Tackling chronic fatigue syndrome from the top down
http://www.scienceomega.com/article/1053/tackling-chronic-fatigue-syndrome-from-the-top-down
"A top-down approach has helped to advance research within the field of chronic fatigue syndrome, explains the CFS Research Foundation's Anne Faulkner…
For more than a quarter of a century, chronic fatigue syndrome, or myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME), has stimulated vigorous debate amongst members of the medical research community. From the outset, however, those working to promote investigation into this illness have been involved in an uphill struggle. Surprisingly, one of the most significant obstacles originated from sections of the medical community that were reluctant to recognise CFS/ME as a genuine illness. Moreover, pejorative terms such as 'yuppie flu' did little to improve the condition's credibility within a broader societal context."
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Environmental exposures: an underrecognized contribution to noncommunicable diseases.
Environmental exposures: an underrecognized contribution to noncommunicable diseases.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23612529
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23612529
Norman RE, Carpenter DO, Scott J, Brune MN, Sly PD.
Rev Environ Health. 2013;28(1):59-65. doi: 10.1515/reveh-2012-0033.
Abstract
Abstract Previous attempts to determine the degree to which exposure to environmental factors contribute to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) have been very conservative and have significantly underestimated the actual contribution of the environment for at least two reasons. Firstly, most previous reports have excluded the contribution of lifestyle behavioral risk factors, but these usually involve significant exposure to environmental chemicals that increase risk of disease. Secondly, early life exposure to chemical contaminants is now clearly associated with an elevated risk of several diseases later in life, but these connections are often difficult to discern. This is especially true for asthma and neurodevelopmental conditions, but there is also a major contribution to the development of obesity and chronic diseases. Most cancers are caused by environmental exposures in genetically susceptible individuals. In addition, new information shows significant associations between cardiovascular diseases and diabetes and exposure to environmental chemicals present in air, food, and water. These relationships likely reflect the combination of epigenetic effects and gene induction. Environmental factors contribute significantly more to NCDs than previous reports have suggested. Prevention needs to shift focus from individual responsibility to societal responsibility and an understanding that effective prevention of NCDs ultimately relies on improved environmental management to reduce exposure to modifiable risks.
Abstract
Abstract Previous attempts to determine the degree to which exposure to environmental factors contribute to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) have been very conservative and have significantly underestimated the actual contribution of the environment for at least two reasons. Firstly, most previous reports have excluded the contribution of lifestyle behavioral risk factors, but these usually involve significant exposure to environmental chemicals that increase risk of disease. Secondly, early life exposure to chemical contaminants is now clearly associated with an elevated risk of several diseases later in life, but these connections are often difficult to discern. This is especially true for asthma and neurodevelopmental conditions, but there is also a major contribution to the development of obesity and chronic diseases. Most cancers are caused by environmental exposures in genetically susceptible individuals. In addition, new information shows significant associations between cardiovascular diseases and diabetes and exposure to environmental chemicals present in air, food, and water. These relationships likely reflect the combination of epigenetic effects and gene induction. Environmental factors contribute significantly more to NCDs than previous reports have suggested. Prevention needs to shift focus from individual responsibility to societal responsibility and an understanding that effective prevention of NCDs ultimately relies on improved environmental management to reduce exposure to modifiable risks.
PMID: 23612529 [PubMed - in process]
UK public health officials call for Censorship on MMR vaccine safety debate
UK public health officials call for Censorship on MMR vaccine safety debate - Dr. Andrew Wakefield response to the measles outbreak in South Wales
"Dr Wakefield responds to UK public health officials call for censorship on MMR vaccine safety debate, measles vaccine failure, and issues a further challenge for open debate."
Studies: Air pollution linked to brain damage
Studies: Air pollution linked to brain damage
http://www.kjrh.com/dpp/news/studies-air-pollution-linked-to-brain-damage
"Scientists in 2004 studied the brain tissue of children and young adults in Mexico who had died of accidents and were stunned by what they found -- a discovery that rocked the world of neuroscience and has gone largely untested until now.
Almost all the young people had evidence of Alzheimer's protein plaques scattered throughout their brain tissue.
The only factor linking one case to another was air pollution in Mexico City, which led scientists at the time to hypothesize that smog might be a trigger of Alzheimer's disease and that the mind-robbing damage might start early in life."
http://www.kjrh.com/dpp/news/studies-air-pollution-linked-to-brain-damage
"Scientists in 2004 studied the brain tissue of children and young adults in Mexico who had died of accidents and were stunned by what they found -- a discovery that rocked the world of neuroscience and has gone largely untested until now.
Almost all the young people had evidence of Alzheimer's protein plaques scattered throughout their brain tissue.
The only factor linking one case to another was air pollution in Mexico City, which led scientists at the time to hypothesize that smog might be a trigger of Alzheimer's disease and that the mind-robbing damage might start early in life."
Toxic Chemicals Bill Needed To Protect Children
Toxic Chemicals Bill Needed To Protect Children
http://www.courant.com/news/opinion/hc-op-ahmed-toxic-chemicals-bill-would-protect-chi-20130429,0,1068876.story
"A bill that would provide protection to young children against toxic chemicals — both before and after birth — was unfortunately bottled up in the General Assembly's Appropriations Committee last week but should be revived by amendment before this legislative session ends."
http://www.courant.com/news/opinion/hc-op-ahmed-toxic-chemicals-bill-would-protect-chi-20130429,0,1068876.story
"A bill that would provide protection to young children against toxic chemicals — both before and after birth — was unfortunately bottled up in the General Assembly's Appropriations Committee last week but should be revived by amendment before this legislative session ends."
Flame retardants to be removed from nap mats
Flame retardants to be removed from nap mats
http://www.sfgate.com/health/article/Flame-retardants-to-be-removed-from-nap-mats-4436828.php
"A Minnesota company has pledged to remove flame-retardant chemicals from the children's nap mats it sells in California as part of a lawsuit settlement announced Monday by the Center for Environmental Health in Oakland."
http://www.sfgate.com/health/article/Flame-retardants-to-be-removed-from-nap-mats-4436828.php
"A Minnesota company has pledged to remove flame-retardant chemicals from the children's nap mats it sells in California as part of a lawsuit settlement announced Monday by the Center for Environmental Health in Oakland."
Amended bill meant to crack down on toxic chemical spills
Amended bill meant to crack down on toxic chemical spills
http://english.hani.co.kr/arti/english_edition/e_national/585033.html
"Companies could be penalized 10% of their sales if spills harm people or environment; businesses call the measures "excessive""
http://english.hani.co.kr/arti/english_edition/e_national/585033.html
"Companies could be penalized 10% of their sales if spills harm people or environment; businesses call the measures "excessive""
Consumers warned on toxic backpacks
Consumers warned on toxic backpacks
http://www.tempo.com.ph/2013/04/consumers-warned-on-toxic-backpacks/#.UYAVQ0rk3Ko
"A toxic watchdog based in Quezon City warned parents on the presence of dangerous chemicals on backpacks that cause brain-damage and lower intelligence quotient (IQ) scores."
http://www.tempo.com.ph/2013/04/consumers-warned-on-toxic-backpacks/#.UYAVQ0rk3Ko
"A toxic watchdog based in Quezon City warned parents on the presence of dangerous chemicals on backpacks that cause brain-damage and lower intelligence quotient (IQ) scores."
Chemicals on federal radar pervasive in Chicago air - Environmental Health News
Chemicals on federal radar pervasive in Chicago air — Environmental Health News
"On the brink of federal regulatory review, chemicals in deodorants, lotions and conditioners are showing up in Chicago's air at levels that scientists call alarming. The airborne compounds – cyclic siloxanes – are traveling to places as far as the Arctic, and can be toxic to aquatic life. "These chemicals are just everywhere," said Keri Hornbuckle, an engineering professor at the University of Iowa."
Re-introducing former US House Bill 1408-Cell phone warning label legislation PA Representative Vanessa Brown Bill:
In the near future, Representative Vanessa Brown will be re-introducing former House Bill 1408, Printer's Number 1682, which would require the placement of warning labels upon cellular telephones.
http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=11598
http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=11598
MEMORANDUM
Posted:February 7, 2013 04:13 PM
From:Representative Vanessa Brown
To:All House members
Subject:Cell phone warning label legislation
In the near future, I will be re-introducing former House Bill 1408, Printer's Number 1682, which would require the placement of warning labels upon cellular telephones.
As you may remember, this legislation proposed to create the Children's Wireless Protection Act. Specifically, this act would prohibit the sale of cellular telephones unless both the product and its packaging display a non-removable warning label outlining the dangerous and fatal effects of cellular telephone usage. In addition, this bill would require all stores, retailers and businesses selling cellular telephones for profit, to prominently display signs, brochures, leaflets and other paraphernalia that bear the aforementioned warning label.
Lastly, this measure would authorize the Pennsylvania Attorney General to order the recall and replacement of all cellular telephones that are not in compliance with the labeling requirements pursuant to this act.
In summary, the overall impetus behind this legislation is to create widespread awareness among the citizens of this Commonwealth regarding the possible health risks, particularly as they relate to pregnant women and children under the age of thirteen, of direct exposure to electromagnetic radiation, which is emitted through the usage of cellular telephones.
Previous Co-Sponsors: D. O'BRIEN , PARKER , BROWNLEE, DAVIDSON, JOSEPHS , MUNDY , YOUNGBLOOD , DALEY , HARPER , PAYTON , STABACK and STERN
If you have any questions regarding this legislation, please contact Fran Harris at (717) 772-6955 or fharris@pahouse.net.
View Attachment
Honorable Vanessa Lowery Brown, Democrat, Member of the House 2009 to date,
Antoinette "Toni" Stein PhD
892 Arlington Ave
Berkeley, CA 94707
650-823-7662
tweil@igc.org
U.S.-born kids have more allergies, asthma
U.S.-born kids have more allergies, asthma
"(Reuters Health) - Kids and teens who are born abroad and immigrate to the United States are about half as likely to have asthma and allergies as those who are born in the U.S., according to a new study."
Monday, April 29, 2013
MCS Poster 2012 Colored[1]
MCS Support Network 440-845-1888 www.ohionetwork.org O N F I
Involuntary Exposures #4 That May Harm Your Health 2013
Involuntary Exposures That May Harm Your Health - Ten Things You May Not Know
1. Fertilizer you purchase may contain toxic waste. Hazardous and other industrial wastes are disposed in fertilizer, soil amendments and animal feeds, contaminating food, air, and water supplies. Over 100 billion pounds of fertilizer is used annually in the
2. Agent Orange - Viet Nam Veterans are now eligible for medical care for 14 diseases associated with Agent Orange. These include: Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2, Parkinson’s disease, Chronic B-Cell Leukemias, Hodgkin’s disease, Peripheral Neuropathy, Acute and Subacute, Prostate Cancer, Respiratory Cancers, Soft Tissue Sarcomas, Ischemic Heart Disease, and Multiple Myeloma. 2,4.D, an active ingredient in Agent Orange, is still in use in lawn products in the
Coffee – The
3. Gas and Oil Well Contamination – Is there an “orphan well” or active gas and oil well in your neighborhood that may be affecting your health? An
4. Mercury – Is in spiral shaped light bulbs, many vaccines, some prescription ear medications (labeled as thimerosal), and shoes that glow in the dark (batteries contain mercury). Read product labels and call manufacturers before purchasing to learn if mercury is in the products. Dispose of mercury properly.
5. Lead –
6. Triclosan - Your shoes and many other products, including sanitizing hand wipes, may contain triclosan, a disinfectant which can be absorbed into your bloodstream. All disinfectants are pesticides and must be registered with the U.S. EPA Pesticide Division. Pesticides may not be sufficiently selective about what they kill.
7. Genetically Modified Food – Educate yourself about the reasons other countries have banned it. At the least, these foods need to be labeled so the consumer can make a choice of whether or not to eat them.
8. Pharmaceuticals - Most physicians are not trained to know if a pharmaceutical is “right for you”. To “Just Ask Your Doctor” can be dangerous. Pharmaceutical manufacturers train physicians to use their products, some of which are addictive, and do not warn about the dangers of reactions to the additives including dyes, preservatives, toxic metals (including aluminum and mercury), synergistic effects, and much more. Research a prescription’s active and inactive ingredients before you take it. Keep records of any past drug reactions you’ve had. Then talk to your pharmacist and do what you think is right for you.
Pharmaceuticals cannot be completely filtered out of our drinking water. Water may contain pharmaceutical waste including estrogens, antibiotics, and pain medication ingredients.
9. Bisphenol A (BPA) - Many grocery, gas, and other store receipts contain BPA. It is also used in the linings of cans and many plastics. If you get a funny chemical taste in your mouth, a skin rash, a red face, or other unusual symptoms when handling products treated with BPA you are most likely experiencing a chemical reaction. To be safe, don’t microwave any plastic (use glass), store food in it, drink from it, or wash it in a dishwasher.
10. Warning: Perfume-free products may contain fragrances. Check the back label for “masking fragrance.”
(440) 845-1888
MCS Awareness Month 2013 NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEWS FROM:
Contact: Toni Temple (440) 845-1888
It’s Up to Us
To Make a Fuss
The power of the people worked in the “good old days,” and it is working again today. Johnson & Johnson, a leading manufacturer of baby and personal care products, has pledged to remove toxic chemicals from their baby product line by the end of 2013, and safer adult products are to follow. The advocacy and teamwork of the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, of which the Breast Cancer Fund is one of the founding members, and the voices of many people with concerns for their own health issues, helped to accomplish this feat.
The Ohio Network for the Chemically Injured (ONFCI), a not-for-profit corporation that educates about and advocates on behalf of those who have been harmed by toxic chemicals in our everyday environments, applauds this accomplishment. Chemicals are implicated in many illnesses, not just Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). “At the conclusion of almost ten years of participation with the U.S. Access Board/National Institute of Building Sciences Indoor Environmental Quality study, I was astounded to learn that we are all getting sick, in different ways, from the same environmental factors,” said Toni Temple, ONFCI’s president.
Every May, during MCS Awareness and Education Month, ONFCI provides educational tools and information about MCS and related disorders, and encourages understanding and disability accommodations to prevent further harm that may be caused by avoidable and unnecessary exposures to toxic chemicals. An excellent MCS website, http://www.chemicalsensitivityfoundation.org , includes a free online video in which renowned physicians speak about MCS and how it devastates lives of the afflicted, their families and friends.
The Safe Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Act, introduced March 21, 2013 (Representatives Jan Schakowsky and Edward J. Markey) closes major loopholes in federal law that currently allows companies to use ingredients that damage human health and the environment.
On this first anniversary of Cuyahoga County Council’s MCS Awareness Resolution
County Council of Cuyahoga County, Ohio Resolution No. R2012-0011, we urge you to ask your
Mayor or Town Manager and School Superintendent to create similar legislation to protect your
children and their teachers, and make your city a safer place to live (or thank them if they have).
Mayors Debbie Southerland (Bay Village), Merle Gorden (Beachwood), Cyril Kleem (Berea), Mark Elliott (Brook Park), Samuel Alai (Broadview Heights), Richard Balbier (Brooklyn), Frank G. Jackson (Cleveland), Jack Bacci (Cuyahoga Heights Village), Vic Collova (Garfield Heights), Mark Cegelka (Glenwillow Village), Gregory Kurtz (Independence), Gary Starr (Middleburg Heights), Robert Blomquist (Olmsted Falls), Tim DeGeeter (Parma), Mike Byrne (Parma Heights), and Thomas Perciak (Strongsville) are among those who have provided support with proclamations and/or city resolutions.
Libraries participating in MCS Awareness and Education Month during the month of May include: Cuyahoga County Public Library’s 28 branches; the downtown branch of Cleveland Public Library, Science and Technology Department; and many other libraries throughout Ohio. During May, the libraries will display related books and mayoral proclamations, and provide ONFCI’s educational materials.
See a copy of Involuntary Exposures That May Harm Your Health - Ten Things You May Not Know on our website www.ohionetwork.org or pick up a copy at participating libraries. It contains information that may prompt more people to speak up.
####
Press Release; Maine Re-Introduces Cell Phone Warning Label Bill.
PRESS RELEASE:
Contact info: Rep. Andrea Boland 207-324-4459,
Bill Sponsor: AmericanAssociationForCellPhoneSafety.org, Liz Barris
310-455-7530,
Cell Phone Warning Label Bill to be Re-Introduced Based on World Health
Organization, Cell Phone Use/Brain Cancer Advisory:
In the face of mounting evidence of increased risk for malignant brain
tumors with cell phone use, including a recent Italian court case that was
won proving cell and cordless phone use was the cause of a man's brain tumor
and the banning of sales and advertising of cell phones to children in the
country of Belgium, Rep. Andrea Boland (D) Maine, re-introduces The Children's
Wireless Protection Act, a legislative bill to inform Maine consumers of the
possible health risks associated with cell phone use.
The bill would require retailers to provide an informational flyer at point
of purchase stating the following:
1. 'The World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on
Cancer has classified radiofrequency electromagnetic fields as possibly
carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), based on an increased risk for glioma, a
malignant type of brain cancer, associated with wireless phone use... This
has relevance for public health, particularly for users of mobile phones, as
the number of users is large and growing, particularly among young adults
and children.' World Health Organization press release, May 31, 2011
2. Manufacturers' manuals provide guidance to avoid direct contact with head
and body and commentary on ways to reduce excessive exposure, if you choose,
such as:
A. Limiting use by children;
B. Keeping away from reproductive organs; and
C. Operating with a wired headset."
The bill would also require retailers to label cell phones at point of
purchase with stickers stating the following:
"This device emits radiofrequency electromagnetic fields. Avoid direct
contact."
Additional verbiage on cell phone packaging would state:
"For the Safety of You and Your Family, Please Read Guidance for Use"
Univ. of Maine economists and Maine businesses alike also see passage of the
bill as a potential business advantage in the opening of new markets and
revenue streams in cell phone remediation devices.
Rep. Boland feels the time has come for the passage of this protective bill
to give Maine constituents fair warning of the very serious and potentially
lethal ramifications of cell phone use.
Full text of the bill can be found at:
http://www.mainelegislature.org/legis/bills/bills_126th/billtexts/HP071101.asp
Contact info: Rep. Andrea Boland 207-324-4459,
Bill Sponsor: AmericanAssociationForCellPhoneSafety.org, Liz Barris
310-455-7530,
Cell Phone Warning Label Bill to be Re-Introduced Based on World Health
Organization, Cell Phone Use/Brain Cancer Advisory:
In the face of mounting evidence of increased risk for malignant brain
tumors with cell phone use, including a recent Italian court case that was
won proving cell and cordless phone use was the cause of a man's brain tumor
and the banning of sales and advertising of cell phones to children in the
country of Belgium, Rep. Andrea Boland (D) Maine, re-introduces The Children's
Wireless Protection Act, a legislative bill to inform Maine consumers of the
possible health risks associated with cell phone use.
The bill would require retailers to provide an informational flyer at point
of purchase stating the following:
1. 'The World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on
Cancer has classified radiofrequency electromagnetic fields as possibly
carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), based on an increased risk for glioma, a
malignant type of brain cancer, associated with wireless phone use... This
has relevance for public health, particularly for users of mobile phones, as
the number of users is large and growing, particularly among young adults
and children.' World Health Organization press release, May 31, 2011
2. Manufacturers' manuals provide guidance to avoid direct contact with head
and body and commentary on ways to reduce excessive exposure, if you choose,
such as:
A. Limiting use by children;
B. Keeping away from reproductive organs; and
C. Operating with a wired headset."
The bill would also require retailers to label cell phones at point of
purchase with stickers stating the following:
"This device emits radiofrequency electromagnetic fields. Avoid direct
contact."
Additional verbiage on cell phone packaging would state:
"For the Safety of You and Your Family, Please Read Guidance for Use"
Univ. of Maine economists and Maine businesses alike also see passage of the
bill as a potential business advantage in the opening of new markets and
revenue streams in cell phone remediation devices.
Rep. Boland feels the time has come for the passage of this protective bill
to give Maine constituents fair warning of the very serious and potentially
lethal ramifications of cell phone use.
Full text of the bill can be found at:
http://www.mainelegislature.org/legis/bills/bills_126th/billtexts/HP071101.asp
May 5th Walkathon Across America for MCS Awareness Month 2013
The Jennifer Parker Foundation has organized a nationwide Wallkathon for MCS Awareness month 2013. The list below are all on Sunday May 5th all different times.This is their first year attempting the walks so if you can spread the word that would be great. More information can be found on their website home page:
Information and brochures will be available.
Kenilworth, N.J. 50 signed up
Northfield N.J. at least 50 this is my town
Sarasota, fl. 30 so far
Chicago, small group
Portland, Maine 30 so far
Phila, pa. under 50
Staten Island, N.Y. 30 or more
Green Bay, Wisconsin small
Frostburg, Maryland to new to say
Detroit, Mich 30 or so
Prescott, Az. 30 or so we really need people there we have news coverage
Tucson Az. ?
Madison, Wisconsin ?
Louisville Ken. ?
Pittsburgh Kansas ?
Washington, DC 30 or more
Carthage, Miss. 50 or more
The next 2 are on Sat. May 4th
Charlottesville, Va. This is in a outdoor market & also a walk thru town.
Susanville, Calif. This is in a health food store instead of a walk there is a kids festival in town so they will be handing out info and selling T-Shirts.
May 5th Walkathon Across America for MCS Awareness Month 2013
The Jennifer Parker Foundation has organized a nationawide Wallkathon for MCS Awareness month 2013. The list below are all on Sunday May 5th all different times.This is their first year attempting the walks so if you can spread the word that would be great. More information can be found on their website home page:
Information and brochures will be available.
Kenilworth, N.J. 50 signed up
Northfield N.J. at least 50 this is my town
Sarasota, fl. 30 so far
Chicago, small group
Portland, Maine 30 so far
Phila, pa. under 50
Staten Island, N.Y. 30 or more
Green Bay, Wisconsin small
Frostburg, Maryland to new to say
Detroit, Mich 30 or so
Prescott, Az. 30 or so we really need people there we have news coverage
Tucson Az. ?
Madison, Wisconsin ?
Louisville Ken. ?
Pittsburgh Kansas ?
Washington, DC 30 or more
Carthage, Miss. 50 or more
The next 2 are on Sat. May 4th
Charlottesville, Va. This is in a outdoor market & also a walk thru town.
Susanville, Calif. This is in a health food store instead of a walk there is a kids festival in town so they will be handing out info and selling T-Shirts.
Safe Chemicals Act in 2013
Safe Chemicals Act in 2013
http://www.saferchemicals.org/safe-chemicals-act/index.html
"Tell your Senators you support the Safe Chemicals Act and ask them to step up and become co-sponsors today!"
http://www.saferchemicals.org/safe-chemicals-act/index.html
"Tell your Senators you support the Safe Chemicals Act and ask them to step up and become co-sponsors today!"
Carnosine treatment for gulf war illness: a randomized controlled trial.
Carnosine treatment for gulf war illness: a randomized controlled trial.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23618477
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23618477
Baraniuk JN, El-Amin S, Corey R, Rayhan R, Timbol C.
Glob J Health Sci. 2013 Feb 4;5(3):69-81. doi: 10.5539/gjhs.v5n3p69.
Georgetown University Medical Center.
Abstract
About 25% of 1990-1991 Persian Gulf War veterans experience disabling fatigue, widespread pain, and cognitive dysfunction termed Gulf War illness (GWI) or Chronic Multisymptom Illness (CMI).
A leading theory proposes that wartime exposures initiated prolonged production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and central nervous system injury.
The endogenous antioxidant L-carnosine (B-alanyl-L-histidine) is a potential treatment since it is a free radical scavenger in nervous tissue. To determine if nutritional supplementation with L-carnosine would significantly improve pain, cognition and fatigue in GWI, a randomized double blind placebo controlled 12 week dose escalation study involving 25 GWI subjects was employed. L-carnosine was given as 500, 1000, and 1500 mg increasing at 4 week intervals. Researchers found a higher drop-out rate in carnosine than placebo treated GWI veterans.
Outcomes included subjective fatigue, pain and psychosocial questionnaires, and instantaneous fatigue and activity levels recorded by ActiWatch Score devices. Cognitive function was evaluated by WAIS-R digit symbol substitution test.
The study was limited by the relatively small sample size. The putative treatment effects require validation in similar randomized double blind placebo-controlled studies with larger groups of participants. The small sample size was hampered even further by the nine subjects who withdrew. They had no apparent symptomatic changes or adverse events. This includes parasthesias that have been noted previously (Artioli et al., 2010).
Study compliance was excellent based on diaries and pill counts. However, there were no cerebrospinal fluid, serum, or urine measurements of carnosine, beta-alanine or histidine to confirm absorption, pharmacodynamics, or brain metabolism to homocarnosine. Elevations in brain GABA levels in the treatment group may be identified by molecular spectroscopy (analysis in progress).
Carnosine had 2 potentially beneficial effects: WAIS-R scores increased significantly, and there was a decrease in diarrhea associated with irritable bowel syndrome. No other significant incremental changes were found.
Therefore, 12 weeks of carnosine (1500 mg) may have beneficial cognitive effects in GWI. Fatigue, pain, hyperalgesia, activity and other outcomes were resistant to treatment.
Georgetown University Medical Center.
Abstract
About 25% of 1990-1991 Persian Gulf War veterans experience disabling fatigue, widespread pain, and cognitive dysfunction termed Gulf War illness (GWI) or Chronic Multisymptom Illness (CMI).
A leading theory proposes that wartime exposures initiated prolonged production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and central nervous system injury.
The endogenous antioxidant L-carnosine (B-alanyl-L-histidine) is a potential treatment since it is a free radical scavenger in nervous tissue. To determine if nutritional supplementation with L-carnosine would significantly improve pain, cognition and fatigue in GWI, a randomized double blind placebo controlled 12 week dose escalation study involving 25 GWI subjects was employed. L-carnosine was given as 500, 1000, and 1500 mg increasing at 4 week intervals. Researchers found a higher drop-out rate in carnosine than placebo treated GWI veterans.
Outcomes included subjective fatigue, pain and psychosocial questionnaires, and instantaneous fatigue and activity levels recorded by ActiWatch Score devices. Cognitive function was evaluated by WAIS-R digit symbol substitution test.
The study was limited by the relatively small sample size. The putative treatment effects require validation in similar randomized double blind placebo-controlled studies with larger groups of participants. The small sample size was hampered even further by the nine subjects who withdrew. They had no apparent symptomatic changes or adverse events. This includes parasthesias that have been noted previously (Artioli et al., 2010).
Study compliance was excellent based on diaries and pill counts. However, there were no cerebrospinal fluid, serum, or urine measurements of carnosine, beta-alanine or histidine to confirm absorption, pharmacodynamics, or brain metabolism to homocarnosine. Elevations in brain GABA levels in the treatment group may be identified by molecular spectroscopy (analysis in progress).
Carnosine had 2 potentially beneficial effects: WAIS-R scores increased significantly, and there was a decrease in diarrhea associated with irritable bowel syndrome. No other significant incremental changes were found.
Therefore, 12 weeks of carnosine (1500 mg) may have beneficial cognitive effects in GWI. Fatigue, pain, hyperalgesia, activity and other outcomes were resistant to treatment.
How Chemical Toxins Will Make You Sick
How Chemical Toxins Will Make You Sick
http://www.yourmedicaldetective.com/drgrisanti/toxic_teacher.htm
"A 25 year old women begins her new career as a 2nd grade school teacher. After many of years of preparation, this new educator is ready to serve the public and help her young students learn how to read and write. Beginning in a newly renovated school is an extra bonus which makes our new teacher proud that she became part of the educational system. Everything is moving along fine.. she couldn't be happier!
http://www.yourmedicaldetective.com/drgrisanti/toxic_teacher.htm
"A 25 year old women begins her new career as a 2nd grade school teacher. After many of years of preparation, this new educator is ready to serve the public and help her young students learn how to read and write. Beginning in a newly renovated school is an extra bonus which makes our new teacher proud that she became part of the educational system. Everything is moving along fine.. she couldn't be happier!
Three months pass by and our teacher has noticed that her concentration is just not right. She has been getting a little "edgy." Definitely not like her. Her husband is concerned that maybe she is pushing herself a little too much and encourages her to simply slow down and pace herself. As the weeks go by, she begins experiencing headaches over her eyes and the back of her head. The headaches are now occurring more frequently a minimum of 3-4 times a week.
Six months into the school season and her symptoms are getting worse. In addition to her headaches, lack of concentration and irritability, she is now having insomnia, cries over nothing and has noticed an unusual tingling in her face, hands and feet. Concerned, our once "excited" trainer of children decides to see her family physician. After a brief consultation and a basic physical evaluation, her physician is confident she is again just overdoing it and recommends she lighten her work load. In the mean time, she is prescribed Xanax, a mild tranquilizer to settle her nerves. Feeling reassured that nothing is seriously wrong, our teacher returns to her young students and pushes on.
Another three months pass and this time our once highly motivated teacher is only a "shadow" of herself. It takes every ounce of energy to get started in the morning. She is having greater difficulty preparing her school assignments and simply is just exhausted! In a state of desperation she is referred to a psychiatrist. He diagnoses her with depression and prescribes an anti-depressant and also recommends counseling.
After two emotional years of trying an assortment of anti-depressants and hours of counseling, our young teacher is stuck in a nightmare.. a web of medical labels... depression, chronic fatigue syndrome, stress ... just name a few!
Is It Possible Something Has Been Missed?"
Fibromyalgia Awareness Events 2013
Fibromyalgia Awareness Events 2013
http://www.fmcpaware.org/fm-awareness-2013-events
http://www.fmcpaware.org/fm-awareness-2013-events
A great list of many fibromyalgia events going on this year for awawareness month!
A Simplified Methylation Protocol is Effective for the Treatment of Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia
A Simplified Methylation Protocol is Effective for the Treatment of Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia
by Neil Nathan, M.D.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
What BP Doesn't Want You to Know About the 2010 Gulf Spill
What BP Doesn't Want You to Know About the 2010 Gulf Spill
http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/2013/04/22/what-bp-doesn-t-want-you-to-know-about-the-2010-gulf-spill.html
""It's as safe as Dawn dishwashing liquid." That's what Jamie Griffin says the BP man told her about the smelly, rainbow-streaked gunk coating the floor of the "floating hotel" where Griffin was feeding hundreds of cleanup workers during the BP oil disaster in the Gulf of Mexico. Apparently, the workers were tracking the gunk inside on their boots. Griffin, as chief cook and maid, was trying to clean it. But even boiling water didn't work."
http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/2013/04/22/what-bp-doesn-t-want-you-to-know-about-the-2010-gulf-spill.html
""It's as safe as Dawn dishwashing liquid." That's what Jamie Griffin says the BP man told her about the smelly, rainbow-streaked gunk coating the floor of the "floating hotel" where Griffin was feeding hundreds of cleanup workers during the BP oil disaster in the Gulf of Mexico. Apparently, the workers were tracking the gunk inside on their boots. Griffin, as chief cook and maid, was trying to clean it. But even boiling water didn't work."
Mobile phones to be banned for children
Mobile phones to be banned for children
http://www.togethermag.eu/articles/mobile-phones-be-banned-children
"The Belgian government has announced measures to restrict the use of mobile phones by young children.
Public Health minister Laurette Onkelinx has announced that sales of mobile phones to children under 7 years will be banned in shops and also on the internet.
http://www.togethermag.eu/articles/mobile-phones-be-banned-children
"The Belgian government has announced measures to restrict the use of mobile phones by young children.
Public Health minister Laurette Onkelinx has announced that sales of mobile phones to children under 7 years will be banned in shops and also on the internet.
Adverts for mobile phones during children's programmes on TV radio and the internet will also be banned.
Research shows than in Belgium every two out of three children under 10 years have a mobile phone. At 12 years they nearly all have one.
The minister has highlighted the radiation risk from cell phones which is higher for young children than adults."
Local shares everyday survival way of life, anticipates event to raise awareness
Local shares everyday survival way of life, anticipates event to raise awareness
http://www.carthagepress.com/article/20130423/NEWS/130429714
"Life is much different now than it was for Leesa Robinson just five years ago.
Back then, Leesa would spend three to four days a week seeing patients at the Wholistic Pathways Family Center, east of Carthage. She helped operate the family dairy at her home north of Joplin, and enjoyed a lot of family time. These days, it's all about survival and advocating for those also living with environmental illness.
In finding information, help and hope, Leesa came across the Jennifer Parker Foundation, a non-profit organization that strives to improve the lives of those suffering with environmental illness. Leesa said she found out she is not alone by any means.
According to the Jennifer Parker Foundation website: Environmental Illness is a chronic complex multi-organ illness, characterized by symptoms attributed to a single massive chemical exposure, or repeated low level exposure to toxic chemicals and other irritants in the environment, such as toxic mold. The overexposure leaves the body chemically and electrically sensitive to everyday chemicals that cause recurring symptoms from low level triggers. It can happen anywhere in your own home, workplace or school. It strikes without regard to age, race, gender, or economic background."
http://www.carthagepress.com/article/20130423/NEWS/130429714
"Life is much different now than it was for Leesa Robinson just five years ago.
Back then, Leesa would spend three to four days a week seeing patients at the Wholistic Pathways Family Center, east of Carthage. She helped operate the family dairy at her home north of Joplin, and enjoyed a lot of family time. These days, it's all about survival and advocating for those also living with environmental illness.
In finding information, help and hope, Leesa came across the Jennifer Parker Foundation, a non-profit organization that strives to improve the lives of those suffering with environmental illness. Leesa said she found out she is not alone by any means.
According to the Jennifer Parker Foundation website: Environmental Illness is a chronic complex multi-organ illness, characterized by symptoms attributed to a single massive chemical exposure, or repeated low level exposure to toxic chemicals and other irritants in the environment, such as toxic mold. The overexposure leaves the body chemically and electrically sensitive to everyday chemicals that cause recurring symptoms from low level triggers. It can happen anywhere in your own home, workplace or school. It strikes without regard to age, race, gender, or economic background."
Saturday, April 20, 2013
A Review of the Mechanism of Injury and Treatment Approaches for Illness Resulting from Exposure to Water-Damaged Buildings, Mold, and Mycotoxins
Review Article
A Review of the Mechanism of Injury and Treatment Approaches for Illness Resulting from Exposure to Water-Damaged Buildings, Mold, and Mycotoxins
A Review of the Mechanism of Injury and Treatment Approaches for Illness Resulting from Exposure to Water-Damaged Buildings, Mold, and Mycotoxins
Janette Hope
Environmental Medicine, 304W. Los Olivos Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA
Correspondence should be addressed to Janette Hope; janettehopemd@yahoo.com
Received 15 January 2013; Accepted 10 February 2013
Academic Editors: O. Aruoma, P. Maˇcek, and J. B.T. Rocha
Copyright 2013 Janette Hope. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Physicians are increasingly being asked to diagnose and treat people made ill by exposure to water-damaged environments,
mold, and mycotoxins. In addition to avoidance of further exposure to these environments and to items contaminated by
these environments, a number of approaches have been used to help persons affected by exposure to restore their health.
Illness results from a combination of factors present in water-damaged indoor environments including, mold spores and hyphal
fragments, mycotoxins, bacteria, bacterial endotoxins, and cell wall components as well as other factors. Mechanisms of illness
include inflammation, oxidative stress, toxicity, infection, allergy, and irritant effects of exposure.This paper reviews the scientific
literature as it relates to commonly used treatments such as glutathione, antioxidants, antifungals, and sequestering agents such as Cholestyramine, charcoal, clay and chlorella, antioxidants, probiotics, and induced sweating.
mold, and mycotoxins. In addition to avoidance of further exposure to these environments and to items contaminated by
these environments, a number of approaches have been used to help persons affected by exposure to restore their health.
Illness results from a combination of factors present in water-damaged indoor environments including, mold spores and hyphal
fragments, mycotoxins, bacteria, bacterial endotoxins, and cell wall components as well as other factors. Mechanisms of illness
include inflammation, oxidative stress, toxicity, infection, allergy, and irritant effects of exposure.This paper reviews the scientific
literature as it relates to commonly used treatments such as glutathione, antioxidants, antifungals, and sequestering agents such as Cholestyramine, charcoal, clay and chlorella, antioxidants, probiotics, and induced sweating.
Friday, April 19, 2013
A Toothless Law on Toxic Chemicals
A Toothless Law on Toxic Chemicals
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/19/opinion/a-toothless-law-on-toxic-chemicals.html?_r=0
"It would be hard to design a law more stacked against the regulators than the 1976 Toxic Substances Control Act, which is supposed to ensure the safety of thousands of chemicals used in household products and manufacturing. It is long past time for Congress to reform the law so that it provides genuine protection against harmful chemicals in products like shampoos and detergents."
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/19/opinion/a-toothless-law-on-toxic-chemicals.html?_r=0
"It would be hard to design a law more stacked against the regulators than the 1976 Toxic Substances Control Act, which is supposed to ensure the safety of thousands of chemicals used in household products and manufacturing. It is long past time for Congress to reform the law so that it provides genuine protection against harmful chemicals in products like shampoos and detergents."
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Toxic exposure? Most Canadians have BPA in urine, lead traces in blood: report
Toxic exposure? Most Canadians have BPA in urine, lead traces in blood: report
http://www.ctvnews.ca/health/toxic-exposure-most-canadians-have-bpa-in-urine-lead-traces-in-blood-report-1.1242110
"TORONTO -- A Health Canada study suggests most Canadians have the chemical bisphenol A in their urine and all have traces of lead in their blood. The 2009-2011 report on environmental chemicals shows the plastics ingredient bisphenol A, or BPA, was detected in the urine of 95 per cent of Canadians aged three to 79. Children aged three to five and six to 11 had the highest average concentration of BPA, while adults 60 to 79 had the lowest average level."
http://www.ctvnews.ca/health/toxic-exposure-most-canadians-have-bpa-in-urine-lead-traces-in-blood-report-1.1242110
"TORONTO -- A Health Canada study suggests most Canadians have the chemical bisphenol A in their urine and all have traces of lead in their blood. The 2009-2011 report on environmental chemicals shows the plastics ingredient bisphenol A, or BPA, was detected in the urine of 95 per cent of Canadians aged three to 79. Children aged three to five and six to 11 had the highest average concentration of BPA, while adults 60 to 79 had the lowest average level."
Wood heater link to heart, lung diseases
Wood heater link to heart, lung diseases
http://www.smh.com.au/national/wood-heater-link-to-heart-lung-diseases-20130413-2hse3.html
"Hundreds of thousands of Australians are endangering their health by the regular use of wood heaters at home.
About 1 million homes regularly use wood-burning heaters, despite links to heart and lung disease. Health and environment experts are calling on the federal government to better regulate their use."
http://www.smh.com.au/national/wood-heater-link-to-heart-lung-diseases-20130413-2hse3.html
"Hundreds of thousands of Australians are endangering their health by the regular use of wood heaters at home.
About 1 million homes regularly use wood-burning heaters, despite links to heart and lung disease. Health and environment experts are calling on the federal government to better regulate their use."
Dr. Anne Steinemann's New Website
Dr. Anne Steinemann's New Website
http://www.drsteinemann.com/ "Most of our exposure to harmful pollutants comes from everyday sources, such as consumer products. We can reduce significant health risks through relatively simple and cost-effective actions, such as choosing safer products and reducing pollutants indoors. But the medical community, employers, and the public are often unaware of these pollutant sources, their health effects, and ways to reduce exposures. Dr. Steinemann can help. An internationally recognized scientist, she brings more than 20 years of experience in helping people to create healthier living and working environments."
Poisoned by every day life: Landmark study warns gender bending chemicals in your home, food and car ARE linked to a huge range of diseases
Poisoned by every day life: Landmark study warns gender bending chemicals in your home, food and car ARE linked to a huge range of diseases
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2281394/Poisoned-day-life-Landmark-study-warns-gender-bending-chemicals-home-food-car-ARE-linked-huge-range-diseases.html
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2281394/Poisoned-day-life-Landmark-study-warns-gender-bending-chemicals-home-food-car-ARE-linked-huge-range-diseases.html
- Phthalates is used to soften plastic and improve consistency of cosmetics
- Chemical commonly found in children's toys, make up, cars and PVC flooring
- Could cause breast cancer, asthma, infertility and birth defects, WHO says
Homeless woman with severe allergies forced to sleep on the streets of Toronto
Homeless woman with severe allergies forced to sleep on the streets of Toronto
http://rabble.ca/blogs/bloggers/johnbon/2013/04/homeless-woman-severe-allergies-forced-to-sleep-on-streets-toronto
"Olga Krywyj has been living outdoors since she arrived in Toronto a year ago. She can't stay in a women's shelter or find housing that will accommodate her needs. She's one of over 1 million Canadians that suffers from Multiple Chemical Sensitivities (MCS), Environmental Illness (EI) and Electrical Hyper-Sensitivities (EHS). People like Krywyj, who suffer from MCS/EI/EHS, react to chemicals at levels way below those that affect the rest of the population."
http://rabble.ca/blogs/bloggers/johnbon/2013/04/homeless-woman-severe-allergies-forced-to-sleep-on-streets-toronto
"Olga Krywyj has been living outdoors since she arrived in Toronto a year ago. She can't stay in a women's shelter or find housing that will accommodate her needs. She's one of over 1 million Canadians that suffers from Multiple Chemical Sensitivities (MCS), Environmental Illness (EI) and Electrical Hyper-Sensitivities (EHS). People like Krywyj, who suffer from MCS/EI/EHS, react to chemicals at levels way below those that affect the rest of the population."
Monday, April 15, 2013
Your house might be making you sick |
Your house might be making you sick
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20130414/LIFE/304140313
"It was a chronic thing: Almost every time Erma Taylor's great-grandson caught a cold, he also ended up having a severe asthma attack. Taylor, a retired nurse, spent many hours at a hospital, helping to hold the toddler for tests and breathing treatments, and wondering what was causing the attacks. The one thing Taylor never suspected was that something inside the Falls Church, Va., Cape Cod that she shares with her granddaughter and great-grandson was a source of the 3-year-old's medical problems. It turned out that mold and mildew from years of shampooing the decades-old carpet were aggravating the little boy's respiratory system."
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20130414/LIFE/304140313
"It was a chronic thing: Almost every time Erma Taylor's great-grandson caught a cold, he also ended up having a severe asthma attack. Taylor, a retired nurse, spent many hours at a hospital, helping to hold the toddler for tests and breathing treatments, and wondering what was causing the attacks. The one thing Taylor never suspected was that something inside the Falls Church, Va., Cape Cod that she shares with her granddaughter and great-grandson was a source of the 3-year-old's medical problems. It turned out that mold and mildew from years of shampooing the decades-old carpet were aggravating the little boy's respiratory system."
As OSHA Emphasizes Safety, Long-Term Health Risks Fester
As OSHA Emphasizes Safety, Long-Term Health Risks Fester
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/31/us/osha-emphasizes-safety-health-risks-fester.html?pagewanted=all&_r=2&
"TAYLORSVILLE, N.C. — Sheri Farley walks with a limp. The only job she could hold would be one where she does not have to stand or sit longer than 20 minutes, otherwise pain screams down her spine and up her legs. "Damaged goods," Ms. Farley describes herself, recalling how she recently overheard a child whispering to her mother about whether the "crippled lady" was a meth addict. For about five years, Ms. Farley, 45, stood alongside about a dozen other workers, spray gun in hand, gluing together foam cushions for chairs and couches sold under brand names like Broyhill, Ralph Lauren and Thomasville. Fumes from the glue formed a yellowish fog inside the plant, and Ms. Farley's doctors say that breathing them in eventually ate away at her nerve endings, resulting in what she and her co-workers call "dead foot.""
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/31/us/osha-emphasizes-safety-health-risks-fester.html?pagewanted=all&_r=2&
"TAYLORSVILLE, N.C. — Sheri Farley walks with a limp. The only job she could hold would be one where she does not have to stand or sit longer than 20 minutes, otherwise pain screams down her spine and up her legs. "Damaged goods," Ms. Farley describes herself, recalling how she recently overheard a child whispering to her mother about whether the "crippled lady" was a meth addict. For about five years, Ms. Farley, 45, stood alongside about a dozen other workers, spray gun in hand, gluing together foam cushions for chairs and couches sold under brand names like Broyhill, Ralph Lauren and Thomasville. Fumes from the glue formed a yellowish fog inside the plant, and Ms. Farley's doctors say that breathing them in eventually ate away at her nerve endings, resulting in what she and her co-workers call "dead foot.""
Child cancer link to pesticides
Child cancer link to pesticides
http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/a/-/breaking/16671499/child-cancer-link-to-pesticides/
http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/a/-/breaking/16671499/child-cancer-link-to-pesticides/
"Parents who call in pest controllers to get rid of termites in the year before pregnancy are twice as likely to have a child with a brain tumour, according to a national study."
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
How to Protect Yourself From the Largest Pandemic of All Time: 4G/LTE Mobile Internet and WiFi
How to Protect Yourself From the Largest Pandemic of All Time: 4G/LTE Mobile Internet and WiFi
http://www.wakingtimes.com/2013/04/06/how-to-protect-yourself-from-the-largest-pandemic-of-all-time-4glte-mobile-internet-and-wifi/
http://www.wakingtimes.com/2013/04/06/how-to-protect-yourself-from-the-largest-pandemic-of-all-time-4glte-mobile-internet-and-wifi/
"Many people are still unperturbed by the possible consequences of exposure to mobile phones, wireless networks and other radiation producing apparatuses. With the exception, of course, of those people who have acute complaints and are quite aware of their effects. That is, however, a small group. Ultimately no living being escapes the influence of unnatural radiation on the cell structures of the body."
Daily cytokine fluctuations, driven by leptin, are associated with fatigue severity in chronic fatigue syndrome: evidence of inflammatory pathology
Daily cytokine fluctuations, driven by leptin, are associated with fatigue severity in chronic fatigue syndrome: evidence of inflammatory pathology
http://www.translational-medicine.com/content/pdf/1479-5876-11-93.pdf
Elizabeth Ann Stringer, Katharine Susanne Baker, Ian R Carroll, Jose G Montoya, Lily Chu, Holden T Maecker and Jarred W Younger
http://www.translational-medicine.com/content/pdf/1479-5876-11-93.pdf
Elizabeth Ann Stringer, Katharine Susanne Baker, Ian R Carroll, Jose G Montoya, Lily Chu, Holden T Maecker and Jarred W Younger
Journal of Translational Medicine 2013, 11:93 doi:10.1186/1479-5876-11-93
Published: 9 April 2013
Abstract (provisional)
Background
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating disorder characterized by persistent fatigue that is not alleviated by rest. The lack of a clearly identified underlying mechanism has hindered the development of effective treatments. Studies have demonstrated elevated levels of inflammatory factors in patients with CFS, but findings are contradictory across studies and no biomarkers have been consistently supported. Single time-point approaches potentially overlook important features of CFS, such as fluctuations in fatigue severity. We have observed that individuals with CFS demonstrate significant day-to-day variability in their fatigue severity.
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating disorder characterized by persistent fatigue that is not alleviated by rest. The lack of a clearly identified underlying mechanism has hindered the development of effective treatments. Studies have demonstrated elevated levels of inflammatory factors in patients with CFS, but findings are contradictory across studies and no biomarkers have been consistently supported. Single time-point approaches potentially overlook important features of CFS, such as fluctuations in fatigue severity. We have observed that individuals with CFS demonstrate significant day-to-day variability in their fatigue severity.
Methods
Therefore, to complement previous studies, we implemented a novel longitudinal study design to investigate the role of cytokines in CFS pathophysiology. Ten women meeting the Fukuda diagnostic criteria for CFS and ten healthy age- and body mass index (BMI)-matched women underwent 25 consecutive days of blood draws and self-reporting of symptom severity. A 51-plex cytokine panel via Luminex was performed for each of the 500 serum samples collected. Our primary hypothesis was that daily fatigue severity would be significantly correlated with the inflammatory adipokine leptin, in the women with CFS and not in the healthy control women. As a post-hoc analysis, a machine learning algorithm using all 51 cytokines was implemented to determine whether immune factors could distinguish high from low fatigue days.
Therefore, to complement previous studies, we implemented a novel longitudinal study design to investigate the role of cytokines in CFS pathophysiology. Ten women meeting the Fukuda diagnostic criteria for CFS and ten healthy age- and body mass index (BMI)-matched women underwent 25 consecutive days of blood draws and self-reporting of symptom severity. A 51-plex cytokine panel via Luminex was performed for each of the 500 serum samples collected. Our primary hypothesis was that daily fatigue severity would be significantly correlated with the inflammatory adipokine leptin, in the women with CFS and not in the healthy control women. As a post-hoc analysis, a machine learning algorithm using all 51 cytokines was implemented to determine whether immune factors could distinguish high from low fatigue days.
Results
Self-reported fatigue severity was significantly correlated with leptin levels in six of the participants with CFS and one healthy control, supporting our primary hypothesis. The machine learning algorithm distinguished high from low fatigue days in the CFS group with 78.3% accuracy.
Self-reported fatigue severity was significantly correlated with leptin levels in six of the participants with CFS and one healthy control, supporting our primary hypothesis. The machine learning algorithm distinguished high from low fatigue days in the CFS group with 78.3% accuracy.
Conclusions
Our results support the role of cytokines in the pathophysiology of CFS.
Our results support the role of cytokines in the pathophysiology of CFS.
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Creatine supplementation in fibromyalgia: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.
Creatine supplementation in fibromyalgia: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23554283
Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2013 Apr 1. doi: 10.1002/acr.22020. [Epub ahead of print]
Alves CR, Santiago BM, Lima FR, Otaduy MC, Calich AL, Tritto AC, de Sá Pinto AL, Roschel H, Leite CC, Benatti FB, Bonfa E, Gualano B.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23554283
Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2013 Apr 1. doi: 10.1002/acr.22020. [Epub ahead of print]
Alves CR, Santiago BM, Lima FR, Otaduy MC, Calich AL, Tritto AC, de Sá Pinto AL, Roschel H, Leite CC, Benatti FB, Bonfa E, Gualano B.
Source
University of Sao Paulo, School of Physical Education and Sports, Rua Professor Mello Moraes, 65 - Sao Paulo - SP - Brazil.
University of Sao Paulo, School of Physical Education and Sports, Rua Professor Mello Moraes, 65 - Sao Paulo - SP - Brazil.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To investigate the efficacy and safety of creatine supplementation in fibromyalgia patients.
To investigate the efficacy and safety of creatine supplementation in fibromyalgia patients.
METHODS:
A 16-week, double-blind, randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled trial was conducted. Fibromyalgia patients were randomly assigned to receive either creatine monohydrate or placebo in a double-blind fashion. The patients were evaluated at baseline and after 16 weeks. Muscle function, aerobic conditioning, cognitive function, quality of sleep, quality of life, kidney function, and adverse events were assessed. Muscle phosphorylcreatine content was measured through phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy.
A 16-week, double-blind, randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled trial was conducted. Fibromyalgia patients were randomly assigned to receive either creatine monohydrate or placebo in a double-blind fashion. The patients were evaluated at baseline and after 16 weeks. Muscle function, aerobic conditioning, cognitive function, quality of sleep, quality of life, kidney function, and adverse events were assessed. Muscle phosphorylcreatine content was measured through phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy.
RESULTS:
After the intervention, the creatine group presented higher muscle phosphorylcreatine content when compared with the placebo group (+80.3% vs. -2.7%, respectively; p = 0.04). Furthermore, the creatine group presented greater muscle strength than the placebo group in the leg-press and chest-press exercises (creatine: +9.8% and +1.2% vs. placebo: -0.5% and -7.2%, respectively; p = 0.02 and p = 0.002). Isometric strength was greater in the creatine group than in the placebo group (+6.4% and -3.2%, respectively, p = 0.007). However, no general changes were observed in aerobic conditioning, pain, cognitive function, quality of sleep, and quality of life. Food intake remained unaltered and no side effects were reported.
After the intervention, the creatine group presented higher muscle phosphorylcreatine content when compared with the placebo group (+80.3% vs. -2.7%, respectively; p = 0.04). Furthermore, the creatine group presented greater muscle strength than the placebo group in the leg-press and chest-press exercises (creatine: +9.8% and +1.2% vs. placebo: -0.5% and -7.2%, respectively; p = 0.02 and p = 0.002). Isometric strength was greater in the creatine group than in the placebo group (+6.4% and -3.2%, respectively, p = 0.007). However, no general changes were observed in aerobic conditioning, pain, cognitive function, quality of sleep, and quality of life. Food intake remained unaltered and no side effects were reported.
CONCLUSION:
Creatine supplementation increased intramuscular phosphorylcreatine content and improved lower- and upper-body muscle function, with minor changes in other fibromyalgia features. These findings introduce creatine supplementation as a useful dietary intervention to improve muscle function in fibromyalgia patients.
Creatine supplementation increased intramuscular phosphorylcreatine content and improved lower- and upper-body muscle function, with minor changes in other fibromyalgia features. These findings introduce creatine supplementation as a useful dietary intervention to improve muscle function in fibromyalgia patients.
PMID: 23554283 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Evaluation of Oxidative Stress and Genetic Damage Caused by Detergents in the Zebrafish Danio rerio (Cyprinidae).
Evaluation of Oxidative Stress and Genetic Damage Caused by Detergents in the Zebrafish Danio rerio (Cyprinidae).
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23542746
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23542746
Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol. 2013 Mar 27. pii: S1095-6433(13)00090-1. doi: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2013.03.026. Sobrino-Figueroa AS.
Source
Laboratorio Alejandro Villalobos, Departamento de Hidrobiología, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, México. Electronic address: coco@xanum.uam.mx.
Laboratorio Alejandro Villalobos, Departamento de Hidrobiología, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, México. Electronic address: coco@xanum.uam.mx.
Abstract
Detergents are used in large quantities and some of their ingredients are highly toxic to aquatic organisms. In the present study the toxicity (lipid peroxidation) and genotoxic (frequency of DNA strand breaks) effects were evaluated in the gill and liver tissues of zebrafish (Danio rerio), exposed for 16 days to a sublethal concentration (CL10) of two commercial detergents (laundry and dishwasher use) and a anionic surfactants: alkyl lauryl sulfonate (LAS). The results demonstrated high toxicity with dishwasher detergent, resulting in high lipid peroxidation levels (MDA malondialdehyde evaluation). No differences in MDA concentrations were found among fish exposed to laundry detergent and organisms exposed to LAS. In the genetic damage evaluation, significant differences in the number of cells with DNA strand breaks (comets) were observed: the fish exposed to dishwasher detergent presented the highest number of damaged cells (79%), in comparison with those exposed to other products (laundry and LAS) and the control group (8% damaged cells). The toxicity of dishwasher detergent (biological detergent containing enzymes and perfume) was higher than the value observed with LAS. Laundry detergent does not contain enzymes or perfume and its toxicity was similar to LAS. Since detergents are complex mixtures of different substances, in which additive and/or synergistic effects may occur is likely to deleterious effect caused by the dishwasher detergent was probably due to the combined effects of the ingredients of detergent.
PMID: 23542746 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Detergents are used in large quantities and some of their ingredients are highly toxic to aquatic organisms. In the present study the toxicity (lipid peroxidation) and genotoxic (frequency of DNA strand breaks) effects were evaluated in the gill and liver tissues of zebrafish (Danio rerio), exposed for 16 days to a sublethal concentration (CL10) of two commercial detergents (laundry and dishwasher use) and a anionic surfactants: alkyl lauryl sulfonate (LAS). The results demonstrated high toxicity with dishwasher detergent, resulting in high lipid peroxidation levels (MDA malondialdehyde evaluation). No differences in MDA concentrations were found among fish exposed to laundry detergent and organisms exposed to LAS. In the genetic damage evaluation, significant differences in the number of cells with DNA strand breaks (comets) were observed: the fish exposed to dishwasher detergent presented the highest number of damaged cells (79%), in comparison with those exposed to other products (laundry and LAS) and the control group (8% damaged cells). The toxicity of dishwasher detergent (biological detergent containing enzymes and perfume) was higher than the value observed with LAS. Laundry detergent does not contain enzymes or perfume and its toxicity was similar to LAS. Since detergents are complex mixtures of different substances, in which additive and/or synergistic effects may occur is likely to deleterious effect caused by the dishwasher detergent was probably due to the combined effects of the ingredients of detergent.
PMID: 23542746 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Trigger factors mainly from the environmental type are reported by adolescents with migraine.
Trigger factors mainly from the environmental type are reported by adolescents with migraine.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23539091
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23539091
Fraga MD, Pinho RS, Andreoni S, Vitalle MS, Fisberg M, Peres MF, Vilanova LC, Masruha MR.
Arq Neuropsiquiatr. 2013 Mar 26:0. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
Migraine can be triggered by many factors such as stress, sleep, fasting and environmental causes. There are few studies that evaluated migraine trigger factors in the adolescent population. Methods: A total of 100 participants from 10 to 19 years were subjected to a detailed headache questionnaire, with demographic and clinical data, and a headache diary including trigger factors during a two-month period was asked. Results: Fifty of the participants exhibited chronic migraine and the other 50 participants demonstrated episodic migraine. The most common group of trigger factors reported was the environmental one, mainly sun/clarity, followed by hot weather and the smell of perfume. Conclusions: Ninety-one percent of children and adolescents with migraine reported a trigger factor precipitating the migraine attack.
Abstract
Migraine can be triggered by many factors such as stress, sleep, fasting and environmental causes. There are few studies that evaluated migraine trigger factors in the adolescent population. Methods: A total of 100 participants from 10 to 19 years were subjected to a detailed headache questionnaire, with demographic and clinical data, and a headache diary including trigger factors during a two-month period was asked. Results: Fifty of the participants exhibited chronic migraine and the other 50 participants demonstrated episodic migraine. The most common group of trigger factors reported was the environmental one, mainly sun/clarity, followed by hot weather and the smell of perfume. Conclusions: Ninety-one percent of children and adolescents with migraine reported a trigger factor precipitating the migraine attack.
PMID: 23539091 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Trigger factors mainly from the environmental type are reported by adolescents with migraine.
Trigger factors mainly from the environmental type are reported by adolescents with migraine.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23539091
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23539091
Fraga MD, Pinho RS, Andreoni S, Vitalle MS, Fisberg M, Peres MF, Vilanova LC, Masruha MR.
Arq Neuropsiquiatr. 2013 Mar 26:0. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
Migraine can be triggered by many factors such as stress, sleep, fasting and environmental causes. There are few studies that evaluated migraine trigger factors in the adolescent population. Methods: A total of 100 participants from 10 to 19 years were subjected to a detailed headache questionnaire, with demographic and clinical data, and a headache diary including trigger factors during a two-month period was asked. Results: Fifty of the participants exhibited chronic migraine and the other 50 participants demonstrated episodic migraine. The most common group of trigger factors reported was the environmental one, mainly sun/clarity, followed by hot weather and the smell of perfume. Conclusions: Ninety-one percent of children and adolescents with migraine reported a trigger factor precipitating the migraine attack.
Abstract
Migraine can be triggered by many factors such as stress, sleep, fasting and environmental causes. There are few studies that evaluated migraine trigger factors in the adolescent population. Methods: A total of 100 participants from 10 to 19 years were subjected to a detailed headache questionnaire, with demographic and clinical data, and a headache diary including trigger factors during a two-month period was asked. Results: Fifty of the participants exhibited chronic migraine and the other 50 participants demonstrated episodic migraine. The most common group of trigger factors reported was the environmental one, mainly sun/clarity, followed by hot weather and the smell of perfume. Conclusions: Ninety-one percent of children and adolescents with migraine reported a trigger factor precipitating the migraine attack.
PMID: 23539091 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Evaluation of Oxidative Stress and Genetic Damage Caused by Detergents in the Zebrafish Danio rerio (Cyprinidae).
Evaluation of Oxidative Stress and Genetic Damage Caused by Detergents in the Zebrafish Danio rerio (Cyprinidae).
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23542746
Sobrino-Figueroa AS.
Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol. 2013 Mar 27. pii: S1095-6433(13)00090-1. doi: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2013.03.026. [Epub ahead of print]
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23542746
Sobrino-Figueroa AS.
Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol. 2013 Mar 27. pii: S1095-6433(13)00090-1. doi: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2013.03.026. [Epub ahead of print]
Source
Laboratorio Alejandro Villalobos, Departamento de Hidrobiología, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, México. Electronic address: coco@xanum.uam.mx.
Laboratorio Alejandro Villalobos, Departamento de Hidrobiología, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, México. Electronic address: coco@xanum.uam.mx.
Abstract
Detergents are used in large quantities and some of their ingredients are highly toxic to aquatic organisms. In the present study the toxicity (lipid peroxidation) and genotoxic (frequency of DNA strand breaks) effects were evaluated in the gill and liver tissues of zebrafish (Danio rerio), exposed for 16 days to a sublethal concentration (CL10) of two commercial detergents (laundry and dishwasher use) and a anionic surfactants: alkyl lauryl sulfonate (LAS). The results demonstrated high toxicity with dishwasher detergent, resulting in high lipid peroxidation levels (MDA malondialdehyde evaluation). No differences in MDA concentrations were found among fish exposed to laundry detergent and organisms exposed to LAS. In the genetic damage evaluation, significant differences in the number of cells with DNA strand breaks (comets) were observed: the fish exposed to dishwasher detergent presented the highest number of damaged cells (79%), in comparison with those exposed to other products (laundry and LAS) and the control group (8% damaged cells). The toxicity of dishwasher detergent (biological detergent containing enzymes and perfume) was higher than the value observed with LAS. Laundry detergent does not contain enzymes or perfume and its toxicity was similar to LAS. Since detergents are complex mixtures of different substances, in which additive and/or synergistic effects may occur is likely to deleterious effect caused by the dishwasher detergent was probably due to the combined effects of the ingredients of detergent.
PMID: 23542746 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Parents' fury as Harlow schoolboy with chronic fatigue syndrome is denied home tuition
Parents' fury as Harlow schoolboy with chronic fatigue syndrome is denied home tuition
http://www.harlowstar.co.uk/News/Harlow-news/Parents-fury-as-Harlow-schoolboy-with-chronic-fatigue-syndrome-is-denied-home-tuition-20130404083010.htm
"The parents of a Harlow schoolboy suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome claim their son is being "denied an education" because of his illness."
http://www.harlowstar.co.uk/News/Harlow-news/Parents-fury-as-Harlow-schoolboy-with-chronic-fatigue-syndrome-is-denied-home-tuition-20130404083010.htm
"The parents of a Harlow schoolboy suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome claim their son is being "denied an education" because of his illness."
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Clean Air for School Kids - Staten Island
Clean Air for School Kids - Staten Island
"A community promoting the placement of HEPA air purifiers in public schools on Staten Island, NY to improve indoor air quality for students and their teachers."
Congratulations all with MCS: Danish Health Care Assigns ICD10 code for MCS
Congratulations all with MCS: Danish Health Care Assigns ICD10 code for MCS
http://anneliemolin.wordpress.com/2013/03/30/congratulations-all-with-mcs/
Congratulations all my readers having MCS. From 1 of July 2012 MCS will have its own health diagnose code in the Danish Health Care and Social Security System. A little step forward for you all.
From Dagens Medicin:
"Characteristic of severe cases is that patients describe general symptoms, which often limit them in daily life. Often they describe reactions to multiple chemical substances, such as. perfumed care - and cleaning products, evaporation from recent publications and new furniture and exhaust.
Diagnosis code for fragrance - Chemical Sensitivity will be labeled 'symptoms related to scents and chemicals' (DR688A1) and placed under the main category DR688A 'Medical unexplained symptoms' in Healthcare Classification System (SKS).Diagnosis is subject to the following five criteria:
Patients related symptoms commonly occurring scents and chemicals (eg. Evaporation from scented products, fresh print and new home furnishings).
Symptoms from the central nervous system is mandatory, for example. headache, dizziness, difficulty concentrating and fatigue. Also occurs frequently symptoms from other organ systems, such as. respiratory tract disorders, musculoskeletal system, or the gastrointestinal tract.
Symptoms improve or disappear when exposure is removed.
The condition is chronic (> 6 months).
Symptoms accompanied by significant lifestyle - or functional impairments, for example. loss of business, work and social network."
http://anneliemolin.wordpress.com/2013/03/30/congratulations-all-with-mcs/
Congratulations all my readers having MCS. From 1 of July 2012 MCS will have its own health diagnose code in the Danish Health Care and Social Security System. A little step forward for you all.
From Dagens Medicin:
"Characteristic of severe cases is that patients describe general symptoms, which often limit them in daily life. Often they describe reactions to multiple chemical substances, such as. perfumed care - and cleaning products, evaporation from recent publications and new furniture and exhaust.
Diagnosis code for fragrance - Chemical Sensitivity will be labeled 'symptoms related to scents and chemicals' (DR688A1) and placed under the main category DR688A 'Medical unexplained symptoms' in Healthcare Classification System (SKS).Diagnosis is subject to the following five criteria:
Patients related symptoms commonly occurring scents and chemicals (eg. Evaporation from scented products, fresh print and new home furnishings).
Symptoms from the central nervous system is mandatory, for example. headache, dizziness, difficulty concentrating and fatigue. Also occurs frequently symptoms from other organ systems, such as. respiratory tract disorders, musculoskeletal system, or the gastrointestinal tract.
Symptoms improve or disappear when exposure is removed.
The condition is chronic (> 6 months).
Symptoms accompanied by significant lifestyle - or functional impairments, for example. loss of business, work and social network."
Congratulations to All with MCS
Congratulations to All with MCS
"Starting July 1, 2012 MCS will have its own health diagnose code in the Danish Health Care and Social Security System. A little step forward for you all."
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