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California Public Utilities Commission meeting: Smart Meter opt-out

2012-01-28T20:26:00.000-10:00

California Public Utilities Commission meeting
Wednesday, February 1 at 9 am
Arrive by 8:45 to register to speak; people are usually allowed to speak without registration.

Item # 28 -- Smart Meter opt-out
(Proceeding # A.11-03-014)
This is the first item on the regular agenda.
You will be allowed one minute to comment during the public comment time, which is at the beginning of the meeting.

Agenda: http://docs.cpuc.ca.gov/published/agenda/docs/3288.pdf

Address: 505 Van Ness, San Francisco
Corner of Van Ness & McAllister, kitty corner to SF City Hall

PARKING
·         Opera Plaza
o    601 Van Ness Avenue (entrance on Golden Gate Ave.)
·         Civic Center Garage
o    355 McAllister St (at Larkin)

MASS TRANSIT

Muni:
·         Lines 47, 49 and 9 will bring you to the corner of Van Ness Avenue and McAllister Street, location of the CPUC.
·         Lines 21, 16AX, and 8X will bring you within one block of the CPUC located at the corner of Van Ness Avenue and McAllister Street.

BART:
·         Exit BART at the Civic Center/U.N. Plaza station
·         Above ground you will be near 7th or 8th Streets
·         From 7th St. walk through U.N. Plaza, Fulton St. and Civic Center Plaza toward City Hall
·         At City Hall, on Polk St. turn right toward McAllister St.
·         At McAllister turn left toward Van Ness Ave.
·         Cross Van Ness Ave. to CPUC on corner
·         From 8th St. walk down Grove St. to Van Ness Ave.
·         At Van Ness Ave. turn right, walk one block to McAllister St.
·         CPUC on corner of Van Ness Ave. and McAllister St.

Ferry Building: (CPUC can be reached by taxi or Muni)
·         Muni F Line (old streetcars) can be picked up in front of the Ferry Building
·         Travel up Market Street
·         Disembark at Van Ness Avenue
·         Walk 4 blocks up N. Van Ness Avenue to McAllister St.
·         CPUC on corner of Van Ness Avenue and McAllister St.

Chronic fatigue syndrome and impaired peripheral pulse characteristics on orthostasis-a new potential diagnostic biomarker.

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-10:00

Chronic fatigue syndrome and impaired peripheral pulse characteristics on orthostasis-a new potential diagnostic biomarker.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22273713

Allen J, Murray A, Di Maria C, Newton JL.
Physiol Meas. 2012 Jan 25;33(2):231-241. [Epub ahead of print]

Source
Microvascular Diagnostics, Regional Medical Physics Department, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne NE7 7DN, UK.

Abstract
Autonomic nervous system dysfunction is frequently reported in chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) with orthostatic intolerance, a common symptom that can be objectively assessed. The frequent finding of autonomic dysfunction and symptoms on standing has the potential to provide a diagnostic biomarker in chronic fatigue. In this study we explored the clinical value of non-invasive optical multi-site photoplethysmography (PPG) technology to assess cardiovascular responses to standing. Multi-site PPG pulses were collected from tissue pads of the ears, fingers and toes of 14 patients with CFS and 14 age-matched sedentary subjects using a measurement protocol of a 10 min baseline (subject supine) followed by 3 min of tilting on a tilt table (head-up to 70°). Percentage change in pulse timing (pulse transit time, PTTf) and pulse amplitude (AMP) at each site were calculated using beat-to-beat pulse wave analysis. A significant reduction in the overall pulse timing response to controlled standing was found for the CFS group (using summed absolute percentage change in PTTf for ear, finger and toe sites, median change of 26% for CFS and 37% for control with p = 0.002). There were no significant differences between subject groups for the AMP measure at any site. Changes in AMP with tilt were, however, weakly significantly and negatively correlated with fatigue severity (p < 0.05). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of timing measures produced an area under the curve of 0.81. Experimental linear discriminant classification analysis comparing both timing and amplitude measures produced an overall diagnostic accuracy of 82%. Pulse wave abnormalities have been observed in CFS and represent a potential objective measure to help differentiate between CFS patients and healthy controls.

PMID: 22273713 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

With Prevalence of Nanomaterials Rising, Panel Urges Review of Risks

2012-01-26T07:47:00.000-10:00

With Prevalence of Nanomaterials Rising, Panel Urges Review of Risks
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/26/science/nanomaterials-effects-on-health-and-environment-unclear-panel-says.html?_r=1&smid=fb-share

"Tiny substances called nanomaterials have moved into the marketplace over the last decade, in products as varied as cosmetics, clothing and paint. But not enough is known about their potential health and environmental risks, which should be studied further, an expert panel of the National Academy of Sciences said on Wednesday."

Common Household Chemicals Might Harm Kids' Immunity

2012-01-25T21:44:00.000-10:00

Common Household Chemicals Might Harm Kids' Immunity
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_121144.html

"Study found lower response to vaccines in those with higher levels of PFCs in their blood"

Children near DuPont plant exposed to more PFOA than moms.

2012-01-25T08:05:00.000-10:00

Children near DuPont plant exposed to more PFOA than moms.

http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/news/2012/children-have-more-pfoa-than-moms

"Children living near DuPont's plant in West Virginia are exposed to much higher concentrations of an industrial chemical than their mothers, according to a newly published study. Children under 5, who are exposed from drinking water as well as their mothers' breast milk, had 44 percent more of the perfluorinated chemical in their blood than their mothers. The study was undertaken by scientists who have spent seven years trying to determine whether the DuPont chemical is making people sick in the Mid-Ohio Valley. The discovery about moms and their children comes as scientists elsewhere linked the chemical, known as PFOA, and related chemicals to reduced effectiveness of childhood vaccinations. The compounds are used to manufacture Teflon cookware, food packaging and other products."

Chemical may make vaccines less effective, study says

2012-01-25T08:02:00.000-10:00

Chemical may make vaccines less effective, study says
http://sundaygazettemail.com/News/201201240123

"Researchers have found that children exposed to the toxic chemical C8 may experience reduced effectiveness of childhood vaccinations, according to a significant new study being published Wednesday in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

The study discovered lower levels of antibodies that vaccines provide to fight infections among children with elevated exposures to C8 and similar chemicals that have been widely used in nonstick food packaging, stain-resistant textiles, nonstick cookware and water-resistant clothing."

Pesticide Toxic to Bees and Aquatic Life Contaminates Surface Waters

2012-01-24T20:45:00.000-10:00

Pesticide Toxic to Bees and Aquatic Life Contaminates Surface Waters
http://www.enewspf.com/latest-news/science-a-environmental/30332-pesticide-toxic-to-bees-and-aquatic-life-contaminates-surface-waters.html

"Research published this month in the online edition of the Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology finds that the neonicotinoid pesticide imidacloprid contaminates surface waters in agricultural regions. Imidacloprid is a systemic pesticide, meaning it is taken up by a plant's vascular system and expressed through pollen, nectar, and gutation droplets, and is highly toxic to bees, birds and aquatic organisms. The study, "Detections of the Neonicotinoid Insecticide Imidacloprid in Surface Waters of Three Agricultural Regions of California, USA, 20102011," concludes that imidacloprid commonly moves offsite and contaminates surface waters at concentrations that could harm aquatic organisms following use under irrigated agriculture conditions."

How Toxic Is Your Office Space?

2012-01-24T20:43:00.000-10:00

How Toxic Is Your Office Space?
http://www.forbes.com/sites/eco-nomics/2012/01/23/how-toxic-is-your-office-space/

"There are a host of chemicals found in the typical office environment that may cause long-term health issues."

When is a Trade Secret Not a Trade Secret? When it is Revealed at a European Parliament Exhibition

2012-01-24T20:41:00.000-10:00

When is a Trade Secret Not a Trade Secret? When it is Revealed at a European Parliament Exhibition
http://www.sacbee.com/2012/01/24/4210079/when-is-a-trade-secret-not-a-trade.html

"For the first time ever, a full fragrance formula will be published and given out to visitors along with the fragrance at an exhibition in the European Parliament from January 31st to February 2nd 2012."

Many baby products have toxic flame retardants, analysis finds

2012-01-24T08:42:00.000-10:00

Many baby products have toxic flame retardants, analysis finds
http://www.baltimoresun.com/health/blog/bal-many-baby-prodcuts-have-toxic-flame-retardants-analysis-finds-20120123,0,3367732.story

"Flame retardants found in 85 percent of baby items"

Mercury's Harmful Reach Has Grown, Study Suggests

2012-01-24T08:41:00.000-10:00

Mercury's Harmful Reach Has Grown, Study Suggests
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/24/science/study-finds-mercury-in-more-northeastern-bird-species.html?_r=1

"The strict new federal standards limiting pollution from power plants are meant to safeguard human health. But they should have an important side benefit, according to a study being released on Tuesday: protecting a broad array of wildlife that has been harmed by mercury emissions."

Chemicals Used During Medical Imaging Tests May Damage Thyroid

2012-01-23T20:44:00.000-10:00

Chemicals Used During Medical Imaging Tests May Damage Thyroid
http://news.businessweek.com/article.asp?documentKey=1376-LY9KLW6JTSEC01-0IFO4CO79V1L7EUJAU5BJT6SMD

"Chemicals used to enhance pictures obtained from medical imaging tests may lead to overactive or underactive thyroid glands, a study showed.

Patients injected with contrast material were about twice as likely as those who didn't get the chemical to develop hyperthyroidism, when the gland produces too much thyroid hormone and can cause rapid or irregular heart rates, according to a study today in the Archives of Internal Medicine. Results also showed an increased risk for hypothyroidism."

Is Your Office Making You Sick?

2012-01-23T20:42:00.000-10:00

Is Your Office Making You Sick?
http://www.webmd.com/infertility-and-reproduction/news/20120120/are-offices-toxic-to-workers

"Study Finds PFCs in Office Workers' Blood; Workers in New Offices Have Even Higher Levels of the Potentially Toxic Chemical"

American Academy of Environmental Medicine Opposes the Installation of Smart Meters

2012-01-23T20:34:00.000-10:00

American Academy of Environmental Medicine Opposes the Installation of Smart Meters
http://emfsafetynetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/AAEM-Resolution.pdf

Why Do Smells Make Some People Sick?

2012-01-22T11:27:00.000-10:00

Why Do Smells Make Some People Sick?
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/01/120120182914.htm

"ScienceDaily (Jan. 20, 2012) Do you get a headache from the perfume of the lady next to you at the table? Do cleaning solutions at work make your nose itch? If you have symptoms prompted by everyday smells, it does not necessarily mean you are allergic but rather that you suffer from chemical intolerance. According to Linus Andersson at Umeå University, this hypersensitivity can be the result of an inability to get used to smells.

Normally your smell perceptions diminish rapidly, as when you enter a friend's apartment. Even though you clearly notice smells just inside the door, you don't think about them for long. For people with chemical intolerance, on the other hand, smells seem always to be present. Psychology researcher Linus Andersson has exposed both intolerant and non-intolerant individuals to smells and compared their reactions."

Threat of toxic playgrounds

2012-01-22T11:18:00.000-10:00

Threat of toxic playgrounds
http://www.smh.com.au/national/threat-of-toxic-playgrounds-20120121-1qb5s.html

"THE health of thousands of children may be at risk from long-term exposure to toxic chemicals from artificial turf that has become a popular replacement for grass on sporting ovals and school playgrounds around the country."

Thousands of women could be at risk from 'silent Thalidomide'

2012-01-22T11:15:00.000-10:00

Thousands of women could be at risk from 'silent Thalidomide'
http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/thousands-of-women-could-be-at-risk-from-silent-thalidomide-6292889.html

"A drug intended to prevent miscarriage is blamed for causing cancer in the daughters and possibly even granddaughters of women who took it decades ago."

Documentary examines how toxic water at the nation's largest Marine base damaged lives

2012-01-22T11:10:00.000-10:00

Documentary examines how toxic water at the nation's largest Marine base damaged lives
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/documentary-reveals-how-contaminated-water-at-the-nations-largest-marine-base-damaged-lives/2012/01/10/gIQAfpy4GQ_story.html

"Mike Partain didn't believe the rumors about a place called Baby Heaven until he visited a Jacksonville, N.C., graveyard and wandered into a section where newborns were laid to rest.

Surrounded by hundreds of tiny marble headstones, he started to cry. A documentary film crew that followed him for a story about water contamination at Camp Lejeune heard his whimpers through a microphone clipped to his clothes. The crew dashed from another part of the graveyard and found him asking, "Why them and not me?""

Dumb and Dangerous: The Problems with Smart Grids

2012-01-22T11:06:00.000-10:00

Dumb and Dangerous
The Problems with Smart Grids
http://www.counterpunch.org/2011/03/18/the-problems-with-smart-grids/

"How is it that so many intelligent, inside-the-beltway environmentalists are buying into an eco-health-safety-finance debacle with the potential to increase energy consumption, endanger the environment, harm public health, diminish privacy, make the national utility grid more insecure, cause job losses, and make energy markets more speculative?

Answer: by not doing their homework.

Welcome to the Smart Grid a government-funded money machine capable of intruding into every aspect of our lives. Smart Grid technologies initially funded to the tune of $3.4 billion through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and slated to cost $11 billion through 2011 are enough to make even diehard liberals demand a claw back of misspent tax dollars.

On the surface, Smart Grids sound 'green' with promises of saving energy, creating new power-line corridors run on wind and solar, way-stations to power-up electric vehicles, energy-efficient upgrades to an aging power infrastructure, and real-time customer knowledge of electricity use.

And there's the enticing communications factor: a nationwide high-speed broadband information technology barreling down high-tension electric corridors called Broadband-Over-Power-Lines (BPL). What could be more perfect for communicating facts about the planet, funding enviro-candidates, pushing legislation, and organizing Earth Days?

But few who actually study how these new systems functionwant anything to do with them. Other than those who stand to make enormous profits and the physicists or engineers who dream up such stuff, Smart Grids are giving knowledgeable people the willies."

Dry-cleaning chemical can increase risk of bipolar disorder: study

2012-01-21T13:23:00.000-10:00

Dry-cleaning chemical can increase risk of bipolar disorder: study
http://www.thestar.com/article/1118524--dry-cleaning-chemical-can-increase-risk-of-bipolar-disorder-study

"A new study has found early exposure to a chemical commonly used in dry-cleaning can increase the risk of developing bipolar disorder and post traumatic stress syndrome."

Easy ways to clear your indoor air

2012-01-21T13:20:00.000-10:00

Easy ways to clear your indoor air
http://www.chicagotribune.com/classified/realestate/home/sc-home-0116-indoor-air-20120120,0,7822753.story

"According to the EPA, most of us spend about 90 percent of our time indoors. And although there are plenty of laws and regulations about outdoor air pollution, most of us don't give a second thought to the air in our homes.

But we should: " a growing body of scientific evidence has indicated that the air within homes and other buildings can be more seriously polluted than the outdoor air in even the largest and most industrialized cities. Thus, for many people, the risks to health may be greater due to exposure to air pollution indoors than outdoors," advises the EPA."

Pathway Genes belong to Major Targets of Persistent Organic Pollutants in Adipose Cells.

2012-01-21T13:18:00.000-10:00

Pathway Genes belong to Major Targets of Persistent Organic Pollutants in Adipose Cells.

http://ehp03.niehs.nih.gov/article/info:doi/10.1289/ehp.1104282

Kim MJ, Pelloux V, Guyot E, Tordjman J, Bui L-C, Chevallier A, et al. 2012. Inflammatory Environ Health Perspect :-. http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1104282

Background: Epidemiological studies emphasized the possible role of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in obesity and the metabolic syndrome. These pollutants are stored in adipose tissue (AT).

Objectives: To study the effects of POPs on human adipose cells and rodent AT.

Methods: Using the human Multipotent Adipose-Derived Stem (hMADS) cells, we carried out large scale gene expression analysis to identify the major pathways modified by TCDD, PCB126 and PCB153 and to evaluate their toxic effects. The effect of TCDD on gene expression and AT histology was also assessed in mice.

Results: The most significantly regulated genes in both precursor cells and adipocytes were those involved in the inflammatory/immune response, cancer and metabolism pathway. Interestingly, the fold induction and the number of modulated genes were higher in precursors than in adipocytes suggesting that the former could be more sensitive to the effect of pollutants. When cells were treated by combinations of pollutants, the effects of the AhR ligands, TCDD and PCB126, were dominant when compared to those of the non dioxin-like PCB153. The effects of AhR ligands were reduced by the AhR antagonist alpha-naphtoflavone. The regulation of inflammatory pathway was observed in wild type AT but not in AhR knock-out mice.

Conclusions: Both in vitro and in vivo studies showed that adipose cells were targets of AhR ligands and suggested that inflammation was one of the main regulated pathways. These observations suggest a possible contribution of pollutants to the low-grade AT inflammation which accompanies the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases.

Dump Toxic Fragrances

2012-01-21T13:16:00.000-10:00

Dump Toxic Fragrances
http://www.coronadonewsca.com/opinion/article_8e172540-42de-11e1-bf0c-0019bb2963f4.html

"I was shocked to learn about all the chemical poisons in scented products. Look at this: The Environmental Health Association of Ontario lists (just for scented candles) these chemical ingredients: Acetone, Benzene, 2-Butanone, Carbon Disulfide, Carbon Tetrachloride, Cresol, Chlorobenzene, Carbon Monoxide, Cyclopentene, Ethylbenzene, Lead, Mercury Phenol, Styrene Tetrachloroethene, Toluene, 1,1,1-Trichloroethan, Trichloroethene, Trichlorofluoromethane, and Xylene. Studies show that these toxins are being off-gassed without the candles being lit."

Association found between phthalates and obesity in young children

2012-01-21T13:13:00.000-10:00

Association found between phthalates and obesity in young children
http://www.labmate-online.com/news/microscopy-and-microtechniques/4/breaking_news/association_found_between_phthalates_and_obesity_in_young_children/18248/

"A link has been found between exposure to phthalates and obesity in young children, which included increased BMI and waist circumference.

The research, conducted by the Children's Environmental Health Center at The Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York, found that the man-made chemicals can mimic hormones in the body."

Eating mercury-tainted fish affects essential stress hormones in children.

2012-01-19T08:31:00.000-10:00

Eating mercury-tainted fish affects essential stress hormones in children.
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/newscience/2011/12/2011-1227-mercury-fish-lowers-kids-cortisol/

"Eating fish can raise mercury levels that alter hormones and increase chronic stress and immune responses in children, despite the heart benefits of fish consumption.

A study raises concern about children's exposure to mercury through fish eating, tying it for the first time to hormone changes that increase chronic stress and associated immune system dysfunction."

The Indoor Pollution Threat You May Not Have Known Existed

2012-01-19T08:29:00.000-10:00

The Indoor Pollution Threat You May Not Have Known Existed
http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/health/2012/01/19/the-indoor-pollution-threat-you-may-not-have-known-existed/

"Americans spend 90 percent of their time indoors, but have you ever thought about the purity of the air that you are breathing as you sit inside your home, office or even a restaurant?

Indoor air quality is considered to be the fourth greatest pollution threat to Americans by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Even if you can never see, and can't always smell, the chemicals inside your home, they are there. It comes from cleaning products, drycleaning chemicals, plastic products like computer keyboards, furniture, paint, carpeting and more.

With the help of the Greenguard Environmental Institute, part of Underwriters Laboratories, "Good Morning America" set out to investigate exactly what kind of threat indoor air pollution posed to the average person by setting up a child's nursery with a new crib, changing table, rocker and decorations.

Seven days of testing later, the results were in. The air in our new nursery contained 300 different chemicals compared to just two right outside the same house."

Kaiser Permanente converting to safer IV equipment

2012-01-19T08:27:00.000-10:00

Kaiser Permanente converting to safer IV equipment
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/kaiser-permanente-to-use-safer-iv-equipment/2012/01/17/gIQArdLs9P_story.html

"Kaiser Permanente, one of the country's largest health-care providers, plans to announce Thursday that it is converting its intravenous equipment to more eco-friendly alternatives free of two chemicals that have been shown to harm humans and the environment, officials said."

Beware of air fresheners

2012-01-19T08:25:00.000-10:00

Beware of air fresheners
http://news.hjnews.com/opinion/article_5b162e12-4251-11e1-aa26-0019bb2963f4.html

"A neighbor of mine is quite concerned with health issues. When I was in his house I noticed it was very clean and very fragrant. He and his wife had plug-in fragrance emitters and candles. I told him of the dangers of perfumes and fragrance products, but he seemed to think I was looney. Perhaps if he and others read this, it may help spread the information and create an opportunity to discuss the health dangers of "nice" smells."

School board will enact perfume policy

2012-01-18T20:15:00.000-10:00

School board will enact perfume policy
https://www.facebook.com/pages/MCS-America/95671789291

"New rules regulating synthetic scents, such as perfumes and body sprays, worn by students and teachers at Greater Essex County District School Board schools are in the works.

Trustee Julia Burgess said synthetic fragrances cause some people to have allergic reactions. She raised the issue at Tuesday night's school board meeting."

Dirty freeway air puts Southern California health at risk, say activists

2012-01-18T09:02:00.000-10:00

Dirty freeway air puts Southern California health at risk, say activists
http://www.dailynews.com/news/ci_19754442

"A growing body of science has confirmed common-sense instinct that dirty freeway air is seriously bad for health, and that research is now spurring Los Angeles activists and regulators to consider new ways of addressing pollution."

Perfume ban among N.H. bills in 2012

2012-01-18T08:56:00.000-10:00

Perfume ban among N.H. bills in 2012
http://www.seacoastonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120117/NEWS/201170361/-1/NEWSMAP

"With hundreds of bills filed every legislative session, they don't all get noticed by the general public. However, wading through all the bills for 2012, there are some that stand out and might be considered unusual.

One of those bills, House Bill 1444, seeks to prohibit state employees who work with the public from wearing fragrances or using scented products during regular business hours."

Kicked out of the courtroom? That stinks

2012-01-18T08:49:00.000-10:00

COMMENT: Common sense says not to wear scents in public places, just like common sense says not to smoke in public. It's no different. Both are TOXIC to everyone, not allergic.

Kicked out of the courtroom? That stinks
http://qctimes.com/news/local/kicked-out-of-the-courtroom-that-stinks/article_43dd7440-40ca-11e1-8563-0019bb2963f4.html

""We were told to stay in the hallway and not attend the proceedings, because we were all wearing perfume!" Liby said. "It seems that the court reporter inside the courtroom was allergic to perfumes and lotions."

Scent Free Workplace - Circulation Department Wiki

2012-01-18T08:38:00.000-10:00

Scent Free Workplace - Circulation Department Wiki
http://2717.wikidot.com/scent-free-work-place

Raising a stink about the contents of fragrances

2012-01-15T11:09:00.000-10:00

Raising a stink about the contents of fragrances
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/ecoconsumer/2017234419_ecoconsumer14m.html

"Fragrances evoke emotions and bring back memories, and we all have our favorites. But when they come in a bottle or a box, the reality is not so romantic. More than 3,000 different chemicals are used to create fragrances in cosmetics, household cleaners and other consumer products."

Herbicides have no place in home garden care

2012-01-15T11:03:00.000-10:00

Herbicides have no place in home garden care
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2012/01/13/HO811MKQET.DTL

"Q: In a recent column (Nov. 13) you answered a reader who was reluctant to use the herbicide Roundup to combat Japanese anemone. Why? Is it poisonous? I thought it was a salt that got into the plant root and destroyed it. I found it great to control my neighbor's bamboo from invading my yard. I cut the stalk when approximately 18-24 inches tall, then squirt some Roundup down the hole in the stalk. Within a week or so, the bamboo dies. (Until another stalk shoots up!)"

Toxic sofa killed our puppy

2012-01-15T11:01:00.000-10:00

Toxic sofa killed our puppy
Settee was sprayed with fabric protector

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/4060253/Puppy-is-put-down-after-inhaling-furniture-spray.html

"A PUPPY died after a sofa treated with a toxic spray to protect the fabric DESTROYED its lungs."

Two Voorhees residents to receive the Camden County Freedom Medal

2012-01-15T10:57:00.000-10:00

Two Voorhees residents to receive the Camden County Freedom Medal
http://sj.sunne.ws/2012/01/13/two-voorhees-residents-to-receive-the-camden-county-freedom-medal/

"Thirteen Camden County residents have been chosen to receive the 2012 edition of the Camden County Freedom Medal for their unselfish contributions to improving their community. The award, created in 2001, is presented to civic leaders who demonstrate the ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr."

Coalition picks Toxics-Free Kids Act as first priority

2012-01-14T07:53:00.000-10:00

Coalition picks Toxics-Free Kids Act as first priority
http://www.theolympian.com/2012/01/14/1948472/coalition-picks-toxics-free-kids.html

"The environmental community has just one priority bill a ban on toxic flame retardants in baby and children' s products in a 2012 legislative session consumed by the state budget crisis."

Nurses' miscarriages linked to chemicals at work

2012-01-14T07:50:00.000-10:00

Nurses' miscarriages linked to chemicals at work
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/13/us-nurses-miscarriages-idUSTRE80C1N720120113

"(Reuters Health) - Nurses who worked with chemotherapy drugs or sterilizing chemicals were twice as likely to have a miscarriage as their colleagues who didn't handle these materials, in a new study."

Pollution tied to disease risk in L.A. black women

2012-01-14T07:48:00.000-10:00

Pollution tied to disease risk in L.A. black women
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/13/us-pollution-disease-risk-idUSTRE80C1TP20120113

"(Reuters Health) - In a study of more than 4,000 black women in Los Angeles, those who lived in areas with higher levels of traffic-related air pollution were at increased risk of developing diabetes and high blood pressure."

Are schools making kids sick?

2012-01-14T07:46:00.000-10:00

Are schools making kids sick?
http://www.cnn.com/2012/01/14/health/school-indoor-air-pollution/index.html

"As a third-grader in Winsted, Connecticut, last year, Matthew Asselin was sick -- a lot. He was lethargic and plagued with a persistent wet cough, respiratory infections and painful headaches.

As the school year wound down, Matthew's health worsened. He was out for two weeks in the spring with pneumonia and then developed a sinus infection so severe he needed to spend the night at the hospital, where he received intravenous antibiotics and breathing treatments.

In all, Matthew missed 53 days of school.

But over the summer, a strange thing happened. Matthew was healthy. He was energetic. He could ride his bike for hours at a time.

"When we put him back in school this year, within three weeks, he missed 10 days with a respiratory infection," Melissa Asselin said. That's when Matthew's mother had an a-ha moment."

Plastizer increases miscarriage risk.

2012-01-13T20:54:00.000-10:00

Plastizer increases miscarriage risk.
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/newscience/2011/12/2012-0111-phthalates-miscarriage/

"In the first study of its kind, scientists studied couples trying to conceive a child for the first time and found that women with greater exposure to a phthalate associated with plastics were more likely to experience a pregnancy loss."

Chemical found in deodorants, face cream and food products is discovered in tumours of ALL breast cancer patients

2012-01-13T20:46:00.000-10:00

Chemical found in deodorants, face cream and food products is discovered in tumours of ALL breast cancer patients
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2085585/Parabens-Chemical-everyday-items-needs-investigation-scientists-discover-tumours-ALL-breast-cancer-patients.html

"Parabens are a chemical compound found in everyday toiletry products

'The fact that parabens were present in so many of the breast tissue samples does justify further investigation,' say study leaders

A chemical widely used as a preservative in cosmetics, food products and pharmaceuticals has been found in tissue samples from 40 women with breast cancer."

Lupus. 2012;21(2):140-5.

2012-01-13T20:23:00.000-10:00

Still's disease, lupus-like syndrome, and silicone breast implants. A case of 'ASIA' (Shoenfeld's syndrome).
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/222350%2044

Jara Lj, Medina G, Gómez-Bañuelos E, Saavedra M, Vera-Lastra O.

Lupus. 2012;21(2):140-5.

Source
1Direction of Education and Research, Hospital de Especialidades Centro Medico La Raza, IMSS, Mexico City, Mexico.

Abstract
In recent years, four conditions, siliconosis, Gulf War syndrome (GWS), macrophagic myofasciitis syndrome (MMF) and post-vaccination phenomena, were linked to a previous exposure to an adjuvant, suggesting a common denominator, and it has been proposed to incorporate comparable conditions under a common syndrome entitled Autoimmune/inflammatory Syndrome Induced by Adjuvants (ASIA). We report a case of a female who at the age of 11 years was diagnosed with Still's disease. At the age of 22 she underwent silicone breast implants and presented with a transient lupus-like syndrome. Then, at 25 years old she had a severe activation of Still's disease in association with rupture of silicone breast implants. When the prostheses were removed, the clinical picture improved. This case fulfills the criteria for ASIA and complements seven previous reports of Still's disease in association with silicone breast implants.

PMID: 22235044 [PubMed - in process]

Gulf War Syndrome as a part of the autoimmune (autoinflammatory) syndrome induced by adjuvant (ASIA).

2012-01-13T08:35:00.000-10:00

Gulf War Syndrome as a part of the autoimmune (autoinflammatory) syndrome induced by adjuvant (ASIA).

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22235052

Israeli E. Lupus. 2012;21(2):190-4.

Source
The Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Tel-Hashomer, Israel.

Abstract
Gulf War syndrome (GWS) is a multi-symptom condition comprising a variety of signs and symptoms described in the literature, which not been fully resolved. The various symptoms of the condition include muscle fatigue and tiredness, malaise, myalgia, impaired cognition, ataxia, diarrhoea, bladder dysfunction, sweating disturbances, headaches, fever, arthralgia, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal and sleep disturbances. In addition, excessive chemical sensitivity and odour intolerance is reported. The aetiology of the condition is unclear, but many reviews and epidemiological analyses suggest association with pyridostigmine bromide (PB), certain vaccination regimes, a variety of possible chemical exposures, including smoke from oil-well fires or depleted uranium from shells, as well as physical and psychological stress. Recently, Shoenfeld et al. suggested that four conditions - siliconosis, macrophagic myofaciitis (MMF), GWS and post-vaccination phenomena - that share clinical and pathogenic resemblances, may be incorporated into common syndrome called 'Autoimmune (Autoinflammatory) Syndrome induced by Adjuvants' (ASIA). Symptoms and signs of the four conditions described by Shoenfeld et al. show that at least eight out of ten main symptoms are in correlation in all four conditions. Namely, myalgia, arthralgias, chronic fatigue, neurological cognitive impairment, gastrointestinal symptoms, respiratory symptoms, skin manifestations and appearance of autoantibodies. Regardless of the aetiology of GWS, be it exposure to environmental factors or chemical drugs, vaccinations or the adjuvants in them, GWS fits well with the definition of ASIA and is included as part of 'Shoenfeld's syndrome'.

PMID: 22235052 [PubMed - in process]

Cadmium-laced jewelry removed from stores

2012-01-13T00:13:00.000-10:00

Cadmium-laced jewelry removed from stores
http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/economy/cadmium-laced-jewelry-removed-from-stores/2012/01/11/gIQAydS7rP_story.html

"More than a dozen of the most popular retailers have stopped selling jewelry that contains more than trace levels of a toxic metal called cadmium, accepting a new standard that consumer advocates say is tougher than the one endorsed by Washington."

Pool chlorine tied to lung damage in elite swimmers

2012-01-13T00:10:00.000-10:00

Pool chlorine tied to lung damage in elite swimmers
http://www.chicagotribune.com/health/sns-rt-us-chlorine-lungdamagetre80a2bn-20120111,0,5216476.story

"Competitive swimmers who train at indoor chlorinated swimming pools may have lung changes similar to those seen in people with mild asthma, a new study has found."

Researchers Identify that Environmental Exposure to Organochlorines May Impact Male Reproduction

2012-01-13T00:06:00.000-10:00

Researchers Identify that Environmental Exposure to Organochlorines May Impact Male Reproduction
http://www.newswise.com/articles/gw-researcher-and-colleagues-identify-that-environmental-exposure-to-organochlorines-may-impact-male-reproduction

"Melissa Perry, Sc.D., M.H.S., professor and chair of the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health at the GW School of Public Health and Health Services and adjunct associate professor at the Harvard School of Public Health, led an observational study indicating that environmental exposure to organochlorine chemicals, including Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and p,p'-DDE (the main metabolite of the insecticide DDT) can affect male reproduction. The research was published online on Dec. 21, 2011 in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives."

Cosmetic chemical hinders brain development in tadpoles

2012-01-13T00:04:00.000-10:00

Cosmetic chemical hinders brain development in tadpoles
http://medicalxpress.com/news/2012-01-cosmetic-chemical-hinders-brain-tadpoles.html

"Scientists, health officials, and manufacturers already know that a chemical preservative found in some products, including cosmetics, is harmful to people and animals in high concentrations, but a new Brown University study in tadpoles reports that it can also interrupt neurological development even in very low concentrations."

Secrecy Still Protects Genetically Modified Foods from Disclosure

2012-01-13T00:02:00.000-10:00

Secrecy Still Protects Genetically Modified Foods from Disclosure
http://www.ombwatch.org/node/11944/

"The use of genetically engineered (GE) crops has increased enormously over the last decade, without a corresponding increase in government oversight. Industry has fought hard against strict oversight and testing and has even blocked efforts to label GE food products as such, leaving U.S. consumers in the dark about how their food is produced and what it contains. As consumers have become increasingly concerned about food safety and health, demands for federal and state food labeling legislation have intensified."

Coatings Influence Nanoparticle Toxicity

2012-01-13T00:00:00.000-10:00

Coatings Influence Nanoparticle Toxicity
http://cen.acs.org/articles/90/web/2012/01/Coatings-Influence-Nanoparticle-Toxicity.html

"Surface Science: Changing the coating on silver nanoparticles alters the toxicity to mouse cells

To understand the toxicity of nanoparticles, most scientists have focused on the materials' metal cores. But now researchers have shown that the chemicals that decorate silver nanoparticle surfaces can change their toxicity (Langmuir, DOI: 10.1021/la2042058)."

Toxic orange juice?

2012-01-12T23:58:00.000-10:00

Toxic orange juice?
http://www.waow.com/story/16501351/orange-juice-concerns

"Imported orange juice is under investigation by the FDA, after an unapproved chemical was discovered in some juice. The chemical, Carbendazim, is a pesticide used to kill fungus."

State urged to update toxic flame shield law to protect kids

2012-01-12T23:56:00.000-10:00

State urged to update toxic flame shield law to protect kids
http://www.timesunion.com/business/article/State-urged-to-update-toxic-flame-shield-law-to-2474787.php

"The state should tighten up a new law on toxic flame retardants used in children's products like car seats, high chairs and changing pads, advocates said Wednesday."

Is Bleach Bad for Your Liver?

2012-01-12T23:54:00.000-10:00

Is Bleach Bad for Your Liver?
http://www.liversupport.com/wordpress/2012/01/is-bleach-bad-for-your-liver/

"Whether it's in your water, hair dye, laundry detergent or toilet bowl cleaner, learn why bleach is not the most liver-friendly compound."

Toxic Chemicals Found In Baby Products

2012-01-12T23:52:00.000-10:00

Toxic Chemicals Found In Baby Products
http://www.wilx.com/news/headlines/Toxic_Chemicals_Found_In_Baby_Products_137083783.html

"A new report found toxic flame retardants on many popular baby products, including car seats bought in Michigan."

The Nation's Leading Conferences on Lead Poisoning Prevention, Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Housing Issues

2012-01-12T23:46:00.000-10:00

The Nation's Leading Conferences on Lead Poisoning Prevention, Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Housing Issues
http://www.healthyhousingconferences.com/website/

"The conferences bring together professionals from health, housing, community development, community groups, advocacy organizations, the lead industry, real estate firms, and residential and commercial facilities to explore ways to undertake programs and projects designed to prevent incidents of lead poisoning, eliminate indoor environmental hazards, and create healthy living and working environments."

Which chemicals are making us fat?

2012-01-12T23:45:00.000-10:00

Which chemicals are making us fat?
http://www.theecologist.org/News/news_analysis/1191046/which_chemicals_are_making_us_fat.html

"In her book 'The 21st Century is Making you Fat' former Ecologist Editor Pat Thomas details the full range of industrial and everyday chemicals known to encourage us to get fat."

OCA Food Fight Escalates

2012-01-12T22:23:00.000-10:00

SUBSCRIBE & Read Past Issues | OCA Homepage |

Can You Imagine a World Without Antibiotics?

Last week the New York Times published an article applauding the FDA for regulating antibiotic use on livestock in an attempt to curb the increasing bacterial resistance to common antimicrobial drugs used to treat a host of human illnesses including pneumonia, strep, bronchial and urinary tract infections. This left us scratching our heads, as just the week before, the Guardian in the UK published an article reporting that during the holiday season, while no one was paying attention, the FDA quietly scaled back its regulations on antibiotics in animal feed.

So which is it? Well, if you know anything about the FDA, you would probably guess that the Guardian article was correct, and, you'd be right. The FDA's decision was to continue to regulate one class of antibiotics called cephalosporins (which constitute a mere .3% of antibiotics used in animal feed), but to scale back its controlled use of all other drugs in hopes that industry would do the right thing and chaperone itself.

Sound familiar? How often, in recent years, have government agencies such as the FDA, USDA, and EPA deferred to corporations to police themselves? (See OCA alert: Stop USDA's Plans for Monsanto to Police Itself! as just one example.)

Tell the FDA to do their job and regulate the reckless and irresponsible use of antibiotics on factory farms. Otherwise we might find ourselves in a time warp back to the 1920s, when simple things like cuts and minor infections could be deadly.

Learn more

Urgent Action Needed on the State Level

Are you among the nine out of ten people in the U.S. who believe we have the right to know whether our food has been genetically engineered or not?

Your state legislature needs you! Urgent action is needed now to pass state laws to label genetically modified foods. Several states have bills pending that need your support and the remainder need constituents like you to demand legislation to label GMOs.

Click through to OCA's map, then click on your state to take action

Make Monsanto Pay! January 24: Protest at Monsanto's Annual Shareholders Meeting

Following up on two actions at Monsanto's headquarters in 2011, we return to St. Louis for the 2012 Monsanto shareholders meeting on January 24!

Please RSVP if you plan to attend the OCA picket line at Monsanto's headquarters! [please email mikedvegan AT gmail.com]

Monsanto is consistently ranked among the most evil of all corporations on Earth, wreaking havoc on public health and the environment with its deadly chemicals, but under U.S. law, people and living things don't matter to a corporation, only profits for its shareholders. So, we've teamed up with a group of ethical shareholders led by Harrington Investments, a socially responsible investment advisory firm, that wants to change how Monsanto operates.

What if Monsanto had to pay for its corporate crimes? If it were to be held liable for costs associated with its products, shareholders would see their accounts dramatically reduced. We intend to inform them of this.

Please join us in St. Louis to support a shareholder resolution to study the financial risks associated with genetically engineered crops. While an OCA representative is speaking inside the shareholders meeting, another group of us will be outside, peacefully picketing.

Come to St. Louis to Make Monsanto Pay! Contact OCA Organizer Mike Durschmid [mikedvegan AT gmail.com] to join in.

Take action!

Support the OCA and the OCF

The nationwide food fight for safe food and sustainability is escalating.

In 2012, whether we're talking about getting antibiotics out of animal feed or labeling GMOs, we're fighting harder than ever. With the 2012 California ballot initiative, and GMO labeling legislation gaining momentum in Vermont, Washington, Connecticut and other states, we have a real chance to hit Monsanto with the skull and crossbones they fear so much - mandatory labels on genetically engineered food. We also plan to step up our efforts to strengthen organic standards and significantly expand the market for organic food and products, especially those produced locally and regionally.

Please be as generous as you can this post-holiday season.

Donate to the Organic Consumers Association (tax-deductible)

Donate to the Organic Consumers Fund (non-tax-deductible, but necessary for our efforts in California)

Featured Essay of the Week

"Corporate Personhood Worse, Ending It Easier than You Think" by David Swanson

The root of all of our current problems, whether we're talking about health, justice, sustainability, or the alarming state of our food and farming system, is corporate control, the dictatorship of Monsanto and other billion dollar corporations over our government and economy. It's time to get to the root of the problem and overthrow the Corporatocracy.

Here's how we can do it

Little Bytes: Top Stories of the Week

Time to Stop Being Cynical About Corporate Money in Politics and Start Being Angry

Dr. Joe Mercola's Health Recommendations, Pt 1

Wall Street Versus Human Survival: The "Profound Contradiction" Between Science and Markets on the Road to 10F Warming

U.S. Judge OKs Alfalfa Strain Made by Monsanto Co.

Homeopathic Alternatives to Antidepressant Drugs

Eden Foods Offers OCA Customers 15% Discount

Eden Foods is one of the few national organic food producers who goes beyond the USDA Organic Standards. Although Eden Foods is USDA certified, their products do not bear the USDA seal, because they say the USDA standard really represents a "minimum standard" that Eden Foods goes far beyond.

As a subscriber to Organic Bytes, you can enjoy a 15% discount rate on any Eden Foods products by going here.

Learn More

Connect With OCA!

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print it, duplicate it and post it freely. Knowledge is power!

Organic Bytes is a publication of Organic Consumers Association

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CNN shows how air quality impacts schools

2012-01-12T21:28:00.000-10:00

CNN shows how air quality impacts schools
http://blogs.nysut.org/blog/2012/01/11/cnn-shows-how-air-quality-impacts-schools/

"Worried about the impact of indoor air quality in your school? CNN is airing a piece this Sat. Jan. 14 and Sun. Jan. 15 about the impact of air quality on students and school employees."

The exposure data landscape for manufactured chemicals

2012-01-10T08:59:00.000-10:00

The exposure data landscape for manufactured chemicals
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969711012393

Peter P. Egeghya, et al.
Elsevier. Volume 414, 1 January 2012, Pages 159166.

Abstract
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is developing chemical screening and prioritization programs to evaluate environmental chemicals for potential risk to human health in a rapid and efficient manner. As part of these efforts, it is important to catalog available information on chemical toxicity and exposure from widely dispersed sources. The main objective of this analysis is to define important aspects of the exposure space and to catalog the available exposure information for chemicals being considered for analysis as part of the U.S. EPA ToxCast screening and prioritization program. Publicly available exposure data have been extracted into ACToR (Aggregated Computational Toxicology Resource), which combines information for hundreds of thousands of chemicals from > 600 public sources. We use data from ACToR to assess the exposure data landscape for environmental chemicals. Of the roughly 100,000 chemicals that have at least limited toxicity information available, less than one-fifth also have exposure information and for most of these the information is of limited utility (e.g., production volume). Readily accessible data on concentrations in exposure-related media are only available for a much smaller fraction. Among these, the largest number of chemicals is measured in water with over 1150 unique compounds, followed by 788 substances measured in soil, and 670 in air. These small numbers clearly reflect a focus of resources on those substances previously identified as possibly posing a hazard to human health. Exposure to a much broader number of chemicals will need to be measured in order to fully realize the envisioned goal of using exposure information to guide toxicity testing.

Toxic fumes lead to school's closure

2012-01-10T08:57:00.000-10:00

Toxic fumes lead to school's closure
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/125329/toxic-fumes-lead-to-school%E2%80%99s-closure

"A public high school in Pasay City suspended all classes on Monday morning after its students, teachers and employees experienced difficulty in breathing due to what a fire official described as a suspected chemical leak coming from either the airport or an industrial facility."

A brain MRI study of chronic fatigue syndrome: evidence of brainstem dysfunction and altered homeostasis

2012-01-10T08:55:00.000-10:00

A brain MRI study of chronic fatigue syndrome: evidence of brainstem dysfunction and altered homeostasis
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/nbm.1692/abstract

Leighton R. Barnden1,2,*, Benjamin Crouch1, Richard Kwiatek3, Richard Burnet4, Anacleto Mernone1, Steve
Chryssidis5, Garry Scroop6, Peter Del Fante7

Article first published online: 11 MAY 2011
DOI: 10.1002/nbm.1692

Abstract

To explore brain involvement in chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), the statistical parametric mapping of brain MR images has been extended to voxel-based regressions against clinical scores.

Using SPM5 we performed voxel-based morphometry (VBM) and analysed T1- and T2-weighted spin-echo MR signal levels in 25 CFS subjects and 25 normal controls (NC).

Clinical scores included CFS fatigue duration, a score based on the 10 most common CFS symptoms, the Bell score, the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) anxiety and depression, and hemodynamic parameters from 24-h blood pressure monitoring.

We also performed group×hemodynamic score interaction regressions to detect locations where MR regressions were opposite for CFS and NC, thereby indicating abnormality in the CFS group.

In the midbrain, white matter volume was observed to decrease with increasing fatigue duration.

For T1-weighted MR and white matter volume, group×hemodynamic score interactions were detected in the brainstem [strongest in midbrain grey matter (GM)], deep prefrontal white matter (WM), the caudal basal pons and hypothalamus.

A strong correlation in CFS between brainstem GM volume and pulse pressure suggested impaired cerebrovascular autoregulation.

It can be argued that at least some of these changes could arise from astrocyte dysfunction.

These results are consistent with an insult to the midbrain at fatigue onset that affects multiple feedback control loops to suppress cerebral motor and cognitive activity and disrupt local CNS homeostasis, including resetting of some elements of the autonomic nervous system (ANS).

The Chemicals Used in Hydraulic Fracturing

2012-01-10T08:49:00.000-10:00

The Chemicals Used in Hydraulic Fracturing
http://www.conservation.ca.gov/dog/general_information/Documents/Hydraulic%20Fracturing%20Report%204%2018%2011.pdf

EPA: Toxic chemical releases rise 16% in 2010

2012-01-06T21:04:00.000-10:00

EPA: Toxic chemical releases rise 16% in 2010
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/greenhouse/post/2012/01/epa-toxic-chemical-releases-jump-16-in-2010/1

"Reversing a downward trend, the amount of toxic chemicals released into the nation's environment in 2010 was 16% higher than the year before, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports.

Tied largely to changes in metal mining, 3.93 billion pounds of toxic chemicals were released into the environment in 2010, according to the EPA's annual Toxics Release Inventory."

The role of physical environment on student health and education in green schools.

2012-01-06T20:58:00.000-10:00

The role of physical environment on student health and education in green schools.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22206193

Okcu S, Ryherd E, Bayer C. Rev Environ Health. 2011;26(3):169-79.

Source
College of Architecture, Georgia Institute of Technology Atlanta, GA 30332, USA. selen.okcu@gatech.edu

Abstract
The role of physical school environment on student health and education is becoming better understood. A growing body of literature indicates that improved physical environments in schools (e.g., indoor air quality, lighting, and acoustic conditions) can enhance student health outcomes. In parallel, the green building movement centers around designing buildings, including schools, that are more sustainable to decrease energy consumption, minimize environmental impact, and create healthier spaces for occupants. This paper synthesizes the findings from both green design studies and school outcomes studies to provide a systematic evaluation of the potential impacts of green school design features on student health outcomes. Three inter-related topics are covered in detail: (i) overview of the "green" concept, including existing guidelines for "greening" schools, attitudes toward green schools, and condition of the physical environments in non-green schools; (ii) potential effects of the physical environment on school children, including documentation of national statistics and summary of findings from school research studies; (iii) synthesis of findings, including a discussion of the knowledge gaps in the field of green school research and conclusions.

PMID: 22206193 [PubMed - in process]

Gene expression alterations at baseline and following moderate exercise in patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia Syndrome.

2012-01-05T09:11:00.000-10:00

Gene expression alterations at baseline and following moderate exercise in patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia Syndrome.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21615807

Light AR, Bateman L, Jo D, Hughen RW, Vanhaitsma TA, White AT, Light KC.

J Intern Med. 2012 Jan;271(1):64-81. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2796.2011.02405.x. Epub 2011 Jul 13.

Source
From the Department of Anesthesiology The Brain Institute Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.

Abstract

Abstract.

Light AR, Bateman L, Jo D, Hughen RW, VanHaitsma TA, White AT, Light KC (University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA). Gene expression alterations at baseline and following moderate exercise in patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia Syndrome. J Intern Med 2012; 271: 64-81. Objectives. To determine mRNA expression differences in genes involved in signalling and modulating sensory fatigue, and muscle pain in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia syndrome (FM) at baseline, and following moderate exercise.

Design.

Forty-eight patients with CFS only, or CFS with comorbid FM, 18 patients with FM that did not meet criteria for CFS, and 49 healthy controls underwent moderate exercise (25 min at 70% maximum age-predicted heart rate). Visual-analogue measures of fatigue and pain were taken before, during and after exercise. Blood samples were taken before and 0.5, 8, 24 and 48 h after exercise. Leucocytes were immediately isolated from blood, number coded for blind processing and analyses and flash frozen. Using real-time, quantitative PCR, the amount of mRNA for 13 genes (relative to control genes) involved in sensory, adrenergic and immune functions was compared between groups at baseline and following exercise. Changes in amounts of mRNA were correlated with behavioural measures and functional clinical assessments.

Results.

No gene expression changes occurred following exercise in controls. In 71% of patients with CFS, moderate exercise increased most sensory and adrenergic receptor's and one cytokine gene's transcription for 48 h. These postexercise increases correlated with behavioural measures of fatigue and pain. In contrast, for the other 29% of patients with CFS, adrenergic α-2A receptor's transcription was decreased at all time-points after exercise; other genes were not altered. History of orthostatic intolerance was significantly more common in the α-2A decrease subgroup. FM-only patients showed no postexercise alterations in gene expression, but their pre-exercise baseline mRNA for two sensory ion channels and one cytokine were significantly higher than controls.

Conclusions.

At least two subgroups of patients with CFS can be identified by gene expression changes following exercise. The larger subgroup showed increases in mRNA for sensory and adrenergic receptors and a cytokine. The smaller subgroup contained most of the patients with CFS with orthostatic intolerance, showed no postexercise increases in any gene and was defined by decreases in mRNA for α-2A. FM-only patients can be identified by baseline increases in three genes. Postexercise increases for four genes meet published criteria as an objective biomarker for CFS and could be useful in guiding treatment selection for different subgroups.

Panel urges lower cutoff for child lead poisoning

2012-01-05T09:05:00.000-10:00

Panel urges lower cutoff for child lead poisoning
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iAwI0BG7rtcz5eJ6CLjWuhcCc86Q

"For the first time in 20 years, a federal panel is urging the government to lower the threshold for lead poisoning in children. If adopted, hundreds of thousands more children could be diagnosed with lead poisoning. Too much lead is harmful to developing brains and can mean a lower IQ. Recent research persuaded panel members that children could be harmed from lead levels in their blood that are lower than the current standard, officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said."

Better Profits Through Green Chemistry

2012-01-05T09:00:00.000-10:00

Better Profits Through Green Chemistry
http://www.forbes.com/sites/amywestervelt/2011/12/28/better-profits-through-green-chemistry/

"When employees at Construction Specialties Muncy, Penn. offices learned that a toxic waste incinerator was to be installed in nearby Allenwood they got to work fighting against it. A few staffers even joined with a local grassroots group that eventually succeeded in blocking the incinerator's permits. "At first we had this collective sigh of relief, but then we realized that the incinerator would just be built in some other town, and that got us thinking about the source of the problemtoxic wasteand what we could do about it," says Construction Specialties' vice president and general manager Howard Williams.

Construction Specialties is a supplier of building materials to some of the largest industrial and commercial enterprises in the country, and when the company began looking into phasing toxics out of its products it started with polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a common ingredient of many building materials and known to release harmful dioxin and chlorine compounds. While the Allenwood incident inspired the staff to think about toxics, Williams says the adoption of a "healthy chemicals" strategy was not completely altruistic. Customers were calling for safer products as well."

Monitoring Solvents

2012-01-05T08:57:00.000-10:00

Monitoring Solvents
https://www.facebook.com/pages/MCS-America/95671789291

"The AP Pollution Control Board has constituted a special Task Force team headed by senior environmental engineer, Siva Reddy, to streamline and regulate the activities of the spent solvent recovery plants in and around Hyderabad for a period of six months."

CHE Partnership call: Gut Microbia and Environmental Chemicals in Diabetes and Obesity

2012-01-04T08:54:00.000-10:00

CHE Partnership call: Gut Microbia and Environmental Chemicals in Diabetes and Obesity
http://www.healthandenvironment.org/partnership_calls/10138

Thursday January 19, 2012 at 10 a.m. Pacific / 1 p.m. Eastern

"Exposure to environmental chemicals has been associated with the development of diabetes and obesity in numerous epidemiological and animal studies. Gut microbiota, the microorganisms that colonize the intestine, also appear to play a role in diabetes and obesity. Do these two environmental factors interact? Our speakers will discuss evidence that suggests that they may on this call on Thursday January 19, 2012 at 10 am Pacific / 1 pm Eastern."

CHE Partnership call: Gut Microbia and Environmental Chemicals in Diabetes and Obesity

2012-01-03T08:50:00.000-10:00

CHE Partnership call: Gut Microbia and Environmental Chemicals in Diabetes and Obesity
http://www.healthandenvironment.org/partnership_calls/10138

January 19, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. Pacific / 1:00 p.m. Eastern

"Exposure to environmental chemicals has been associated with the development of diabetes and obesity in numerous epidemiological and animal studies. Gut microbiota, the microorganisms that colonize the intestine, also appear to play a role in diabetes and obesity. Do these two environmental factors interact? Our speakers will discuss evidence that suggests that they may on this call on Thursday January 19, 2012 at 10 am Pacific / 1 pm Eastern.

Dr. Jacobs has published numerous articles on exposure to persistent organic pollutants in relation to health, including diabetes and obesity. In a recent study, he and colleagues investigated the link between methanogen microbes, persistent organic pollutants (POPs), and obesity. These microbes biodegrade petroleum hydrocarbons in polluted environments, and the authors hypothesized that a higher body burden of petroleum based chemicals may promote methanogens in the gut. The results show that the levels of methangens were associated with measurements of obesity, as well as blood POP levels.

In a recent review, Dr. Snedeker and Dr. Hay integrate the evidence linking gut microbiota and environmental chemical exposures to diabetes and obesity, providing a framework for how these factors may interact in these diseases, and identifying future research needs. Gut microbiota may affect the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of environmental chemicals. Variations in gut microbiota are likely to affect an individual's exposure to obesogenic and diabetogenic chemicals.

Featured speakers include:
David Jacobs, PhD, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota.
Suzanne Snedeker, PhD, Department of Food Science, Cornell University.
Anthony Hay, PhD, Department of Microbiology, Institute for Comparative and Environmental Toxicology, Cornell University.

The call will be moderated by Elise Miller, MEd, Director of CHE. The call will last one hour and will be recorded for archival purposes."

Voice from Grave Pleads for Canadian Asbestos Ban

2012-01-02T08:45:00.000-10:00

Voice from Grave Pleads for Canadian Asbestos Ban
http://thetyee.ca/News/2012/01/02/Canadian-Asbestos-Death/

"Quebec minister challenged to honour cancer victim's deathbed wish not to fund Jeffrey mine.

Will a voice from beyond the grave help end Canada's long standing trade in toxic asbestos?

Anti-asbestos campaigners have issued an open letter to a Quebec cabinet minister, urging him to honor a dying woman's final wish and take a stand against any more provincial government subsidy for asbestos mining and export."

Official Start of Construction for MCS Residential Project is in Sight

2012-01-02T08:40:00.000-10:00

Official Start of Construction for MCS Residential Project is in Sight
http://www.csn-deutschland.de/blog/en/official-start-of-construction-for-mcs-residential-project-is-in-sight/

Contaminant-free living area designed for the environmentally ill

"Europe's one-of-a-kind housing project is designed for Switzerland. The planned start for construction is spring 2012 and the project is estimated at costing 5.8 million Swiss francs. The small to medium sized ecologically built apartments meet the strict health requirements of chemically sensitive people. The Swiss housing cooperative "Healthy Living MCS" was founded three years ago and since then has been working toward the realization of an MCS housing project. The city of Zurich agreed and sees enormous potential in the MCS residential project. The knowledge won through this project can be very useful for future ecologically built residential projects in the city."

VIDEO: Identifying Environmental Illness and Mold Exposure in Patients with Persistent Lyme Disease Video by Lisa Nagy, MD

2012-01-01T21:52:00.000-10:00

VIDEO: Identifying Environmental Illness and Mold Exposure in Patients with Persistent Lyme Disease Video by Lisa Nagy, MD
http://www.ilads.org/media/videos/videos_nagy.php

NEWSLETTER: MCS America News - January 2012

2012-01-01T13:23:00.000-10:00

MCSA NEWS
January 2012, Volume 7, Issue 1

Entire PDF Edition: http://mcs-america.org/January2012.pdf (View, Download, and Print)

Direct Links to Articles Inside This Issue:

Overcoming Adversity When Disaster Strikes

http://mcs-america.org/January2012pg234.pdf

Science Close to Confirming Biomarkers for Multiple Chemical Sensitivity

http://mcs-america.org/January2012pg567.pdf

Fibromyalgia & Depression

http://mcs-america.org/January2012pg8.pdf

Biological Effects of Exposure to Cell Phones & Base Stations

http://mcs-america.org/January2012pg9.pdf

Patient Support & Resources

http://mcs-america.org/January2012pg1011121314151617.pdf

Community News

http://mcs-america.org/January2012pg18.pdf

Featured Research Studies

http://mcs-america.org/January2012pg192021.pdf

Multiple Chemical Sensitivities America

http://www.mcs-america.org

admin@mcs-america.org

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Hospital wants to avoid stinky situations

2011-12-31T10:01:00.000-10:00

Hospital wants to avoid stinky situations
http://www.dunnvillechronicle.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3421086

"t's a good thing to make no scents at the Haldimand War Memorial Hospital and Edgewater Gardens.

In an initiative that begun Jan. 1, Dunnville's hospital has now adopted a scent-free policy."

Consensus Document on Multiple Chemical Sensitivity

2011-12-31T09:47:00.000-10:00

Documento de consenso, Sensibilidad Quimica Multiple, 2011. Gobierno de Espana. Ministerio de sanidad politica social e igualdad. 2011. (The Ministry of Health in Spain published a Consensus Document on Multiple Chemical Sensitivity on November 30, 2011.)

http://www.mspsi.gob.es/organizacion/sns/planCalidadSNS/pdf/equidad/SQM_documento_de_consenso_30nov2011.pdf

The estrogenic potential of salicylate esters and their possible risks in foods and cosmetics.

2011-12-30T15:03:00.000-10:00

The estrogenic potential of salicylate esters and their possible risks in foods and cosmetics.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22197706

Zhang Z, Jia C, Hu Y, Sun L, Jiao J, Zhao L, Zhu D, Li J, Tian Y, Bai H, Li R, Hu J.

Toxicol Lett. 2011 Dec 16. [Epub ahead of print]

Source
College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, MOE Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.

Abstract
Salicylate esters (SEs), a class of chemicals extensively used as flavor and fragrance additives in foods, beverages and a wide variety of consumer products, are suspected to have estrogenic activity based on chemical analysis of in silica molecular docking. We evaluated the estrogenic potentials of phenyl salicylate (PhS), benzyl salicylate (BzS), phenethyl salicylate (PES), ethyl salicylate (ES) and methyl salicylate (MS) using an in vitro human estrogen receptor α (hERα)-coactivator recruiting assay and in vivo immature rodent uterotrophic bioassays. We found that PhS, BzS and PES showed obvious in vitro hERα agonistic activities; BzS in particular exhibited a higher estrogenic activity compared to bisphenol A (BPA). The uterine weights were significantly increased in mice treated with 11.1, 33.3, 100 and 300mg/kg/day BzS and 33.3mg/kg/day PES and rats treated with 3.7, 11.1, 33.3 and 100mg/kg/day BzS for 3 days (P<0.05). Finally, we transformed the daily intakes and the dermal exposures of SEs in the real world into estradiol equivalent concentrations (EEQs). We found that the EEQ of BzS daily intake in consumers in the U.S. and the EEQs of dermal BzS and PES exposure among high-volume users worldwide were higher than the maximum secure daily estradiol intake recommended by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In particular, the EEQ for dermal BzS exposure was up to 162ng EEQ/kg, which is 3.3 times higher than the maximal acceptable daily E(2) intake recommended by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA).

PMID: 22197706 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Protecting babies from neurotoxins

2011-12-30T15:01:00.000-10:00

Protecting babies from neurotoxins
http://www.cnn.com/2011/12/29/health/protecting-babies-neurotoxins/index.html

"The Environmental Protection Agency recently finalized a rule that for the first time requires U.S. coal and oil-fired power plant operators to limit emissions of mercury and other hazardous air pollutants.

EPA rules in place under the 1990 Clean Air Act have targeted acid rain and smog-forming chemicals emitting from power plants. But perhaps surprising to many, those rules have never included limits on mercury, a neurotoxin known to damage developing fetuses and children.

How this policy affects your health."

Get GMOs Out of Baby Food

2011-12-30T14:43:00.000-10:00

SUBSCRIBE & Read Past Issues | OCA Homepage |

Tell Organic Baby Food Brands to Stop Using GMOs!

As 2011 comes to an end, we are revving up our important campaign to Safeguard Organic Standards: getting genetically engineered ingredients out of certified organic baby food, so...

Tell organic baby food brands to stop using GMOs!

Since 2006, Martek Biosciences, owned by multinational biotech giant DSM, has been selling its DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ARA (arachidonic acid), synthesized versions of the essential fatty acids that are naturally found in breast milk, to companies manufacturing organic infant formula, baby food, other food products.

Now the National Organic Program says the 2006 approval was illegal and they're conducting a formal review of the Martek products for the first time.

The Cornucopia Institute has been warning since 2008 that the DHA and ARA might be made using genetic engineering, an "excluded method" under national organic regulations.

The OCA has confirmed the Cornucopia Institute's concerns with our own research and we've learned:

The DHA and ARA used in organic infant formulas and baby cereals is manipulated using microencapsulation to transform it from an oil to a powder. Microencapsulation is specifically listed as an "excluded method" in the organic regulations, one of a "variety of methods used to genetically modify organisms or influence their growth and development by means that are not possible under natural conditions or processes and are not considered compatible with organic production."

In addition, DHA and ARA are produced from mutant strains of algae and fungi with unnaturally high DHA and ARA levels. "Mutagenesis" is not specifically mentioned in the organic regulations' definition of "excluded methods," but it certainly fits the category definition listed above.

Mutagenesis involves exposing cells to radiation or mutagenic chemicals to create a variety of mutant cells from which desired characteristics can be selected. DSM, Martek's new owner and the long-time producer of its ARA, boasts the invention of modern extensions of this process, including "site-directed mutagenesis technology." DSM screens the vast numbers of microbial strains produced by random mutagenesis and selects for improved properties using a robotic High-Throughput Screening (HTS) facility which automates analytical tasks, including complex enzymatic analyses and high-tech flow-injection Nuclear Magnetic Resonance. Then, they use recombinant-DNA technology to combine multiple mutations in a single organism.

Products of microencapsulation and mutagenesis don't belong in organic!

Get these GMOs out of organic baby food!

Tell organic baby food brands to stop using GMOs!

Support the OCA and the OCF

Thank you to everyone who has supported our work in 2011! Everyone who has donated, volunteered, and everyone who has signed our Action Alerts!

You've made it possible to continue the transition to an organic future by safeguarding organic standards and fighting back against the biotech bullies and their indentured politicians, supporting progressive legislation, educating the public, and organizing nationwide protests.

In 2012, we plan to fight even harder. With the 2012 California ballot initiative, we have a real chance to hit Monsanto with the skull and crossbones they fear so much - mandatory labels on genetically engineered food.

Please be as generous as you can this holiday season.

Donate to the Organic Consumers Association (tax-deductible)

Donate to the Organic Consumers Fund (non-tax-deductible, but necessary for our efforts in California)

Please make an end-of-the-year donation to support our 2012 campaign to get GMOs out of organic baby food!

Featured Essay of the Month

In case you didn't get a chance to read this yet, here's Will Allen and Ronnie Cummins important new essay.

"Voting with Our Farms and Forks Against Climate Catastrophe"

Little Bytes: Top Stories of the Week

Food for Thought at the End of the Year: The Good Food News of 2011

The Nasty Truth About the Online Retailers You Probably Used for Your Holiday Shopping

Goodbye 'Shop Til You Drop' Mentality: Renegade Band of Economists Call for 'Degrowth' Economy

Stop Elections from Being Stolen: Election Integrity's Victoria Collier Speaks Up

Vermont and Massachusetts Organic Farmers 'Feed the Occupy Movement'

Join the OCA-Endorsed National Buying Club for Organic and Non-GMO Foods: The Green Polka Dot Box

OCA is happy to announce the formation of a new national distribution service for home delivery of organic and non-GMO foods, at 30-50% below the cost of retail, with free shipping on orders of $150 or more. The new national distribution club is called the Green Polka Dot Box (GPDB).

Click here

Connect With OCA!

Facebook Pages:

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More:

Please forward this publication to family and friends, place it on web sites,
print it, duplicate it and post it freely. Knowledge is power!

Organic Bytes is a publication of Organic Consumers Association

6771 South Silver Hill Drive - Finland, MN 55603 - Phone: 218-226-4164 - Fax: 218-353-7652

Subscribe & Read past issues and print- friendly PDF versions of Organic Bytes

Homeless for the holidays in downtown Vancouver (Man with EI)

2011-12-30T14:23:00.000-10:00

Homeless for the holidays in downtown Vancouver (Man with EI)
http://www.vancouverobserver.com/blogs/thescene/2011/12/28/homeless-holidays-downtown-vancouver-photos?page=0,0

"I met Ron McGrath at the A&W by Georgia Street in downtown Vancouver. It was still dark when we sat down to have breakfast. I couldn't tell right away that he was homeless. His many layers of clothing, small suitcase on wheels and umbrella made him look like a traveler who had just arrived from the airport and was on the way to his hotel."

New Legislation Seeks To Eradicate PCBs In NY Schools

2011-12-28T12:25:00.000-10:00

New Legislation Seeks To Eradicate PCBs In NY Schools
http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2011/12/27/new-legislation-seeks-to-eradicate-pcbs-in-ny-schools/

"Mayor Bloomberg signed legislation today relating to the notification and reporting of the possible presence of PCBs in city schools. The presence of toxic PCBs in schools has been a hot button issue for parents for a long time."

Cumulative Impacts Working Group call: Analyzing and Addressing Cumulative Impacts Using an Ecological and Complexity Model

2011-12-28T12:23:00.000-10:00

Cumulative Impacts Working Group call: Analyzing and Addressing Cumulative Impacts Using an Ecological and Complexity Model
http://www.healthandenvironment.org/wg_calls/10145

Tips To Avoid Toxic Tris

2011-12-28T12:21:00.000-10:00

Tips To Avoid Toxic Tris
http://watoxics.org/toxicswatch/tips-to-avoid-toxic-tris?org=398&lvl=100&ite=607&lea=6003&ctr=0&par=1

"As you've probably seen in many of our recent posts, toxic Tris flame retardants are bad news. Exposure to Tris has been linked to cancer, hormone disruption, and nervous system harm. By being mindful with certain purchases, you can try to limit your family's exposure to these dangerous chemicals and reduce your toxic body burden."

Woman's extreme allergy may collapse her

2011-12-28T12:19:00.000-10:00

Woman's extreme allergy may collapse her
http://www.onlinenews.com.pk/details.php?id=187428

"A rare chemical intolerance - known as Multiple Chemical Sensitivity - is so bad that a woamn cannot even set foot in the cleaning aisle at her local supermarket."

Smart meters made us ill, says resident

2011-12-28T12:18:00.000-10:00

Smart meters made us ill, says resident
http://www.frankstonweekly.com.au/news/local/news/general/smart-meters-made-us-ill-says-resident/2389695.aspx

"A MT Eliza couple has been sleeping in their van for six weeks as they believe their smart meter is making them sick.

Rosemary, who did not want her full name published, said her symptoms began soon after the smart meter was installed in October."

Some Chinese turn to U.S. Embassy for clarity in smog data

2011-12-27T09:09:00.000-10:00

Some Chinese turn to U.S. Embassy for clarity in smog data
http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/story/2011-12-26/beijing-smog-china/52234198/1

"The Beijing smog often keeps Zhushen Zhenyu trapped at home, on his mother's orders, when he'd rather be playing basketball outside, but the 8-year-old still hopes for a silver lining in the clouds of pollution choking China's capital."

Sick 9/11 Responders Must Drop Lawsuits to Qualify for $2.8B Health Fund

2011-12-26T10:27:00.000-10:00

Sick 9/11 Responders Must Drop Lawsuits to Qualify for $2.8B Health Fund
https://www.facebook.com/pages/MCS-America/95671789291

"First responders who got sick after inhaling the toxic air at Ground Zero after 9/11 have just one week left to decide whether to continue fighting their claims in court or drop their cases so that they can opt into the federal government's new $2.8 billion Victim Compensation Fund."

Relative Risk, One Result at a Time

2011-12-25T09:37:00.000-10:00

Relative Risk, One Result at a Time
http://www.americanscientist.org/issues/pub/relative-risk-one-result-at-a-time

"Evidence mounts for endocrine effects of a compound used in many antibacterial bar soaps"

Doctor says almost half the country may be living with mold, causes asthma

2011-12-25T09:35:00.000-10:00

Doctor says almost half the country may be living with mold, causes asthma
http://www.wtkr.com/news/wtkr-doctor-says-almost-half-the-country-may-be-living-with-mold-causes-asthma-20111223,0,505652.story

"NewsChannel 3 investigation exposed mold in military homes, but experts say mold is in a lot more places than you think. In fact, it could be in your home right now."

Drug Coatings Can Contain Problematic Chemicals

2011-12-23T14:11:00.000-10:00

Drug Coatings Can Contain Problematic Chemicals

http://news.discovery.com/human/pill-coatings-chemicals-hormones-111222.html

"Potentially harmful chemicals show up in a wide variety of drugs and supplements, especially ones with time-release coatings."

High lead exposure linked to hearing loss in youth

2011-12-23T14:09:00.000-10:00

High lead exposure linked to hearing loss in youth
http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/12/22/us-high-lead-hearing-loss-idUSTRE7BL1T720111222

"Teens exposed to higher-than-normal levels of lead are more likely to have trouble hearing, suggests a new study that links the hearing problems to lead levels well below those considered "safe" by current standards."

U.S. approves Monsanto drought-tolerant GM corn

2011-12-23T14:05:00.000-10:00

U.S. approves Monsanto drought-tolerant GM corn
http://uk.reuters.com/article/2011/12/22/us-usa-biotech-idUKTRE7BL19A20111222

"Monsanto's genetically engineered, drought resistant corn is deregulated, the U.S. Agriculture Department said Thursday, clearing the variety for sale."

The Search for Reliable Biomarkers of Disease in Multiple Chemical Sensitivity and Other Environmental Intolerances

2011-12-23T14:02:00.000-10:00

The Search for Reliable Biomarkers of Disease in Multiple Chemical Sensitivity and Other Environmental Intolerances
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3155329/pdf/ijerph-08-02770.pdf

Chiara De Luca,1* Desanka Raskovic,1 Valeria Pacifico,1 Jeffrey Chung Sheun Thai,2 and Liudmila Korkina1
Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2011 July; 8(7): 27702797.

Abstract
Whilst facing a worldwide fast increase of food and environmental allergies, the medical community is also confronted with another inhomogeneous group of environment-associated disabling conditions, including multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS), fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, electric hypersensitivity, amalgam disease and others. These share the features of poly-symptomatic multi-organ cutaneous and systemic manifestations, with postulated inherited/acquired impaired metabolism of chemical/physical/nutritional xenobiotics, triggering adverse reactions at exposure levels far below toxicologically-relevant values, often in the absence of clear-cut allergologic and/or immunologic involvement. Due to the lack of proven pathogenic mechanisms generating measurable disease biomarkers, these environmental hypersensitivities are generally ignored by sanitary and social systems, as psychogenic or "medically unexplained symptoms". The uncontrolled application of diagnostic and treatment protocols not corresponding to acceptable levels of validation, safety, and clinical efficacy, to a steadily increasing number of patients demanding assistance, occurs in many countries in the absence of evidence-based guidelines. Here we revise available information supporting the organic nature of these clinical conditions. Following intense research on gene polymorphisms of phase I/II detoxification enzyme genes, so far statistically inconclusive, epigenetic and metabolic factors are under investigation, in particular free radical/antioxidant homeostasis disturbances. The finding of relevant alterations of catalase, glutathione-transferase and peroxidase detoxifying activities significantly correlating with clinical manifestations of MCS, has recently registered some progress towards the identification of reliable biomarkers of disease onset, progression, and treatment outcomes.

PMCID: PMC3155329

Irish doctor opens new chronic fatigue syndrome clinic in NYC

2011-12-23T12:42:00.000-10:00

Irish doctor opens new chronic fatigue syndrome clinic in NYC
http://www.irishcentral.com/news/Irish-doctor-opens-new-chronic-fatigue-syndrome-clinic-in-NYC-136017443.html

"Clinic opens after $1 million donation from Doctor Enlander's patients. An Irish doctor has launched a specialized research clinic in New York for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) at the Mt. Sinai Hospital in Manhattan."

Fibromyalgia and depression.

2011-12-23T12:38:00.000-10:00

Fibromyalgia and depression.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22191023

Gracely RH, Ceko M, Bushnell MC. Pain Res Treat. 2012;2012:486590. Epub 2011 Nov 19.

Source
Center for Neurosensory Disorders, University of North Carolina, CBNo.7280, 3330 Thurston Building, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.

Abstract
Fibromyalgia and depression might represent two manifestations of affective spectrum disorder. They share similar pathophysiology and are largely targeted by the same drugs with dual action on serotoninergic and noradrenergic systems. Here, we review evidence for genetic and environmental factors that predispose, precipitate, and perpetuate fibromyalgia and depression and include laboratory findings on the role of depression in fibromyalgia. Further, we comment on several aspects of fibromyalgia which support the development of reactive depression, substantially more so than in other chronic pain syndromes. However, while sharing many features with depression, fibromyalgia is associated with somatic comorbidities and absolutely defined by fluctuating spontaneous widespread pain. Fibromyalgia may, therefore, be more appropriately grouped together with other functional pain disorders, while psychologically distressed subgroups grouped additionally or solely with affective spectrum disorders.

Trapping of cis-2-butene-1,4-dial to Measure Furan Metabolism in Human Liver Microsomes by Cytochrome P450 Enzymes.

2011-12-23T12:36:00.000-10:00

Trapping of cis-2-butene-1,4-dial to Measure Furan Metabolism in Human Liver Microsomes by Cytochrome P450 Enzymes.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22187484

Gates L, Lu D, Peterson LA.

Drug Metab Dispos. 2011 Dec 20. [Epub ahead of print]

Source
University of Minnesota.

Abstract
Furan is a liver toxicant and carcinogen in rodents. It is classified as a possible human carcinogen, but the human health effects of furan exposure remain unknown. The oxidation of furan by cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) is necessary for furan toxicity. The product of this reaction is the reactive α,β-unsaturated dialdehyde, cis-2-butene-1,4-dial (BDA). To determine if human liver microsomes metabolize furan to BDA, a LC-MS/MS method was developed to detect and quantify BDA by trapping this reactive metabolite with N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) and N-acetyl-L-lysine (NAL). Reaction of NAC and NAL with BDA generates N-acetyl-S-[1-(5-acetylamino-5-carboxypentyl)-1H-pyrrol-3-yl]-L-cysteine (NAC-BDA-NAL). Formation of NAC-BDA-NAL was quantified in 21 different human liver microsomal preparations. The levels of metabolism were comparable to that observed in F344 rat and B6C3F1 mouse liver microsomes, two species known to be sensitive to furan-induced toxicity. Studies with recombinant human liver CYPs indicated that CYP2E1 is the most active human liver furan oxidase. The activity of CYP2E1 as measured by p-nitrophenol hydroxylase activity was correlated to the extent of NAC-BDA-NAL formation in human liver microsomes. The formation of NAC-BDA-NAL was blocked by CYP2E1 inhibitors but not other CYP inhibitors. These results suggest that humans are capable of oxidizing furan to its toxic metabolite, BDA, at comparable rates to species sensitive to furan exposure. Therefore, humans may be susceptible to furan's toxic effects.

PMID: 22187484 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Air-Freshener Burns: A New Paradigm in Burns Etiology?

2011-12-23T11:59:00.000-10:00

Air-Freshener Burns: A New Paradigm in Burns Etiology?
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3237275/?tool=pubmed

Umran Sarwar, MBChB, BMedSci (Hons), M. Nicolaou, MBBS, MRCS, PhD, M. S. Khan, BSc (Hons) MBBS, MD, FRCS (Plast), and E. Tiernan, FRCS (Plast). Int J Prev Med. 2011 Oct-Dec; 2(4): 291293. PMCID: PMC3237275

Abstract

Objectives:
We report a rare case of burns following the use of automated air-fresheners.

Methods:
We present a case report with a brief overview of the literature relating to burns associated with air-fresheners. The mechanism and treatment of these types of injuries are also described.

Results:
A 44 year-old female was admitted under the care of the burns team following burns secondary to an exploding air-freshener canister. The patient sustained burns to the face, thorax and arms resulting in a seven-day hospital admission. The burns were treated conservatively.

Conclusions:
To our knowledge this is one of the few documented cases of burns as a result of air-fresheners. As they become more ubiquitous, we anticipate the incidence of such cases to increase. As such, they pose a potential public health concern on a massive scale.

Allergies could be affecting the brain

2011-12-23T11:21:00.000-10:00

Allergies could be affecting the brain
http://www.kplctv.com/story/16337659/allergies-could-be-affecting-the-brain

"People with severe allergies will not only feel fatigue, they can feel irritable, depressed, and even have symptoms similar to attention deficit disorder. A new study is showing that allergies affect more than the respiratory system, and could actually be affecting the brain."

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-22T08:07:00.000-10:00

Happy Holidays!

Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season!

MCS America

MCS America ©

California Public Utilities Commission meeting: Smart Meter opt-out

Chronic fatigue syndrome and impaired peripheral pulse characteristics on orthostasis-a new potential diagnostic biomarker.

With Prevalence of Nanomaterials Rising, Panel Urges Review of Risks

Common Household Chemicals Might Harm Kids' Immunity

Children near DuPont plant exposed to more PFOA than moms.

Chemical may make vaccines less effective, study says

Pesticide Toxic to Bees and Aquatic Life Contaminates Surface Waters

How Toxic Is Your Office Space?

When is a Trade Secret Not a Trade Secret? When it is Revealed at a European Parliament Exhibition

Many baby products have toxic flame retardants, analysis finds

Mercury's Harmful Reach Has Grown, Study Suggests

Chemicals Used During Medical Imaging Tests May Damage Thyroid

Is Your Office Making You Sick?

American Academy of Environmental Medicine Opposes the Installation of Smart Meters

Why Do Smells Make Some People Sick?

Threat of toxic playgrounds

Thousands of women could be at risk from 'silent Thalidomide'

Documentary examines how toxic water at the nation's largest Marine base damaged lives

Dumb and Dangerous: The Problems with Smart Grids

Dry-cleaning chemical can increase risk of bipolar disorder: study

Easy ways to clear your indoor air

Pathway Genes belong to Major Targets of Persistent Organic Pollutants in Adipose Cells.

Dump Toxic Fragrances

Association found between phthalates and obesity in young children

Eating mercury-tainted fish affects essential stress hormones in children.

The Indoor Pollution Threat You May Not Have Known Existed

Kaiser Permanente converting to safer IV equipment

Beware of air fresheners

School board will enact perfume policy

Dirty freeway air puts Southern California health at risk, say activists

Perfume ban among N.H. bills in 2012

Kicked out of the courtroom? That stinks

Scent Free Workplace - Circulation Department Wiki

Raising a stink about the contents of fragrances

Herbicides have no place in home garden care

Toxic sofa killed our puppy

Two Voorhees residents to receive the Camden County Freedom Medal

Coalition picks Toxics-Free Kids Act as first priority

Nurses' miscarriages linked to chemicals at work

Pollution tied to disease risk in L.A. black women

Are schools making kids sick?

Plastizer increases miscarriage risk.

Chemical found in deodorants, face cream and food products is discovered in tumours of ALL breast cancer patients

Lupus. 2012;21(2):140-5.

Gulf War Syndrome as a part of the autoimmune (autoinflammatory) syndrome induced by adjuvant (ASIA).

Cadmium-laced jewelry removed from stores

Pool chlorine tied to lung damage in elite swimmers

Researchers Identify that Environmental Exposure to Organochlorines May Impact Male Reproduction

Cosmetic chemical hinders brain development in tadpoles

Secrecy Still Protects Genetically Modified Foods from Disclosure

Coatings Influence Nanoparticle Toxicity

Toxic orange juice?

State urged to update toxic flame shield law to protect kids

Is Bleach Bad for Your Liver?

Toxic Chemicals Found In Baby Products

The Nation's Leading Conferences on Lead Poisoning Prevention, Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Housing Issues

Which chemicals are making us fat?

OCA Food Fight Escalates

Urgent Action Needed on the State Level

Make Monsanto Pay! January 24: Protest at Monsanto's Annual Shareholders Meeting

Support the OCA and the OCF

Featured Essay of the Week

Little Bytes: Top Stories of the Week

Sponsored Message

Eden Foods Offers OCA Customers 15% Discount

Connect With OCA!

Please forward this publication to family and friends, place it on web sites, print it, duplicate it and post it freely. Knowledge is power!

Organic Bytes is a publication of Organic Consumers Association

6771 South Silver Hill Drive - Finland, MN 55603 - Phone: 218-226-4164 - Fax: 218-353-7652

Subscribe & Read past issues and print- friendly PDF versions of Organic Bytes

CNN shows how air quality impacts schools

The exposure data landscape for manufactured chemicals

Toxic fumes lead to school's closure

A brain MRI study of chronic fatigue syndrome: evidence of brainstem dysfunction and altered homeostasis

The Chemicals Used in Hydraulic Fracturing

EPA: Toxic chemical releases rise 16% in 2010

The role of physical environment on student health and education in green schools.

Gene expression alterations at baseline and following moderate exercise in patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia Syndrome.

Panel urges lower cutoff for child lead poisoning

Please forward this publication to family and friends, place it on web sites,
print it, duplicate it and post it freely. Knowledge is power!

Please forward this publication to family and friends, place it on web sites,
print it, duplicate it and post it freely. Knowledge is power!