"A new study suggests that smog and other air pollutants may contribute to memory loss and dementia."
Thursday, July 12, 2012
PETITION: Department of Health and Human Services: Formulate a Strategic, Coordinated and Fully-Funded Response to ME/CFS
PETITION
Department of Health and Human Services: Formulate a Strategic, Coordinated and Fully-Funded Response to ME/CFS
We are asking Secretary Sebelius to convene a meeting between ME/CFS patient representatives and key representatives from across DHHS to better understand our concerns and then work with us to formulate a strategic, coordinated and fully-funded response to the challenge of ME/CFS.
Sign on at: http://www.change.org/petitions/department-of-health-and-human-services-formulate-a-strategic-coordinated-and-fully-funded-response-to-me-cfs-3
We are asking Secretary Sebelius to convene a meeting between ME/CFS patient representatives and key representatives from across DHHS to better understand our concerns and then work with us to formulate a strategic, coordinated and fully-funded response to the challenge of ME/CFS.
Sign on at: http://www.change.org/petitions/department-of-health-and-human-services-formulate-a-strategic-coordinated-and-fully-funded-response-to-me-cfs-3
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
EPA to Hold Two Public Hearings on Proposed Clean Air Standards for Particle Pollution
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 9, 2012
EPA to Hold Two Public Hearings on Proposed Clean Air Standards for Particle Pollution
Speaker registration now open for hearings in Philadelphia and Sacramento, Calif.
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will hold two public hearings on the proposed updates to the national air quality standards for fine particle pollution (PM2.5). A federal court ruling required EPA to update the standards based on best available science. The proposed updates, which meet that requirement, build on steps already taken by EPA to reduce pollution in communities across the country.
WHAT: Public hearings on proposed updates to national air quality standards for fine particle pollution.
WHEN: July 17, 2012 (Philadelphia) 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. EDT
July 19, 2012 (Sacramento) 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. PDT
WHERE: July 17, Philadelphia
William J. Green Federal Building
600 Arch Street
Philadelphia, Pa. 19106
July 19, Sacramento, Calif.
California Air Resources Board
1001 "I" Street
Sacramento, Calif. 95814
To register to speak at the hearings, contact Alan Rush at rush.alan@epa.gov or 202-564-1658. Members of the public also may register in person at the hearing and will be accommodated as time allows. EPA also will accept written comments on the proposed standards until Aug. 31, 2012. EPA will issue the final standards by December 14, 2012.
Note: Please bring picture identification and allow additional time to enter the buildings and go through security.
More information on the hearings and instructions for submitting written comments: http://www.epa.gov/pm/actions.html
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Apple Removes Green Electronics Certification From Products
Apple Removes Green Electronics Certification From Products
http://blogs.wsj.com/cio/2012/07/06/apple-removes-green-electronics-certification-from-products/
http://blogs.wsj.com/cio/2012/07/06/apple-removes-green-electronics-certification-from-products/
"They said their design direction was no longer consistent with the EPEAT requirements," Frisbee said. The company did not elaborate, Frisbee said. "They were important supporters and we are disappointed that they don't want their products measured by this standard anymore."
The effect of dietary glutamate on fibromyalgia and irritable bowel symptoms.
The effect of dietary glutamate on fibromyalgia and irritable bowel symptoms.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22766026
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22766026
Holton KF, Taren DL, Thomson CA, Bennett RM, Jones KD.
Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2012 Jul 4. [Epub ahead of print]
Source
Departments of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA. holtonk@ohsu.edu.
Source
Departments of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA. holtonk@ohsu.edu.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES:
To examine the effects of a challenge with monosodium glutamate (MSG) as compared to placebo on the symptoms of fibromyalgia (FM), in participants who initially experienced >30% remission of symptoms on an excitotoxin elimination diet.
To examine the effects of a challenge with monosodium glutamate (MSG) as compared to placebo on the symptoms of fibromyalgia (FM), in participants who initially experienced >30% remission of symptoms on an excitotoxin elimination diet.
METHODS:
Fifty-seven FM patients who also had irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) were placed on a 4-week diet that excluded dietary additive excitotoxins including MSG and aspartame. Thirty-seven people completed the diet and 84% of those reported that >30% of their symptoms resolved, thus making them eligible to proceed to challenges. Subjects who improved on the diet were then randomised to a 2-week double-blind placebo-controlled crossover challenge with MSG or placebo for 3 consecutive days each week. The primary outcome measure was total symptom score. Secondary outcome measures included visual analogue pain scales (VAS for FM and IBS), an IBS Quality of Life Questionnaire (IBS QOL) and the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire-Revised (FIQR). Repeated measures ANOVA was used to analyse crossover challenge results.
Fifty-seven FM patients who also had irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) were placed on a 4-week diet that excluded dietary additive excitotoxins including MSG and aspartame. Thirty-seven people completed the diet and 84% of those reported that >30% of their symptoms resolved, thus making them eligible to proceed to challenges. Subjects who improved on the diet were then randomised to a 2-week double-blind placebo-controlled crossover challenge with MSG or placebo for 3 consecutive days each week. The primary outcome measure was total symptom score. Secondary outcome measures included visual analogue pain scales (VAS for FM and IBS), an IBS Quality of Life Questionnaire (IBS QOL) and the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire-Revised (FIQR). Repeated measures ANOVA was used to analyse crossover challenge results.
RESULTS:
The MSG challenge, as compared to placebo, resulted in a significant return of symptoms (total symptom score, p<0.02); a worsening of fibromyalgia severity as determined by the FIQR (p<0.03); decreased quality of life in regards to IBS symptoms (IBS QOL, p<0.05); and a non-significant trend toward worsening FM pain based on visual analogue scale (VAS, p<0.07).
The MSG challenge, as compared to placebo, resulted in a significant return of symptoms (total symptom score, p<0.02); a worsening of fibromyalgia severity as determined by the FIQR (p<0.03); decreased quality of life in regards to IBS symptoms (IBS QOL, p<0.05); and a non-significant trend toward worsening FM pain based on visual analogue scale (VAS, p<0.07).
CONCLUSIONS:
These findings suggest that dietary glutamate may be contributing to FM symptoms in some patients. Future research on the role of dietary excitotoxins in FM is warranted.
These findings suggest that dietary glutamate may be contributing to FM symptoms in some patients. Future research on the role of dietary excitotoxins in FM is warranted.
PMID: 22766026 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Saturday, July 7, 2012
SURVY: Relationship Between MCS, CFS, & Diabetes
Researcher Dr. Harold Zeliger is conducting a study on the relationship between MCS, CFS, and diabetes. He is a chemical toxicologist who has been studying the consequences of chemical combinations on human health. Dr. Zeliger wrote the book "Human Toxicology of Chemical Mixtures". A write-up appeared in the MCS America News in October of 2008 and may be found at http://mcs-america.org/October2008pg11121314.pdf.
Please take a moment to answer this brief 5 question survey, which can be accessed here:
Please take a moment to answer this brief 5 question survey, which can be accessed here:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/CPTJZM2. Thank you very much for taking the time to complete this survey. The results will help physicians and scientists better understand the nature of these conditions and hopefully lead to their prevention and treatment.
Permission to forward.
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Announcing an opportunity to be included in the documentary video Homesick about MCS and housing
From Susan Abod:
Announcing an opportunity to be included in the documentary video
Homesick about MCS and housing
Homesick about MCS and housing
The film is almost done, but I am looking for pictures of MCSers and where they live to create a collage showing there are lots of us out there around the world. You can view an 8 minute video clip and read more about the project on the Homesick website: http://homesick-video.com.
If you are interested, please send a photo of yourself where you live. It could be a room that you consider your "safest" place, a picture of your whole house, or your neighborhood or surrounding area. It may look "normal" or it may have been foiled or fixed up showing what it took to make to make it safe for you. If you live in a car, trailer, or tent, send a picture of that. I hope to include people with all levels of health and show a wide variety of living situations, whether the situation is working for you, or not.
You can email me the picture as JPEG, PDF, or TIFF file to: mail@homesick-video.com. Please include your city, state, and country. You can also send your picture through the mail to: Homesick: Pictures, c/o Susan Abod, 11 Balsa Court, Santa Fe, NM 87508. Note that sending your picture grants permission for its use in the film.
If you have any questions you can email me at: mail@homesick-video.com. Please feel free to forward this to other MCSers that you may know of anywhere on the globe who might like to participate!
For more video and info visit: http://documentaries.org/cid-films/homesick/
Thank you and all the best,
Susan Abod
Producer, Homesick
If you are interested, please send a photo of yourself where you live. It could be a room that you consider your "safest" place, a picture of your whole house, or your neighborhood or surrounding area. It may look "normal" or it may have been foiled or fixed up showing what it took to make to make it safe for you. If you live in a car, trailer, or tent, send a picture of that. I hope to include people with all levels of health and show a wide variety of living situations, whether the situation is working for you, or not.
You can email me the picture as JPEG, PDF, or TIFF file to: mail@homesick-video.com. Please include your city, state, and country. You can also send your picture through the mail to: Homesick: Pictures, c/o Susan Abod, 11 Balsa Court, Santa Fe, NM 87508. Note that sending your picture grants permission for its use in the film.
If you have any questions you can email me at: mail@homesick-video.com. Please feel free to forward this to other MCSers that you may know of anywhere on the globe who might like to participate!
For more video and info visit: http://documentaries.org/cid-films/homesick/
Thank you and all the best,
Susan Abod
Producer, Homesick
Wearing perfume? You're not allowed in here
Wearing perfume? You're not allowed in here
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/story/2012-07-02/fragance-ban-allergies/55988704/1
"More businesses and government offices are asking employees, guests to refrain from wearing scents to help allergy sufferers breathe easier.
That's the message some government offices and hospitals are giving visitors."
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/story/2012-07-02/fragance-ban-allergies/55988704/1
"More businesses and government offices are asking employees, guests to refrain from wearing scents to help allergy sufferers breathe easier.
That's the message some government offices and hospitals are giving visitors."
Prenatal Exposure to Common Household Chemical Linked to Eczema
Prenatal Exposure to Common Household Chemical Linked to Eczema
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_126709.html
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_126709.html
"Babies born to women who were exposed to the common household chemical butyl benzyl phthalate (BBzP) during pregnancy are at greater risk for childhood eczema, new research suggests.
BBzP is used in vinyl flooring, artificial leather and other materials, and can be released into the air, the researchers said."
Sunday, July 1, 2012
NEWSLETTER: MCS America News - July 2012
MCSA NEWS
July 2012, Volume 7, Issue 7
Entire PDF Edition: http://mcs-america.org/July2012.pdf (View, Download, and Print)
Direct Links to Articles Inside This Issue:
The Biological Effects of Weak Electromagnetic Fields
Problems and Solutions, Part 1
http://mcs-america.org/July2012pg23456789101112131415161718.pdf
Patient Support & Resources
http://mcs-america.org/July2012pg1920212223242526.pdf
Community News
http://mcs-america.org/July2012pg27.pdf
Featured Research Studies
http://mcs-america.org/July2012pg282930.pdf
Multiple Chemical Sensitivities
Copyrighted © 2012 MCS
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Friday, June 29, 2012
Experts Say Protocols for Identifying Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals Inadequate & Other Endrocrine News
Simpler Lifestyle Found to Reduce Exposure to Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals
http://www.newswise.com/articles/simpler-lifestyle-found-to-reduce-exposure-to-endocrine-disrupting-chemicals
Exposure to Environmental Chemicals In the Womb Reprograms the Rodent Brain To Disrupt Reproduction
http://www.newswise.com/articles/exposure-to-environmental-chemicals-in-the-womb-reprograms-the-rodent-brain-to-disrupt-reproduction
Experts Say Protocols for Identifying Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals Inadequate
http://www.newswise.com/articles/experts-say-protocols-for-identifying-endocrine-disrupting-chemicals-inadequate
http://www.newswise.com/articles/simpler-lifestyle-found-to-reduce-exposure-to-endocrine-disrupting-chemicals
Exposure to Environmental Chemicals In the Womb Reprograms the Rodent Brain To Disrupt Reproduction
http://www.newswise.com/articles/exposure-to-environmental-chemicals-in-the-womb-reprograms-the-rodent-brain-to-disrupt-reproduction
Experts Say Protocols for Identifying Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals Inadequate
http://www.newswise.com/articles/experts-say-protocols-for-identifying-endocrine-disrupting-chemicals-inadequate
Monsanto Sneak Attack, Message from Rio, Obama's Betrayal
|
In 2007, Senator Obama, campaigning for the presidency in the Democratic primary, 
Monsanto is using its money and influence to push Congress to attach a rider to the 2013 Agriculture Appropriations bill that would effectively end judicial review of approvals of new genetically engineered crops. 
Little Bytes
Chemicals in furniture target of Calif. lawmakers
Chemicals in furniture target of Calif. lawmakers
http://www.sfgate.com/health/article/Chemicals-in-furniture-target-of-Calif-lawmakers-3661414.php#photo-3117387
"The foam in furniture sold in California has to meet flammability standards set by state regulators in 1975. The cheapest way for furniture makers do that is by using chemicals, many of which have been linked to cancer, reproductive problems and other health concerns, but are not banned."
http://www.sfgate.com/health/article/Chemicals-in-furniture-target-of-Calif-lawmakers-3661414.php#photo-3117387
"The foam in furniture sold in California has to meet flammability standards set by state regulators in 1975. The cheapest way for furniture makers do that is by using chemicals, many of which have been linked to cancer, reproductive problems and other health concerns, but are not banned."
Potential changes to green building standards rile chemical, vinyl trade groups
[COMMENT: Gee, poor things! Always about the money!]
Potential changes to green building standards rile chemical, vinyl trade groups
"Twenty trade groups representing the plastics, vinyl and chemical industries are lobbying to stop the General Services Administration from adopting proposed new standards for green building construction, saying the changes could eliminate the use of hundreds of their products in construction projects."
Bisphenol A exposure linked to brain tumor diagnosis.
Bisphenol A exposure linked to brain tumor diagnosis.
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/newscience/2012/05/2012-0605-bpa-brain-cancer-meningioma/
"Exposure to bisphenol A may be a risk factor for a common type of brain tumor called meningioma, reports a study from China. This is the first study to suggest a link between brain cancer and the chemical, which is widely used in consumer products.
Those with the highest urine BPA levels were about 1.6 times more likely to be diagnosed with meningioma compared to those with lower concentrations.
This link was observed even after accounting for other factors associated with meningioma. More research is needed to confirm the findings."
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/newscience/2012/05/2012-0605-bpa-brain-cancer-meningioma/
"Exposure to bisphenol A may be a risk factor for a common type of brain tumor called meningioma, reports a study from China. This is the first study to suggest a link between brain cancer and the chemical, which is widely used in consumer products.
Those with the highest urine BPA levels were about 1.6 times more likely to be diagnosed with meningioma compared to those with lower concentrations.
This link was observed even after accounting for other factors associated with meningioma. More research is needed to confirm the findings."
Cytoprotective effect of hyaluronic acid and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose against DNA damage induced by thimerosal in Chang conjunctival cells.
Cytoprotective effect of hyaluronic acid and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose against DNA damage induced by thimerosal in Chang conjunctival cells.
Ye J, Zhang H, Wu H, Wang C, Shi X, Xie J, He J, Yang J.
Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol. 2012 Jun 24. [Epub ahead of print]
Source
Department of Ophthalmology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China, yejuan@zju.edu.cn.
Department of Ophthalmology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China, yejuan@zju.edu.cn.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
To investigate genotoxicity of the preservative thimerosal (Thi), and the cytoprotective and antioxidant effects of hyaluronic Acid (HA) and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) on Chang conjunctival cells.
To investigate genotoxicity of the preservative thimerosal (Thi), and the cytoprotective and antioxidant effects of hyaluronic Acid (HA) and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) on Chang conjunctival cells.
METHOD:
Cells were divided into three groups. One group was exposed to Thi at various concentrations (0.00001 %∼0.001 %) for 30 min; the other two groups were pretreated with 0.3 % HA or 0.3 % HPMC for 30 min before the Thi exposure. After cell viability was evaluated, alkaline comet assay and detection of the phosphorylated form of the histone variant H2AX (γH2AX) foci were used to determine DNA damage. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was assessed by the fluorescent probe, 2', 7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA).
Cells were divided into three groups. One group was exposed to Thi at various concentrations (0.00001 %∼0.001 %) for 30 min; the other two groups were pretreated with 0.3 % HA or 0.3 % HPMC for 30 min before the Thi exposure. After cell viability was evaluated, alkaline comet assay and detection of the phosphorylated form of the histone variant H2AX (γH2AX) foci were used to determine DNA damage. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was assessed by the fluorescent probe, 2', 7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA).
RESULTS:
A significant change of cell viability was observed after exposure to 0.001 % Thi for 30 min. DNA single- and double-strand breaks were significantly increased in a dose-dependent manner with Thi exposure. In addition, intracellular ROS induced by Thi was dose-dependent, except at 0.001 % less ROS was induced than at 0.0005 %. However, cells pretreated with 0.3 % HA or 0.3 % HPMC showed significantly increased cell survival, decreased DNA damage, and decreased ROS production compared to cells exposed to Thi alone. Pretreatment with 0.3 % HA was found to be even more protective than 0.3 % HPMC.
A significant change of cell viability was observed after exposure to 0.001 % Thi for 30 min. DNA single- and double-strand breaks were significantly increased in a dose-dependent manner with Thi exposure. In addition, intracellular ROS induced by Thi was dose-dependent, except at 0.001 % less ROS was induced than at 0.0005 %. However, cells pretreated with 0.3 % HA or 0.3 % HPMC showed significantly increased cell survival, decreased DNA damage, and decreased ROS production compared to cells exposed to Thi alone. Pretreatment with 0.3 % HA was found to be even more protective than 0.3 % HPMC.
CONCLUSION:
Thi can induce DNA damage in human conjunctival epithelial cells, probably due to oxidative stress. HA and HPMC are protective agents that have antioxidant properties and can decrease DNA damage induced by Thi. Pretreatment of 0.3 % HA may be more protective of the ocular surface than 0.3 % HPMC.
Thi can induce DNA damage in human conjunctival epithelial cells, probably due to oxidative stress. HA and HPMC are protective agents that have antioxidant properties and can decrease DNA damage induced by Thi. Pretreatment of 0.3 % HA may be more protective of the ocular surface than 0.3 % HPMC.
PMID: 22729468 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Expression profiling and gene ontology analysis in fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) liver following exposure to pulp and paper mill effluents.
Expression profiling and gene ontology analysis in fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) liver following exposure to pulp and paper mill effluents.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22728206.1
Costigan SL, Werner J, Ouellet JD, Hill LG, Law RD.
Aquat Toxicol. 2012 Jun 1;122-123C:44-55. [Epub ahead of print]
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22728206.1
Costigan SL, Werner J, Ouellet JD, Hill LG, Law RD.
Aquat Toxicol. 2012 Jun 1;122-123C:44-55. [Epub ahead of print]
Source
Department of Biology, Lakehead University, 955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 5E1, Canada.
Department of Biology, Lakehead University, 955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 5E1, Canada.
Abstract
Many studies link pulp and paper mill effluent (PPME) exposure to adverse effects in fish populations present in the mill receiving environments. These impacts are often characteristic of endocrine disruption and may include impaired reproduction, development and survival. While these physiological endpoints are well-characterized, the molecular mechanisms causing them are not yet understood. To investigate changes in gene transcription induced by exposure to a PPME at several stages of treatment, male and female fathead minnows (FHMs) were exposed for 6days to 25% (v/v) secondary (biologically) treated kraft effluent (TK) or 100% (v/v) combined mill outfall (CMO) from a mill producing both kraft pulp and newsprint. The gene expression changes in the livers of these fish were analyzed using a 22K oligonucleotide microarray. Exposure to TK or CMO resulted in significant changes in the expression levels of 105 and 238 targets in male FHMs and 296 and 133 targets in females, respectively. Targets were then functionally analyzed using gene ontology tools to identify the biological processes in fish hepatocytes that were affected by exposure to PPME after its secondary treatment. Proteolysis was affected in female FHMs exposed to both TK and CMO. In male FHMs, no processes were affected by TK exposure, while sterol, isoprenoid, steroid and cholesterol biosynthesis and electron transport were up-regulated by CMO exposure. The results presented in this study indicate that short-term exposure to PPMEs affects the expression of reproduction-related genes in the livers of both male and female FHMs, and that secondary treatment of PPMEs may not neutralize all of their metabolic effects in fish. Gene ontology analysis of microarray data may enable identification of biological processes altered by toxicant exposure and thus provide an additional tool for monitoring the impact of PPMEs on fish populations.
Many studies link pulp and paper mill effluent (PPME) exposure to adverse effects in fish populations present in the mill receiving environments. These impacts are often characteristic of endocrine disruption and may include impaired reproduction, development and survival. While these physiological endpoints are well-characterized, the molecular mechanisms causing them are not yet understood. To investigate changes in gene transcription induced by exposure to a PPME at several stages of treatment, male and female fathead minnows (FHMs) were exposed for 6days to 25% (v/v) secondary (biologically) treated kraft effluent (TK) or 100% (v/v) combined mill outfall (CMO) from a mill producing both kraft pulp and newsprint. The gene expression changes in the livers of these fish were analyzed using a 22K oligonucleotide microarray. Exposure to TK or CMO resulted in significant changes in the expression levels of 105 and 238 targets in male FHMs and 296 and 133 targets in females, respectively. Targets were then functionally analyzed using gene ontology tools to identify the biological processes in fish hepatocytes that were affected by exposure to PPME after its secondary treatment. Proteolysis was affected in female FHMs exposed to both TK and CMO. In male FHMs, no processes were affected by TK exposure, while sterol, isoprenoid, steroid and cholesterol biosynthesis and electron transport were up-regulated by CMO exposure. The results presented in this study indicate that short-term exposure to PPMEs affects the expression of reproduction-related genes in the livers of both male and female FHMs, and that secondary treatment of PPMEs may not neutralize all of their metabolic effects in fish. Gene ontology analysis of microarray data may enable identification of biological processes altered by toxicant exposure and thus provide an additional tool for monitoring the impact of PPMEs on fish populations.
A New Sensor for the Assessment of Personal Exposure to Volatile Organic Compounds.
A New Sensor for the Assessment of Personal Exposure to Volatile Organic Compounds.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22736952.1
Atmos Environ. 2012 Jul 1;54:679-687. Epub 2012 Feb 7.
Chen C, Campbell KD, Negi I, Iglesias RA, Owens P, Tao N, Tsow F, Forzani E.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22736952.1
Atmos Environ. 2012 Jul 1;54:679-687. Epub 2012 Feb 7.
Chen C, Campbell KD, Negi I, Iglesias RA, Owens P, Tao N, Tsow F, Forzani E.
Source
Center for Bioelectronics & Biosensors, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University.
Center for Bioelectronics & Biosensors, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University.
Abstract
To improve our understanding of indoor and outdoor personal exposures to common environmental toxicants released into the environment, new technologies that can monitor and quantify the toxicants anytime anywhere are needed. This paper presents a wearable sensor to provide such capabilities. The sensor can communicate with a common smart phone and provides accurate measurement of volatile organic compound concentration at a personal level in real time, providing environmental toxicants data every three minutes. The sensor has high specificity and sensitivity to aromatic, alkyl, and chlorinated hydrocarbons with a resolution as low as 4 parts per billion (ppb), with a detection range of 4 ppb to 1000 ppm (parts per million). The sensor's performance was validated using Gas Chromatography and Selected Ion Flow Tube - Mass Spectrometry reference methods in a variety of environments and activities with overall accuracy higher than 81% (r(2) > 0.9). Field tests examined personal exposure in various scenarios including: indoor and outdoor environments, traffic exposure in different cities which vary from 0 to 50 ppmC (part-per-million carbon from hydrocarbons), and pollutants near the 2010 Deepwater Horizon's oil spill. These field tests not only validated the performance but also demonstrated unprecedented high temporal and spatial toxicant information provided by the new technology.
To improve our understanding of indoor and outdoor personal exposures to common environmental toxicants released into the environment, new technologies that can monitor and quantify the toxicants anytime anywhere are needed. This paper presents a wearable sensor to provide such capabilities. The sensor can communicate with a common smart phone and provides accurate measurement of volatile organic compound concentration at a personal level in real time, providing environmental toxicants data every three minutes. The sensor has high specificity and sensitivity to aromatic, alkyl, and chlorinated hydrocarbons with a resolution as low as 4 parts per billion (ppb), with a detection range of 4 ppb to 1000 ppm (parts per million). The sensor's performance was validated using Gas Chromatography and Selected Ion Flow Tube - Mass Spectrometry reference methods in a variety of environments and activities with overall accuracy higher than 81% (r(2) > 0.9). Field tests examined personal exposure in various scenarios including: indoor and outdoor environments, traffic exposure in different cities which vary from 0 to 50 ppmC (part-per-million carbon from hydrocarbons), and pollutants near the 2010 Deepwater Horizon's oil spill. These field tests not only validated the performance but also demonstrated unprecedented high temporal and spatial toxicant information provided by the new technology.
PMID: 22736952 [PubMed]
Register Now for Post-Exertion Malaise Webinar, July 19
Register Now for Post-Exertion Malaise Webinar, July 19
http://www.prohealth.com/library/showarticle.cfm?libid=17071
On Thursday, July 19 at 2 pm EST, the CFIDS Association of America will host a webinar on the information that ME/CFS patients ask for most – post exertion relapse.
The webinar - "Top 10 Things You Need to Know about Post-Exertion Relapse" - will feature the Pacific Fatigue Lab's exercise physiologists Staci Stevens, Chris Snell, and Mark Van Ness.
This trio of fatigue analysts has worked for years, helped by CFIDS Association funding, to develop: 1) measures of post-exertion malaise (PEM), as a diagnostic test for chronic fatigue syndrome, and 2) measures of multiple body system functions as part of comprehensive disability evaluations.
Your questions invited. You can help shape their presentation by submitting any questions you have when you register.
REGISTER for the webinar at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/468532592
[Cell phones: health risks and prevention].
[Cell phones: health risks and prevention].
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=22670334
[Article in Italian]
Talamanca IF, Giliberti C, Salerno S.
Ann Ig. 2012 Jan-Feb;24(1):3-23.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=22670334
[Article in Italian]
Talamanca IF, Giliberti C, Salerno S.
Ann Ig. 2012 Jan-Feb;24(1):3-23.
Source
Facoltà di Scienze, Matematiche, Fisiche e Naturali, Sapienza Università di Roma. irene.figatalamanca@uniroma1.it
Abstract
The paper describes first of all the electromagnetic radiation of cellular phones and presents the physical parameters used to measure and evaluate the absorption of emissions of radio stations and cellular phones. It then presents selected research results of the experimental studies in vivo and in vitro which examine the biological effects of the emissions of cellular phones. The review of the epidemiologic evidence focuses in particular the epidemiologic studies on the use of cell phones and brain tumours, identifying some of the reasons of the conflicting results obtained. Studies dealing with the health risks involved in the increasing use of cellular phones by adolescents and children, more sensitive to this exposure, are also presented showing the need for special caution. The problem of hypersensitivity observed in some individuals is also briefly discussed. Finally the paper presents a summary of the main prevention measures necessary in order to reduce the risks in the framework of the "precautionary principle" including prevention policies and exposure limits in various countries.
PMID: 22670334 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
Monday, June 25, 2012
Can Exposure to Toxins Change Your DNA?
Can Exposure to Toxins Change Your DNA?
http://www.motherjones.com/blue-marble/2012/06/can-exposure-toxins-change-your-dna
"Let's face it, we're devoting enormous amounts of time and energy to minimize our exposures to toxins (think BPA, pesticides, and all the rest of the seemingly ubiquitous chemicals). But now an emerging body of research points to the disturbing possibility that such self-protective strategies might sometimes come decades, or even a century, too late.
If your great-grandmother experienced a brief toxic exposure, these studies suggest, you and your children could be at risk for reproductive illnesses and possibly other conditions. The presumed mechanism of this unfortunate inheritance is not a mutation in the DNA itself but rather changes in the biochemical on-off switches that determine whether or not specific genes get activated—a field of study known as epigenetics."
http://www.motherjones.com/blue-marble/2012/06/can-exposure-toxins-change-your-dna
"Let's face it, we're devoting enormous amounts of time and energy to minimize our exposures to toxins (think BPA, pesticides, and all the rest of the seemingly ubiquitous chemicals). But now an emerging body of research points to the disturbing possibility that such self-protective strategies might sometimes come decades, or even a century, too late.
If your great-grandmother experienced a brief toxic exposure, these studies suggest, you and your children could be at risk for reproductive illnesses and possibly other conditions. The presumed mechanism of this unfortunate inheritance is not a mutation in the DNA itself but rather changes in the biochemical on-off switches that determine whether or not specific genes get activated—a field of study known as epigenetics."
Farmworkers plagued by pesticides, red tape
Farmworkers plagued by pesticides, red tape
http://www.iwatchnews.org/2012/06/25/9159/farmworkers-plagued-pesticides-red-tape
http://www.iwatchnews.org/2012/06/25/9159/farmworkers-plagued-pesticides-red-tape
"Laboring in the blackberry fields of central Arkansas, the 18-year-old Mexican immigrant suddenly turned ill. Her nose began to bleed, her skin developed a rash, and she vomited. The doctor told her it was most likely flu or bacterial infection, but farmworker Tania Banda-Rodriguez suspected pesticides. Under federal law, growers must promptly report the chemicals they spray. It took the worker, and a Tennessee legal services lawyer helping her, six months to learn precisely what chemical doused those blackberry fields. The company ignored her requests for the information. The Arkansas State Plant Board initially refused to provide records to her lawyer, saying it didn't respond to out-of-state requests. An Arkansas inspector, dispatched after the complaint, didn't initially discern what pesticides were used the day the worker became ill, records show. When answers finally arrived — the fungicide was Switch 62.5WG, a chemical that can irritate the eyes and skin — Banda-Rodriguez had already left Arkansas to follow the season to Virginia and ultimately returned to Mexico. She never learned whether the pesticide sickened her. The episode is as telling a snapshot today as it was six years ago for one of America's most grueling and lowest-paying vocations. Pesticides can endanger farmworkers, but thin layers of government protect them and no one knows the full scope of the environmental perils in the fields."
Is Your Couch Trying to Kill You?
Is Your Couch Trying to Kill You?
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-06-24/is-your-couch-trying-to-kill-you-.html
"Imagine if government officials knew that certain chemicals were hazardous enough to cause health problems as serious as cancer and neurological defects, yet were largely powerless to restrict them. That, in a nutshell, is the state of chemical regulation in the U.S. On paper, the Environmental Protection Agency has the authority to regulate or ban toxic substances. In practice, the agency faces so many hurdles that it hasn't tried to do so since it made an ill-fated run at asbestos in 1991."
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-06-24/is-your-couch-trying-to-kill-you-.html
"Imagine if government officials knew that certain chemicals were hazardous enough to cause health problems as serious as cancer and neurological defects, yet were largely powerless to restrict them. That, in a nutshell, is the state of chemical regulation in the U.S. On paper, the Environmental Protection Agency has the authority to regulate or ban toxic substances. In practice, the agency faces so many hurdles that it hasn't tried to do so since it made an ill-fated run at asbestos in 1991."
U.S. consumers say 'No' to antibiotics
U.S. consumers say 'No' to antibiotics
http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Consumer-Corner/2012/06/24/Consumer-Corner-US-consumers-say-No-to-antibiotics/UPI-78791340526960/
"A U.S. consumer group is campaigning to get local supermarkets to sell only meat that has been raised without antibiotics. The campaign by Consumers Union, the public policy arm of Consumer Reports, coincides with the release of a study that suggests 86 percent of Americans want meat raised without antibiotics, which can be a difficult task due to misleading and unapproved labels, Consumer Reports said last week. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration earlier this year issued guidelines to cut back the use of antibiotics in animals raised for food."
http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Consumer-Corner/2012/06/24/Consumer-Corner-US-consumers-say-No-to-antibiotics/UPI-78791340526960/
"A U.S. consumer group is campaigning to get local supermarkets to sell only meat that has been raised without antibiotics. The campaign by Consumers Union, the public policy arm of Consumer Reports, coincides with the release of a study that suggests 86 percent of Americans want meat raised without antibiotics, which can be a difficult task due to misleading and unapproved labels, Consumer Reports said last week. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration earlier this year issued guidelines to cut back the use of antibiotics in animals raised for food."
Chemical giants push for global green 'standards' at Rio
Chemical giants push for global green 'standards' at Rio
http://www.euractiv.com/specialreport-rio20/chemical-giants-push-global-gree-news-513471
"Rattled in Europe by the REACH regulation and carbon dioxide emission curbs, international chemical companies are at the Rio Earth Summit determined to push for a global approach to environmental policy – but with a light regulatory touch. Speaking ahead of the Rio summit, international chemical firms were keen to convey the message that environmental standards are better if they are implemented globally."
http://www.euractiv.com/specialreport-rio20/chemical-giants-push-global-gree-news-513471
"Rattled in Europe by the REACH regulation and carbon dioxide emission curbs, international chemical companies are at the Rio Earth Summit determined to push for a global approach to environmental policy – but with a light regulatory touch. Speaking ahead of the Rio summit, international chemical firms were keen to convey the message that environmental standards are better if they are implemented globally."
Delhi govt wakes up to the menace of chemically enhanced veggies
Delhi govt wakes up to the menace of chemically enhanced veggies
http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/delhi-govt-wakes-up-to-the-menace-of-chemically-enhanced-veggies/1/202133.html
"Several studies have established the fact that the level of harmful chemicals in India's edible crops is perilously high because of excessive exposure to pesticides or other growth enhancers. Now, the Delhi government is planning to weed out this health hazard by detecting the specific contaminants in vegetables and fruits with the help of mega scanners right at the entry point."
http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/delhi-govt-wakes-up-to-the-menace-of-chemically-enhanced-veggies/1/202133.html
"Several studies have established the fact that the level of harmful chemicals in India's edible crops is perilously high because of excessive exposure to pesticides or other growth enhancers. Now, the Delhi government is planning to weed out this health hazard by detecting the specific contaminants in vegetables and fruits with the help of mega scanners right at the entry point."
Convulsion Risk From CSL Flu Vaccine Linked to Components
Convulsion Risk From CSL Flu Vaccine Linked to Components
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-06-20/convulsion-risk-from-csl-flu-shot-linked-to-viral-components.html
"Convulsions in children immunized with a CSL Ltd. (CSL) flu shot probably were caused by an excessive immune response to viral components in the vaccine, according to preliminary findings of a two-year study."
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-06-20/convulsion-risk-from-csl-flu-shot-linked-to-viral-components.html
"Convulsions in children immunized with a CSL Ltd. (CSL) flu shot probably were caused by an excessive immune response to viral components in the vaccine, according to preliminary findings of a two-year study."
Should You Put Sunscreen on Infants? Not Usually
Should You Put Sunscreen on Infants? Not Usually
http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm309136.htm?source=govdelivery
"You're at the beach, slathered in sunscreen. Your 5-month-old baby is there, too. Should you put sunscreen on her? Not usually, according to Hari Cheryl Sachs, M.D., a pediatrician at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)."
http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm309136.htm?source=govdelivery
"You're at the beach, slathered in sunscreen. Your 5-month-old baby is there, too. Should you put sunscreen on her? Not usually, according to Hari Cheryl Sachs, M.D., a pediatrician at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)."
Minutes of the 'Stakeholder Dialogue Group' on EMF
EU Commission
Minutes of the 'Stakeholder Dialogue Group' on EMF
http://ec.europa.eu/health/electromagnetic_fields/eu_actions/stakeholder_dialogue_group/index_en.htm
Minutes of the 'Stakeholder Dialogue Group' on EMF
http://ec.europa.eu/health/electromagnetic_fields/eu_actions/stakeholder_dialogue_group/index_en.htm
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