Not So Sweet Dreams

By: Jessica Robertson

We are all well aware of the constant presence of chemical compounds in our surroundings. Because of their prevalence, it can be a natural reaction to trust in their safety; anything so common shouldn’t be a threat. A team of environmental engineers from Cockrell School of Engineering has recently investigated a frightening topic that had never previously been considered. Looking at the foam padding in new crib mattresses, the team recorded high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from the material. Sometimes found in products like household cleaners and sprays, VOCs include chemicals like formaldehyde, benzene, and acetone, among others. No conclusive studies have shown the definitive health effects of exposure to the chemicals, although they are regarded as dangerous chemicals.

By comparing polyurethane foam and polyester foam in a group of both new and old crib mattresses from ten different manufacturers, the researchers found that the new crib mattresses release VOCs at a level four times higher than old crib mattresses, and a baby’s body heat triggers VOCs to be emitted. Frighteningly, the VOC emission levels were found to peak in the baby’s immediate breathing zone. The VOC levels that the new crib mattresses emit are comparable to some other potentially hazardous household materials, including laminate flooring and wall coverings.

Considering that infants are highly susceptible to pollutants and that infants can spend over half of their time asleep in their cribs, the presence of these chemicals within the mattress material is shocking. The findings did not shock some of the experts, saying that the levels of VOCs, while surprising, were not high enough to cause true alarm for the safety of children. However, those experts deem this very valuable research and worthy of further investigation to assure safety. 

It is not recommended to replace new mattresses with older mattresses that contain banned substances, like flame-retardants; reusing an older crib mattress that is known to have no banned substances may reduce infants’ exposure. To reduce levels of VOCs in new mattresses, a period of airing-out may help. Keep an eye on this issue to make sure your children are protected.  

                         

Autism on the Rise

By: Daniela Silva

Autism is now believed to be affecting 1 in 68 children, rather than 1 in 88. An estimate of 1.2 million children and teenagers are believed to be affected by autism and are diagnosed by four main criteria: The ability to communicate, problems with social interaction, repetitive behavior, and severely limited interests. The increase in autism should not be a concern to expecting parents; it is said to be a result of a better diagnosis.

It is believed that genetics and environment do have a role in the development of autism but there is not yet substantial proof that this can be a factor. Children diagnosed with autism have several irregularities in the brain believed to be caused due to a disruption ith the genes that are responsible for the growth of the brain and regulate how the brain cells communicate with each other. Again this theory is preliminary and needs further study.

With treatment and age, autism can better and bring about significant improvement within the patient. Educational and behavioral treatment with medical and other controversial therapies can be used to aid in the improvement of the child however there is not enough information as to why it happens and how the disorder can be eradicated completely.

Top 6 Super Foods for Asthma

There may not be a solid cure for asthma, however there is a variety of super foods with excellent nutrient profiles that are well suited to tackle and alleviate asthma symptoms such as the shortness of breath, wheezing and chest tightness. These 12 super foods prove time and again that they can combat these terrible symptoms with wholesome goodness.

1. AVOCADOS - A rich source of glutathione, which has been proven to protect cells against free radical damage and been shown to successfully detoxify foreign substances such as pollutants.Without glutathione various antioxidants would not be able to function efficiently. Avocados provide an excellent source of vitamin E, particularly for asthma which is linked to a nut allergy (Nuts are ordinarily a prime source of vitamin E) However if you’re diagnosed with a latex allergy avoiding avocados may be in your favor; those allergic to latex are often allergic to avocados and other foods that contain chitinases. Organically grown avocados are not treated with ethylene gas which therefore results in lower levels of chitinases  

2. BROCCOLI SPROUTS - is the goldmine of nutrition, a excellent addition to your diet if you are a sufferer of asthma. Recent studies suggest that those who ate broccoli sprouts for 3 days had a significant increase in antioxidant compounds that control inflammation in the airway that is associated with bronchial asthma. The effect was even more so pronounced within those who had ate the most broccoli sprouts. Available at many health food stores, markets and grocery stores, these make a excellent addition to soups salads salsa topped dishes and sandwiches.  

3. APPLES - Some studies show that apples possess some very extraordinary properties that provide extra protection against asthma; Showing that children drinking apple juice daily have wheezing reduced up to 50%. These effects are caused by the fruits bioflavonoids, such as quercetin; which is known to possess strong anti-histamines, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. When purchasing apples, avoid shiny apples these ones are waxed and try and stick to organic, better yet, peel them before you eat them! Apples contain the highest levels of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.

4. BANANAS -This super food may help you breathe easier. According to a study conducted in Britain children who consumed a banana a day had a 34% less of a chance of developing asthmatic symptoms such as wheezing. Bananas are one of the best sources of pyridoxine, commonly known as the vitamin B6. Pyridoxine plays a critical role in the production of adenosine trisphosphate (ATP_ and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) molecules that have been proven to relax bronchial smooth muscle tissue.

5. GINGER - One of the most well known spices in the world, it is also known for its powers in aiding and relieving common illnesses, but what its not commonly known for is for its power to help alleviate asthma symptoms. The asthma fighting properties are thought to be attributable to gingerols, a strong anti-inflammatory substance that also gives ginger its strong distinctive flavor. Fresh ginger, is said to be the most effective form of ginger is available year round in the produce section of your local supermarket,                                                                                               

6. SPINACH - The nutrients found in spinach makes it one of the most valuable and important health foods that you can add to any anti-asthmatic diet. One study conducted with 68,535 female participants found that women with a high intake of spinach had a lower prevalence of asthma. Spinach is one of the best sources of beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, and magnesium. It also has a substantial amount of potassium content in comparison to its calorie content; a 100 calorie serving provides 40% of the reference daily intake for an important anti-asthmatic meal.

                                          

Higher Hopes for Better Water

By: Jessica Robertson

The number of techniques for assuring water quality is surprisingly high. However, without detailed testing within a laboratory, few techniques are capable of testing all the important parameters of what really constitutes quality water, but portable water quality tests give more accurate information on what the current state of the water may be.  Given the limitations of the portable tests, any particular test could pass water as drinkable when, based on incomplete information, certain pollutants could be present. This situation makes water quality a major issue for poorer communities who cannot afford laboratory analysis, or those who utilize a natural resource for their water supply.

             Using an existing technology known as UV-Vis spectrometry, which is often used in water testing, a team of researchers from North Carolina State University has created a set of algorithms that combines several testing parameters to increase the amount of and quality of information in each water test. Since UV-Vis spectrometry works by measuring the wavelength of light absorbed by the water, the technology capitalizes on its ability to collect data often, getting a reading as often as every 15 seconds, and over an extended time period. These are definite advantages over traditional water sampling, where a sample of water must be collected and analyzed in a lab setting. Typically, UV-Vis technology only measures a few key information points about water quality, but with the algorithms the researchers are using, the data is comparable to what could be done within a lab setting.

            Since the technique increases frequency of testing without eliminating accuracy, natural resource managers and those without laboratory access will be more assured that their sources are suitable for use, that treatments are appropriate, and that the population is not put at risk.  

Indifference is a Problem

By: Daniela Silva

A new commercial from Save the Children has been making its rounds around the web in providing insight on the very real situation going down in Syria. The video depicts a young girl, taking video snapshots in her day to day life. It gradually turns into havoc, despair, and tragedy as her normal childhood is turned into a terrible rendition of hide and seek. The war has unfortunately killed over 11,000 children, and many more may face this unimaginable demise.

So, before you press play, keep in mind that this sort of tragedy exists. Children also succumb to the war and terror that we as adults are responsible for. If your childhood didn't end like this, you really have a lot to be thankful for.


                                

                                    I do not take any ownership of the video and its contents.

Fetal Ultrasounds Hazardous

By: Daniela

Non-medical Fetal ultrasounds are being opposed by many radiologists and pregnancy specialists due to the nature of its uses. Expecting parents are told to avoid non medical fetal ultrasounds to prevent the risk of being told wrong medical information about their child; a serious problem for many specialists and many more arise with the frequent uses of non-medical fetal ultrasounds.

A randomized trial on pregnant woman in the United states viewed the different effects of frequent and repetitive fetal ultrasounds as compared to that of a fetus that was not frequently viewed. Findings surprisingly  showed that those who were exposed to ultrasound technology had a significant restricted intra-uterine growth rate as compared to the fetuses that were not viewed as often. Therefore the energies that the ultrasound gives off may be detrimental to the fetuses growth; a great concern for many specialists.

Both health Canada and the U.S food and drug administration advise pregnant women to avoid the use of ultrasounds unless it is used by a specialist in a medical clinic. Not only can it affect the growth of the fetus but also can give false reassurance to expecting parents. A situation that eventually can become disastrous.

Massacres Missing in Media

Bodies are littered in the streets of the Izghe village in Borno State, Nigeria. It is suspected that a terrorist group by the name of Boko Haram took the men into the streets and executed them before they began going door to door in a search for more victims. Boko Haram launched a campaign of mass violence in 2009 and claims to be fighting for an Islamist state. The terrorist group is well  known in Borno State to be extremely violent carrying out aimless attacks on civilians.

Victims of the Izghe village were shot or had their throats slit, many barely escaped the attack leaving 106 people dead; the most recorded since their campaign has launched. Earlier this week a little over 30 people were murdered on the streets of Konduga. Unfortunately military strengths were taken away when a group of soldiers were ambushed by Boko Haram and there may be no end to the suffering of many. Spread the word, people need to know to take action

Safety cannot be sold.

By: Daniela Silva

An innovative article of clothing is presumably one of the most liberating article of clothing that any woman will feel safe in; the anti-rape undergarment. Not only will this ensure young vulnerable ladies will not be at risk for potential rape however to what degree is this really liberating?

The garment is made out of a strong material that is resistant to cutting and pulling, it is built in such a way it can not be pulled off without the consent of the wearer nor can it be pulled or moved in the thigh area to gain “easy” access. It locks like a chastity belt with over 1,000 different combinations, this garment is comfortable, adjustable and obviously a great choice for those living in statistically high-rape countries.The garment has been created to give the victim more control of the situation; but since when was this in the control of the victim?

Anti-rape wear is a depressing reminder to all, that no matter in whatever situation the victim, may it be your mother, your sister or your daughter is responsible for the attack. One in thirty rape victims actually see their attacker prosecuted and in a world where men are blindly convicted as not guilty it is only a matter of time until we have to hide away and become unseen in the public eye. Anyone can be a victim; Men, children, trans-gender and handicapped persons are also vulnerable. The entire population should at this point be anxious.

Anti-rape underwear is great, but it is only a temporary solution to a drastic pandemic. We must push and fight for rape-culture to be abolished; for the true liberation of our people. We will not be free until a mother has no worry of her child having their innocence taken away.

They've stopped counting the dead

By: Daniela Silva


It hard to really catch on the current events, especially on Syria; thinking about it, I myself sat in confusion as to what really was going on. Syria is located in western Asia, bordering Lebanon and the Mediterranean sea. It is a giant melting pot of diverse ethnic and religious communities, including Arab Alawites, Arab Sunnis, Arab Christians, Armenians, Druze, Kurds and Turks. Arab Sunnis make up the majority of the Syrian population of 22.4 million people.

With this in mind, Syria had peaceful protests in which the people asked for democratic and economic reconstitution within the government and in return the government had overthrown this peaceful protest with military force on the people openly shooting children and women. The civil war then came into motion in March 2011, when fourteen to fifteen teenagers were arrested, six,allegedly tortured and two brutally killed for vandalizing school property with an anti government statement. Since then the people have taken a stand and have began a civil war-which goes on to this day.

Over 130,433 people have lost their lives; the UN has decided to refrain from counting anymore. Fathers, mothers and children have been brutally killed on a day to day basis, and the war has shown no signs of breaking. Shootings of people, snipers that prey on children and chemical warfare have been used against the people. The chemical inside the deployed rockets, is called the sarin nerve agent; twenty times more deadly than cyanide. The Syrian army is believed to have 1,000 tonnes of chemicals for use in warfare, including the sarin chemical; It is highly believed by the United states of america that the Syrian government is responsible for this attack.

This right here is unethical, inhuman and gruesome; a lot of people still have no idea as to why.

Syrians need a voice, the people need aid and care. Stand up and voice what is going on; we need to step in. Below, a child is treated after a bombing.