The food becomes unhealthy near the computer
http://www.causaabierta.com.uy/la-comida-se-vuelve-veneno-cerca-de-la-computadora/
"A study by the University of Human Ecology in Ukraine has revealed that the electromagnetic field of the computer destroys the molecular structure of water and food making them harmful to health. Ukrainian scientists conducted an experiment food left next to the computer for some time, after having applied a molecular analysis. Returning turned out to analyze the molecular structure of water contained in food changed negatively. "Water becomes 'aggressive' changes its structure and ends up being harmful to the human body," says Mikhail Kurik, one of the authors of the research. Same with the 80% of water in the human body. According to doctors, the negative impact accumulates in the body can develop long-term disorders such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's. Experts recommend spending less time at the computer and not eat near the device to not cause additional damage to the body."
Monday, August 13, 2012
Sunday, August 12, 2012
Clearing the air: That air you're breathing may be slowly killing you | Deseret News
Clearing the air: That air you're breathing may be slowly killing you | Deseret News
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865560535/Clearing-the-air-That-air-youre-breathing-may-be-slowly-killing-you.html
"SALT LAKE CITY — Utah has one of the worst air pollution problems in the country and the impacts are startling: The pollution is killing people.
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865560535/Clearing-the-air-That-air-youre-breathing-may-be-slowly-killing-you.html
"SALT LAKE CITY — Utah has one of the worst air pollution problems in the country and the impacts are startling: The pollution is killing people.
It is sending families and individuals to hospital emergency rooms. It is contributing to strokes and heart attacks. Both young and old suffer asthma at greater rates in dirty air areas, and those with respiratory diseases are left wheezing and coughing, fighting a tightening in their lungs."
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Economic evaluation of health consequences of prenatal methylmercury exposure in France
Economic evaluation of health consequences of prenatal methylmercury exposure in France
Céline Pichery, Martine Bellanger, Denis Zmirou-Navier, Nadine Fréry, Sylvaine Cordier, Anne Roue-Legall, Philippe Hartemann and Philippe Grandjean
Environmental Health 2012, 11:53 doi:10.1186/1476-069X-11-53
Published: 10 August 2012
Abstract (provisional)
Background
Evidence of a dose-response relationship between prenatal exposure to methylmercury (MeHg) and neurodevelopmental consequences in terms of IQ reduction, makes it possible to evaluate the economic consequences of MeHg exposures.
Evidence of a dose-response relationship between prenatal exposure to methylmercury (MeHg) and neurodevelopmental consequences in terms of IQ reduction, makes it possible to evaluate the economic consequences of MeHg exposures.
Objective
To perform an economic evaluation of annual national benefits of reduction of the prenatal MeHg exposure in France.
To perform an economic evaluation of annual national benefits of reduction of the prenatal MeHg exposure in France.
Methods
We used data on hair-Hg concentrations in French women of childbearing age (18-45 years) from a national sample of 126 women and from two studies conducted in coastal regions (n = 161and n = 503). A linear dose response function with a slope of 0.465 IQ point reduction per mug/g increase in hair-Hg concentration was used, along with a log transformation of the exposure scale, where a doubling of exposure was associated with a loss of 1.5 IQ points. The costs calculations utilized an updated estimate of E2008 17,363 per IQ point decrement, with three hypothetical exposure cut-off points (hair-Hg of 0.58, 1.0, and 2.5 mug/g).
We used data on hair-Hg concentrations in French women of childbearing age (18-45 years) from a national sample of 126 women and from two studies conducted in coastal regions (n = 161and n = 503). A linear dose response function with a slope of 0.465 IQ point reduction per mug/g increase in hair-Hg concentration was used, along with a log transformation of the exposure scale, where a doubling of exposure was associated with a loss of 1.5 IQ points. The costs calculations utilized an updated estimate of E2008 17,363 per IQ point decrement, with three hypothetical exposure cut-off points (hair-Hg of 0.58, 1.0, and 2.5 mug/g).
Results
Because of higher exposure levels of women in coastal communities, the annual economic impacts based on these data were greater than those using the national data, i.e. E 1.62 billion (national), and E 3.02 billion and E 2.51 billion (regional), respectively, with the linear model, and E 5.46 billion (national), and E 9.13 billion and E 8.17 billion (regional), with the log model, for exposures above 0.58 mug/g.
Because of higher exposure levels of women in coastal communities, the annual economic impacts based on these data were greater than those using the national data, i.e. E 1.62 billion (national), and E 3.02 billion and E 2.51 billion (regional), respectively, with the linear model, and E 5.46 billion (national), and E 9.13 billion and E 8.17 billion (regional), with the log model, for exposures above 0.58 mug/g.
Conclusions
These results emphasize that efforts to reduce MeHg exposures would have high social benefits by preventing the serious and lifelong consequences of neurodevelopmental deficits in children.
These results emphasize that efforts to reduce MeHg exposures would have high social benefits by preventing the serious and lifelong consequences of neurodevelopmental deficits in children.
Effect of exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) on airway inflammatory response in mice.
Effect of exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) on airway inflammatory response in mice.
Wang F, Li C, Liu W, Jin Y.
J Toxicol Sci. 2012;37(4):739-48.
Source
School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, China.
Abstract
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are the main substances causing multiple chemical sensitivity reactions in human. The effects of single VOCs exposure on airway inflammatory responses in mice lung have been reported. Previous studies have demonstrated the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in lung inflammation induced by single VOCs inhalation. However, effects of VOCs exposure on NO signaling and neurological signaling pathways in airway remain less clear. We exposed male Kunming mice to filtered air (0) and four types of VOCs mixture (formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, and xylene) treated air. Group 1 is 1.0, 1.1, 2.0 and 2.0 mg/m<sup>3</sup>, group 2 is 3.0, 3.3, 6.0 and 6.0 mg/m<sup>3</sup>, group 3 is 5.0, 5.5, 10.0 and 10.0 mg/m<sup>3</sup>, group 4 is 10.0, 11.0, 20.0 and 20.0 mg/m<sup>3</sup>, which respectively corresponded to 10, 30, 50 and 100 times of indoor air quality standard in China 2 hr per day, 5 days per week, for 2 weeks in the whole body exposure chamber. One day following VOCs exposure, we collected lung, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from each mouse and examined oxidative stress markers, cellular infiltration and production of cytokines, neurotrophin and substance P. We found that VOCs exposure influenced significantly NOS activity, GSH, or IL-6 concentration. The number of total cells, macrophages and eosinophils increased significantly in group 4. In addition, the production of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and substance P were significantly decreased. In contrast, neurotrophin-3 production in BALF was significantly increased in group 3 and 4. Our findings suggest that NO signaling pathways may induce airway inflammatory in short term VOCs exposure mice and the airway inflammatory response may be modulated by neurological signaling.
Source
School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, China.
Abstract
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are the main substances causing multiple chemical sensitivity reactions in human. The effects of single VOCs exposure on airway inflammatory responses in mice lung have been reported. Previous studies have demonstrated the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in lung inflammation induced by single VOCs inhalation. However, effects of VOCs exposure on NO signaling and neurological signaling pathways in airway remain less clear. We exposed male Kunming mice to filtered air (0) and four types of VOCs mixture (formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, and xylene) treated air. Group 1 is 1.0, 1.1, 2.0 and 2.0 mg/m<sup>3</sup>, group 2 is 3.0, 3.3, 6.0 and 6.0 mg/m<sup>3</sup>, group 3 is 5.0, 5.5, 10.0 and 10.0 mg/m<sup>3</sup>, group 4 is 10.0, 11.0, 20.0 and 20.0 mg/m<sup>3</sup>, which respectively corresponded to 10, 30, 50 and 100 times of indoor air quality standard in China 2 hr per day, 5 days per week, for 2 weeks in the whole body exposure chamber. One day following VOCs exposure, we collected lung, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from each mouse and examined oxidative stress markers, cellular infiltration and production of cytokines, neurotrophin and substance P. We found that VOCs exposure influenced significantly NOS activity, GSH, or IL-6 concentration. The number of total cells, macrophages and eosinophils increased significantly in group 4. In addition, the production of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and substance P were significantly decreased. In contrast, neurotrophin-3 production in BALF was significantly increased in group 3 and 4. Our findings suggest that NO signaling pathways may induce airway inflammatory in short term VOCs exposure mice and the airway inflammatory response may be modulated by neurological signaling.
PMID: 22863854 [PubMed - in process]
MCS Is a Reaction to Chemicals, Not Odors
MCS Is a Reaction to Chemicals, Not Odors
Martin L. Pall (PhD)
Martin L. Pall (PhD)
http://mcs-america.org/index_files/MCS.htm
"It should be clear from the above, that chemicals acting in MCS are not acting on the classic olfactory receptors (15,16), but rather are acting as toxicants. This is opposite many published but undocumented claims that MCS is a response to odors. There is additional evidence arguing against the view that MCS is a reaction to odors. MCS sufferers who are acosmic, having no sense of smell, people who have intense nasal congestion and people whose nasal epithelia have been blocked off with nose clips can all be highly chemically sensitive (1,4). This does not necessarily mean that MCS never impacts the olfactory system. It simply means that MCS is not primarily an olfactory response. A recent study, confirmed this view, showing that the olfactory center in the brain in people with MCS was less sensitive to activation by chemical exposure than in normal controls, rather than being more sensitive (17)."
"It should be clear from the above, that chemicals acting in MCS are not acting on the classic olfactory receptors (15,16), but rather are acting as toxicants. This is opposite many published but undocumented claims that MCS is a response to odors. There is additional evidence arguing against the view that MCS is a reaction to odors. MCS sufferers who are acosmic, having no sense of smell, people who have intense nasal congestion and people whose nasal epithelia have been blocked off with nose clips can all be highly chemically sensitive (1,4). This does not necessarily mean that MCS never impacts the olfactory system. It simply means that MCS is not primarily an olfactory response. A recent study, confirmed this view, showing that the olfactory center in the brain in people with MCS was less sensitive to activation by chemical exposure than in normal controls, rather than being more sensitive (17)."
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Chronic Exposure to Staph Bacteria May Be Risk Factor for Lupus
Chronic Exposure to Staph Bacteria May Be Risk Factor for Lupus
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/08/120808142001.htm
"Chronic exposure to even small amounts of staph bacteria could be a risk factor for the chronic inflammatory disease lupus, Mayo Clinic research shows. Staph, short for Staphylococcus aureus, is a germ commonly found on the skin or in the nose, sometimes causing infections. In the Mayo study, mice were exposed to low doses of a protein found in staph and developed a lupus-like disease, with kidney disease and autoantibodies like those found in the blood of lupus patients."
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/08/120808142001.htm
"Chronic exposure to even small amounts of staph bacteria could be a risk factor for the chronic inflammatory disease lupus, Mayo Clinic research shows. Staph, short for Staphylococcus aureus, is a germ commonly found on the skin or in the nose, sometimes causing infections. In the Mayo study, mice were exposed to low doses of a protein found in staph and developed a lupus-like disease, with kidney disease and autoantibodies like those found in the blood of lupus patients."
Nuclear waste issues freeze permits for U.S. power plants
Nuclear waste issues freeze permits for U.S. power plants
http://money.cnn.com/2012/08/09/news/economy/nuclear-plants-waste/index.htm
"NEW YORK (CNNMoney) -- The U.S. government said it will stop issuing permits for new nuclear power plants and license extensions for existing facilities until it resolves issues around storing radioactive waste.
http://money.cnn.com/2012/08/09/news/economy/nuclear-plants-waste/index.htm
"NEW YORK (CNNMoney) -- The U.S. government said it will stop issuing permits for new nuclear power plants and license extensions for existing facilities until it resolves issues around storing radioactive waste.
The government's main watchdog, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, believes that current storage plans are safe and achievable. But a federal court said that the NRC didn't detail what the environmental consequences would be if the agency is wrong.
"We are now considering all available options for resolving the waste issue," the five-member NRC said in a ruling earlier this week. "But, in recognition of our duties under the law, we will not issue [reactor] licenses until the court's remand is appropriately addressed.""
How Our Buildings Are Making Us Sick
How Our Buildings Are Making Us Sick
http://www.forbes.com/sites/amywestervelt/2012/08/08/how-our-buildings-are-making-us-sick/print/
"As a culture, Americans spend 90 percent of our time indoors, and in the majority of cases the air quality inside is far worse than it is outside. The largely terrible indoor air quality is attributed to the offgassing of chemicals from various building materials–paint, carpet, countertops, dry wall, you name it and chances are it's got some sort of toxic ingredient. The thing is, in many cases those chemicals are mandated by either building codes or performance codes. Curtains need to be covered in flame retardant to prevent fire spread, for example, and certain other materials have chemicals added to them in order to make them more flexible, more rigid, or more rugged."
http://www.forbes.com/sites/amywestervelt/2012/08/08/how-our-buildings-are-making-us-sick/print/
"As a culture, Americans spend 90 percent of our time indoors, and in the majority of cases the air quality inside is far worse than it is outside. The largely terrible indoor air quality is attributed to the offgassing of chemicals from various building materials–paint, carpet, countertops, dry wall, you name it and chances are it's got some sort of toxic ingredient. The thing is, in many cases those chemicals are mandated by either building codes or performance codes. Curtains need to be covered in flame retardant to prevent fire spread, for example, and certain other materials have chemicals added to them in order to make them more flexible, more rigid, or more rugged."
UC Davis News & Information :: $17 million grant to fund seizure, neurotoxin research (VIDEO)
UC Davis News & Information :: $17 million grant to fund seizure, neurotoxin research (VIDEO)
http://www.news.ucdavis.edu/search/news_detail.lasso?id=10273
"A new $17 million research center dedicated to identifying medical countermeasures for neurotoxic chemicals that cause seizures in humans has been established by the U.S. National Institutes of Health at the University of California, Davis. The research also is expected to yield findings that could improve medical treatment for people with seizure disorders.
The new UC Davis CounterACT Center of Excellence is part of the NIH Countermeasures Against Chemical Threats Research Network. Professor Pamela Lein, a developmental neurobiologist and neurotoxicologist in the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, will direct the new center."
http://www.news.ucdavis.edu/search/news_detail.lasso?id=10273
"A new $17 million research center dedicated to identifying medical countermeasures for neurotoxic chemicals that cause seizures in humans has been established by the U.S. National Institutes of Health at the University of California, Davis. The research also is expected to yield findings that could improve medical treatment for people with seizure disorders.
The new UC Davis CounterACT Center of Excellence is part of the NIH Countermeasures Against Chemical Threats Research Network. Professor Pamela Lein, a developmental neurobiologist and neurotoxicologist in the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, will direct the new center."
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Light Bulb Warning: MedlinePlus Health News Video
Light Bulb Warning: MedlinePlus Health News Video
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/videos/news/light_bulb_080312.html
"If you've gone green, it's highly likely you have CFL bulbs in your home. These compact fluorescent light bulbs are the ones that look like curly cues, and are sold as "energy efficient" alternatives to traditional incandescent lighting.
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/videos/news/light_bulb_080312.html
"If you've gone green, it's highly likely you have CFL bulbs in your home. These compact fluorescent light bulbs are the ones that look like curly cues, and are sold as "energy efficient" alternatives to traditional incandescent lighting.
Now, researchers at Stony Brook University have found that CFL bulbs may leak UV rays that can harm your skin. The Stony Brook team purchased a variety of CFL bulbs from different manufacturers at several locations. When tested in their lab, all of them had cracks or bald spots in their phosphor coating, which appeared to allow both UVA and UVC rays to be emitted. Two types of healthy human skin tissue were then exposed to the same bulbs.
The results according to the lead researcher: the response of healthy skin cells to UV emitted from CFL bulbs is consistent with damage from ultraviolet radiation. Traditional incandescent lights bulbs tested the same way had no effect on skin.
The takeaway: researchers stress that consumers should avoid using compact fluorescent light bulbs at close distances.
I'm Dr. Cindy Haines of HealthDay TV with the news doctors are reading, health news that matters to you."
August 2012: Counseling Parents About Exposure to BPA and Other Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals
August 2012: Counseling Parents About Exposure to BPA and Other Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals
http://www.seattlechildrens.org/healthcare-professionals/resources/quarterly-consult/
"Dr. Sheela Sathyanarayana, an environmental health researcher at Seattle Children's and pediatrician at the Children and Teens Clinic at Harborview, addresses questions about exposure to Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates."
http://www.seattlechildrens.org/healthcare-professionals/resources/quarterly-consult/
"Dr. Sheela Sathyanarayana, an environmental health researcher at Seattle Children's and pediatrician at the Children and Teens Clinic at Harborview, addresses questions about exposure to Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates."
Solvent exposures and parkinson disease risk in twins.
Solvent exposures and parkinson disease risk in twins.
Goldman SM, Quinlan PJ, Ross GW, Marras C, Meng C, Bhudhikanok GS, Comyns K, Korell M, Chade AR, Kasten M, Priestley B, Chou KL, Fernandez HH, Cambi F, Langston JW, Tanner CM.
Ann Neurol. 2012 Jun;71(6):776-84. doi: 10.1002/ana.22629. Epub 2011 Nov 14.
Source
The Parkinson's Institute, Sunnyvale, CA. sgoldman@thepi.org.
Source
The Parkinson's Institute, Sunnyvale, CA. sgoldman@thepi.org.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
Several case reports have linked solvent exposure to Parkinson disease (PD), but few studies have assessed associations with specific agents using an analytic epidemiologic design. We tested the hypothesis that exposure to specific solvents is associated with PD risk using a discordant twin pair design.
Several case reports have linked solvent exposure to Parkinson disease (PD), but few studies have assessed associations with specific agents using an analytic epidemiologic design. We tested the hypothesis that exposure to specific solvents is associated with PD risk using a discordant twin pair design.
METHODS:
Ninety-nine twin pairs discordant for PD ascertained from the National Academy of Sciences/National Research Council World War II Veteran Twins Cohort were interviewed regarding lifetime occupations and hobbies using detailed job task-specific questionnaires. Exposures to 6 specific solvents selected a priori were estimated by expert raters unaware of case status.
Ninety-nine twin pairs discordant for PD ascertained from the National Academy of Sciences/National Research Council World War II Veteran Twins Cohort were interviewed regarding lifetime occupations and hobbies using detailed job task-specific questionnaires. Exposures to 6 specific solvents selected a priori were estimated by expert raters unaware of case status.
RESULTS:
Ever exposure to trichloroethylene (TCE) was associated with significantly increased risk of PD (odds ratio [OR], 6.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2-33; p = 0.034), and exposure to perchloroethylene (PERC) and carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4) ) tended toward significance (respectively: OR, 10.5; 95% CI, 0.97-113; p = 0.053; OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 0.9-6.1; p = 0.088). Results were similar for estimates of exposure duration and cumulative lifetime exposure.
Ever exposure to trichloroethylene (TCE) was associated with significantly increased risk of PD (odds ratio [OR], 6.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2-33; p = 0.034), and exposure to perchloroethylene (PERC) and carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4) ) tended toward significance (respectively: OR, 10.5; 95% CI, 0.97-113; p = 0.053; OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 0.9-6.1; p = 0.088). Results were similar for estimates of exposure duration and cumulative lifetime exposure.
INTERPRETATION:
Exposure to specific solvents may increase risk of PD. TCE is the most common organic contaminant in groundwater, and PERC and CCl(4) are also ubiquitous in the environment. Our findings require replication in other populations with well-characterized exposures, but the potential public health implications are substantial. ANN NEUROL 2011.
Exposure to specific solvents may increase risk of PD. TCE is the most common organic contaminant in groundwater, and PERC and CCl(4) are also ubiquitous in the environment. Our findings require replication in other populations with well-characterized exposures, but the potential public health implications are substantial. ANN NEUROL 2011.
PMID: 22083847 [PubMed - in process]
Cellphone exposure limits should be reassessed, GAO recommends
Cellphone exposure limits should be reassessed, GAO recommends
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/post-tech/post/cellphone-exposure-limits-should-be-reassessed-gao-recommends/2012/08/07/a2eb0b96-e09d-11e1-8fc5-a7dcf1fc161d_blog.html
"Mobile phone exposure limits and testing requirements should be reassessed, according to a Government Accountability Office study released Tuesday.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/post-tech/post/cellphone-exposure-limits-should-be-reassessed-gao-recommends/2012/08/07/a2eb0b96-e09d-11e1-8fc5-a7dcf1fc161d_blog.html
"Mobile phone exposure limits and testing requirements should be reassessed, according to a Government Accountability Office study released Tuesday.
The study, the culmination of a year-long review done at the urging of lawmakers, comes at a time of heightened concern about the possible impact of cellphone radiation on human health. Its findings may prompt the Federal Communications Commission to update its standards to more accurately reflect how people use their cellphones."
Solving the Smelly Problem of Fragrance-Induced Disabilities
Solving the Smelly Problem of Fragrance-Induced Disabilities
http://www.washingtonworkplacelaw.com/private-employers/solving-the-smelly-problem-of-fragrance-induced-disabilities/
"Employee sensitivity to synthetic fragrance and other chemicals is an increasing complaint in today's workplace. Employees may report a wide-range of symptoms triggered by exposure to common items, such as perfumes and scented products, cleaning agents, fresh paint, adhesives, air fresheners and deodorizers, and emissions from office equipment."
http://www.washingtonworkplacelaw.com/private-employers/solving-the-smelly-problem-of-fragrance-induced-disabilities/
"Employee sensitivity to synthetic fragrance and other chemicals is an increasing complaint in today's workplace. Employees may report a wide-range of symptoms triggered by exposure to common items, such as perfumes and scented products, cleaning agents, fresh paint, adhesives, air fresheners and deodorizers, and emissions from office equipment."
Sunday, August 5, 2012
Seletun Online Petition
----- Original Message -----
From: | Alex | International EMF Alliance
Sent: Sunday, August 05, 2012 12:58 AM
Subject: Seletun Online Petition
|
Dear , salvadorlourdes@mcs-america.org Please sign this very important Biologically based EMF petition by adding your name and broadly distributing the link to all of your contacts and friends. Petition: "We, the undersigned, find that current national government as well as international authority limits do not protect the general public from adverse health effects from electromagnetic fields (EMF) emanating from devices such as power lines, cell phones and all wireless Internet devices and their associated antenna sites. Most of the existing limits on this form of radiation are at a minimum 1 to 10 thousand times too lenient to prudently protect humans from adverse health effects ranging from Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases, reproduction problems, sleep quality reduction, learning and memory interference, slowed ability of the body to repair damage, immune function decrease, cancer and electrohypersensitivity. Based upon the scientific evidence set forth in The Seletun Statement and the BioInitiative Report." The Seletun Scientific Panel acknowledges that numeric limits derived here for new biologically-based public exposure standards are still a billion times higher than natural EMF levels at which all life evolved. It is a serious mistake to believe that we have always lived in man-made electromagnetic fields, such as from electrical power, radio, TV, computers, and wireless telecommunication, and therefore should not worry. It was not long ago when people thought that X-rays, radioactivity, strong ultraviolet light and radar were completely without harm. Nowadays we know much better! Please sign this petition Thank you in advance, International EMF Alliance Alex Swinkels, Netherlands Board Member Mail: info@iemfa.org Web: www.iemfa.org |
Epidemic of skin lesions reported in reef fish
Epidemic of skin lesions reported in reef fish
http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/342727/title/Science_%2B_the_Public__Epidemic_of_skin_lesions_reported_in_reef_fish_
"The lesions are unusual, however, prompting outside experts to question the diagnosis of cancer
A British-Australian research team has just found coral trout living on the south side of the Great Barrier Reef sporting dark skin lesions. Fifteen percent of the affected populations at two sites bore brown-black growths, some of them raised and almost scablike. The authors conclude that they've stumbled onto an epidemic of melanoma — a type of skin cancer — in iconic and commercially important fish."
http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/342727/title/Science_%2B_the_Public__Epidemic_of_skin_lesions_reported_in_reef_fish_
"The lesions are unusual, however, prompting outside experts to question the diagnosis of cancer
A British-Australian research team has just found coral trout living on the south side of the Great Barrier Reef sporting dark skin lesions. Fifteen percent of the affected populations at two sites bore brown-black growths, some of them raised and almost scablike. The authors conclude that they've stumbled onto an epidemic of melanoma — a type of skin cancer — in iconic and commercially important fish."
Autopsy Confirms Black Mold Killed Mayor Bob Thompson
Autopsy Confirms Black Mold Killed Mayor Bob Thompson
http://www.wjhg.com/home/headlines/Autopsy-Confirms-Black-Mold-Killed-Mayor-Bob-Thompson-164869226.html
"The wife of the late Callaway Mayor Bob Thompson says she now knows what killed her husband. And she says the autopsy report confirms her claims that he died of something called Black Mold."
http://www.wjhg.com/home/headlines/Autopsy-Confirms-Black-Mold-Killed-Mayor-Bob-Thompson-164869226.html
"The wife of the late Callaway Mayor Bob Thompson says she now knows what killed her husband. And she says the autopsy report confirms her claims that he died of something called Black Mold."
Infants Exposed to Specific Molds Have Higher Asthma Risk
Infants Exposed to Specific Molds Have Higher Asthma Risk
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/08/120802111502.htm?utm_medium=twitter&utm_source=twitterfeed
"ScienceDaily (Aug. 2, 2012) — In the United States, one in 10 children suffers from asthma but the potential environmental factors contributing to the disease are not well known. Cincinnati-based researchers now report new evidence that exposure to three types of mold during infancy may have a direct link to asthma development during childhood.
These forms of mold -- Aspergillus ochraceus, Aspergillus unguis and Penicillium variabile -- are typically found growing in water-damaged homes, putting a spotlight on the importance of mold remediation for public health."
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/08/120802111502.htm?utm_medium=twitter&utm_source=twitterfeed
"ScienceDaily (Aug. 2, 2012) — In the United States, one in 10 children suffers from asthma but the potential environmental factors contributing to the disease are not well known. Cincinnati-based researchers now report new evidence that exposure to three types of mold during infancy may have a direct link to asthma development during childhood.
These forms of mold -- Aspergillus ochraceus, Aspergillus unguis and Penicillium variabile -- are typically found growing in water-damaged homes, putting a spotlight on the importance of mold remediation for public health."
Friday, August 3, 2012
Short-term exposure to an endocrine disruptor affects behavioural consistency in male threespine stickleback.
Short-term exposure to an endocrine disruptor affects behavioural consistency in male threespine stickleback.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21975189
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21975189
Dzieweczynski TL.
Aquat Toxicol. 2011 Oct;105(3-4):681-7. Epub 2011 Sep 17.
Source
Department of Psychology, University of New England, 11 Hills Beach Rd, Biddeford, ME 04005, USA. tdzieweczynski@une.edu
Source
Department of Psychology, University of New England, 11 Hills Beach Rd, Biddeford, ME 04005, USA. tdzieweczynski@une.edu
Abstract
It has been established that exposure to xenooestrogens can have profound effects on reproductive and aggressive behaviours in aquatic organisms. Studies on the effects of 17α-ethinyloestradiol (EE2) on behaviour, however, rarely examine these effects over multiple trials, across time, or across contexts. In addition, it is possible that individuals vary in their sensitivity to EE2 and individuals may differ in the degree to which their behaviour is affected. The study of consistent individual differences in behaviour has grown in popularity in recent years perhaps because of the evolutionary questions this behavioural variation raises. Adult male threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) from an anadromous population repeatedly received the simultaneous presentation of a dummy male and dummy female conspecific both before and after exposure to a short-term, nominal (15 ng L(-1)) concentration of 17α-ethinyloestradiol (EE2). These before and after measures were then compared against one another as well as against responses of males in a control group that was not exposed to EE2. Courtship, aggression, and nesting behaviours were all affected by EE2 exposure. In addition, behavioural consistency over trials was markedly reduced after EE2 exposure, as shown by lower repeatability values in the after exposure measures and in weaker correlations between the before and after exposure measures in the EE2 group compared to the control group. This suggests that male threespine stickleback vary in their sensitivity to EE2. This study is one of the first to examine the effects of short-term EE2 exposure on behaviour across trials and has important implications for population-level fitness consequences of xenooestrogens.
Hepatitis B vaccine induces apoptotic death in Hepa1-6 cells.
Hepatitis B vaccine induces apoptotic death in Hepa1-6 cells.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22249285
Hamza H, Cao J, Li X, Li C, Zhu M, Zhao S.
Apoptosis. 2012 May;17(5):516-27. doi: 10.1007/s10495-011-0690-1.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22249285
Hamza H, Cao J, Li X, Li C, Zhu M, Zhao S.
Apoptosis. 2012 May;17(5):516-27. doi: 10.1007/s10495-011-0690-1.
Source
Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China. Heyam68_hamza@yahoo.com
Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China. Heyam68_hamza@yahoo.com
Abstract
Vaccines can have adverse side-effects, and these are predominantly associated with the inclusion of chemical additives such as aluminum hydroxide adjuvant. The objective of this study was to establish an in vitro model system amenable to mechanistic investigations of cytotoxicity induced by hepatitis B vaccine, and to investigate the mechanisms of vaccine-induced cell death. The mouse liver hepatoma cell line Hepa1-6 was treated with two doses of adjuvanted (aluminium hydroxide) hepatitis B vaccine (0.5 and 1 μg protein per ml) and cell integrity was measured after 24, 48 and 72 h. Hepatitis B vaccine exposure increased cell apoptosis as detected by flow cytometry and TUNEL assay. Vaccine exposure was accompanied by significant increases in the levels of activated caspase 3, a key effector caspase in the apoptosis cascade. Early transcriptional events were detected by qRT-PCR. We report that hepatitis B vaccine exposure resulted in significant upregulation of the key genes encoding caspase 7, caspase 9, Inhibitor caspase-activated DNase (ICAD), Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase 1 (ROCK-1), and Apoptotic protease activating factor 1 (Apaf-1). Upregulation of cleaved caspase 3,7 were detected by western blot in addition to Apaf-1 and caspase 9 expressions argues that cell death takes place via the intrinsic apoptotic pathway in which release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria triggers the assembly of a caspase activation complex. We conclude that exposure of Hepa1-6 cells to a low dose of adjuvanted hepatitis B vaccine leads to loss of mitochondrial integrity, apoptosis induction, and cell death, apoptosis effect was observed also in C2C12 mouse myoblast cell line after treated with low dose of vaccine (0.3, 0.1, 0.05 μg/ml). In addition In vivo apoptotic effect of hepatitis B vaccine was observed in mouse liver.
Vaccines can have adverse side-effects, and these are predominantly associated with the inclusion of chemical additives such as aluminum hydroxide adjuvant. The objective of this study was to establish an in vitro model system amenable to mechanistic investigations of cytotoxicity induced by hepatitis B vaccine, and to investigate the mechanisms of vaccine-induced cell death. The mouse liver hepatoma cell line Hepa1-6 was treated with two doses of adjuvanted (aluminium hydroxide) hepatitis B vaccine (0.5 and 1 μg protein per ml) and cell integrity was measured after 24, 48 and 72 h. Hepatitis B vaccine exposure increased cell apoptosis as detected by flow cytometry and TUNEL assay. Vaccine exposure was accompanied by significant increases in the levels of activated caspase 3, a key effector caspase in the apoptosis cascade. Early transcriptional events were detected by qRT-PCR. We report that hepatitis B vaccine exposure resulted in significant upregulation of the key genes encoding caspase 7, caspase 9, Inhibitor caspase-activated DNase (ICAD), Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase 1 (ROCK-1), and Apoptotic protease activating factor 1 (Apaf-1). Upregulation of cleaved caspase 3,7 were detected by western blot in addition to Apaf-1 and caspase 9 expressions argues that cell death takes place via the intrinsic apoptotic pathway in which release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria triggers the assembly of a caspase activation complex. We conclude that exposure of Hepa1-6 cells to a low dose of adjuvanted hepatitis B vaccine leads to loss of mitochondrial integrity, apoptosis induction, and cell death, apoptosis effect was observed also in C2C12 mouse myoblast cell line after treated with low dose of vaccine (0.3, 0.1, 0.05 μg/ml). In addition In vivo apoptotic effect of hepatitis B vaccine was observed in mouse liver.
PMID: 22249285
More Treatment, More Mistakes
More Treatment, More Mistakes
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/08/01/opinion/more-treatment-more-mistakes.html
"DOCTORS make mistakes. They may be mistakes of technique, judgment, ignorance or even, sometimes, recklessness. Regardless of the cause, each time a mistake happens, a patient may suffer. We fail to uphold our profession's basic oath: "First, do no harm."
According to a 1999 report by the Institute of Medicine, as many as 98,000 Americans were dying every year because of medical mistakes. Today, exact figures are hard to come by because states don't abide by the same reporting guidelines, and few cases gain as much attention as that of Rory Staunton, the 12-year-old boy who died of septic shock this spring after being sent home from a New York hospital. But a reasonable estimate is that medical mistakes now kill around 200,000 Americans every year. That would make them one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Why have these mistakes been so hard to prevent?"
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/08/01/opinion/more-treatment-more-mistakes.html
"DOCTORS make mistakes. They may be mistakes of technique, judgment, ignorance or even, sometimes, recklessness. Regardless of the cause, each time a mistake happens, a patient may suffer. We fail to uphold our profession's basic oath: "First, do no harm."
According to a 1999 report by the Institute of Medicine, as many as 98,000 Americans were dying every year because of medical mistakes. Today, exact figures are hard to come by because states don't abide by the same reporting guidelines, and few cases gain as much attention as that of Rory Staunton, the 12-year-old boy who died of septic shock this spring after being sent home from a New York hospital. But a reasonable estimate is that medical mistakes now kill around 200,000 Americans every year. That would make them one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Why have these mistakes been so hard to prevent?"
Are Chemicals Making You Sick? The Hidden Health Problem of Chemical Sensitivity
Are Chemicals Making You Sick? The Hidden Health Problem of Chemical Sensitivity
Leo Galland, M.D.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/leo-galland-md/chemical-intolerance_b_1713906.html
"People who are intolerant of chemicals in everyday products or the environment often find their problems ignored or brushed aside by other people, even their doctors.
Leo Galland, M.D.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/leo-galland-md/chemical-intolerance_b_1713906.html
"People who are intolerant of chemicals in everyday products or the environment often find their problems ignored or brushed aside by other people, even their doctors.
Over the past 30 years I've routinely asked patients about intolerance to chemicals, foods and drugs and found a normal bell-shaped curve of distribution: Most people in my medical practice have some degree of chemical intolerance, a small percentage are sensitive to just about anything that's synthetic and a small percentage report no sensitivity at all."
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Background exposure to toxic metals in women adversely influences pregnancy during in vitro fertilization (IVF)
Background exposure to toxic metals in women adversely influences pregnancy during in vitro fertilization (IVF)
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0890623812002286
Michael S. Blooma, et al
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0890623812002286
Michael S. Blooma, et al
Abstract
Low-level environmental exposure to Hg, Pb and Cd may interfere with pregnancy during in vitro fertilization (IVF). The aim of this study was to generate hypotheses concerning associations between background exposures and pregnancy. In modified Poisson regression models including 24 women and adjusted for urine Cd and creatinine, blood Pb, age, race and smoking, 1 μg/L increases in blood Hg are associated with decreases of 35% (P = 0.03) and 33% (P = 0.01) in clinical and biochemical pregnancies, respectively. In alternate Poisson models including 26 women and adjusted for blood Pb, blood Hg, age, race and smoking, 1 μg/L increases in blood Cd are associated with decreases of 94% (P = 0.01) and 82% (P = 0.04) in clinical and biochemical pregnancies, respectively. No effects are detected in 15 men, although inverse associations are suggested for urine cadmium and pregnancy. These data suggest that low-level, background exposures to Hg and Cd may interfere with pregnancy following IVF.
Highlights
► We prospectively followed 58 women and 36 men undergoing in vitro fertilization. ► Blood Hg levels were high, but levels of Pb and Cd were similar to U.S. levels. ► Higher adjusted blood Hg in women reduced clinical and biochemical pregnancies. ► Higher adjusted blood Cd in women reduced clinical and biochemical pregnancies. ► No effect was detected for men, but higher adjusted urine Cd may reduce pregnancy.
Low-level environmental exposure to Hg, Pb and Cd may interfere with pregnancy during in vitro fertilization (IVF). The aim of this study was to generate hypotheses concerning associations between background exposures and pregnancy. In modified Poisson regression models including 24 women and adjusted for urine Cd and creatinine, blood Pb, age, race and smoking, 1 μg/L increases in blood Hg are associated with decreases of 35% (P = 0.03) and 33% (P = 0.01) in clinical and biochemical pregnancies, respectively. In alternate Poisson models including 26 women and adjusted for blood Pb, blood Hg, age, race and smoking, 1 μg/L increases in blood Cd are associated with decreases of 94% (P = 0.01) and 82% (P = 0.04) in clinical and biochemical pregnancies, respectively. No effects are detected in 15 men, although inverse associations are suggested for urine cadmium and pregnancy. These data suggest that low-level, background exposures to Hg and Cd may interfere with pregnancy following IVF.
Highlights
► We prospectively followed 58 women and 36 men undergoing in vitro fertilization. ► Blood Hg levels were high, but levels of Pb and Cd were similar to U.S. levels. ► Higher adjusted blood Hg in women reduced clinical and biochemical pregnancies. ► Higher adjusted blood Cd in women reduced clinical and biochemical pregnancies. ► No effect was detected for men, but higher adjusted urine Cd may reduce pregnancy.
Supreme Court: Pesticide drift isn't trespassing
Supreme Court: Pesticide drift isn't trespassing
"MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that chemicals drifting from one farm to another do not constitute trespassing under state law, a decision that could make it harder for organic farmers to seek relief if crops are damaged by pesticide drift."
[COMMENT: clearly this needs to be appealed as toxic materials landing unwanted on someone's land is clearly not appropriate.]
Epidemic of skin lesions reported in reef fish
Epidemic of skin lesions reported in reef fish
http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/342727/title/Science_%2B_the_Public__Epidemic_of_skin_lesions_reported_in_reef_fish_
"The lesions are unusual, however, prompting outside experts to question the diagnosis of cancer
A British-Australian research team has just found coral trout living on the south side of the Great Barrier Reef sporting dark skin lesions. Fifteen percent of the affected populations at two sites bore brown-black growths, some of them raised and almost scablike. The authors conclude that they've stumbled onto an epidemic of melanoma — a type of skin cancer — in iconic and commercially important fish."
http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/342727/title/Science_%2B_the_Public__Epidemic_of_skin_lesions_reported_in_reef_fish_
"The lesions are unusual, however, prompting outside experts to question the diagnosis of cancer
A British-Australian research team has just found coral trout living on the south side of the Great Barrier Reef sporting dark skin lesions. Fifteen percent of the affected populations at two sites bore brown-black growths, some of them raised and almost scablike. The authors conclude that they've stumbled onto an epidemic of melanoma — a type of skin cancer — in iconic and commercially important fish."
SCCS' Final Opinion on Fragrance Allergens in Cosmetics
SCCS' Final Opinion on Fragrance Allergens in Cosmetics
http://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/consumer_safety/docs/sccs_o_102.pdf
http://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/consumer_safety/docs/sccs_o_102.pdf
Kids compete in toxic-free games to raise awareness
Kids compete in toxic-free games to raise awareness
http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20120729/ARTICLES/120729630
"While America's athletes compete for gold in London, a handful of area children gathered near a picnic shelter at Halyburton Park Sunday to participate in a different sort of Olympics: the toxic-free kind.
http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20120729/ARTICLES/120729630
"While America's athletes compete for gold in London, a handful of area children gathered near a picnic shelter at Halyburton Park Sunday to participate in a different sort of Olympics: the toxic-free kind.
"We're trying to raise awareness about how many products we have in our homes with toxic chemicals in them," said Felicia Willems, the North Carolina toxics reform campaign assistant with MomsRising, a non-profit organization with about 28,000 members across the Tar Heel State. "There's a ton of chemicals in everything we buy – furniture, toys, even the bottles our kids drink from."
To call attention to the issue, MomsRising is holding a series of events across the state. At Sunday's event – the second of four – kids competed in activities, including throwing rubber bath toys into a large blue bucket filled with water (the "Toxic Tub Toy Toss") to using hula hoops as jump ropes while racing from one line to another (the "Jumping Through Hoops Race")."
EPA Identifies Substitutes for Toxic Flame Retardant Chemical
http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/79c090e81f0578738525781f0043619b/b0a157a1681d8da485257a4b0068a181!OpenDocument
"In its quest to identify possible substitutes for a toxic flame retardant chemical known as decabromodiphenyl ether (decaBDE), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released a draft report on alternatives. This comprehensive assessment, developed with public participation under EPA's Design for the Environment (DfE) program, profiles the environmental and human health hazards on 30 alternatives to decaBDE, which will be phased out of production by December 2013.
DecaBDE is a common flame retardant used in electronics, vehicles, and building materials. It can cause adverse developmental effects, can persist in the environment and can bioaccumulate in people and animals. This technical assessment can help manufacturers identify alternatives to decaBDE. In addition, EPA will continue to work with manufacturers to investigate both chemical and non-chemical alternatives for flame retardants."
DecaBDE is a common flame retardant used in electronics, vehicles, and building materials. It can cause adverse developmental effects, can persist in the environment and can bioaccumulate in people and animals. This technical assessment can help manufacturers identify alternatives to decaBDE. In addition, EPA will continue to work with manufacturers to investigate both chemical and non-chemical alternatives for flame retardants."
Richmond, California Unanimously Approves Pesticide Restrictions
Richmond, California Unanimously Approves Pesticide Restrictions
http://www.beyondpesticides.org/dailynewsblog/?p=7772
"(Beyond Pesticides, July 31, 2012) Last week, Richmond, California's City Council unanimously approved a pesticide reform ordinance targeting the use of toxic chemical pesticides within city boundaries. Barring a public health emergency or immediate threat to city property, the regulation bans city departments from using any pesticide considered a known carcinogen (Toxicity Category I and II) by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency. It also prohibits city workers and contractors from applying pesticide products which contain highly toxic organophosphate and carbamate class chemicals. Moreover, with the implementation of the new ordinance, picnic areas, playgrounds, and riparian areas will be considered "no-spray" zones. In other public areas, the legislation puts a strong emphasis on non-chemical methods of pest prevention and control. It would allow the use of least-toxic pesticides only as a last resort, with the intention to significantly reduce or eliminate the use of and exposure to pesticides. The legislation also requires all city departments involved in pest management to submit an implementation plan and undergo training and education programs on least-toxic pest control."
http://www.beyondpesticides.org/dailynewsblog/?p=7772
"(Beyond Pesticides, July 31, 2012) Last week, Richmond, California's City Council unanimously approved a pesticide reform ordinance targeting the use of toxic chemical pesticides within city boundaries. Barring a public health emergency or immediate threat to city property, the regulation bans city departments from using any pesticide considered a known carcinogen (Toxicity Category I and II) by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency. It also prohibits city workers and contractors from applying pesticide products which contain highly toxic organophosphate and carbamate class chemicals. Moreover, with the implementation of the new ordinance, picnic areas, playgrounds, and riparian areas will be considered "no-spray" zones. In other public areas, the legislation puts a strong emphasis on non-chemical methods of pest prevention and control. It would allow the use of least-toxic pesticides only as a last resort, with the intention to significantly reduce or eliminate the use of and exposure to pesticides. The legislation also requires all city departments involved in pest management to submit an implementation plan and undergo training and education programs on least-toxic pest control."
An Open Letter to the Organic Community
|
After 45 years of hard work and grassroots struggle, the organic community has built up a $30 billion organic food and farming industry and community. But 10% annual growth isn't enough to avert the public health, environmental and climate crisis ahead - a crisis caused in large part by industrial agriculture. The first step toward an Organic Alternative is to pass truth-in-labeling laws. It's time to support the Nov. 6th California Ballot Initiative (Proposition 37) to require labels on genetically engineered foods and to ban the routine industry practice of marketing GMO-tainted foods as "natural" or "all natural." The outcome of this ballot initiative will determine whether GMO foods are labeled - not only in California, but across the entire United States and Canada as well. 
The powerful Washington D.C.-based Grocery Manufacturer's Association (GMA), a multi-billion dollar trade association representing America's $1.2 trillion "Big Food" industry, has contributed $375,000 so far to defeat Prop 37, the California Right to Know Genetically Engineered Food Act. Its members are pitching in, too, led by food conglomerates like ConAgra Foods, J.M. Smucker, Hormel Foods, Kellogg Co., Coca-Cola North America, PepsiCo. and others. 
Late Tuesday, House Republicans pulled the one-year extension of the 2008 Farm Bill they had proposed after refusing to take up a five-year bill like the Senate passed. The House Agriculture Appropriations Bill has passed out of committee, but neither it nor the House Farm Bill has reached the House floor for a vote by all members. The dangerous Monsanto Riders in both bills are still intact, but there is still time to take action!
Top Stories of the Week
The OCA-endorsed Green Polka Dot Box (GPDB) home delivery service for organic and non-GMO foods is up and running. Since October, OCA is happy to report that our staff, as well as hundreds of our members and subscribers, have been ordering and receiving regular home deliveries of organic and non-GMO foods, at 30-50% below the cost of retail, with free shipping on orders of $99 or more. As a result organic consumers who live in "organic food deserts," far from the nearest organic food store, have been able to start buying more organic food, while those of us on a limited budget have been able to buy organic products at a reduced price. 
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)