Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Ottawa to test for toxic dust in daycares

 
"Seek scientists to collect and analyze airborne grit to learn if children are exposed to harmful chemicals"

US Census Bureau and CDC Fragrance Free Policies

U.S Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and Department of Justice Civil Rights Division
Town Hall Listening Session on the ADAAA Proposed Regulations
Chicago, Illinois
11/17/09
http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/events/transcript-chic.cfm

"The U.S. Census Bureau recently issued a fragrance-free policy with implementing language in an effort to protect employees and accommodate disabled workers. In June 2009 the CDC issued an Indoor Environmental Quality Policy and accompanying Indoor Environmental Quality Guidelines to help ensure the health, safety of all individuals in its workplace who might be affected by indoor air contaminants.

Scented or fragranced products are prohibited at all times in all its user space owned, rented or leased by the Centers For Disease Control. This includes incense, candles, fragrance-emitting devices, potpourri, spray air fresheners, urinal and toilet blocks, and other fragranced deodorizer/reodorizer products. The policy notes some of the products with fragrance may be detrimental to the health of workers with chemical sensitivities, allergies, asthma and chronic headaches or migraines.

Three, I support the example on Page 48-442 and recommend the addition of pesticides in the list of inciting exposures. Pesticides are a significant and disabling exposure for those with chemical sensitivity and asthma. Pesticide-triggered asthma has become increasingly prevalent subsequent to the Federal Food Quality Protection Act which restricted the use of certain organophosphate pesticides from use in buildings and homes. Pyrethroids, a class of pesticides more frequently used subsequent to the law are known to have a more significant impact or breathing for some people due to the active ingredient an inert piperonyl butoxide, which is known to trigger asthma."

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Weak Rules on Toxins and Safety

Weak Rules on Toxins and Safety
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/31/business/economy/31leonhardt.html

"For 14 years until just last month, GlaxoSmithKline sold a denture cream called Super Poligrip that contained high levels of zinc.  The zinc helped with adhesion and was probably safe so long as people used moderate amounts of cream. Indeed, the human body needs small amounts of zinc to function. But some people ended up using much larger amounts, and they began to develop the kind of nerve damage associated with excess zinc."

Chemical cocktail affects humans and the environment

Chemical cocktail affects humans and the environment
http://www.physorg.com/news189079522.html

"Throughout our lives we are exposed to an enormous range of man-made chemicals, from food, water, medicines, cosmetics, clothes, shoes and the air we breathe. At the request of the EU, researchers at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, have looked at the risk of "chemical cocktails" and have proposed a number of measures that need to be implemented in the current practice of chemical risk assessment."

Journals Should Set Tougher Standards, Editors Say

Journals Should Set Tougher Standards, Editors Say
http://www.medpagetoday.com/PublicHealthPolicy/ClinicalTrials/19235 
 
"Editors of medical journals should unite in requiring independent statistical analyses of industry-sponsored clinical trials, according to the two top editors of the Journal of the American Medical Association."

Grade School Students Reject Styrofoam Lunch Trays


"Public school officials in Montgomery County, Md., are saying no to a plan which would allow one of its elementary schools to replace disposable Styrofoam lunch trays with reusable trays. This week, a student activist group met with county officials to try to change that."

The Truth About Air Fresheners

The Truth About Air Fresheners
http://www.comingalongside.org/Home_files/newsletter.pdf

"In 2009, Coming Alongside sponsored and coordinated a valuable collection of scientific presentations for the environmental health impact of air fresheners in indoor air."

New E.P.A. Scrutiny Is Set for a Chemical in Plastics

New E.P.A. Scrutiny Is Set for a Chemical in Plastics
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/30/science/earth/30epa.html?src=me

"The Environmental Protection Agency plans to add bisphenol-A, or BPA, a plastic widely used in food packaging and plastic bottles, to its list of chemicals of concern because of potential adverse impacts on the environment and human and animal health."

NEWSLETTER: MCS America News - April 2010


MCSA NEWS
April 2010, Volume 5, Issue 4


Entire PDF Edition: http://mcs-america.org/april2010.pdf (View, Download, and Print)

Direct Links to Articles Inside This Issue:

Lawsuit Results in Fragrance Ban for Detroit City Employees

http://mcs-america.org/April2010pg234.pdf

Why Vodaphone Should Not Increase the Power of Its Base Stations

http://mcs-america.org/April2010pg567891011.pdf

Building Biology: An Introduction

http://mcs-america.org/April2010pg12131415.pdf

Parents' Environmental Exposures Lead to Fetal Developmental Problems

http://mcs-america.org/April2010pg16.pdf

Odors in the Workplace

http://mcs-america.org/April2010pg1718.pdf

Inside MCS America

http://mcs-america.org/April2010pg19.pdf

Brain Scans Reveal Physical Brain Damage in Gulf War Veterans

http://mcs-america.org/April2010pg20.pdf

Patient Support and Resources

http://mcs-america.org/April2010pg2122232425262728.pdf

Community News

http://mcs-america.org/April2010pg29.pdf

Featured Research Studies

http://mcs-america.org/April2010pg303132.pdf

Multiple Chemical Sensitivities America
http://www.mcs-america.org

admin@mcs-america.org

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Monday, March 29, 2010

Pesticide chlorpyrifos is linked to childhood developmental delays

Pesticide chlorpyrifos is linked to childhood developmental delays  
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2010-03/cums-pci031810.php
 
"Exposure to the pesticide chlorpyrifos—which is banned for use in U.S. households but is still widely used throughout the agricultural industry—is associated with early childhood developmental delays, according to a study by researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health."

Prenatal Phthalate Exposure is Associated with Childhood Behavior and Executive Functioning

Prenatal Phthalate Exposure is Associated with Childhood Behavior and Executive Functioning

http://ehp03.niehs.nih.gov/article/fetchArticle.action?articleURI=info%3Adoi%2F10.1289%2Fehp.0901470#Ahead%20of%20Print%20%28AOP%29  
 
  • Download: PDF |  
    Stephanie M. Engel, Amir Miodovnik, Richard L. Canfield, Chenbo Zhu, Manori J. Silva, Antonia M. Calafat, Mary S. Wolff
     
     

    Background: Experimental and observational studies have reported biological consequences of phthalate exposure relevant to neurodevelopment.

     

    Objective: To examine the association of prenatal phthalate exposure with offspring behavior and executive functioning at ages 4 to 9 years.

     

    Methods: The Mount Sinai Children's Environmental Health Study enrolled a multiethnic prenatal population in New York City between 1998 and 2002 (n= 404). Third trimester maternal urines were collected and analyzed for phthalate metabolites. Children (n = 188, n = 365 visits) were assessed for cognitive and behavioral development between the ages of 4 and 9 years.

     

    Results: In multivariate adjusted models, increased loge concentrations of low molecular weight (LMW) phthalate metabolites were associated with poorer scores on the Aggression (β = 1.24, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 0.15, 2.34), Conduct Problems (β = 2.40, 95% CI 1.34, 3.46), Attention Problems (β = 1.29, 95% CI 0.16, 2.41), and Depression (β = 1.18, 95% CI 0.11, 2.24) clinical scales; and Externalizing Problems (β = 1.75, 95% CI 0.61, 2.88) and Behavioral Symptom Index (β = 1.55, 95% CI 0.39, 2.71) composite scales. Increased loge concentrations of LMW phthalates were also associated with poorer scores on the Global Executive Composite index (β = 1.23, 95% CI 0.09, 2.36), and the Emotional Control scale (β = 1.33, 95% CI 0.18, 2.49).

     

    Conclusion: Behavioral domains adversely associated with prenatal exposure to LMW phthalates in our study are commonly found to be affected in children clinically diagnosed with Conduct or Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders.


     

    Ahead of Print (AOP) 

    This EHP Ahead of Print (AOP) article has been peer-reviewed, revised, and accepted for publication. The EHP Ahead of Print (AOP) articles are completely citable using the assigned DOI code for the article. This document will be replaced with the copyedited and formatted version as soon as it is available. Through the DOI number used in the citation, you will be able to access this document at each stage of the publication process.


     
  • Scientists Say F.D.A. Ignored Radiation Warnings


    "Urgent warnings by government experts about the risks of routinely using powerful CT scans to screen patients for colon cancer were brushed aside by the Food and Drug Administration, according to agency documents and interviews with agency scientists."

    Plastic nanoparticles can move from mom to baby through placenta.

    Plastic nanoparticles can move from mom to baby through placenta.
    http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/newscience/plastic-nanoparticles-can-cross-placenta/

    "Research shows for the first time that plastic nanoparticles can cross the human placenta, possibly exposing the developing fetus to the tiny materials that are increasingly used in medicines, vaccines and personal care products."

    Tip 10: Green Cleaning this Spring

    Tip 10: Green Cleaning this Spring
    http://www.ewg.org/healthyhometips/greencleaning

    "Cleaning might be a chore, but it doesn't have to be toxic, too! Safer products and practices are available and easy. Why not go green when you clean? Your family's health is (naturally) worth it."

    Sunday, March 28, 2010

    Wi-Fi anxiety: Man sues neighbor to shut off electronics

    [Comment:  An obviusly biased author... the title shows that.  Instead of attacking a disabled man and purporting his medical condition is psychiatric even though it's well known that this type of non-ionizing radiation causes calcium ion channel leakage, it would be nice to see mention of a reasonable compromise, such as installing shielding devices.  The article takes comments if you would like to voice your opinion.]
     
    Wi-Fi anxiety: Man sues neighbor to shut off electronics
    http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-hometown-santa-fe28-2010mar28,0,2528354.story
     
    "The Santa Fe plaintiff claims to suffer from 'electromagnetic sensitivities' set off by cellphones, routers and other electronic devices."

    EPA Definition of MCS

    EPA has a great definition of MCS on their website:
    "Multiple Chemical Sensitivity: A diagnostic label for people who suffer multi-system illnesses as a result of contact with, or proximity to, a variety of airborne agents and other substances."

    Saturday, March 27, 2010

    Treatment of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), a multisystem disease, should target the pathophysiological aberrations (inflammatory and oxidative and nitrosative stress pathways), not the psychosocial "barriers" for a new equili

    Treatment of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), a multisystem disease, should target the pathophysiological aberrations (inflammatory and oxidative and nitrosative stress pathways), not the psychosocial "barriers" for a new equilibrium.

    Maes M, Twisk FN.
    Patient Educ Couns. 2010 Mar 17. [Epub ahead of print]
    Maes Clinics, Belgium.

    In a recent article published by B. van Houdenhove and P. Luyten it is claimed that cognitive behavioral therapy and graded exercise therapy (CBT/GET) are evidence based and are the most adequate treatments to control symptoms and improve quality of life of patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). However, these authors do not disclose that their own treatments at the Belgian CFS Reference Centers with CBT/GET have proven to have no clinical effects. The Belgian minister declared in the parliament that CBT/GET at those centers are no curative therapies. Even more, measured by objective standards the CBT/GET approach has shown to be counterproductive. van Houdenhove and Luyten neglect or deny all scientific findings on the pathophysiology and possible medical treatments of ME/CFS. However, there is now a consensus that inflammatory and oxidative and nitrosative (IO&NS) pathways underpin the pathophysiology of ME/CFS in humans and in animal models as well. Human and animal data show that treatments which target IO&NS pathways are useful in treating ME/CFS. van Houdenhove and Luyten also propose that the time has come to shift treatment research in CFS from efficacy studies to effectiveness studies in 'real life'. In our opinion, future research should use a high throughput screening, made possible by the translational approach, in order to further examine the IO&NS pathways in detail; further delineate novel drug-targets in the IO&NS pathways and develop new drugs to treat this complex and serious medical disorder.

    PMID: 20303231 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

    [Multiple chemical sensitivit y: Epidemiological, clinical and prognostic differences between occupational and non-occupational cases.]

    [Multiple chemical sensitivity: Epidemiological, clinical and prognostic differences between occupational and non-occupational cases.]

    [Article in Spanish]
    Nogué Xarau S, Alarcón Romay M, Martínez Martínez JM, Delclós Clanchet J, Rovira Prat E, Fernández Solà J.
    Med Clin (Barc). 2010 Mar 18. [Epub ahead of print]
    Unidad de Toxicología Clínica, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, España.

    BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The progressive increase in cases of multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) syndrome and the lack of studies which associate the syndrome with possible occupational origins means that further research in this field is required. The objective of this study was to compare the epidemiological, clinical and prognostic aspects of cases of MCS of occupational and non-occupational origin.
     
    PATIENTS AND METHOD: Observational study of patients diagnosed with MCS by the toxicology outpatients clinic of the Hospital Clinic of Barcelona between 2002 and 2007. The occupational and non-occupational origin of MCS was considered as an independent variable. The dependant variables were occupational activity, triggering agents of MCS, chemical agents associated with the development of clinical manifestations, severity of the symptoms, comorbidities and work disability. Percentages were compared between groups.
     
    RESULTS: A total of 165 patients were included: The mean age was 47.7 years and 90.9% were women. There were significant differences between patients of occupational and non-occupational origin with respect to comorbidities such as chronic fatigue syndrome (68.1% versus 88.5%; p=0.002) and fibromyalgia (49.3% versus 73.9%; p=0.002), temporary disability (60.9% versus 39.6%; p=0.006) and permanent disability (8.7% versus 22.9%; p=0.006).
     
    CONCLUSIONS: Cases of MCS attributed to an occupational origin had fewer comorbidities and less permanent disability than those of non-occupational origin.

    PMID: 20303541 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

    Alternative flame retardants leach into the environment

    Alternative flame retardants leach into the environment
     
    "Two chemicals that are becoming widely used replacements for potentially toxic flame retardants in household products such as televisions and furniture have shown up in peregrine falcon eggs in California. The discovery, part of a larger study monitoring contaminants in wildlife, adds to evidence that these new flame retardants escape into and persist in the environment, as the original ones do."

    Woman sues American Airlines claiming toxic cabin air

    Woman sues American Airlines claiming toxic cabin air
    Woman seeking $50,000, felt ill after flight from Chicago to San Juan
    http://www.wgntv.com/news/wgntv-cabin-air-lawsuit-march25,0,1806422.story

    "An American Airlines passenger is suing the airline after being exposed to what she claims to be "toxic fumes that entered the passenger cabin" causing her to eventually "cough up blood" and suffer "a nearly fatal stroke.""

    China uses perfume to sweeten landfill

     
    Comment:  Sounds like a great way to add to the stink and make it highly toxic.  Perfume can't remove odor.  It just makes more stench.

    "Beijing officials hope spraying perfume from 100 high-pressure nozzles around a major landfill can temporarily end complaints about the stink."

    Cleanroom Trials Could Shed Light on Autism

    Cleanroom Trials Could Shed Light on Autism
    http://www.cemag.us/News_Articles.asp?pid=853  

    "A controversial study pioneering the use of cleanrooms in the treatment of autism has begun in Pittsburgh. The method involves autistic children having to spend hours inside a controlled environment."

    Is Fluoride Good for You or is Fluoride Bad for You?

    Is Fluoride Good for You or is Fluoride Bad for You? 

    "What do you need to know about the fluoride that is in your drinking and bathing water and the products you consume? Is there a situation that needs action on your part? Where do you go for truth on the subject? A few simple facts and you can make up your own mind."

    Wireless concerns: Parents blame children's health problems on schools' Wi-Fi technology

    Wireless concerns
    Parents blame children's health problems on schools' Wi-Fi technology
    http://www.orilliapacket.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=2501792

    "Federal guidelines for the use of wireless technology are outdated and should be more in line with emerging research, experts say. And some Simcoe County parents, who say their kids have experienced adverse health effects as a result of wireless Internet (Wi-Fi) in their schools, agree."

    MCS researcher Martin Pall to speak in five European countries

    MCS researcher Martin Pall to speak in five European countries  

    "I will be giving 11 talks in five countries in Europe, starting on the tenth of April, all on the NO/ONOO cycle. Nine of these are being scheduled to correspond with my trip to Europe, including several entire meetings. The talks are as follows:"

    Friday, March 26, 2010

    Sickness Stalks Indian Farmers Using Chemical Banned in Europe

    Sickness Stalks Indian Farmers Using Chemical Banned in Europe
    http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-03-25/sickness-stalks-indian-farmers-using-chemical-banned-in-europe.html

    "Seven-year-old Yeshaswini Gowda lies on the floor of her home in southern India unable to talk or walk. Her mother blames the severe disability on endosulfan, an insecticide banned in 60 countries."

    Thursday, March 25, 2010

    MCS Awareness Month Chick - Chemicals Can Hurt You (Sign)

    MCS Awareness Month Chick - Chemicals Can Hurt You (Sign)

    Rescue the Peasants by Elizabeth Dover (An MCS patient story)

    Rescue the Peasants by Elizabeth Dover (An MCS patient story)
    http://www.mcs-america.org/RescueThePeasants12-07.pdf

    What is Electrosensitivity?

    What is Electrosensitivity?
    http://www.mcs-america.org/index_files/EHS.htm

    What is Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS)?

    What is Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS)?
    http://www.mcs-america.org/index_files/MCS.htm

    Beachwood neighborhood health problems: Lawsuit targets Merck

    Beachwood neighborhood health problems: Lawsuit targets Merck
    http://www.mercedsunstar.com/2010/03/25/1361870/beachwood-neighborhood-health.html

    "Pharmaceutical company denies allegations subsidiary contaminated drinking water in area."

    Taking Showers Could Contaminate Drinking Water

    Taking Showers Could Contaminate Drinking Water
    http://news.discovery.com/earth/showers-pollution-drinking-water.html?print=true

    "Keeping yourself clean may pollute the environment."

    Gender-bender chemicals 'putting everyone at risk'


    "Health risk: Bisphenol A is used to make polycarbonate plastic, which is found in many baby bottles (posed by models)

    Millions of people have been contaminated with potentially dangerous gender-bending chemicals from food packaging, drinks cans and baby bottles, a study shows."

    March is National Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Awareness Month

    March is National Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Awareness Month
    http://www.emaxhealth.com/1506/39/36177/march-national-chronic-fatigue-syndrome-awareness-month.html

    "Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) may affect between 1 and 4 million Americans, yet only about half have consulted a physician for their illness, according to the CDC. The earlier a person with CFS receives medical treatment, the greater the likelihood that the illness will resolve. March is designated as National Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Month to raise awareness for this debilitating condition."

    What's Cookin'? It Could Be Air Pollution

    What's Cookin'? It Could Be Air Pollution
    http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_96791.html

    "Yummy commercial food smells contain noxious gases, researchers say"
     

    NU study: Dirt's good for kids

    NU study: Dirt's good for kids
    http://www.chicagotribune.com/health/ct-x-n-health-dirt-20100324,0,6756958.story

    "Playing in, and even eating, dirt helps develop immune system, report says."

    Porter: How a family reduced its toxic footprint

    Porter: How a family reduced its toxic footprint
    http://www.healthzone.ca/health/newsfeatures/article/784935--how-a-family-reduced-their-toxic-footprint-at-home

    "I stick my nose deep into Marika Goode's armpit and inhale.

    She's right. She doesn't stink. Not bad for a woman who hasn't purchased deodorant for a year.

    Her breath smells minty. And her hair is voluminous and shiny. She hasn't bought toothpaste or shampoo for a year either.

    How does she do it?"

    EPA Releases Public Database on Risk Assessments

     

    EPA Releases Public Database on Risk Assessments

     

    WASHINGTON - Today, EPA is releasing the Health and Environmental Research Online (HERO) database, a milestone in transparency.  HERO provides access to the scientific studies used in making key regulatory decisions, including EPA's periodic review of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for six major pollutants.  It is part of the open government directive to conduct business with transparency, participation, and collaboration. 

     

    <snip>

     

    HERO includes peer-reviewed literature used by EPA to develop its Integrated Science Assessments (ISA) that feed into the NAAQS review.  It also includes references and data from the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS), a database that supports critical agency policymaking for chemical regulation.

     

    More information on HERO database: http://www.epa.gov/hero

     

    More information on IRIS: http://www.epa.gov/iris

    Could be hard to avoid these 7 cleaning ingredients, but you should try

    Could be hard to avoid these 7 cleaning ingredients, but you should try
    http://www.enviroblog.org/2010/03/labels-without-ingredients-seen-any-lately.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Enviroblog+%28Enviroblog%29

    "A few weeks ago I stood in the cleaning aisle wondering what to get. Since I'm a die-hard label reader, I grabbed some containers and turned them around so I could assess the ingredients.

    On one, there was no ingredient list - at all. On another, I could see what exactly 1.2% of the ingredients were. The other 98.8% were listed as "other ingredients." So much for informing the consumer."

    Wednesday, March 24, 2010

    Social Networks a Lifeline for the Chronically Ill

    Social Networks a Lifeline for the Chronically Ill
    http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/25/technology/25disable.html?pagewanted=print

    "A former model who is now chronically ill and struggles just to shower says the people she has met online have become her family. A quadriplegic man uses the Web to share tips on which places have the best wheelchair access, and a woman with multiple sclerosis says her regular Friday night online chats are her lifeline."

    Health Tip: Reduce Baby's Exposure to BPA

    Health Tip: Reduce Baby's Exposure to BPA
    http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_96679.html

    "The chemical is found in many plastics"

    Pesticide Labels Too Vague

    Pesticide Labels Too Vague
    http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_96693.html

    "Conditions for safe use need spelling out, research suggests"

    Monday, March 22, 2010

    Call to tackle pollution 'role in 50,000 early deaths'

    Call to tackle pollution 'role in 50,000 early deaths'
    http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8578952.stm

    "The report estimates the health costs of air pollution at up to £20.2bn a year"

    Common Pesticide Tied to Development Delays in Kids

    Common Pesticide Tied to Development Delays in Kids
    http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_96627.html

    "Chlorpyrifos, used on fruits and vegetables, affects mental and motor skill development, researchers say."

    Pesticide chlorpyrifos is linked to childhood developmental delays

    Pesticide chlorpyrifos is linked to childhood developmental delays  
    http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2010-03/cums-pci031810.php

    "Exposure to the pesticide chlorpyrifos—which is banned for use in U.S. households but is still widely used throughout the agricultural industry—is associated with early childhood developmental delays, according to a study by researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health."

    Sunday, March 21, 2010

    Dirty Electricity Elevates Blood Sugar Among Electrically Sensitive Diabetics and May Explain Brittle Diabetes

    Short youtube video (7 min.) on diabetes and electrosmog (dirty
    electricity), based on the below published scientific paper
    http://www.youtube.com/user/magdahavas#p/u/10/gJcM6RZwyfA
    _____________________________________
    Electromagnetic Biology and Medicine, 27: 135–146, 2008
    Copyright C Informa Healthcare USA, Inc.
    ISSN 1536-8378 print/1536-8386 online
    DOI: 10.1080/15368370802072075

    Dirty Electricity Elevates Blood Sugar Among Electrically Sensitive
    Diabetics and May Explain Brittle Diabetes

    MAGDA HAVAS

    Environmental & Resource Studies, Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario,
    Canada

    Transient electromagnetic fields (dirty electricity), in the kilohertz range
    on electrical wiring, may be contributing to elevated blood sugar levels
    among diabetics and prediabetics. By closely following plasma glucose
    levels in four Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics, we find that they responded
    directly to the amount of dirty electricity in their environment. In an
    electromagnetically clean environment, Type 1 diabetics require less insulin
    and Type 2 diabetics have lower levels of plasma glucose. Dirty electricity,
    generated by electronic equipment and wireless devices, is ubiquitous in the
    environment. Exercise on a treadmill, which produces dirty electricity,
    increases plasma glucose. These findings may explain why brittle diabetics
    have difficulty regulating blood sugar. Based on estimates of people who
    suffer from symptoms of electrical hypersensitivity (3–35%), as many as 5–60
    million diabetics worldwide may be affected. Exposure to electromagnetic
    pollution in its various forms may account for higher plasma glucose levels
    and may contribute to the misdiagnosis of diabetes. Reducing exposure to
    electromagnetic pollution by avoidance or with specially designed GS filters
    may enable some diabetics to better regulate their blood sugar with less
    medication and borderline or pre-diabetics to remain non diabetic longer.

    Keywords Radio frequency; Transients; Dirty electricity; Power quality;
    Plasma glucose; Blood sugar; Insulin; GS filters; Electrohypersensitivity;
    Brittle diabetes; Type 3 diabetes; Type 2 diabetes; Type 1 diabetes.

    Babies dead after anti-measles shots in MP

    Babies dead after anti-measles shots in MP

    "Four babies have died after being given anti-measles shots at a government vaccination camp in Madhya Pradesh, prompting the arrest of a doctor and a nurse amid fears that expired drugs had been used."

    Bees face 'unprecedented' pesticide exposures at home and afield

    Bees face 'unprecedented' pesticide exposures at home and afield
    http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/57474/title/Bees_face_unprecedented_pesticide_exposures_at_home_and_afield
    "For years the news has been the same: Honey bees are being hammered by some mysterious environmental plaque that has a name -- colony collapse disorder – but no established cause. A two-year study now provides evidence indicting one likely group of suspects: pesticides. It found "unprecedented levels" of mite-killing chemicals and crop pesticides in hives across the United States and parts of Canada."

    GAO report scolds EPA

    GAO report scolds EPA
    http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2010-03-17-epa-children-pollution_N.htm

    "During the past decade, the Environmental Protection Agency's commitment to keeping children safe from toxic chemicals has lapsed, and top officials routinely ignored scores of recommendations by the agency's own children's health advisory committee, according to a report released Wednesday by the Government Accountability Office."

    Exposure to environmental toxins can be minimized

    Exposure to environmental toxins can be minimized
    http://www.pennlive.com/bodyandmind/index.ssf/2010/03/exposure_to_environmental_toxi.html

    "The air we breathe, the food we eat, the house we live in, the grass we walk on — all contain toxic substances that could be harmful to our health. These environmental toxins are a part of our daily lives, mostly invisible and in some cases, seemingly unavoidable."

    Saturday, March 20, 2010

    Neuropsychological and Psychiatric Functioning in Sheep Farmers Exposed to Low Levels of Organophosphate Pesticides.

    Neuropsychological and Psychiatric Functioning in Sheep Farmers Exposed to Low Levels of Organophosphate Pesticides.
    Mackenzie Ross SJ, Brewin CR, Curran HV, Furlong CE, Abraham-Smith KM, Harrison V.
    Neurotoxicol Teratol. 2010 Mar 11. [Epub ahead of print]

    Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT.
    The study aim was to determine whether low level exposure to organophosphate pesticides (OPs) causes neuropsychological or psychiatric impairment. Methodological weaknesses of earlier studies were addressed by: recruiting participants who had retired on ill health grounds; excluding participants with a history of acute poisoning, medical or psychiatric conditions that might account for ill health; and exploring factors which may render some individuals more vulnerable to the effects of OPs than others. Performance on tests of cognition and mood of 127 exposed sheep farmers (67 working, 60 retired) was compared with 78 unexposed controls (38 working, 40 retired) and published test norms derived from a cross section of several thousand adults in the general population. Over 40% of the exposed cohort reported clinically significant levels of anxiety and depression compared to less than 23% of controls. Exposed subjects performed significantly worse than controls and standardisation samples on tests of memory, response speed, fine motor control, mental flexibility and strategy making, even after controlling for the effects of mood. The pattern was similar for both working and retired groups. The cognitive deficits identified can not be attributed to mood disorder, malingering, a history of acute exposure or genetic vulnerability in terms of PON1(192) polymorphisms. Results suggest a relationship may exist between low level exposure to organophosphates and impaired neurobehavioural functioning and these findings have implications for working practice and for other occupational groups exposed to OPs such as Aviation Workers and Gulf War Veterans. Copyright © 2010. Published by Elsevier Inc.

    PMID: 20227490 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

    An in vitro model to evaluate the inflammatory response after gaseous formaldehyde exposure of lung epithelial cells.

    An in vitro model to evaluate the inflammatory response after gaseous formaldehyde exposure of lung epithelial cells.
    Persoz C, Achard S, Leleu C, Momas I, Seta N.
    Toxicol Lett. 2010 Mar 9. [Epub ahead of print]

    Université Paris Descartes, Laboratoire de Santé Publique et Environnement-EA 4064. Paris, France.
    Asthma is a public health problem worldwide, and indoor air pollution considered to be a potential etiology. New tools need to be developed to study the effects of air pollutants in vitro and modelize inhalation exposure. This study was thus set up to design an in vitro model, using a direct exposure device to study the cellular effects of air pollutants at environmental doses on lung epithelial cells, and apply this to gaseous formaldehyde (FA). A549 cells were exposed using the direct exposure device (air/liquid interface) to FA without, after and before TNFalpha (1ng/mL) sensitization. 24h after exposure, cellular viability (XTT) and inflammation (IL-6, IL-8 and MCP-1) were assessed. No effects on cellular viability were observed for concentrations </= 50mug/m(3). After TNFalpha sensitization, FA exposure induced a significant increase in IL-8 (p<0.001), which could lead to the initiation or pathogenesis of non-specific respiratory inflammation. The results of this study demonstrate the feasibility and sensitivity of the exposure system for testing inflammatory cellular effects of indoor gaseous compounds at environmental doses directly on human respiratory cells. Copyright © 2010. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

    PMID: 20226236 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

    Personal, indoor, and outdoor exposure to VOCs in the immediate vicinity of a local airport.

    Personal, indoor, and outdoor exposure to VOCs in the immediate vicinity of a local airport.
    Jung KH, Artigas F, Shin JY.
    Environ Monit Assess. 2010 Mar 17. [Epub ahead of print]

    New Jersey Meadowlands Commission, Meadowlands Environmental Research Institute, 1 DeKorte Park Plaza, Lyndhurst, NJ, 07071, USA.
    This study measures the effect of emissions from an airport on the air quality of surrounding neighborhoods. The ambient concentrations of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and o-, m-, and p-xylene (BTEX) were measured using passive samplers at 15 households located close to the airport (indoor, outdoor, and personal), at the end of airport runways and an out-of-neighborhood location. Measurements occurred over a 48-h period during summer 2006 and winter 2006-2007. The average concentrations were 0.84, 3.21, 0.30, 0.99, and 0.34 mug/m(3) at the airport runways and 0.84, 3.76, 0.39, 1.22, and 0.39 mug/m(3) in the neighborhood for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, m-, p-, and o-xylene. The average neighborhood concentrations were not significantly different to those measured at the airport runways and were higher than the out-of-neighborhood location (0.48, 1.09, 0.15, 0.78, and 0.43 mug/m(3), each BTEX). B/T ratios were used as a tracer for emission sources and the average B/T ratio at the airport and outdoors were 0.20 and 0.23 for the summer and 0.40 and 0.42 for the winter, suggesting that both areas are affected by the same emission source. Personal exposure was closely related to levels in the indoor environment where subjects spent most of their time. Indoor/outdoor (I/O) ratios for BTEX ranged from 1.13 to 2.60 and 1.41 to 3.02 for summer and winter. The seasonal differences in I/O ratios reflected residential ventilation patterns, resulting in increased indoor concentrations of volatile organic compounds during winter.

    PMID: 20237839 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

    How Safe Are Cellphones?

    How Safe Are Cellphones?
    http://www.parade.com/health/2010/03/21-how-safe-are-cellphones.html#resources
     
    "First came warning labels on cigarettes. Then nutritional information on packaged food. Could the next step be a radiation notice on your cellphone?"

    Phthalates exposure may double breast cancer risk ... or not

     
    "Women with higher exposure to additives used in some personal care and food products may have an increased risk of breast cancer."

    U.S. Plans Spot Tests of Organic Products

     
    "The Department of Agriculture said on Friday that it would begin enforcing rules requiring the spot testing of organically grown foods for traces of pesticides, after an auditor exposed major gaps in federal oversight of the organic food industry."

    Proctor & Gamble Removes Toxicity from Product

     
    "Personal care and consumer products manufacturer, Proctor & Gamble (P&G) has responded positively to reports that its Herbal Essence line of shampoos contains high levels of a toxic substance."

    'Green' legislation signed today

    'Green' legislation signed today
    http://www.tri-cityherald.com/2010/03/19/945869/green-legislation-signed-into.html

    "Olympia The governor today signed bills to protect citizen health and environment."

    Friday, March 19, 2010

    May is Lyme disease awareness month

    From P.A.N.D.O.R.A.
     
    May is Lyme disease awareness month. To help raise awareness of Lyme disease across North America, P.A.N.D.O.R.A. has become the nonprofit sponsor of "Paint May Lyme Green" campaign, made up of three main parts; a Public Service Announcement, a Viral Campaign and a Visual Campaign.

    For more information, visit Lymenaide
    http://lymenaide.wordpress.com/paint-may-lyme-green/ or contact:

    Ashley van Tol
    Executive Producer
    (530) 386-6323
    ashvantol@lymenaide.com
    www.lymenaide.com

    A Retrospective Review of the Sleep Characteristics in Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia.

    A Retrospective Review of the Sleep Characteristics in Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia.
    Spitzer AR, Broadman M.
    Pain Pract. 2010 Mar 2. [Epub ahead of print]
    Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan.

    Abstract
     
    This study characterizes findings on sleep testing and Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) markers in a group of patients with fibromyalgia (FM) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). One hundred eighteen patients seen in a general neurology practice over 5 years meeting standard clinical criteria for FM or CFS were analyzed retrospectively. Cases of untreated sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome were excluded prior to inclusion in this study. Ninety-two patients had multiple sleep latency testing (MSLT). Seventy-three (80%) were abnormal by standard criteria. Of 57 females having positive MSLTs, 22 (39%) had one or more periods of sleep onset rapid eye movement (SOREM), and 5 of 16 (31%) males with positive MSLTs had one or more SOREM. Highly fragmented sleep, as previously described in FM, was seen but not analyzed quantitatively. HLA DQB1*0602 was obtained in 74 patients, and positive in 32 (43%), P < 0.0001 compared with published values in 228 populations. In our patients, who presented with neuromuscular fatigue or generalized pain, we found a sleep disorder characterized by objective hypersomnia. Some patients had characteristics of narcolepsy. Objective assessment by sleep studies can assist the diagnostic process, aid future research, and provide rationale for treatment.

    PMID: 20230458 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

    Severity of symptom flare after moderate exercise is linked to cytokine activity in chronic fatigue syndrome.

    Severity of symptom flare after moderate exercise is linked to cytokine activity in chronic fatigue syndrome.
    White AT, Light AR, Hughen RW, Bateman L, Martins TB, Hill HR, Light KC.
    Psychophysiology. 2010 Mar 4. [Epub ahead of print]

    Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.

    Abstract
    Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) patients often report symptom flare (SF) for >24 h after moderate exercise (post-ex). We hypothesized that SF is linked to increases in circulating cytokines and CD40 Ligand (CD40L). In 19 CFS patients and 17 controls, mental and physical fatigue and pain symptom ratings were obtained together with serum for 11 cytokines and CD40L before and at 0.5, 8, 24, and 48 h post-ex. Before exercise, CFS had lower CD40L (p<.05) but similar cytokines versus controls. In subgroups based on SF at 48 h, high SF patients (n=11) increased in IL-1beta, IL-12, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and IL-13 (p<.05) 8 h post-ex. Low SF patients (n=8) showed post-ex decreases in IL-10, IL-13, and CD40L, and controls decreased in IL-10, CD40L, and TNFalpha (p<.05). Thus, in CFS, cytokine activity may vary directly with SF, which may explain prior inconsistent findings.
     
    PMID: 20230500 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

    Prenatal Maternal Stress and Cord Blood Innate and Adaptive Cytokine Responses in an Inner-city Cohort.

    Prenatal Maternal Stress and Cord Blood Innate and Adaptive Cytokine Responses in an Inner-city Cohort.
    Wright RJ, Visness CM, Calatroni A, Grayson MH, Gold DR, Sandel MT, Lee-Parritz A, Wood RA, Kattan M, Bloomberg GR, Burger M, Togias A, Witter FR, Sperling RS, Sadovsky Y, Gern JE.
    Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2010 Mar 1. [Epub ahead of print]
    The Channing Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Womenâs Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States.

    RATIONALE: Stress-elicited disruption of immunity begins in utero.
     
    OBJECTIVES: Associations among prenatal maternal stress and cord blood mononuclear cell (CBMC) cytokine responses were prospectively examined in the Urban Environment and Childhood Asthma Study (N=557 families).
     
    METHODS: Prenatal maternal stress included financial hardship, Difficult Life Circumstances, community violence, neighborhood/block and housing conditions. Factor analysis produced latent variables representing three contexts - individual stressors and ecological-level strains (housing and neighborhood problems) which were combined to create a composite cumulative stress indicator. CBMCs were incubated with innate [lipopolysaccharide, Poly I:C, CpG, peptidoglycan] and adaptive [tetanus, dust mite, cockroach] stimuli, RSV, phytohemagglutinin, or medium alone. Cytokines were measured using multiplex ELISAs. Using linear regression, associations among increasing cumulative stress and cytokine responses were examined adjusting for sociodemographic factors, parity, season of birth, maternal asthma and steroid use, and potential pathway variables (prenatal smoking, birth weight for gestational age).
     
    MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Mothers were primarily minorities [Black (71%), Latino (19%)] with an income <$15,000 (69%). Mothers with the highest cumulative stress were older and more likely to have asthma and deliver lower birth weight infants. Higher prenatal stress was related to increased IL-8 production after microbial (CpG, PIC, PG) stimuli and increased TNF-alpha to microbial stimuli (CpG, PIC). In the adaptive panel, higher stress was associated with increased IL-13 after dust mite stimulation and reduced PHA-induced IFN-gamma.
     
    CONCLUSIONS: Prenatal stress was associated with altered innate and adaptive immune responses in CBMCs. Stress-induced perinatal immunomodulation may impact the expression of allergic disease in these children.
    PMID: 20194818 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

    Daily intake of bisphenol A and potential sources of exposure: 2005-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

    Daily intake of bisphenol A and potential sources of exposure: 2005-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
    Lakind JS, Naiman DQ.
    J Expo Sci Environ Epidemiol. 2010 Mar 17. [Epub ahead of print]
    [1] LaKind Associates, LLC, Catonsville, Maryland, USA [2] Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA [3] Department of Pediatrics, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA.
    Nationally representative data on urinary levels of bisphenol A (BPA) and its metabolites in the United States from the 2005-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were used to estimate daily BPA intakes. In addition, NHANES data on potential sources of BPA exposure and personal characteristics were explored for their association with urinary BPA levels. On the basis of 2005-2006 NHANES urinary BPA data and assumptions described in this paper, median daily intake for the overall population is approximately 34 ng/kg-day. Median daily BPA intakes for men are statistically significantly higher than for women; there is a significant decrease in daily BPA intake with increasing age. Gender- and age-specific median intakes differ from the overall population by less than a factor of 2. Although estimates of daily BPA intake have decreased compared with those from the 2003-2004 NHANES, it is premature to draw conclusions regarding trends at this time, as there is no indication that BPA use declined from 2003 to 2006. On the basis of an assessment of urinary BPA and questionnaire data from the 2005-2006 NHANES, consumption of soda, school lunches, and meals prepared outside the home - but not bottled water or canned tuna - was statistically significantly associated with higher urinary BPA.Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology advance online publication, 17 March 2010; doi:10.1038/jes.2010.9.

    PMID: 20237498 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

    Chemical allergens--what are the issues?

    Chemical allergens--what are the issues?
    Kimber I, Basketter DA, Dearman RJ.
    Toxicology. 2010 Feb 9;268(3):139-42. Epub 2009 Jul 29.

    Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Faculty of Life Sciences, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK. ian.kimber@manchester.ac.uk

    Chemical allergy describes the adverse health effects that may result when exposure to a chemical elicits an immune response. Allergy develops in two phases. In the first phase, exposure of an inherently susceptible subject results in stimulation of an immune response or immunological priming. If the then sensitised subject is exposed on a subsequent occasion to the same chemical then an accelerated and more aggressive secondary immune response will be provoked resulting in inflammation and the signs and symptoms of a clinically discernible allergic reaction. The two forms of chemical allergy of greatest relevance for occupational toxicology are skin sensitisation resulting in allergic contact dermatitis, and sensitisation of the respiratory tract associated with occupational rhinitis and asthma. In this brief survey we identify what we believe currently represent the key issues and key challenges in these areas.
    (c) 2009. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

    PMID: 19646501 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

    Thursday, March 18, 2010

    Judge rejects 'toxic sofa' claims in burns injury cases

    Judge rejects 'toxic sofa' claims in burns injury cases
    http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/8574258.stm

    "Chemicals used to protect the sofas caused burns
    More than 300 people who suffered burns from a chemical used on a Land of Leather sofa brand will not receive compensation, the High Court has ruled."

    Mothers' Pesticide Exposure Linked to Deficits in ChildrenPrenatal exposure during greenhouse work may lead to kids' motor, memory, other deficits

    Mothers' Pesticide Exposure Linked to Deficits in ChildrenPrenatal exposure during greenhouse work may lead to kids' motor, memory, other deficits
    http://www.modernmedicine.com/modernmedicine/Modern+Medicine+Now/Mothers-Pesticide-Exposure-Linked-to-Deficits-in-C/ArticleNewsFeed/Article/detail/661712?contextCategoryId=40137
     
    "Prenatal exposure to pesticides may lead to persistent adverse effects on brain development in children, according to research published online Feb. 25 in Environmental Health Perspectives."

    EPA to Increase Restrictions on Flea and Tick Products

    EPA to Increase Restrictions on Flea and Tick Products
    http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/health/pets.htm

    "Due to a significant increase in adverse incidents, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is taking a series of actions to increase the safety of spot-on pesticide products for flea and tick control for cats and dogs. Immediately, EPA will begin reviewing labels to determine which ones need stronger and clearer labeling statements. Next, EPA will develop more stringent testing and evaluation requirements for both existing and new products. EPA expects these steps will help prevent adverse reactions. In dogs and cats that can include skin effects, such as irritation, redness, or gastrointestinal problems that include vomiting or diarrhea, or effects to the nervous system, such as trembling, appearing depressed or seizures—from pet spot-on products."

    Wednesday, March 17, 2010

    Don't let your cosmetics cause health problems. How to spot ingredients that may irritate.

    Don't let your cosmetics cause health problems. How to spot ingredients that may irritate.
    http://www.chicagotribune.com/health/sc-health-0310-cosmetics-20100310,0,5303936,print.story

    "We turn to cosmetics to look our very best, but sometimes all that lathering, slathering, powdering and painting can do more harm than good. • Certain ingredients in personal care products can cause redness, itching, swelling, acne and other reactions in people who are sensitive to them. Preservatives, fragrances and dyes are common culprits."

    EPA Hosts Symposium to Strengthen Research and Policy on Environmental Justice

    EPA Hosts Symposium to Strengthen Research and Policy on Environmental
    Justice
    The opening session and all plenary sessions will be Webcast live
    http://www.scgcorp.com/envirjusticesym/webcast.asp

    New Anti-Perfume Rules in Detroit May Cause a Legal Stink

    New Anti-Perfume Rules in Detroit May Cause a Legal Stink
    http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,589433,00.html

    "Some Detroit workers will be forbidden from wearing scented products following a landmark court decision that sided with a woman who said her coworker's scents hindered her breathing, myfoxdetroit.com reported Tuesday."

    9 on plane hospitalized after toxic fumes at airport

    9 on plane hospitalized after toxic fumes at airport
    http://www.wmbfnews.com/Global/story.asp?S=12149049

    "CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Nine crew members and passengers aboard a Jamaica-bound US Airways flight were taken to a hospital with coughs and sore throats after smelling strong odors Tuesday, two months after 15 people aboard the same jet were treated for similar problems."

    Full Committee Hearing entitled, "Hearing on the Government Accountability Office's Investigation of EPA's Efforts to Protect Children's Health."

    Full Committee Hearing entitled, "Hearing on the Government Accountability Office's Investigation of EPA's Efforts to Protect Children's Health."
     
    "Chairman Barbara Boxer will convene the Full Committee for a hearing on the Government Accountability Office's (GAO) investigation of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) children's health program. The committee will also examine what can be done to strengthen protections for children.

    Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL) is also expected to give testimony on the federal government's role in investigating children's health issues and how that can be improved."

    Couple reluctantly seeks help after mold causes twins' potentially deadly illness

    Couple reluctantly seeks help after mold causes twins' potentially deadly illness
    "PORT TOWNSEND -- Seven-month-old twins Ceinna and Onyx Neidigh are fighting a potentially deadly respiratory virus that doctors say was contracted through exposure to black mold in a Port Townsend rental home."

    Tuesday, March 16, 2010

    Unilever Fined for Polluting California Air With Deodorant Spray

    Unilever Fined for Polluting California Air With Deodorant Spray
    http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/feb2010/2010-02-12-091.html

    "A fragrant personal care spray designed to make men appear to be free of unpleasant body odor has polluted California air to the degree that the state has fined the brandowner's corporate parent more than $1 million."

    The Most Toxic Home Products

    The Most Toxic Home Products  
    How everyday household products can harm you and your family.
    http://www.forbes.com/2010/03/09/home-foam-teflon-technology-ecotech-toxins.html 
     
    "You expect to find toxic chemicals in cleaning products and pesticides. But you wouldn't think toxins could be in your bed--or worse yet, your infant's crib."

    EPA Makes Chemical Information More Accessible to Public

    EPA Makes Chemical Information More Accessible to Public
    For the first time, TSCA chemical inventory free of charge online

    "As part of Administrator Lisa P. Jackson's strong commitment to increase information on chemicals, for the first time, EPA is providing web access, free of charge, to the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Chemical Substance Inventory. This inventory contains a consolidated list of thousands of industrial chemicals maintained by the agency.  EPA is also making this information available on Data.Gov, a website developed by the Obama Administration to provide public access to important government information.  This action represents another step to increase the transparency of chemical information while continuing to push for legislative reform of the 30 year old TSCA law."

    For information about EPA's increasing transparency on chemical risk information see
    http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/bd4379a92ceceeac8525735900400c27/631cf22eb540c4db852576b2004eca47!OpenDocument
    For access to the entire TSCA Inventory, please visit
    http://www.epa.gov/oppt/newchems/pubs/invntory.htm

    EPA Makes Chemical Information More Accessible to Public

    EPA Makes Chemical Information More Accessible to Public
    For the first time, TSCA chemical inventory free of charge online

    WASHINGTONAs part of Administrator Lisa P. Jackson's strong commitment to increase information on chemicals, for the first time, EPA is providing web access, free of charge, to the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Chemical Substance Inventory. This inventory contains a consolidated list of thousands of industrial chemicals maintained by the agency.  EPA is also making this information available on Data.Gov, a website developed by the Obama Administration to provide public access to important government information. 
    This action represents another step to increase the transparency of chemical information while continuing to push for legislative reform of the 30 year old TSCA law.

    "Increasing the public's access to information on chemicals is one of Administrator Jackson's top priorities," said Steve Owens, assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances. "The American people are entitled to easily accessible information on chemicals, and today's action is part of a series of ongoing steps that EPA is taking to empower the public with this important information."

    Until now, the consolidated public portion of the TSCA Inventory has only been available by purchase from the National Technical Reports Library or other databases.  By adding the consolidated TSCA Inventory to the Agency's website and to Data.Gov, EPA is making this information readily available to the public at no cost. 

    Currently, there are more than 84,000 chemicals manufactured, used, or imported in the U.S. listed on the TSCA Inventory. However, EPA is unable to publicly identify nearly 17,000 of these chemicals because the chemicals have been claimed as confidential business information under TSCA by the manufacturers.  Under Administrator Jackson's leadership, EPA has already begun a series of aggressive steps to provide greater transparency on chemical risk information, including an announcement in January that signaled EPA's intent to reduce a certain type of confidentiality claim, or Confidential Business Information (CBI) claim, on the identity of chemicals

    In the coming months, EPA will take further steps to increase transparency and make more information available to the public, including adding TSCA facility information, and the list of chemicals manufactured to the Facility Registry System (FRS). FRS is an integrated database that provides the public with easier access to EPA's environmental information and better tools for cross-media environmental analysis. The addition of TSCA facility and chemical databases to FRS will provide the public with information on the facilities in their communities using industrial chemicals.

    For information about EPA's increasing transparency on chemical risk information see http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/bd4379a92ceceeac8525735900400c27/631cf22eb540c4db852576b2004eca47!OpenDocument
    For access to the entire TSCA Inventory, please visit
    http://www.epa.gov/oppt/newchems/pubs/invntory.htm
     
    CONTACT:
    Dale Kemery
    kemery.dale@epa.gov
    202-564-7839
    202-564-4455

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
    March 15, 2010

    Monday, March 15, 2010

    Do you know what's going on your child's skin?

    Do you know what's going on your child's skin?
    http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100314/LIFE/100319884

    "As a young model, Josie Maran was forced to put on a lot of makeup, and her skin frequently broke out.

    When she looked into what some of the major ingredients were in the products she was using, and researched what effects they could have on her skin, she realized what could be causing the acne."

    Our nation's toxic chemical policy: Time for a little sanity

    Our nation's toxic chemical policy: Time for a little sanity
    http://www.newstimes.com/default/article/Our-nation-s-toxic-chemical-policy-Time-for-a-404097.php

    "I grew up in Danbury, famous for its thriving hat-making industry and notorious for its "Mad Hatters." As anyone growing up in Danbury knows, the hat factories used mercury nitrate to make felt hats, and as a result many workers suffered from mercury poisoning."

    Fragrance Ban Survey

    Please vote "I agree if it made someone sick" in the poll at the end of this article about the fragrance ban in Detroit.   Though this survey is kind of lame, as you can tell the author is biased because here's no room for just agreeing, it may wake a few folks up if they see a large amount of supporters.    The last choice indicates a lack of understanding that lack of fragrance does not increase body odor.  People can be clean and odor free without fragrance. Comments can be posted just below the survey. Thanks!

    Sunday, March 14, 2010

    Eureka! Less poison really is more - deadly

    Eureka! Less poison really is more – deadly
    http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/technology/science/eureka-less-poison-really-is-more-deadly/article1499340/

    "It stands to reason that a two-pack-a-day smoker faces a far greater risk of developing lung cancer than someone who puffs just one pack, while anyone who indulges in the occasional cigarette is at little or no risk at all.

    Among scientists, this notion that harm escalates as the exposure to something harmful increases seems so commonsensical that it's gone unchallenged since first postulated in the 16th century by Paracelsus, the Swiss alchemist considered the father of toxicology."

    Saving face: Don't let your cosmetics cause health problems. How to spot ingredients that may irritate.

    Saving face
    Don't let your cosmetics cause health problems. How to spot ingredients that may irritate.

    http://www.chicagotribune.com/health/sc-health-0310-cosmetics-20100310,0,5303936,print.story

    "We turn to cosmetics to look our very best, but sometimes all that lathering, slathering, powdering and painting can do more harm than good. • Certain ingredients in personal care products can cause redness, itching, swelling, acne and other reactions in people who are sensitive to them. Preservatives, fragrances and dyes are common culprits."

    Serum 25-hydroxy Vitamin D Levels in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: a Retrospective Survey.

    Serum 25-hydroxy Vitamin D Levels in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: a Retrospective Survey.
    Berkovitz S, Ambler G, Jenkins M, Thurgood S.
    Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 2009 Jul;79(4):250-4.

    Royal London Homeopathic Hospital, University College London Hospitals NHS Trust, London, UK.

    Introduction: Patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) may be at risk of osteoporosis due to their relative lack of physical activity and excessive time spent indoors, leading to reduced vitamin D synthesis. We hypothesized that serum 25-OH vitamin D levels are lower in CFS patients than in the general British population.
     
    Subjects and methods: We performed a retrospective survey of serum 25-OH vitamin D levels in 221 CFS patients. We compared this to a group of patients attending the hospital for other chronic conditions and to a large British longitudinal survey of 45-year old women, using a variety of appropriate statistical approaches.
     
    Results: 25-OH vitamin D levels are moderately to severely suboptimal in CFS patients, with a mean of 44.4 nmol/L (optimal levels >75 nmol/L). These levels are lower and the difference is statistically significant (p<0.0004) than those of the general British population from a recent national survey, but similar to those in patients with other chronic conditions.
     
    Conclusions: This data supports the recommendation made in recent NICE guidelines that all patients with moderate to severe CFS should be encouraged to obtain adequate sun exposure and eat foods high in vitamin D. Oral or intramuscular vitamin D supplementation should be considered for those whose levels remain suboptimal.

    PMID: 20209476 [PubMed - in process]

    The chemical defensive system in the pathobiology of idiopathic environment-associated diseases.

    The chemical defensive system in the pathobiology of idiopathic environment-associated diseases.
    Korkina L, Scordo G, Deeva I, Cesareo E, De Luca C.
    Curr Drug Metab. 2009 Oct 1;10(8):914-31.
    Lab. Tissue Engineering & Cutaneous Pathophysiology, Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata, Rome, Italy. l.korkina@idi.it.
    Chemical defensive system consisting of bio-sensoring, transmitting, and responsive elements has been evolved to protect multi-cellular organisms against environmental chemical insults (xenobiotics) and to maintain homeostasis of endogenous low molecular weight metabolites (endobiotics). Both genetic and epigenetic defects of the system in association with carcinogenesis and individual sensitivity to anti-tumor therapies have been intensely studied. Recently, several non-tumor human pathologies with evident environmental components such as rather rare functional syndromes (multiple chemical sensitivity, chronic fatigue, Persian Gulf, and fibromyalgia now collectively labeled as idiopathic environmental intolerances) and common diseases (vitiligo and systemic lupus erythematosus) have become subjects of the research on the impaired metabolism and detoxification of xenobiotics and endogenous toxins. Here, we collected and critically reviewed epidemiological, genetic, and biochemical data on the involvement and possible role of cytochrome P450 super family enzymes, glutathione-S-transferase isozymes, catechol-O-methyl-transferase, UDP-glucuronosyl transferases, and proteins detoxifying inorganic and organic peroxides (catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and peroxiredoxin) in the above pathologies. Genetic predisposition assessed mainly by single nucleotide polymorphism and gene expression analyses revealed correlations between defects in genes encoding xenobiotic-metabolizing and/or detoxifying enzymes and risk/severity of these syndromes/diseases. Proteome analysis identified abnormal expression of the enzymes. Their functions were affected epigenetically leading to metabolic impairment and, as a consequence, to the negative health outcomes shared by some of these pathologies. Data obtained so far suggest that distinct components of the chemical defensive system could be suitable molecular targets for future pathogenic therapies.

    PMID: 20201826 [PubMed - in process]

    A high-throughput method for assessi ng chemical toxicity using a Caenorhabditis elegans reproduction assay.

    A high-throughput method for assessi ng chemical toxicity using a Caenorhabditis elegans reproduction assay.
    Boyd WA, McBride SJ, Rice JR, Snyder DW, Freedman JH.
    Toxicol Appl Pharmacol. 2010 Mar 3. [Epub ahead of print]

    Biomolecular Screening Branch, National Toxicology Program, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709.

    The National Research Council has outlined the need for non-mammalian toxicological models to test the potential health effects of a large number of chemicals while also reducing the use of traditional animal models. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is an attractive alternative model because of its well-characterized and evolutionarily-conserved biology, low cost, and ability to be used in high-throughput screening. A high-throughput method is described for quantifying the reproductive capacity of C. elegans exposed to chemicals for 48h from the last larval stage (L4) to adulthood using a COPAS Biosort. Initially, the effects of exposure conditions that could influence reproduction were defined. Concentrations of DMSO vehicle </=1% did not affect reproduction. Previous studies indicated that C. elegans may be influenced by exposure to low pH conditions. At pHs greater than 4.5, C. elegans reproduction was not affected, however below this pH there was a significant decrease in the number of offspring. Cadmium chloride was chosen as a model toxicant to verify that automated measurements were comparable to those of traditional observational studies. EC(50) values for cadmium for automated measurements (176-192muM) were comparable to those previously reported for a 72-h exposure using manual counting (151muM). The toxicity of seven test toxicants on C. elegans reproduction was highly correlative with rodent lethality suggesting that this assay may be useful in predicting the potential toxicity of chemicals in other organisms. Copyright © 2010. Published by Elsevier Inc.
    PMID: 20206647 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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