A premature ventricular contraction (PVC) is a relatively common event where the heartbeat is initiated by Purkinje fibers in the ventricles rather than by the sinoatrial node. PVCs may cause no symptoms or may be perceived as a 'skipped beat' or felt as palpitations in the chest. Single beat PVCs do not usually pose a danger.The electrical events of the heart detected by the electrocardiogram (ECG) allow a PVC to be easily distinguished from a normal heart beat. However, very frequent PVCs can be ...

ventricular premature complexes

Everyday-Chemicals-Carry-a-Toxic-Burden

Everyday Chemicals Carry a Toxic Burden 

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Potentially dangerous chemicals can be found in every room in your home. If not stored or used properly, these products can cause mild to serious and even life-threatening health problems for you or your children. Keep in mind that most household cleaning products and pesticides are relatively safe when used as directed, and that the toxicity level of a product depends on the dosage of the product used (never use more than the amount indicated on the label) and duration of exposure to the product.&nbsp;

Everyday-Chemicals-Carry-a-Toxic-Burden_0_2

Of course, there are other toxins that are found in cosmetics or food products, as well as those in kitchen utensils and elsewhere. It is difficult to limit them if we do not first know that the products themselves contain toxins. Everyday household products that contain chemicals and hazardous substances include:

Everyday-Chemicals-Carry-a-Toxic-Burden_0_3

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cosmetics and toiletries, e.g. soap, shampoo, toothpaste, shaving products, insect repellents, sunscreens and make-up</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Toys, crayons and articles for children</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fuel, e.g. LPG for barbecues and petrol stored for lawnmowers or motor vehicles</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Horticultural products, such as weed repellents&nbsp; and pesticides</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Household cleaners such as sprays, detergent and washing powder, softeners, bleaching products and anti-stain products</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Paint, paint thinners and solvents</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Products for pets, e.g. preparations against fleas and worms and shampoo for pets</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Poison, such as insecticides and bait for pests and insects</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Preparations for cleaning of spa and swimming pools</li></ul>

Everyday-Chemicals-Carry-a-Toxic-Burden_0_4

What-are-the-most-common-toxins-that-surround-us?

What are the most common toxins that surround us? 

What-are-the-most-common-toxins-that-surround-us?_1_0

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Among the most common toxic chemicals are organophosphates, flame retardants and phthalates, can be found in food, plastics, furniture, food packaging, cookware, boxes, carpets, shower curtains, electronics and even hair shampoo. They are almost all around us.

What-are-the-most-common-toxins-that-surround-us?_1_2

Scientists and researchers believe that many of these chemicals can be carcinogenic or wreak havoc on our hormones regulating various processes in the body. But the effects of these chemicals may be most severe on a baby's developing brain.

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Brain development is most complete and fastest in the first nine months, that is, prenatally. During this time, neural connections and pathways develop. Any interference from physical stress, such as a toxic chemical or other stressor, can disrupt this natural progression, which is so delicate and complex. Therefore, these are the toxins that should be avoided during this period, as well as later in life.

Organophosphate-pesticides

Organophosphate pesticides 

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Organophosphate pesticides are a class of neurotoxic chemicals used as combat agents in the 1930s. Today, however, they account for about half of all pesticides used in the U.S., and possibly other countries as well. And they can make their way to the crops we use as food sources. Areas where pesticides are sprayed intensively, such as farms, may have higher exposure levels.

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Children exposed to higher levels of these pesticides have been found to have a higher rate of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

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One way to reduce your exposure to organophosphate pesticides is by eating organic products and using alternative pest control methods if you are engaged in growing agricultural produce.

Phthalates

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These chemicals soften plastics and help fragrances and chemicals bind together. Exposure to phthalates has been associated with lower levels of IQ. 1

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Phthalates are commonly found in shampoos, conditioners, body sprays, hair sprays, perfumes, colognes, soap, nail polish, shower curtains, medical tubes, intravenous bags, vinyl flooring and wall coverings, food packaging, and coatings on extended-release pharmaceuticals.

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You can reduce your exposure to phthalates by using fragrance-free lotions and detergents; if you heat food in the microwave in glass containers, not in plastic ones; using fragrance-free cleaners and avoiding air and plastic fresheners designated No. 3 (PVC), No. 6 (PS) and No. 7 (PC). 2

Phthalates_1_3

Polybrominated-diphenyl-ethers

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers 

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These chemicals are used as flame retardants (can slow down the flame speed). They can be found in televisions, computers, insulation products and foam products, including toys and baby pillows, in many items such as carpet mats, furniture foam, appliances and electrical and electronic equipment, as well as building and automotive materials.

Polybrominated-diphenyl-ethers_1_1

The products can release ethers that accumulate as dust. Based on experimental animal studies, toxicological endpoints of exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers probably include disruption of thyroid homeostasis, neurodevelopmental deficits, reproductive changes, and even cancer. Pre- and/or postnatal exposure to these ethers can cause long-term behavioral abnormalities, especially on the motor activity and cognition of the baby. 3

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There is no database or anything like that listing which products these ethers contain, but we can still limit exposure by looking for products that do not contain such flame retardants.&nbsp;

Polybrominated-diphenyl-ethers_1_3

Experts recommend replacing products such as sofas and pillows that have open foam and using a high-performance HEPA filter to clean dust in the premises.&nbsp; 4

Air-pollutants

Air pollutants 

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Air pollution from burning fossil fuels such as coal, oil or gas is usually associated with respiratory problems. However, these pollutants may also include nitrogen dioxide, formaldehyde and benzene.

Air-pollutants_1_1

Higher exposure to air pollutants is associated with lower birth weight, premature birth and congenital heart defects. The World Health Organization (WHO) considers exposure to benzene a major public health problem.

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In addition to trying to avoid contaminated areas, try to avoid buying furniture from particle board, plywood or pressed wood. Many of these products use adhesives containing formaldehyde.

Lead

Lead_1_0

Lead is a naturally occurring metal. Leaded gasoline was banned in the 1970s, but can still be found in older homes that use lead paint. Lead can also make its way into the water due to corrosion by old water pipes. Lead is also used in various products such as industrial paints, automotive batteries and wheel weights.

Lead_1_1

Lead exposure has been associated with ADHD, lower IQ and developmental delays, as well as limiting intellectual development and slowing reflexes. 5

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Babies and young children are most at risk of lead exposure because they often put their hands and toys in their mouths, and they may have had contact with lead in dust.

Lead_1_3

Mercury

Mercury_1_0

Mercury is a naturally occurring element, but can also be released into the environment by the combustion of coal and oil. Mercury can also be found in some household items, such as thermometers, light bulbs and older models of dryers and washing machines. Mercury in the environment can make its way into fish and shellfish. Some fish, such as some tuna species, may have higher mercury concentrations. 6

Polychlorinated-biphenyls

Polychlorinated biphenyls 

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Polychlorinated biphenyls are chemicals already banned in the United States in 1979 because they harm human health and the environment. From the 1920s until their ban, about 680,000 tons were produced for microscope oils, electrical insulators, capacitors and electrical appliances such as televisions or refrigerators. They have been used before on dirt roads to preserve dust before some of the unintended consequences of widespread use are understood.

Polychlorinated-biphenyls_1_1

The most commonly observed health effects in humans exposed to large amounts of biphenyls are skin diseases such as acne and rashes. Studies in workers exposed to these toxins have shown changes in blood and urine that may indicate liver damage.&nbsp;

Polychlorinated-biphenyls_1_2

Other effects of polychlorinated biphenyls in animals have been identified, which include changes in the immune system, behavioral changes and impaired reproduction. There is evidence that a group of Michigan children whose mothers were exposed to biphenyls had reduced birth weight and head size, lower scores on standardized memory tests, psychomotor and behavioral tests, and decreased IQ. These effects lasted at least 7 years. 7

Numerous toxic substances create a wide range of health hazards (such as irritation, sensitisation and carcinogenicity) and physical hazards (such as flammability, corrosion and explosiveness). In addition, some of them have been found to have a detrimental effect on the fragile health of unborn children or their mothers. Many toxic chemicals have been linked to neurodevelopmental problems in children, as stated by scientists from the TENDR project.

What are the most dangerous toxins that surround us?

Бетина Цветкова

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Author: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

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Plastic is a constant companion in our lives - both a helpful friend and a mortal enemy. You will find it very difficult to live plastic-free in the modern world, even if you really want it. It is everywhere, even in our food, where it gets through plastic containers, utensils and packaging, not to mention the microplastic, which seems to be already found in every part of the world and every organism.

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In April 2021, a group of scientists called for one of the commonly used ingredients of plastic products - phthalates (and especially ortho-phthalates) to be banned [<a href="https://ajph.aphapublications.org/doi/full/10.2105/AJPH.2020.306014" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>].

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Phthalates are used to make plastic more flexible and hard to break. But there is alarming evidence that they have a significant negative impact on the nervous development of babies even as early as when the baby is still in the mother's womb. Later, the child is again surrounded by phthalates - in plastic toys, furniture, even packaged food and utensils.

Where-are-phthalates-hiding

Where are phthalates hiding

Where-are-phthalates-hiding_0_0

Phthalates are found in almost everything: food packaging, clothing, detergents, furniture, vinyl flooring, lubricants and adhesives, bath curtains, plastic car parts, rain and stainresistant products. Unfortunately, they are also found in cosmetics, including shampoo, soap, hairspray and nail polish.

Where-are-phthalates-hiding_0_1

Phthalates have the property of making fragrances durable, which is a desirable quality of cosmetic and detergents. Therefore, on the label they can be hidden simply under the name "fragrance".

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Due to the widespread application of phthalates in cosmetics, women are subjected to much greater exposure to them, and given the role of a woman in carrying and breastfeeding the baby, as well as the passage of phthalates from the maternal organism into the fetus, the situation is very alarming.

Where-are-phthalates-hiding_0_4

Packaging of certain food products are among the main sources of di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), as an example of foods that may be contaminated with it are dairy and fatty products and takeaway food.

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Phthalates can even be found in children's toys, in building materials and furniture, in PVC pipes, garden hoses - everywhere.

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It is therefore extremely difficult to avoid them ourselves and regulatory intervention is needed to prohibit their use.

Phthalates-can-negatively-affect-children's-brain-development

Phthalates can negatively affect children's brain development

Phthalates-can-negatively-affect-children's-brain-development_1_0

More than 30 studies on the impact of phthalates on the development of the baby in the womb have been conducted until 2019. In this year's report and a call to ban phthalates, scientists found the strongest links between phthalate exposure and:

Phthalates-can-negatively-affect-children's-brain-development_1_1

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hyperactivity,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Aggression</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Disobedience,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Emotional reactivity,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Criminal behaviour,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hyperactivity and attention deficit disorder (ADHD). &nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Phthalates-can-negatively-affect-children's-brain-development_1_2

The risk seems to be especially high during the intrautere development of the fetus. To assess the rate of fetal phthalate exposure, the scientists examined its levels in the mother's urine. According to one study, the risk of ADHD in children whose mothers had the highest levels of phthalates in the urine in the second trimester was three times higher than the rest.

Phthalates-can-negatively-affect-children's-brain-development_1_3

It is not entirely clear exactly at what point in development exposure to phthalates is most dangerous, which requires protection all the time.

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Phthalates-can-negatively-affect-children's-brain-development_1_5

Phthalates for which harmful effects on the baby's nervous system have been found are:

Phthalates-can-negatively-affect-children's-brain-development_1_6

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">dibutyl phthalates (DBPs),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">diethyl phthalate (DEP),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">butylbenzyl phthalate (BBzP).</li>
</ul>

Phthalates-can-negatively-affect-children's-brain-development_1_7

A systematic review of human studies concludes that prenatal exposure (before birth) of DEHP, DBPs, DEP and BBzP adversely affects cognitive and psychomotor development, internalization and extermination of behavior, attention problems, gender-related game behavior, social response and visual-spatial abilities of children. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/The_association_between_prenatal_exposure_to_phthalates_and_cognition_and_neurobehavior_of_children_evidence_from_birth_cohorts_31004626" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.2</a>]

Phthalates-can-negatively-affect-children's-brain-development_1_8

Not only phthalates are problematic, but also their metabolites, that is, the substances that form in our body when they are broken down.

Other-damage-that-phthalates-do

Other damage that phthalates do

Other-damage-that-phthalates-do_2_0

Various studies link phthalates to childhood obesity, asthma, cardiovascular problems, cancer and reproductive problems, for example, cryptohorism, that is, testicles that do not descend from the abdominal cavity in boys and low sperm count and testosterone levels in men.

Other-damage-that-phthalates-do_2_1

The increasing number of studies discovering the negative role of phthalates on the neurological development of the fetus in the womb, babies and young children requires special attention to be paid to this problem by regulators worldwide. What parents can do is to try and minimize their exposure to phthalates, being careful when choosing the cosmetics used by the mother and, if possible, avoid plastic food packaging and other potential sources of these substances.

Study finds link between plastic and baby brain development disorders

https://d20hztklr4qnvi.cloudfront.net/dd6b31d7-e6ad-45ab-b381-cdb2a17d833a_middle.jpg

 Study finds link between plastic and baby brain development

Rositsa Tashkova-Kacharova

Author: Rositsa Тashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

The season of allergies is long gone, but we still have a runny nose, watery eyes, or cough, for no obvious reason. Seems that it is very likely that we have an allergy to household dust or mold, and it is time to take a good look at all possible sources of these allergens.

What-are-mold-and-mildew?

What are mold and mildew?

What-are-mold-and-mildew?_0_0

Molds and well-known black mold are microscopic fungi, and like other fungi, they reproduce through spores. We can safely imagine the spores as miniature seeds that float through the air until they fall into an environment conducive to their development. And this for the fungus means - moisture and nutrients.

What-are-mold-and-mildew?_0_1

In some species, spores are carried by dry air and currents, and in others - by droplets of moisture in the air.

What-are-mold-and-mildew?_0_2

Mold and mildew are an important part of the circle of life in living nature, as they break down dead organic matter and thus make the substances "locked" in it accessible to other living organisms. For example, by breaking down the fallen leaves, the useful substances from them are returned to the soil, and the surrounding plants can make use of them.

What-are-mold-and-mildew?_0_3

<figure><img class="tinyMCEImg" src="https://d20hztklr4qnvi.cloudfront.net/1d6c7811-bbf4-4e6c-a320-7a7fe7e6b1a8_middle.jpg" border="0" alt="aspergillus" title="aspergillus">
<figcaption>Mold of the species Aspergillus fumigatus under a light microscope. Credit: Wikipedia</figcaption>
</figure>

What-are-mold-and-mildew?_0_4

Unfortunately, microscopic fungi do not distinguish between nature and our home, and if the conditions at home are suitable, they will become our roommates without a doubt.

What-are-mold-and-mildew?_0_5

Few people know that mold and mucor are two different things, but we can learn to easily recognize them without a microscope:

What-are-mold-and-mildew?_0_6

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">At the beginning of its development, mucor forms a white structure of air hyphae (threads), which is very similar to cotton. After a while, black dots begin to form on the tips of these strands - these are small bags in which black spores ripen and wait for the moment they will be released.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Molds form colored colonies that look more like a relief adhesive of blue, green, beige, or another color. The spores in mold are not in bags, but form directly on the tips of something like small "twigs".</li>
</ul>

When-mucor-and-mold-become-a-problem

When mucor and mold become a problem

When-mucor-and-mold-become-a-problem_1_0

Besides the aesthetically unpleasant damage that mold and mold cause to walls and other affected surfaces, their spores are those that cause allergic reactions and even asthma in some people.

When-mucor-and-mold-become-a-problem_1_1

One of the most common dangerous molds is Aspergillus niger, the color of which is black. It is often found on onions. It can cause otomycosis if it gets into and develops in the ear canal, which causes pain and leads to temporary deafness.

When-mucor-and-mold-become-a-problem_1_2

Spores of another species of the genus Aspergillus - Aspergillus fumigatus - can endanger the lives of people with compromised immune systems by causing aspergillosis [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/bg/eng/research/pubmed/Aspergillus_fumigatus_and_aspergillosis_10194462" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref. 1</a>]entering the lungs.

When-mucor-and-mold-become-a-problem_1_3

<figure><img class="tinyMCEImg" src="https://d20hztklr4qnvi.cloudfront.net/060720ba-ff7e-46fd-8572-a770ce61ecce_middle.jpg" border="0" alt="Aspergillus niger">
<figcaption>Mold of the species Aspergillus niger under an electron microscope. Credit: Wikipedia</figcaption>
</figure>

When-mucor-and-mold-become-a-problem_1_4

It is also known that the consumption of molded foods (when it is not a noble mold) is also dangerous, since microscopic fungi secrete toxins in food that can damage the liver and other organs. Toxins dissolve well especially in liquid foods, so burying the mold from the jam or yogurt and cutting out the tomato does not solve our problem - if we have allowed fungi to develop on them, we should throw them away, as they are no longer edible.

What-are-the-symptoms-of-allergy-and-how-to-weaken-them

What are the symptoms of allergy and how to weaken them

What-are-the-symptoms-of-allergy-and-how-to-weaken-them_2_0

Symptoms of allergy to mold and mold are very similar to those of hay <a href="/p/siennata_khriema_kakvo_ia_prichiniava_i_ima_li_iefikasno_liechieniie_8d03ed12_7efb_4591_802c_8d89e97f3607" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">fever </a> [ref. 2]: stuffy or flowing nose, laity and itching in the eyes and nose, sneezing, and even skin manifestations such as dry and flabby skin.

What-are-the-symptoms-of-allergy-and-how-to-weaken-them_2_1

If the spores reach the lung, the allergic reaction can also manifest itself there in the form of asthma.

What-are-the-symptoms-of-allergy-and-how-to-weaken-them_2_2

Unfortunately, the only way to combat this allergy and limit our contact with mold spores and mold. In nature, their amount is greatest in the summer months and autumn.

What-are-the-symptoms-of-allergy-and-how-to-weaken-them_2_3

If we like to work in the garden, this can also expose us to these spores. Therefore, it is advisable to wear a mask when mowing grass, planting, digging&nbsp;or collecting the leaves in the autumn. [<a href="https://www.aafa.org/mold-allergy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref. 3</a>] Molds develop perfectly on rotting and moist plant waste, so we need to handle them carefully, especially if we suffer from an allergy.

What-are-the-symptoms-of-allergy-and-how-to-weaken-them_2_4

Unfortunately, fighting mold at home is not at all easy, especially when we can’t properly remove moisture. It can be due to leaks in the building itself, poor ventilation of the premises. Even our attempts to make our home more energy efficient by placing aluminum or PVC joinery or insulation on the walls can lead to increased humidity in the home and condensation on windows and walls.

What-are-the-symptoms-of-allergy-and-how-to-weaken-them_2_5

What-to-do-to-reduce-the-danger-of-developing-mold-at-home

What to do to reduce the danger of developing mold at home

What-to-do-to-reduce-the-danger-of-developing-mold-at-home_3_0

Several steps can reduce the danger of developing mold and mold in the home:

What-to-do-to-reduce-the-danger-of-developing-mold-at-home_3_1

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">If there are leaks - do all you can to remove them;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">To ventilate the place as often as possible, including in winter;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Do not put large furniture (cabinets, sections, libraries) to external walls, and if this is not possible - leave enough distance between the wall and the piece of furniture to have air circulation;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">In case of probable condensation and moisture, leave the wardrobes open from time to time, bring the clothes forward, so that they are not at the back of the wardrobe;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">To ensure moisture removal in rooms where washing machines and dryers operate - let fresh air in after each washing and drying and use dehumidifiers in the room. After each laundry, it is important to absorb the water from the tire around the opening of the washing machine, as well as wash and dry the detergent drawer - mold and mildew also develop there;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">If possible, do not dry laundry indoors;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">You can also resort to the use of air purification devices - some of them are combined and also capture excess moisture. It should be considered that both humidifiers and dehumidifiers have water containers, which can also become a mold kennel - it is necessary to empty and clean them thoroughly at least 2 times a week;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Moisture in the bathroom is also a problem, and using a fan to take it away is an important but insufficient measure. It is necessary to ventilate the bathroom after bathing. Several holes can be installed at the bottom of the door, and after bathing the moisture can be removed from the walls with a window cleaning tool. Joints should be cleaned with detergent at least once a month, and the curtain should be left to dry - it often gets mold;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Air conditioner filters must also be serviced as prescribed, that’s usually done by a technician.</li>
</ul>

What-to-do-to-reduce-the-danger-of-developing-mold-at-home_3_2

These rules apply not only to people suffering from allergy, but to anyone who wants to have a healthier environment and cleaner air in their home.

ventricular premature complexes

Study finds link between plastic and baby brain development disorders

Mold and mildew - the hidden allergens