors may not be the whole story. Consider this: Animals have been getting fatter too. The National Pet Obesity Survey recently reported that more than 50 percent of cats and dogs — that's more than 80 million pets — are overweight or obese. Pets have gotten so plump that there's now a National Pet Obesity Awareness Day. (It was Wednesday.) Lap dogs and comatose cats aren't alone in the fat animal kingdom. Animals in strictly controlled research laboratories that have enforced the same diet and lifestyle for decades are also ballooning."
http://www.timescall.com/lifestyles/ci_24291927/chemicals-could-be-making-you-fat
"Everyone knows Americans are fat and getting fatter, and everyone thinks they know why: more eating and less moving.
But the "big two" factors may not be the whole story. Consider this: Animals have been getting fatter too. The National Pet Obesity Survey recently reported that more than 50 percent of cats and dogs — that's more than 80 million pets — are overweight or obese. Pets have gotten so plump that there's now a National Pet Obesity Awareness Day. (It was Wednesday.) Lap dogs and comatose cats aren't alone in the fat animal kingdom. Animals in strictly controlled research laboratories that have enforced the same diet and lifestyle for decades are also ballooning."
Nurses and doctors educate lawmakers on the dangers of chemicals
Nurses and doctors educate lawmakers on the dangers of chemicals
http://www.psr.org/news-events/news-archive/nurses-and-doctors-educate.html
http://www.psr.org/news-events/news-archive/nurses-and-doctors-educate.html
"PSR joined forces recently with the American Nurses Association to present an informational briefing to the US Senate on the health hazards of chemicals in consumer products and the environment. Chaired by Catherine Thomasson, MD, PSR's executive director, the briefing focused on chemicals known as endocrine disruptors which interrupt the body's hormone system."
Study ties chemical to possible miscarriage risk
Study ties chemical to possible miscarriage risk
http://www.sfgate.com/news/medical/article/Study-ties-chemical-to-possible-miscarriage-risk-4892532.php
"BOSTON (AP) — New research suggests that high levels of BPA, a chemical in many plastics and canned food linings, might raise the risk of miscarriage in women prone to that problem or having trouble getting pregnant."
http://www.sfgate.com/news/medical/article/Study-ties-chemical-to-possible-miscarriage-risk-4892532.php
"BOSTON (AP) — New research suggests that high levels of BPA, a chemical in many plastics and canned food linings, might raise the risk of miscarriage in women prone to that problem or having trouble getting pregnant."
The "Gulf War syndrome". Is there evidence of dysfunction in the nervous system?
The "Gulf War syndrome". Is there evidence of dysfunction in the nervous system?
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1073905/
G A Jamal, S Hansen, F Apartopoulos, and A Peden
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1073905/
G A Jamal, S Hansen, F Apartopoulos, and A Peden
Abstract
In a pilot study, 14 Gulf War veterans were randomly selected from a large list of those with unexplained illness, to compare the functional integrity of the peripheral and central nervous system with a group of 13 healthy civilian control subjects using predetermined outcome measures. The controls were matched closely for age, sex, handedness, and physical activity. Outcome measures included scoring of symptoms and clinical neurological signs, quantitative sensory testing of heat, cold and vibration sensibilities, motor and sensory nerve conduction studies on upper and lower limbs, needle EMG of distal and proximal muscles and multimodality evoked potential (visual, brainstem, and somatosensory) studies. Three measurements, all related to peripheral nerve function (cold threshold (P = 0.0002), sural nerve latency (P = 0.034), and median nerve sensory action potential (P = 0.030) were abnormal in the veterans compared with the controls. There may be a dysfunction in the veterans but more studies are required to investigate the findings further and to characterise the dysfunction if confirmed.
In a pilot study, 14 Gulf War veterans were randomly selected from a large list of those with unexplained illness, to compare the functional integrity of the peripheral and central nervous system with a group of 13 healthy civilian control subjects using predetermined outcome measures. The controls were matched closely for age, sex, handedness, and physical activity. Outcome measures included scoring of symptoms and clinical neurological signs, quantitative sensory testing of heat, cold and vibration sensibilities, motor and sensory nerve conduction studies on upper and lower limbs, needle EMG of distal and proximal muscles and multimodality evoked potential (visual, brainstem, and somatosensory) studies. Three measurements, all related to peripheral nerve function (cold threshold (P = 0.0002), sural nerve latency (P = 0.034), and median nerve sensory action potential (P = 0.030) were abnormal in the veterans compared with the controls. There may be a dysfunction in the veterans but more studies are required to investigate the findings further and to characterise the dysfunction if confirmed.
Can Radiation From Wi Fi Cause Fertility Problems, A.D.H.D. & Cancer? Hear Dr. Martin Pall (of Portland) & U.K. Microwave Expert Prof. Barrie Trower Speak
Can Radiation From Wi Fi Cause Fertility Problems, A.D.H.D. & Cancer? Hear Dr. Martin Pall (of Portland) & U.K. Microwave Expert Prof. Barrie Trower Speak
http://www.thelundreport.org/resource/can_radiation_from_wi_fi_cause_fertility_problems_adhd_cancer_hear_dr_martin_pall_of_portla
http://www.thelundreport.org/resource/can_radiation_from_wi_fi_cause_fertility_problems_adhd_cancer_hear_dr_martin_pall_of_portla
Homesick: Living with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities
Homesick: Living with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities
https://www.createspace.com/382645
https://www.createspace.com/382645
Disclosure: NFI
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Study to track firefighter exposure to chemicals
Study to track firefighter exposure to chemicals
http://www.kjonline.com/news/Study-to-track-firefighter-exposure-to-chemicals.html
"The times have changed, and research now shows firefighters are at a greater risk of developing cancer because of exposure to toxic chemicals while fighting fires."
http://www.kjonline.com/news/Study-to-track-firefighter-exposure-to-chemicals.html
"The times have changed, and research now shows firefighters are at a greater risk of developing cancer because of exposure to toxic chemicals while fighting fires."
Asthma related to cleaning agents: a clinical insight -- Vandenplas et al. 3 (9) -- BMJ Open
Asthma related to cleaning agents: a clinical insight -- Vandenplas et al. 3 (9) -- BMJ Open
http://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/3/9/e003568.full?sid=e2e75ce0-58ff-4e13-b51d-75a73f839193
BMJ Open 2013;3:e003568 doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2013-003568
Occupational and environmental medicine
http://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/3/9/e003568.full?sid=e2e75ce0-58ff-4e13-b51d-75a73f839193
BMJ Open 2013;3:e003568 doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2013-003568
Occupational and environmental medicine
Olivier Vandenplas, et al.
Abstract
Objective To determine the agents causing asthmatic reactions during specific inhalation challenges (SICs) in workers with cleaning-related asthma symptoms and to assess the pattern of bronchial responses in order to identify the mechanisms involved in cleaning-related asthma.
Design A retrospective case series analysis.
Setting The study included all participants who completed an SIC procedure with the cleaning/disinfection products suspected of causing work-related asthma over the period 1992–2011 in a tertiary centre, which is the single specialised centre of the French-speaking part of Belgium where all participants with work-related asthma are referred to for SIC.
Results The review identified 44 participants who completed an SIC with cleaning/disinfection agents. Challenge exposure to the suspected cleaning agents elicited a ≥20% fall in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) in 17 (39%) participants. The cleaning products that induced a positive SIC contained quaternary ammonium compounds (n=10), glutaraldehyde (n=3), both of these agents (n=1) and ethanolamines (n=2). Positive SICs were associated with a significant decrease in the median (IQR) value of the provocative concentration of histamine causing a 20% fall in FEV1 (PC20) from 1.4 (0.2–4.2) mg/mL at baseline to 0.5 (0.4–3.0) mg/mL after the challenge and a significant increase in sputum eosinophils from 1.8 (0.8–7.2)% at baseline to 10.0 (4.1–15.9)% 7 h after the challenge exposure while these parameters did not significantly change in participants with a negative SIC. Overall, 11 of 17 participants with positive SICs showed greater than threefold decrease in postchallenge histamine PC20 value, a >2% increase in sputum eosinophils, or both of these outcomes.
Conclusions These data indicate that a substantial proportion of workers who experience asthma symptoms related to cleaning materials show a pattern of bronchial reaction consistent with sensitiser-induced occupational asthma. The results also suggest that quaternary ammonium compounds are the principal cause of sensitiser-induced occupational asthma among cleaners.
Green Cleaning Toolkit for Child Care Providers
Green Cleaning Toolkit for Child Care Providers
http://apps.cdpr.ca.gov/schoolipm/childcare/toolkit/green_cleaning/main.cfm
http://apps.cdpr.ca.gov/schoolipm/childcare/toolkit/green_cleaning/main.cfm
Fukushima Watch: Stemming One Leak Causes Another
Fukushima Watch: Stemming One Leak Causes Another
http://blogs.wsj.com/japanrealtime/2013/10/03/fukushima-watch-stemming-one-leak-causes-another/
"It seems the operator of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant is destined to lurch from one blunder to another. In the latest unfortunate episode Wednesday, it ended up causing a leak as it attempted to prevent another leak elsewhere."
http://blogs.wsj.com/japanrealtime/2013/10/03/fukushima-watch-stemming-one-leak-causes-another/
"It seems the operator of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant is destined to lurch from one blunder to another. In the latest unfortunate episode Wednesday, it ended up causing a leak as it attempted to prevent another leak elsewhere."
Dangerous levels of radioactivity found at fracking waste site in Pennsylvania
Dangerous levels of radioactivity found at fracking waste site in Pennsylvania
http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2013/oct/02/dangerous-radioactivity-fracking-waste-pennsylvania
"Scientists have for the first time found dangerous levels of radioactivity and salinity at a shale gas waste disposal site that could contaminate drinking water. If the UK follows in the steps of the US "shale gas revolution", it should impose regulations to stop such radioactive buildup, they said."
http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2013/oct/02/dangerous-radioactivity-fracking-waste-pennsylvania
"Scientists have for the first time found dangerous levels of radioactivity and salinity at a shale gas waste disposal site that could contaminate drinking water. If the UK follows in the steps of the US "shale gas revolution", it should impose regulations to stop such radioactive buildup, they said."
FDA's Voice of the Patient Report on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Reveals Disease Impact and Areas for Progress
FDA's Voice of the Patient Report on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Reveals Disease Impact and Areas for Progress
http://www.sacbee.com/2013/10/03/5791682/fdas-voice-of-the-patient-report.html
"GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Oct. 3, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- PANDORA Org and other patient organizations say a recent report from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) shows the agency must take further action to open up opportunities for ME/CFS drug development. Titled "The Voice of the Patient," this report is a detailed summary of an April 25 FDA Patient-Focused Drug Development meeting, the first of its kind, where patients explained the reality of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME)/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). "
http://www.sacbee.com/2013/10/03/5791682/fdas-voice-of-the-patient-report.html
"GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Oct. 3, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- PANDORA Org and other patient organizations say a recent report from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) shows the agency must take further action to open up opportunities for ME/CFS drug development. Titled "The Voice of the Patient," this report is a detailed summary of an April 25 FDA Patient-Focused Drug Development meeting, the first of its kind, where patients explained the reality of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME)/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). "
Highway proximity associated with cardiovascular disease risk: the influence of individual-level confounders and exposure misclassification
Research
Highway proximity associated with cardiovascular disease risk: the influence of individual-level confounders and exposure misclassification
http://www.ehjournal.net/content/12/1/84/abstract
http://www.ehjournal.net/content/12/1/84/abstract
Doug Brugge, Kevin Lane, Luz T Padró-Martínez, Andrea Stewart, Kyle Hoesterey, David Weiss, Ding Ding Wang, Jonathan I Levy, Allison P Patton, Wig Zamore and Mkaya Mwamburi
Environmental Health 2013, 12:84 doi:10.1186/1476-069X-12-84
Published: 3 October 2013
Environmental Health 2013, 12:84 doi:10.1186/1476-069X-12-84
Published: 3 October 2013
Abstract (provisional)
Background
Elevated cardiovascular disease risk has been reported with proximity to highways or busy roadways, but proximity measures can be challenging to interpret given potential confounders and exposure error.
Elevated cardiovascular disease risk has been reported with proximity to highways or busy roadways, but proximity measures can be challenging to interpret given potential confounders and exposure error.
Methods
We conducted a cross sectional analysis of plasma levels of C-Reactive Protein (hsCRP), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha receptor II (TNF-RII) and fibrinogen with distance of residence to a highway in and around Boston, Massachusetts. Distance was assigned using ortho-photo corrected parcel matching, as well as less precise approaches such as simple parcel matching and geocoding addresses to street networks. We used a combined random and convenience sample of 260 adults >40 years old. We screened a large number of individual-level variables including some infrequently collected for assessment of highway proximity, and included a subset in our final regression models. We monitored ultrafine particle (UFP) levels in the study areas to help interpret proximity measures.
We conducted a cross sectional analysis of plasma levels of C-Reactive Protein (hsCRP), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha receptor II (TNF-RII) and fibrinogen with distance of residence to a highway in and around Boston, Massachusetts. Distance was assigned using ortho-photo corrected parcel matching, as well as less precise approaches such as simple parcel matching and geocoding addresses to street networks. We used a combined random and convenience sample of 260 adults >40 years old. We screened a large number of individual-level variables including some infrequently collected for assessment of highway proximity, and included a subset in our final regression models. We monitored ultrafine particle (UFP) levels in the study areas to help interpret proximity measures.
Results
Using the orthophoto corrected geocoding, in a fully adjusted model, hsCRP and IL-6 differed by distance category relative to urban background: 43% (-16%,141%) and 49% (6%,110%) increase for 0-50 m; 7% (-39%,45%) and 41% (6%,86%) for 50-150 m; 54% (-2%,142%) and 18% (-11%,57%) for 150-250 m, and 49% (-4%, 131%) and 42% (6%, 89%) for 250-450 m. There was little evidence for association for TNF-RII or fibrinogen. Ortho-photo corrected geocoding resulted in stronger associations than traditional methods which introduced differential misclassification. Restricted analysis found the effect of proximity on biomarkers was mostly downwind from the highway or upwind where there was considerable local street traffic, consistent with patterns of monitored UFP levels.
Using the orthophoto corrected geocoding, in a fully adjusted model, hsCRP and IL-6 differed by distance category relative to urban background: 43% (-16%,141%) and 49% (6%,110%) increase for 0-50 m; 7% (-39%,45%) and 41% (6%,86%) for 50-150 m; 54% (-2%,142%) and 18% (-11%,57%) for 150-250 m, and 49% (-4%, 131%) and 42% (6%, 89%) for 250-450 m. There was little evidence for association for TNF-RII or fibrinogen. Ortho-photo corrected geocoding resulted in stronger associations than traditional methods which introduced differential misclassification. Restricted analysis found the effect of proximity on biomarkers was mostly downwind from the highway or upwind where there was considerable local street traffic, consistent with patterns of monitored UFP levels.
Conclusion
We found associations between highway proximity and both hsCRP and IL-6, with non-monotonic patterns explained partly by individual-level factors and differences between proximity and UFP concentrations. Our analyses emphasize the importance of controlling for the risk of differential exposure misclassification from geocoding error.
We found associations between highway proximity and both hsCRP and IL-6, with non-monotonic patterns explained partly by individual-level factors and differences between proximity and UFP concentrations. Our analyses emphasize the importance of controlling for the risk of differential exposure misclassification from geocoding error.
The complete article is available as a provisional PDF. The fully formatted PDF and HTML versions are in production.
Special: Toxic gases choke Hyderabad
Special: Toxic gases choke Hyderabad
http://www.asianage.com/india/special-toxic-gases-choke-hyderabad-055
"Hyderabad: It is not just nitrogen oxides and particulate matter that causes pollution in the city. A new study claims to have found high levels of toxic benzene in Hyderabad's air."
http://www.asianage.com/india/special-toxic-gases-choke-hyderabad-055
"Hyderabad: It is not just nitrogen oxides and particulate matter that causes pollution in the city. A new study claims to have found high levels of toxic benzene in Hyderabad's air."
Utah doctors call for year-round ban on burning wood
Utah doctors call for year-round ban on burning wood
"SALT LAKE CITY — As the weather gets cooler and many Utahns are firing up their wood burning stoves and fireplaces, some Utah doctors are calling for policy that will ban wood burning year round, not just on certain red-air days.
Dr. Brian Moench, president of Utah Physicians for a Healthy Environment, said it's a necessary action.
"We don't have a lot of options," he said. "We can accept our air pollution is not solvable, we can stop driving all our cars, we can tell industry to shut down, or we can stop burning wood.""
Friday, August 9, 2013
ITU Workshop on Human Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs)
ITU Workshop on Human Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs)
http://www.itu.int/en/ITU-T/Workshops-and-Seminars/emf/201307/Pages/default.aspx
http://www.itu.int/en/ITU-T/Workshops-and-Seminars/emf/201307/Pages/default.aspx
Is Your Smart Meter Causing Brain Damage?
Key Words: multiple chemical sensitivity, chemical sensitivity, chemical sensitivities, multiple chemical sensitivities, MCS, EI, environmental illness, sick building syndrome, idiopathic environmental intolerance, fibromyalgia, chronic fatiuge, FM, CFS, mold illness, clinical ecology, alternative medicine, environmental medicine, neuropathy, encephalopathy, toxic, chemical
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Link between chronic fatigue and sinusitis
Link between chronic fatigue and sinusitis
http://www.tele-management.ca/2013/08/link-between-chronic-fatigue-and-sinusitis/
http://www.tele-management.ca/2013/08/link-between-chronic-fatigue-and-sinusitis/
"According to the study, sinus symptoms were nine times more common among patients with fatigue and six times more common among those with chronic pain."
Jindal: Chemicals leaking from Lawtell train derailment
Jindal: Chemicals leaking from Lawtell train derailment
http://www.katc.com/news/jindal-chemicals-leaking-from-lawtell-train-derailment/#_
"The train that derailed in Lawtell is leaking chemicals and at least one of two cars carrying a hazardous chemical, vinyl chrloride, is damaged. That's according to Gov. Bobby Jindal who flew into St. Landry Parish to speak about the situation a little after 9:30 p.m. tonight. "Although it's not leaking at this moment, it does have signs of damage," Jindal said. The damage has to be assessed before residents can return home, he said of the vinyl chloride. US 190 near the accident site will be closed for at least two days as the situation is assessed. As of now, 101 homes have been evacuated and 30 families have checked into the evacuation check point, and four are looking for shelter."
http://www.katc.com/news/jindal-chemicals-leaking-from-lawtell-train-derailment/#_
"The train that derailed in Lawtell is leaking chemicals and at least one of two cars carrying a hazardous chemical, vinyl chrloride, is damaged. That's according to Gov. Bobby Jindal who flew into St. Landry Parish to speak about the situation a little after 9:30 p.m. tonight. "Although it's not leaking at this moment, it does have signs of damage," Jindal said. The damage has to be assessed before residents can return home, he said of the vinyl chloride. US 190 near the accident site will be closed for at least two days as the situation is assessed. As of now, 101 homes have been evacuated and 30 families have checked into the evacuation check point, and four are looking for shelter."
Nerve damage and fibromyalgia
Nerve damage and fibromyalgia
http://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2013/07/nerve-damage-and-fibromyalgia/
"Small study could lead to identification of treatable diseases for some with chronic pain syndrome"
http://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2013/07/nerve-damage-and-fibromyalgia/
"Small study could lead to identification of treatable diseases for some with chronic pain syndrome"
Half of Fibromyalgia Patients Suffer from Nerve Damage
Half of Fibromyalgia Patients Suffer from Nerve Damage
http://www.scienceworldreport.com/articles/8503/20130730/half-fibromyalgia-patients-suffer-nerve-damage.htm
"Fibromyalgia, a disorder that's characterized by a widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues, damages the nerve fibers in the skin of many patients, and for some, shows evidence of a disease called small-fiber polyneuropathy (SFPN). Unlike fibromyalgia, which has few treatments and a relatively unknown cause, SFPN has a clear pathology and is known to be caused by certain medical symptoms which do respond to treatment in some instances. And fortunately, in some instances, some can even be cured."
http://www.scienceworldreport.com/articles/8503/20130730/half-fibromyalgia-patients-suffer-nerve-damage.htm
"Fibromyalgia, a disorder that's characterized by a widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues, damages the nerve fibers in the skin of many patients, and for some, shows evidence of a disease called small-fiber polyneuropathy (SFPN). Unlike fibromyalgia, which has few treatments and a relatively unknown cause, SFPN has a clear pathology and is known to be caused by certain medical symptoms which do respond to treatment in some instances. And fortunately, in some instances, some can even be cured."
Sunday, August 4, 2013
High-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing reveals alterations of intestinal microbiota in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome patients.
High-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing reveals alterations of intestinal microbiota in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome patients.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23791918
Frémont M, Coomans D, Massart S, De Meirleir K.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23791918
Frémont M, Coomans D, Massart S, De Meirleir K.
Anaerobe. 2013 Aug;22:50-6. doi: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2013.06.002. Epub 2013 Jun 19.
Source
R.E.D Laboratories NV, Z-1 Researchpark 100, 1731 Zellik, Belgium. Electronic address: mfremont@redlabs.be.
Source
R.E.D Laboratories NV, Z-1 Researchpark 100, 1731 Zellik, Belgium. Electronic address: mfremont@redlabs.be.
Abstract
Human intestinal microbiota plays an important role in the maintenance of host health by providing energy, nutrients, and immunological protection. Intestinal dysfunction is a frequent complaint in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) patients, and previous reports suggest that dysbiosis, i.e. the overgrowth of abnormal populations of bacteria in the gut, is linked to the pathogenesis of the disease. We used high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing to investigate the presence of specific alterations in the gut microbiota of ME/CFS patients from Belgium and Norway. 43 ME/CFS patients and 36 healthy controls were included in the study. Bacterial DNA was extracted from stool samples, PCR amplification was performed on 16S rRNA gene regions, and PCR amplicons were sequenced using Roche FLX 454 sequencer. The composition of the gut microbiota was found to differ between Belgian controls and Norwegian controls: Norwegians showed higher percentages of specific Firmicutes populations (Roseburia, Holdemania) and lower proportions of most Bacteroidetes genera. A highly significant separation could be achieved between Norwegian controls and Norwegian patients: patients presented increased proportions of Lactonifactor and Alistipes, as well as a decrease in several Firmicutes populations. In Belgian subjects the patient/control separation was less pronounced, however some abnormalities observed in Norwegian patients were also found in Belgian patients. These results show that intestinal microbiota is altered in ME/CFS. High-throughput sequencing is a useful tool to diagnose dysbiosis in patients and could help designing treatments based on gut microbiota modulation (antibiotics, pre and probiotics supplementation).
PMID: 23791918 [PubMed - in process]
Human intestinal microbiota plays an important role in the maintenance of host health by providing energy, nutrients, and immunological protection. Intestinal dysfunction is a frequent complaint in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) patients, and previous reports suggest that dysbiosis, i.e. the overgrowth of abnormal populations of bacteria in the gut, is linked to the pathogenesis of the disease. We used high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing to investigate the presence of specific alterations in the gut microbiota of ME/CFS patients from Belgium and Norway. 43 ME/CFS patients and 36 healthy controls were included in the study. Bacterial DNA was extracted from stool samples, PCR amplification was performed on 16S rRNA gene regions, and PCR amplicons were sequenced using Roche FLX 454 sequencer. The composition of the gut microbiota was found to differ between Belgian controls and Norwegian controls: Norwegians showed higher percentages of specific Firmicutes populations (Roseburia, Holdemania) and lower proportions of most Bacteroidetes genera. A highly significant separation could be achieved between Norwegian controls and Norwegian patients: patients presented increased proportions of Lactonifactor and Alistipes, as well as a decrease in several Firmicutes populations. In Belgian subjects the patient/control separation was less pronounced, however some abnormalities observed in Norwegian patients were also found in Belgian patients. These results show that intestinal microbiota is altered in ME/CFS. High-throughput sequencing is a useful tool to diagnose dysbiosis in patients and could help designing treatments based on gut microbiota modulation (antibiotics, pre and probiotics supplementation).
PMID: 23791918 [PubMed - in process]
Saturday, August 3, 2013
Migraine in gulf war illness and chronic fatigue syndrome: prevalence, potential mechanisms, and evaluation.
Migraine in gulf war illness and chronic fatigue syndrome: prevalence, potential mechanisms, and evaluation.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23898301
Rayhan RU, Ravindran MK, Baraniuk JN.
Front Physiol. 2013 Jul 24;4:181. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2013.00181. Print 2013.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23898301
Rayhan RU, Ravindran MK, Baraniuk JN.
Front Physiol. 2013 Jul 24;4:181. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2013.00181. Print 2013.
Division of Rheumatology, Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Washington, DC, USA.
Abstract
Objective: To assess the prevalence of headache subtypes in Gulf War Illness (GWI) and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) compared to controls.
Background: Approximately, 25% of the military personnel who served in the 1990-1991 Persian Gulf War have developed GWI. Symptoms of GWI and CFS have considerable overlap, including headache complaints. Migraines are reported in CFS. The type and prevalence of headaches in GWI have not been adequately assessed.
Methods: 50 GWI, 39 CFS and 45 controls had structured headache evaluations based on the 2004 International Headache Society criteria. All subjects had history and physical examinations, fatigue and symptom related questionnaires, measurements of systemic hyperalgesia (dolorimetry), and assessments for exclusionary conditions.
Results: Migraines were detected in 64% of GWI (odds ratio = 11.6 [4.1-32.5]) (mean [±95% CI]) and 82% of CFS subjects (odds ratio = 22.5 [7.8-64.8]) compared to only 13% of controls. There was a predominance of females in the CFS compared to GWI and controls. However, migraine status was independent of gender in GWI and CFS groups (x (2) = 2.7; P = 0.101). Measures of fatigue, pain, and other ancillary criteria were comparable between GWI and CFS subjects with and without headache.
Conclusion: The high prevalence of migraine in CFS was confirmed and extended to GWI subjects. GWI and CFS may share dysfunctional central pathophysiological pathways that contribute to migraine and subjective symptoms. The high migraine prevalence warrants the inclusion of a structured headache evaluation in GWI and CFS subjects, and treatment when present.
KEYWORDS:
central sensitization, chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic pain, fatigue, fibromyalgia, gulf war illness, migraine, neurolimbic pathway
central sensitization, chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic pain, fatigue, fibromyalgia, gulf war illness, migraine, neurolimbic pathway
PMID: 23898301
Oral Argument: Sublingual Findings Challenge Key Assumptions about BPA Exposure
Oral Argument: Sublingual Findings Challenge Key Assumptions about BPA Exposure
http://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/121-a257/
"Key assumptions about bisphenol A (BPA) exposure and bioavailability may be off base, according to a new report in EHP that questions the traditional interpretation of biomonitoring data underlying current risk assessments of the chemical.1 Laboratory research suggests that BPA, a widely used chemical for polycarbonate plastics and other products, is an endocrine disruptor with potential adverse health effects involving reproduction, metabolism, and cancer.2,3"
http://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/121-a257/
"Key assumptions about bisphenol A (BPA) exposure and bioavailability may be off base, according to a new report in EHP that questions the traditional interpretation of biomonitoring data underlying current risk assessments of the chemical.1 Laboratory research suggests that BPA, a widely used chemical for polycarbonate plastics and other products, is an endocrine disruptor with potential adverse health effects involving reproduction, metabolism, and cancer.2,3"
Necrostatin-1 Counteracts Aluminum's Neurotoxic Effects
Necrostatin-1 Counteracts Aluminum's Neurotoxic Effects
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/08/130802094852.htm
"Investigators have linked aluminum accumulation in the brain as a possible contributing factor to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. A new study published in Restorative Neurology and Neuroscience sheds light on the mechanism underlying aluminum-induced neuronal cell death and identifies necrostatin-1 as a substance which counteracts several of aluminum's neurotoxic effects."
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/08/130802094852.htm
"Investigators have linked aluminum accumulation in the brain as a possible contributing factor to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. A new study published in Restorative Neurology and Neuroscience sheds light on the mechanism underlying aluminum-induced neuronal cell death and identifies necrostatin-1 as a substance which counteracts several of aluminum's neurotoxic effects."
Pesticide exposure and self-reported incident depression among wives in the Agricultural Health Study
Pesticide exposure and self-reported incident depression among wives in the Agricultural Health Study
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0013935113001096
Abstract
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0013935113001096
Abstract
Background
Depression in women is a public health problem. Studies have reported positive associations between pesticides and depression, but few studies were prospective or presented results for women separately.
Depression in women is a public health problem. Studies have reported positive associations between pesticides and depression, but few studies were prospective or presented results for women separately.
Objectives
We evaluated associations between pesticide exposure and incident depression among farmers' wives in the Agricultural Health Study, a prospective cohort study in Iowa and North Carolina.
We evaluated associations between pesticide exposure and incident depression among farmers' wives in the Agricultural Health Study, a prospective cohort study in Iowa and North Carolina.
Methods
We used data on 16,893 wives who did not report physician-diagnosed depression at enrollment (1993–1997) and who completed a follow-up telephone interview (2005–2010). Among these wives, 1054 reported physician diagnoses of depression at follow-up. We collected information on potential confounders and on ever use of any pesticide, 11 functional and chemical classes of pesticides, and 50 specific pesticides by wives and their husbands via self-administered questionnaires at enrollment. We used inverse probability weighting to adjust for potential confounders and to account for possible selection bias induced by the death or loss of 10,639 wives during follow-up. We used log-binomial regression models to estimate risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals.
We used data on 16,893 wives who did not report physician-diagnosed depression at enrollment (1993–1997) and who completed a follow-up telephone interview (2005–2010). Among these wives, 1054 reported physician diagnoses of depression at follow-up. We collected information on potential confounders and on ever use of any pesticide, 11 functional and chemical classes of pesticides, and 50 specific pesticides by wives and their husbands via self-administered questionnaires at enrollment. We used inverse probability weighting to adjust for potential confounders and to account for possible selection bias induced by the death or loss of 10,639 wives during follow-up. We used log-binomial regression models to estimate risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals.
Results
After weighting for age at enrollment, state of residence, education level, diabetes diagnosis, and drop out, wives' incident depression was positively associated with diagnosed pesticide poisoning, but was not associated with ever using any pesticide. Use of individual pesticides or functional or chemical classes of pesticides was generally not associated with wives' depression. Among wives who never used pesticides, husbands' ever use of individual pesticides or functional or chemical classes of pesticides was generally not associated with wives' incident depression.
After weighting for age at enrollment, state of residence, education level, diabetes diagnosis, and drop out, wives' incident depression was positively associated with diagnosed pesticide poisoning, but was not associated with ever using any pesticide. Use of individual pesticides or functional or chemical classes of pesticides was generally not associated with wives' depression. Among wives who never used pesticides, husbands' ever use of individual pesticides or functional or chemical classes of pesticides was generally not associated with wives' incident depression.
Conclusions
Our study adds further evidence that high level pesticide exposure, such as pesticide poisoning, is associated with increased risk of depression and sets a lower bound on the level of exposure related to depression, thereby providing reassurance that the moderate levels of pesticide exposure experienced by farmers' wives likely do not increase risk.
Our study adds further evidence that high level pesticide exposure, such as pesticide poisoning, is associated with increased risk of depression and sets a lower bound on the level of exposure related to depression, thereby providing reassurance that the moderate levels of pesticide exposure experienced by farmers' wives likely do not increase risk.
Abbreviations
2,4-D, 2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)acetic acid;
2,4,5-T, (2,4,5-trichlorophenoxy)acetic acid;
2,4,5-TP, (RS)2-(2,4,5-trichlorophenoxy)propanonic acid;
CI, Confidence interval;
DDT, 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethane;
EPTC, S-ethyl dipropyl(thiocarbamate);
IQR, Interquartile range;
NIEHS, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences;
RR, Risk ratio
2,4-D, 2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)acetic acid;
2,4,5-T, (2,4,5-trichlorophenoxy)acetic acid;
2,4,5-TP, (RS)2-(2,4,5-trichlorophenoxy)propanonic acid;
CI, Confidence interval;
DDT, 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethane;
EPTC, S-ethyl dipropyl(thiocarbamate);
IQR, Interquartile range;
NIEHS, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences;
RR, Risk ratio
Chemical board's unfinished investigations hinder agency mission, IG finds
Chemical board's unfinished investigations hinder agency mission, IG finds
http://www.publicintegrity.org/2013/08/02/13113/chemical-boards-unfinished-investigations-hinder-agency-mission-ig-finds
"The federal agency charged with investigating chemical accidents is weighed down by a backlog of unfinished investigations, hindering its ability to provide information and advice that could prevent future disasters, a report released this week by the Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Inspector General concluded."
http://www.publicintegrity.org/2013/08/02/13113/chemical-boards-unfinished-investigations-hinder-agency-mission-ig-finds
"The federal agency charged with investigating chemical accidents is weighed down by a backlog of unfinished investigations, hindering its ability to provide information and advice that could prevent future disasters, a report released this week by the Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Inspector General concluded."
Workers' Silica Exposure at Fracking Sites Far Exceeds OSHA Limit, NIOSH Study Finds
Workers' Silica Exposure at Fracking Sites Far Exceeds OSHA Limit, NIOSH Study Finds
http://www.bna.com/workers-silica-exposure-n17179875594/
"The concentration of silica in the air workers breathe exceeded occupational health criteria at all 11 hydraulic fracturing sites tested by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the American Industrial Hygiene Association announced July 31."
http://www.bna.com/workers-silica-exposure-n17179875594/
"The concentration of silica in the air workers breathe exceeded occupational health criteria at all 11 hydraulic fracturing sites tested by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the American Industrial Hygiene Association announced July 31."
Women, kids urged to avoid mercury-tainted fish from California lakes
Women, kids urged to avoid mercury-tainted fish from California lakes
http://www.latimes.com/news/science/sciencenow/la-sci-sn-mercury-fish-warning-california-lake-reservoir-20130801,0,2446669.story
"Children and women of childbearing age should not eat bass, carp and larger brown trout caught in California lakes and reservoirs because they contain unhealthy levels of mercury, according to a state health advisory issued Thursday.
Instead, they should opt for wild-caught rainbow trout and smaller brown trout, which have less mercury and higher amounts of healthy Omega-3 fatty acids, the state Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment says. The agency also suggests women over 45 and men limit themselves to one serving per week of bass, carp or brown trout more than 16 inches long."
http://www.latimes.com/news/science/sciencenow/la-sci-sn-mercury-fish-warning-california-lake-reservoir-20130801,0,2446669.story
"Children and women of childbearing age should not eat bass, carp and larger brown trout caught in California lakes and reservoirs because they contain unhealthy levels of mercury, according to a state health advisory issued Thursday.
Instead, they should opt for wild-caught rainbow trout and smaller brown trout, which have less mercury and higher amounts of healthy Omega-3 fatty acids, the state Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment says. The agency also suggests women over 45 and men limit themselves to one serving per week of bass, carp or brown trout more than 16 inches long."
Court says state must limit water toxin by Aug. 31
Court says state must limit water toxin by Aug. 31
http://www.sfchronicle.com/health/article/Court-says-state-must-limit-water-toxin-by-Aug-31-4701835.php
"A court ruling has put California closer to limiting the amount of a carcinogen in the state's drinking water, a safety measure that was supposed to be adopted nearly a decade ago."
http://www.sfchronicle.com/health/article/Court-says-state-must-limit-water-toxin-by-Aug-31-4701835.php
"A court ruling has put California closer to limiting the amount of a carcinogen in the state's drinking water, a safety measure that was supposed to be adopted nearly a decade ago."
School Poisoning Provides Window into India's Pesticide Problem
School Poisoning Provides Window into India's Pesticide Problem
http://www.theworld.org/2013/08/school-poisoning-provides-window-into-indias-pesticide-problem-2/
"The recent deaths of 23 Indian schoolchildren from pesticide-poisoned lunches was just the latest chapter in the country's long and troubled relationship with chemical pesticides. Host Carol Hills speaks about the problem–and some of the emerging grassroots solutions–with journalist Meera Subramanian. She says India is using 67 pesticides that are banned in other parts of the world. "
http://www.theworld.org/2013/08/school-poisoning-provides-window-into-indias-pesticide-problem-2/
"The recent deaths of 23 Indian schoolchildren from pesticide-poisoned lunches was just the latest chapter in the country's long and troubled relationship with chemical pesticides. Host Carol Hills speaks about the problem–and some of the emerging grassroots solutions–with journalist Meera Subramanian. She says India is using 67 pesticides that are banned in other parts of the world. "
BPA and Altered Airway Cells: Association Seen in Rhesus Macaques after Third-Trimester Exposure
BPA and Altered Airway Cells: Association Seen in Rhesus Macaques after Third-Trimester Exposure
http://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/121-a254/
"Parental bisphenol A (BPA) exposure has been shown to alter the development of reproductive organs in animal models,1 although the impacts on development of other organ systems remain largely unknown. Researchers at the University of California, Davis, now report in EHP that BPA exposure late in gestation alters airway cell development in rhesus macaques.2
Previous studies have associated BPA exposure with an experimental model of asthma in mice.3 Epidemiological studies have found evidence of an association between prenatal BPA exposure and wheeze in young children,4 and between postnatal exposure and childhood asthma.5 "This study sheds light on the possible mechanisms by which BPA may affect lung health," says Kathleen Donohue, an assistant professor of medicine at Columbia University. Donohue was not involved in the current study."
http://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/121-a254/
"Parental bisphenol A (BPA) exposure has been shown to alter the development of reproductive organs in animal models,1 although the impacts on development of other organ systems remain largely unknown. Researchers at the University of California, Davis, now report in EHP that BPA exposure late in gestation alters airway cell development in rhesus macaques.2
Previous studies have associated BPA exposure with an experimental model of asthma in mice.3 Epidemiological studies have found evidence of an association between prenatal BPA exposure and wheeze in young children,4 and between postnatal exposure and childhood asthma.5 "This study sheds light on the possible mechanisms by which BPA may affect lung health," says Kathleen Donohue, an assistant professor of medicine at Columbia University. Donohue was not involved in the current study."
House panel hits EPA with subpoena over pollution studies
House panel hits EPA with subpoena over pollution studies
http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/politics/56681889-90/data-epa-studies-agency.html.csp
http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/politics/56681889-90/data-epa-studies-agency.html.csp
"Washington • House Republicans say they are tired of asking the Environmental Protection Agency to provide the underlying data used in studies tying pollution to serious health problems.
So, they issued a subpoena late Thursday, the first from the Science Committee in 21 years."
So, they issued a subpoena late Thursday, the first from the Science Committee in 21 years."
Birds exposed to 'hidden pollutants' in south Wales valleys
Birds exposed to 'hidden pollutants' in south Wales valleys
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-23532423
"Birds which have returned to the former industrial valleys of south Wales are being exposed to extremely high levels of hidden pollutants, experts warn.
Tests on eggs of dipper birds found chemicals used as flame retardants in furniture and motor vehicles.
The birds have fed on local rivers in growing numbers since heavy industries such as coal mining declined."
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-23532423
"Birds which have returned to the former industrial valleys of south Wales are being exposed to extremely high levels of hidden pollutants, experts warn.
Tests on eggs of dipper birds found chemicals used as flame retardants in furniture and motor vehicles.
The birds have fed on local rivers in growing numbers since heavy industries such as coal mining declined."
Nigeria: Doctors treat children of world's worst case of lead poisoning after 2-year delay
Nigeria: Doctors treat children of world's worst case of lead poisoning after 2-year delay
http://www.greenfieldreporter.com/view/story/ad0b1e7c7db34d799e01bd0db468dae3/AF--Nigeria-Lead-Poison
"LAGOS, Nigeria — The Nigerian village that suffered one of the world's worst recorded incidents of lead poisoning is now habitable and doctors can start treating more than 1,000 contaminated children, a doctor and a scientist from two international agencies said Friday.
For some, it already is too late to reverse serious neurological damage, said Dr. Michelle Chouinard, Nigeria country director for Doctors Without Borders, told The Associated Press on Friday.
Some children are blind, others paralyzed and many will struggle at school with learning disabilities, she said."
http://www.greenfieldreporter.com/view/story/ad0b1e7c7db34d799e01bd0db468dae3/AF--Nigeria-Lead-Poison
"LAGOS, Nigeria — The Nigerian village that suffered one of the world's worst recorded incidents of lead poisoning is now habitable and doctors can start treating more than 1,000 contaminated children, a doctor and a scientist from two international agencies said Friday.
For some, it already is too late to reverse serious neurological damage, said Dr. Michelle Chouinard, Nigeria country director for Doctors Without Borders, told The Associated Press on Friday.
Some children are blind, others paralyzed and many will struggle at school with learning disabilities, she said."
How the chemicals in your blood can betray your wealth
How the chemicals in your blood can betray your wealth
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/healthnews/10219251/How-the-chemicals-in-your-blood-can-betray-your-wealth.html
"Doctors may soon be able to tell how wealthy their patients are purely by looking at the chemicals in their blood."
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/healthnews/10219251/How-the-chemicals-in-your-blood-can-betray-your-wealth.html
"Doctors may soon be able to tell how wealthy their patients are purely by looking at the chemicals in their blood."
Friday, July 5, 2013
Commission backs EFSA's definition of endocrine-disrupting chemicals
Commission backs EFSA's definition of endocrine-disrupting chemicals
http://www.euractiv.com/health/commission-backs-efsas-definitio-news-529090
"In a letter to the anti-pesticides activist group PAN Europe, EU Health Commissioner Tonio Borg backs the European Food Safety Authority's (EFSA) definition of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, saying it is in accordance with the international scientific consensus.
Some endocrine-disrupting chemicals occur naturally, while synthetic varieties can be found in pesticides, electronics, personal care products and cosmetics. Some can also be found as additives or as unintended contaminants in food.
The Pesticides Action Network campaign group had accused EFSA of creating loopholes for the pesticides industry to escape banning of chemical substances they use."
http://www.euractiv.com/health/commission-backs-efsas-definitio-news-529090
"In a letter to the anti-pesticides activist group PAN Europe, EU Health Commissioner Tonio Borg backs the European Food Safety Authority's (EFSA) definition of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, saying it is in accordance with the international scientific consensus.
Some endocrine-disrupting chemicals occur naturally, while synthetic varieties can be found in pesticides, electronics, personal care products and cosmetics. Some can also be found as additives or as unintended contaminants in food.
The Pesticides Action Network campaign group had accused EFSA of creating loopholes for the pesticides industry to escape banning of chemical substances they use."
Historical Perspective on Effects and Treatment of Sulfur Mustard Injuries.
Historical Perspective on Effects and Treatment of Sulfur Mustard Injuries.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23816402
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23816402
Graham JS, Schoneboom BA. Chem Biol Interact. 2013 Jun 28. pii: S0009-2797(13)00153-1. doi: 10.1016/j.cbi.2013.06.013. [Epub ahead of print]
Source
Office of the Commander, U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, 3100 Ricketts Point Road, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, USA 21010-5400. Electronic address: john.s.graham1.civ@mail.mil.
Source
Office of the Commander, U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, 3100 Ricketts Point Road, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, USA 21010-5400. Electronic address: john.s.graham1.civ@mail.mil.
Abstract
Sulfur mustard (2,2'-dichlorodiethyl sulfide; SM) is a potent vesicating chemical warfare agent that poses a continuing threat to both military and civilian populations. Significant SM injuries can take several months to heal, necessitate lengthy hospitalizations, and result in long-term complications affecting the skin, eyes, and lungs. This report summarizes initial and ongoing (chronic) clinical findings from SM casualties from the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988), with an emphasis on cutaneous injury. In addition, we describe the cutaneous manifestations and treatment of several men recently and accidentally exposed to SM in the United States. Common, chronic cutaneous problems being reported in the Iranian casualties include pruritis (the primary complaint), burning, pain, redness, desquamation, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, erythematous papular rash, xerosis, multiple cherry angiomas, atrophy, dermal scarring, hypertrophy, and sensitivity to mechanical injury with recurrent blistering and ulceration. Chronic ocular problems include keratitis, photophobia, persistent tearing, sensation of foreign body, corneal thinning and ulceration, vasculitis of the cornea and conjunctiva, and limbal stem cell deficiency. Chronic pulmonary problems include decreases in lung function, bronchitis with hyper-reactive airways, bronchiolitis, bronchiectasis, stenosis of the trachea and other large airways, emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis, decreased total lung capacity, and increased incidences of lung cancer, pulmonary infections, and tuberculosis. There are currently no standardized or optimized methods of casualty management; current treatment strategy consists of symptomatic management and is designed to relieve symptoms, prevent infections, and promote healing. New strategies are needed to provide for optimal and rapid healing, with the goals of (a) returning damaged tissue to optimal appearance and normal function in the shortest period of time, and (b) ameliorating chronic effects. Further experimental research and clinical trials will be needed to prevent or mitigate the acute clinical effects of SM exposure and to reduce or eliminate the long-term manifestations.
PMID: 23816402 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Sulfur mustard (2,2'-dichlorodiethyl sulfide; SM) is a potent vesicating chemical warfare agent that poses a continuing threat to both military and civilian populations. Significant SM injuries can take several months to heal, necessitate lengthy hospitalizations, and result in long-term complications affecting the skin, eyes, and lungs. This report summarizes initial and ongoing (chronic) clinical findings from SM casualties from the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988), with an emphasis on cutaneous injury. In addition, we describe the cutaneous manifestations and treatment of several men recently and accidentally exposed to SM in the United States. Common, chronic cutaneous problems being reported in the Iranian casualties include pruritis (the primary complaint), burning, pain, redness, desquamation, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, erythematous papular rash, xerosis, multiple cherry angiomas, atrophy, dermal scarring, hypertrophy, and sensitivity to mechanical injury with recurrent blistering and ulceration. Chronic ocular problems include keratitis, photophobia, persistent tearing, sensation of foreign body, corneal thinning and ulceration, vasculitis of the cornea and conjunctiva, and limbal stem cell deficiency. Chronic pulmonary problems include decreases in lung function, bronchitis with hyper-reactive airways, bronchiolitis, bronchiectasis, stenosis of the trachea and other large airways, emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis, decreased total lung capacity, and increased incidences of lung cancer, pulmonary infections, and tuberculosis. There are currently no standardized or optimized methods of casualty management; current treatment strategy consists of symptomatic management and is designed to relieve symptoms, prevent infections, and promote healing. New strategies are needed to provide for optimal and rapid healing, with the goals of (a) returning damaged tissue to optimal appearance and normal function in the shortest period of time, and (b) ameliorating chronic effects. Further experimental research and clinical trials will be needed to prevent or mitigate the acute clinical effects of SM exposure and to reduce or eliminate the long-term manifestations.
PMID: 23816402 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Many veterans suffering from diseases linked to Agent Orange still can't get disability compensation
Many veterans suffering from diseases linked to Agent Orange still can't get disability compensation
http://www.oregonlive.com/pacific-northwest-news/index.ssf/2013/07/many_veterans_suffering_from_d.html
"Forty years after the last U.S. troops left Vietnam, military veterans continue to tussle with the Department of Veterans Affairs over whether they should be compensated for their exposure to the herbicide and defoliant Agent Orange.
Under Secretary Eric Shinseki, himself a Vietnam veteran, the agency has taken enormous strides to acknowledge that exposure to the toxic defoliant caused a variety of health problems, from birth defects to Type II diabetes to lung cancer. Shinseki has been applauded for adding more diseases, including Parkinson's and heart disease, to the list of maladies presumed to have been caused by Agent Orange. The expansion could make as many as 200,000 Vietnam War veterans eligible for compensation."
http://www.oregonlive.com/pacific-northwest-news/index.ssf/2013/07/many_veterans_suffering_from_d.html
"Forty years after the last U.S. troops left Vietnam, military veterans continue to tussle with the Department of Veterans Affairs over whether they should be compensated for their exposure to the herbicide and defoliant Agent Orange.
Under Secretary Eric Shinseki, himself a Vietnam veteran, the agency has taken enormous strides to acknowledge that exposure to the toxic defoliant caused a variety of health problems, from birth defects to Type II diabetes to lung cancer. Shinseki has been applauded for adding more diseases, including Parkinson's and heart disease, to the list of maladies presumed to have been caused by Agent Orange. The expansion could make as many as 200,000 Vietnam War veterans eligible for compensation."
New chemicals, drugs added to EU water pollution watch list http://www.euractiv.com/health/new-chemicals-pharmaceuticals-ad-news-529073
New chemicals, drugs added to EU water pollution watch list
"The European Parliament, in agreement with EU member states, has added 12 new substances to the EU priority list of pollutants known to pose a risk to surface water. For the first time, three pharmaceuticals will also be included on a "watch list" of emerging pollutants that could one day be added to the priority list."
Backyard Grilling Increases Air Pollution, But Can Texans Live Without It?
Backyard Grilling Increases Air Pollution, But Can Texans Live Without It?
http://stateimpact.npr.org/texas/2013/07/03/how-backyard-grilling-can-increase-air-pollution/
"As you can tell, the appeal of grilling isn't all about the food for Gebhard. It's about the smoke. For him, recent research from The University of California, Davis is about as unwelcome as rain on the Fourth of July. The study highlights the danger of smoke from outdoor grilling to public health."
http://stateimpact.npr.org/texas/2013/07/03/how-backyard-grilling-can-increase-air-pollution/
"As you can tell, the appeal of grilling isn't all about the food for Gebhard. It's about the smoke. For him, recent research from The University of California, Davis is about as unwelcome as rain on the Fourth of July. The study highlights the danger of smoke from outdoor grilling to public health."
Saturday, June 29, 2013
Low-dose food contaminants trigger sex-specific, hepatic metabolic changes in the progeny of obese mice
Low-dose food contaminants trigger sex-specific, hepatic metabolic changes in the progeny of obese mice
http://www.fasebj.org/content/early/2013/06/11/fj.13-231670.abstract
http://www.fasebj.org/content/early/2013/06/11/fj.13-231670.abstract
FASEB Journal. Published online before print June 11, 2013, doi: 10.1096/fj.13-231670
Danielle Navilleet all
Abstract
Environmental contaminants are suspected to be involved in the epidemic incidence of metabolic disorders, food ingestion being a primarily route of exposure. We hypothesized that life-long consumption of a high-fat diet that contains low doses of pollutants will aggravate metabolic disorders induced by obesity itself. Mice were challenged from preconception throughout life with a high-fat diet containing pollutants commonly present in food (2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, polychlorinated biphenyl 153, diethylhexyl phthalate, and bisphenol A), added at low doses in the tolerable daily intake range. We measured several blood parameters, glucose and insulin tolerance, hepatic lipid accumulation, and gene expression in adult mice. Pollutant-exposed mice exhibited significant sex-dependent metabolic disorders in the absence of toxicity and weight gain. In males, pollutants increased the expression of hepatic genes (from 36 to 88%) encoding proteins related to cholesterol biosynthesis and decreased (40%) hepatic total cholesterol levels. In females, there was a marked deterioration of glucose tolerance, which may be related to the 2-fold induction of estrogen sulfotransferase and reduced expression of estrogen receptor α (25%) and estrogen target genes (>34%). Because of the very low doses of pollutants used in the mixture, these findings may have strong implications in terms of understanding the potential role of environmental contaminants in food in the development of metabolic diseases.—Naville, D., Pinteur, C., Vega, N., Menade, Y., Vigier, M., Le Bourdais, A., Labaronne, E., Debard, C., Luquain-Costaz, C., Bégeot, M., Vidal, H., Le Magueresse-Battistoni, B. Low-dose food contaminants trigger sex-specific, hepatic metabolic changes in the progeny of obese mice.
Environmental contaminants are suspected to be involved in the epidemic incidence of metabolic disorders, food ingestion being a primarily route of exposure. We hypothesized that life-long consumption of a high-fat diet that contains low doses of pollutants will aggravate metabolic disorders induced by obesity itself. Mice were challenged from preconception throughout life with a high-fat diet containing pollutants commonly present in food (2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, polychlorinated biphenyl 153, diethylhexyl phthalate, and bisphenol A), added at low doses in the tolerable daily intake range. We measured several blood parameters, glucose and insulin tolerance, hepatic lipid accumulation, and gene expression in adult mice. Pollutant-exposed mice exhibited significant sex-dependent metabolic disorders in the absence of toxicity and weight gain. In males, pollutants increased the expression of hepatic genes (from 36 to 88%) encoding proteins related to cholesterol biosynthesis and decreased (40%) hepatic total cholesterol levels. In females, there was a marked deterioration of glucose tolerance, which may be related to the 2-fold induction of estrogen sulfotransferase and reduced expression of estrogen receptor α (25%) and estrogen target genes (>34%). Because of the very low doses of pollutants used in the mixture, these findings may have strong implications in terms of understanding the potential role of environmental contaminants in food in the development of metabolic diseases.—Naville, D., Pinteur, C., Vega, N., Menade, Y., Vigier, M., Le Bourdais, A., Labaronne, E., Debard, C., Luquain-Costaz, C., Bégeot, M., Vidal, H., Le Magueresse-Battistoni, B. Low-dose food contaminants trigger sex-specific, hepatic metabolic changes in the progeny of obese mice.
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Toxic chemicals found in newborns: report
Toxic chemicals found in newborns: report
"Detectable levels of a large number of environmental chemicals have been found in the cord blood of some newborns, raising concerns that Canadian children already carry toxins in their bodies at birth, a report says."
Global Treaty to Curb Mercury-Except When It Comes to Children's Vaccines
Global Treaty to Curb Mercury–Except When It Comes to Children's Vaccines
http://www.fairwarning.org/2013/06/global-treaty-to-curb-mercury-except-when-it-comes-to-childrens-vaccines/
"Mercury is notorious for damaging the developing brains and nervous systems of babies and children. Concern about the serious effects of mercury pollution brought delegates from more than 140 nations to Geneva this January to put the finishing touches on a global treaty to minimize emissions. But there's a form of mercury that the treaty won't touch – one that is injected, in tiny amounts, straight into young kids' bodies. Some common vaccines that prevent such diseases as diphtheria, whooping cough and meningitis contain thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative that fights bacteria and fungi. Thimerosal is also used in the production of certain vaccines, which retain trace amounts of the compound."
http://www.fairwarning.org/2013/06/global-treaty-to-curb-mercury-except-when-it-comes-to-childrens-vaccines/
"Mercury is notorious for damaging the developing brains and nervous systems of babies and children. Concern about the serious effects of mercury pollution brought delegates from more than 140 nations to Geneva this January to put the finishing touches on a global treaty to minimize emissions. But there's a form of mercury that the treaty won't touch – one that is injected, in tiny amounts, straight into young kids' bodies. Some common vaccines that prevent such diseases as diphtheria, whooping cough and meningitis contain thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative that fights bacteria and fungi. Thimerosal is also used in the production of certain vaccines, which retain trace amounts of the compound."
EPA defends chemical testing of low-dose hormone effects
EPA defends chemical testing of low-dose hormone effects
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/news/2013/epa-low-dose
"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has concluded that current testing of hormone-altering chemicals is adequate for detecting low-dose effects that may jeopardize health. This comes in response to a report written last year by 12 scientists who criticized the government's decades-old strategy for testing the safety of many chemicals found in the environment and consumer products. The scientists specifically focused on a phenomenon called "nonmonotonic dose response," which means that hormone-like chemicals often do not act in a typical way; they can have health effects at low doses but no effects or different effects at high doses. The EPA's conclusion was commended by the chemical industry, which called the evidence "at best, very weak." But a Tufts University scientist said it "flies in the face of our knowledge of how hormones work.""
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/news/2013/epa-low-dose
"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has concluded that current testing of hormone-altering chemicals is adequate for detecting low-dose effects that may jeopardize health. This comes in response to a report written last year by 12 scientists who criticized the government's decades-old strategy for testing the safety of many chemicals found in the environment and consumer products. The scientists specifically focused on a phenomenon called "nonmonotonic dose response," which means that hormone-like chemicals often do not act in a typical way; they can have health effects at low doses but no effects or different effects at high doses. The EPA's conclusion was commended by the chemical industry, which called the evidence "at best, very weak." But a Tufts University scientist said it "flies in the face of our knowledge of how hormones work.""
Nitrates in mom's drinking water linked to birth defects in kids.
Nitrates in mom's drinking water linked to birth defects in kids.
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/newscience/2013/06/nitrate-in-moms-drinking-water/
"Babies whose mothers consume nitrates in drinking water have a higher risk of spina bifida, cleft palate and other birth defects, according to a large study of children in Texas and Iowa. Used as fertilizers on crops, nitrates are one of the most widespread chemical contaminants in aquifers around the world. The study is the first to compare birth defects in kids to their mothers' consumption of nitrates-tainted drinking water during pregnancy."
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/newscience/2013/06/nitrate-in-moms-drinking-water/
"Babies whose mothers consume nitrates in drinking water have a higher risk of spina bifida, cleft palate and other birth defects, according to a large study of children in Texas and Iowa. Used as fertilizers on crops, nitrates are one of the most widespread chemical contaminants in aquifers around the world. The study is the first to compare birth defects in kids to their mothers' consumption of nitrates-tainted drinking water during pregnancy."
Dramatic increase in hospitalization of US children with inflammatory bowel disease
Dramatic increase in hospitalization of US children with inflammatory bowel disease
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/06/130625141208.htm
"The largest investigation to date has found a dramatic increase in the number of hospitalizations for children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) during the past decade in the United States."
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/06/130625141208.htm
"The largest investigation to date has found a dramatic increase in the number of hospitalizations for children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) during the past decade in the United States."
Thursday, June 20, 2013
Early-life Air Pollution Linked with Childhood Asthma in Minorities, in Study
Early-life Air Pollution Linked with Childhood Asthma in Minorities, in Study
http://www.ucsf.edu/news/2013/06/106861/early-life-air-pollution-linked-childhood-asthma-minorities-study
"A research team led by UC San Francisco scientists has found that exposure in infancy to nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a component of motor vehicle air pollution, is strongly linked with later development of childhood asthma among African Americans and Latinos. The researchers said their findings indicate that air pollution might, in fact, be a cause of the disease, and they called for a tightening of U.S government standards for annual exposure to NO2."
http://www.ucsf.edu/news/2013/06/106861/early-life-air-pollution-linked-childhood-asthma-minorities-study
"A research team led by UC San Francisco scientists has found that exposure in infancy to nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a component of motor vehicle air pollution, is strongly linked with later development of childhood asthma among African Americans and Latinos. The researchers said their findings indicate that air pollution might, in fact, be a cause of the disease, and they called for a tightening of U.S government standards for annual exposure to NO2."
Monday, June 17, 2013
NIH Launched Dietary Supplement Label Database
NIH Launched Dietary Supplement Label Database
http://www.dsld.nlm.nih.gov/dsld/
http://www.dsld.nlm.nih.gov/dsld/
"Searchable collection contains product information and ingredients from labels of dietary supplements sold in U.S. Researchers, as well as health care providers and consumers, can now see the ingredients listed on the labels of about 17,000 dietary supplements by looking them up on a website. The Dietary Supplement Label Database, free of charge and hosted by the National Institutes of Health."
Saturday, June 15, 2013
Ohio Environmental Council Environmental-Conservation Briefing Book 2013
Ohio Environmental Council Environmental-Conservation Briefing Book 2013
MCS document appears on pages 21 and 22.
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
Scientists say new study shows pig health hurt by GMO feed
Scientists say new study shows pig health hurt by GMO feed
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/06/11/us-gmo-pigs-study-idUSBRE95A14K20130611
"Pigs fed a diet of only genetically modified grain showed markedly higher stomach inflammation than pigs who dined on conventional feed, according to a new study by a team of Australian scientists and U.S. researchers."
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/06/11/us-gmo-pigs-study-idUSBRE95A14K20130611
"Pigs fed a diet of only genetically modified grain showed markedly higher stomach inflammation than pigs who dined on conventional feed, according to a new study by a team of Australian scientists and U.S. researchers."
Landslide Vote for GMO Labeling in Maine Legislature
Landslide Vote for GMO Labeling in Maine Legislature
http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2013/06/11-6
"In a landslide 141-4 vote, the Maine House of Representatives voted Tuesday to advance bill LD 718, which would require special labeling for seeds and foods made with genetically modified (GMO) ingredients."
http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2013/06/11-6
"In a landslide 141-4 vote, the Maine House of Representatives voted Tuesday to advance bill LD 718, which would require special labeling for seeds and foods made with genetically modified (GMO) ingredients."
Sunday, June 9, 2013
Mercury linked to neural tube defects in Chinese newborns.
Mercury linked to neural tube defects in Chinese newborns.
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/newscience/2012/12/2013-0522-mercury-pregnancy-higher-risk-neural-tube-defects/
"Babies with two serious neural tube birth defects had higher levels of mercury in their placentas than babies without the birth defects, according to a study conducted in China.The infants with spina bifida and anencephaly were 12 times as likely to have higher-than-average mercury levels. The rural region studied has a high prevalence of neural tube defects and heavy pollution from coal-burning plants, a major source of mercury. However, the babies from this region did not have unusually high mercury exposures."
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/newscience/2012/12/2013-0522-mercury-pregnancy-higher-risk-neural-tube-defects/
"Babies with two serious neural tube birth defects had higher levels of mercury in their placentas than babies without the birth defects, according to a study conducted in China.The infants with spina bifida and anencephaly were 12 times as likely to have higher-than-average mercury levels. The rural region studied has a high prevalence of neural tube defects and heavy pollution from coal-burning plants, a major source of mercury. However, the babies from this region did not have unusually high mercury exposures."
Lautenberg's death leaves chemical safety bill hanging
Lautenberg's death leaves chemical safety bill hanging
http://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/Lautenberg-s-death-leaves-chemical-safety-bill-4577160.php?t=b3728060f34d372650&t=b3728060f3
"The death of Sen. Frank Lautenberg, D-N.J., at 89 came just as he was shepherding what some believe - and others fear - may be the most significant federal law in his considerable political career. Lautenberg's priority for more than a decade had been modernizing the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976, one of the country's bedrock environmental laws, and one that experts across the health and industrial spectra agree is hopelessly out of date."
http://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/Lautenberg-s-death-leaves-chemical-safety-bill-4577160.php?t=b3728060f34d372650&t=b3728060f3
"The death of Sen. Frank Lautenberg, D-N.J., at 89 came just as he was shepherding what some believe - and others fear - may be the most significant federal law in his considerable political career. Lautenberg's priority for more than a decade had been modernizing the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976, one of the country's bedrock environmental laws, and one that experts across the health and industrial spectra agree is hopelessly out of date."
U.S. orders new safety upgrades at nuclear plants
U.S. orders new safety upgrades at nuclear plants
http://www.cnn.com/2013/06/06/us/nuclear-reactors-upgrades/
"U.S. regulators are directing 31 nuclear reactors similar in design to the Fukushima Daiichi plant in Japan, where an earthquake and tsunami caused a meltdown two years ago, to take additional steps to help contain radiation and other damage from any accident that is not quickly halted."
http://www.cnn.com/2013/06/06/us/nuclear-reactors-upgrades/
"U.S. regulators are directing 31 nuclear reactors similar in design to the Fukushima Daiichi plant in Japan, where an earthquake and tsunami caused a meltdown two years ago, to take additional steps to help contain radiation and other damage from any accident that is not quickly halted."
Common solvent linked to liver cancer risk
Common solvent linked to liver cancer risk
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/06/06/us-health-solvet-cancer-idUSBRE95516520130606
"Scandinavian workers exposed to a common industrial cleaning fluid showed higher risk for developing cancers of the liver, kidneys and cervix in a large new study."
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/06/06/us-health-solvet-cancer-idUSBRE95516520130606
"Scandinavian workers exposed to a common industrial cleaning fluid showed higher risk for developing cancers of the liver, kidneys and cervix in a large new study."
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
Indoor Air Pollution | PSR
Indoor Air Pollution | PSR
http://www.psr.org/environment-and-health/environmental-health-policy-institute/indoor-air-pollution.html
http://www.psr.org/environment-and-health/environmental-health-policy-institute/indoor-air-pollution.html
"Americans spend the majority of our time indoors, whether it's in our home, school or office.
Yet indoor air is estimated to be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency lists poor indoor air quality as the fourth largest environmental threat to our country. It has been associated with a range of symptoms including headache, fatigue, trouble concentrating, and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and lungs. Specific diseases such as Legionnaires' disease, asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis and humidifier fever have been directly traced to specific building-based problems. In addition, exposure to toxins such as asbestos and radon may not cause immediate symptoms but can lead to cancer years after exposure.
Other building-related concerns that can affect health include poor lighting, excessive noise and heating and cooling issues.
How is it that the buildings we spend the most time in -- raising our families, learning, earning a living -- can be the most toxic? What can we do about it, what sort of recourse do we have? Please read on, as the contributors to this month's Environmental Health Policy Institute aim to answer those questions."
Sunday, June 2, 2013
Toxic Chemicals: Are Stricter Regulations Needed?
Toxic Chemicals: Are Stricter Regulations Needed?
http://onpoint.wbur.org/2013/05/30/toxic-chemicals
"A new big push is on to rewrite federal regulations on the toxic chemicals in our lives. We'll look at whether it's a great compromise or a great sellout.
When it comes to toxic chemicals, you might think there's somebody looking out for you, your health, your basic safety.
You might be wrong.
The 1976 Toxic Substances Control Act, which governs American chemical regulation, is widely considered a joke. Out of 85,000 registered chemicals in the US, the federal government has required testing of only 200. Only five have been banned as dangerous. And we wonder what's in our environment.
New legislation would update controls. But is it a real fix?"
http://onpoint.wbur.org/2013/05/30/toxic-chemicals
"A new big push is on to rewrite federal regulations on the toxic chemicals in our lives. We'll look at whether it's a great compromise or a great sellout.
When it comes to toxic chemicals, you might think there's somebody looking out for you, your health, your basic safety.
You might be wrong.
The 1976 Toxic Substances Control Act, which governs American chemical regulation, is widely considered a joke. Out of 85,000 registered chemicals in the US, the federal government has required testing of only 200. Only five have been banned as dangerous. And we wonder what's in our environment.
New legislation would update controls. But is it a real fix?"
Friday, May 31, 2013
Probiotics Affect Brain Activity
Probiotics Affect Brain Activity
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/805012
"A new study provides the first evidence in humans that probiotics in the diet can modulate brain activity.
In a proof-of-concept study using functional MRI (fMRI), researchers found that women who regularly consumed probiotic-containing yogurt showed altered activity of brain regions that control central processing of emotion and sensation. The study was funded by Danone Research."
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/805012
"A new study provides the first evidence in humans that probiotics in the diet can modulate brain activity.
In a proof-of-concept study using functional MRI (fMRI), researchers found that women who regularly consumed probiotic-containing yogurt showed altered activity of brain regions that control central processing of emotion and sensation. The study was funded by Danone Research."
Monday, May 27, 2013
Divers say they still suffer ailments from 2010 BP oil spill
Divers say they still suffer ailments from 2010 BP oil spill
http://www.tampabay.com/news/environment/water/divers-say-they-still-suffer-ailments-from-2010-oil-spill/212313 4
"During the Deepwater Horizon disaster three years ago, few people got as close to the action as Scott Porter.
http://www.tampabay.com/news/environment/water/divers-say-they-still-suffer-ailments-from-2010-oil-spill/212313 4
"During the Deepwater Horizon disaster three years ago, few people got as close to the action as Scott Porter.
Porter, a diver with a degree in marine biology, worked in Louisiana as a contractor for oil companies and had become fascinated with the corals growing on oil rigs. He and some friends volunteered to collect samples of corals near the spill for federal officials. They were also paid to take reporters from CBS News and other outlets into the Gulf of Mexico to view the spreading slick.
Federal officials "kept telling us it was safe," Porter said. So he and the other divers he worked with relied on that advice and kept plunging into the gulf.
At the time, Porter was a fit, healthy guy, just 42, who had performed 6,000 dives. He competed in martial arts tournaments. He didn't expect to get sick. But soon after swimming through murky water full of oil and chemical dispersants, he said, he began suffering from a variety of ailments — a burning sensation in his chest, migraine headaches, skin rashes, nausea."
Seeking Food Ingredients That Aren't Gene-Altered
Seeking Food Ingredients That Aren't Gene-Altered
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/05/27/business/food-companies-seeking-ingredients-that-arent-gene-altered.html?_r=0
"Food companies big and small are struggling to replace genetically modified ingredients with conventional ones.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/05/27/business/food-companies-seeking-ingredients-that-arent-gene-altered.html?_r=0
"Food companies big and small are struggling to replace genetically modified ingredients with conventional ones.
Pressure is growing to label products made from genetically modified organisms, or "G.M.O." In Connecticut, Vermont and Maine, at least one chamber of the state legislature has approved bills that would require the labeling of foods that contain genetically modified ingredients, and similar legislation is pending in more than two dozen other states. This weekend, rallies were held around the globe against producers of genetically altered ingredients, and consumers are threatening to boycott products that are not labeled.
And so, for many businesses, the pressing concern is just what it will take to gain certification as non-G.M.O."
Bipartisan Senate bill would give EPA power to ban dangerous chemicals
Bipartisan Senate bill would give EPA power to ban dangerous chemicals
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/watchdog/flames/ct-nw-toxic-chemical-bill-20130523,0,3671250.story
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/watchdog/flames/ct-nw-toxic-chemical-bill-20130523,0,3671250.story
"In a rare display of bipartisanship on Capitol Hill, a group of key senators unveiled legislation Wednesday that would require chemical companies to provide more health and safety information about their products and give regulators more power to force harmful compounds off the market."
Sunday, May 26, 2013
Electrosmog may cause health problems, group says
Electrosmog may cause health problems, group says
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/story/2013/05/25/montreal-electrosmog-electromagnetic-hypersensitivity-smart-meters.html
"A relatively new type of air pollution called electrosmog may be the cause of a variety of ailments, said the Quebec a Quebec group dedicated to fighting air pollution. Known by its French acronym AQLPA, the organization is calling for a moratorium on Hydro Québec's smart meters project."
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/story/2013/05/25/montreal-electrosmog-electromagnetic-hypersensitivity-smart-meters.html
"A relatively new type of air pollution called electrosmog may be the cause of a variety of ailments, said the Quebec a Quebec group dedicated to fighting air pollution. Known by its French acronym AQLPA, the organization is calling for a moratorium on Hydro Québec's smart meters project."
Xenobiotic Sensor- And Metabolism-Related Gene Variants in Environmental Sensitivity-Related Illnesses: A Survey on the Italian Population
Xenobiotic Sensor- And Metabolism-Related Gene Variants in Environmental Sensitivity-Related Illnesses: A Survey on the Italian Population
Daniela Caccamo1, Eleonora Cesareo2, Serena Mariani2, Desanka Raskovic3, Riccardo Ientile1, Monica Currò1, Korkina Liudmila2, DeLuca Chiara2
1Dept. of Biomedical Sciences and Morpho-Functional Imaging, Polyclinic University of Messina, Messina, Italy
2Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Skin Pathophysiology, Dermatology Institute (IDI IRCCS), Rome, Italy
32nd Dermatology Division, Dermatology Institute (IDI IRCCS), Rome, Italy
Corresponding Author: Dr. Chiara De Luca,PhD, Laboratory of Tissue
Engineering and Skin Pathophysiology, Dermatology Institute (IDI
IRCCS), Via Monti di Creta 104, Rome 00167, Italy,
Tel. +39 06 9112193, fax +39 06 9112192, e.mail c.deluca@idi.it.
Abstract
In the environmental sensitivity-related illnesses (SRI) multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS), chronic fatigue syndrome (FCS), fibromyalgia (FM), the search for genetic polymorphisms of phase I/II xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes as suitable diagnostic biomarkers produced so far inconclusive results, due to patient heterogeneity, geographic/ethnic differences in genetic backgrounds, different methodological approaches. Here, we compared the frequency of gene polymorphisms of selected cytochrome P450 (CYP) metabolizing enzymes, and for the first time of the xenobiotic sensor Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), in the three cohorts of 145 diagnosed MCS, 94 suspected MCS, 80 FM/FCS patients, vs. 113 healthy controls. Contrary to our previous results on 110 Italian MCS patients, we showed, after careful evaluation of MCS established diagnostic criteria, exclusion of FM and FCS co-morbidities, and with techniques reaching 100% specificity and sensitivity for heterozygous genotypes, significantly different polymorphism distributions in-between patients' groups, and vs. controls, concerning CYP2C9*2, CYP2C9*3, CYP2C19*2, CYP2D6*4, CYP2D6*41 allele and heterozygous genotype frequencies, also confirmed
by disease risk Odds Ratios. Results allowed us to propose genotyping for these specific CYP variants, together with the AHR Arg554Lys variant, as reliable, cost-effective genetic parameters to be included in the still undefined biomarkers' panel for laboratory diagnosis of the main types of environmental-borne SRI.
1Dept. of Biomedical Sciences and Morpho-Functional Imaging, Polyclinic University of Messina, Messina, Italy
2Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Skin Pathophysiology, Dermatology Institute (IDI IRCCS), Rome, Italy
32nd Dermatology Division, Dermatology Institute (IDI IRCCS), Rome, Italy
Corresponding Author: Dr. Chiara De Luca,PhD, Laboratory of Tissue
Engineering and Skin Pathophysiology, Dermatology Institute (IDI
IRCCS), Via Monti di Creta 104, Rome 00167, Italy,
Tel. +39 06 9112193, fax +39 06 9112192, e.mail c.deluca@idi.it.
Abstract
In the environmental sensitivity-related illnesses (SRI) multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS), chronic fatigue syndrome (FCS), fibromyalgia (FM), the search for genetic polymorphisms of phase I/II xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes as suitable diagnostic biomarkers produced so far inconclusive results, due to patient heterogeneity, geographic/ethnic differences in genetic backgrounds, different methodological approaches. Here, we compared the frequency of gene polymorphisms of selected cytochrome P450 (CYP) metabolizing enzymes, and for the first time of the xenobiotic sensor Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), in the three cohorts of 145 diagnosed MCS, 94 suspected MCS, 80 FM/FCS patients, vs. 113 healthy controls. Contrary to our previous results on 110 Italian MCS patients, we showed, after careful evaluation of MCS established diagnostic criteria, exclusion of FM and FCS co-morbidities, and with techniques reaching 100% specificity and sensitivity for heterozygous genotypes, significantly different polymorphism distributions in-between patients' groups, and vs. controls, concerning CYP2C9*2, CYP2C9*3, CYP2C19*2, CYP2D6*4, CYP2D6*41 allele and heterozygous genotype frequencies, also confirmed
by disease risk Odds Ratios. Results allowed us to propose genotyping for these specific CYP variants, together with the AHR Arg554Lys variant, as reliable, cost-effective genetic parameters to be included in the still undefined biomarkers' panel for laboratory diagnosis of the main types of environmental-borne SRI.
Saturday, May 25, 2013
NEWSLETTER: MCSA NEWS - May-June 2013
MCSA NEWS
May-June 2013, Volume 8, Issue 2
Entire PDF Edition: http://www.mcs-america.org/mayjune2013.pdf
(View, Download, and Print)
Inside This Issue:
- Nevada Governor Declares May MCS Awareness Month
- May is Toxic Injury & Chemical Awareness Month in
- Jennifer Parker Foundation National Walk-a-Thon
- Awareness Month Observed in
- Patient Support & Resources
- Featured Research Studies
Multiple Chemical Sensitivities
Copyrighted © 2013 MCS
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