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Date:         Thu, 11 Oct 2001 16:17:55 -0700

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Subject:      Calif. Governor Signs Bills To Protect Against Mercury

              Contamination * Rett Syndrome Gene Research * Antibotic Vaccines

              to Treat Autism? * A Look at Seizure Disorders

FEAT DAILY NEWSLETTER      Sacramento, California      http://www.feat.org

          "Healing Autism: No Finer a Cause on the Planet"

______________________________________________________

October 11, 2001        News Morgue Search  www.feat.org/search/news.asp

    PUBLIC HEALTH

   * Calif. Governor Signs Bills To Protect Against Mercury Contamination

    RESEARCH

   * Rett Syndrome Gene Research

   * Antibiotic Vaccines to Treat Autism?

    TREATMENT

   * A Look at Seizure Disorders

California Governor Signs Bills To Protect Against Mercury Contamination

      [Thanks to Steve Koyasako.]

http://www.governor.ca.gov/state/govsite/gov_htmldisplay.jsp?BV_SessionID=@@

@@0585702591.1002832606@@@@&BV_EngineID=hadccegggejjbemgcfkmchcog.0&sCatTitl

e=Press+Release&sFilePath=/govsite/press_release/2001_10/20011010_L01115_Mer

curyswitches.html&sTitle=GOVERNOR+DAVIS+SIGNS+BILLS+TO+PROTECT+AGAINST+MERCU

RY+CONTAMINATION+10%2f10%2f2001&iOID=25128 <-- Address ends here.

      California Governor Gray Davis has signed legislation to place new

controls on products containing mercury.

      SB 633 by Senator Byron Sher (D-Palo Alto) places new controls on the

disposal of appliances and vehicle components found to contain mercury. It

restricts the use and distribution of mercury-containing fever thermometers

to only upon prescription of a physician.

      "Mercury is a persistent and toxic pollutant that bioaccumulates in

the environment and in the food chain," Governor Davis said. "I am signing

this bill because it will help to reduce mercury contamination in the waters

of the state. It will reduce the amount of mercury added to the environment

by broken and discarded fever thermometers, novelty products and by

mercury-containing electrical switches that are not removed before junked

vehicles are crushed or shredded."

      SB 633 also bans the specific addition of mercury to novelties and

clothing articles by January 1, 2003. It bans the sale of a car manufactured

after January 1, 2005 that contains a mercury vehicle switch. In addition,

the bill bans the use of mercury-containing items from use in schools,

except for measuring devices.

      Governor Davis expressed concern, however, that this bill could be

interpreted to ban the use of a certain type of battery in novelty items

such as toys. These "button cell" batteries contain a small amount of

mercury but meet existing state and federal safety requirements. The author

has agreed to introduce cleanup legislation in the next legislative session

specifically allowing the use of this type of battery in novelty items. See

attached signing message.

      Last week, Governor Davis signed SB 134 (Figueroa), the Dental Board

sunset reform bill. One of the reforms in the bill requires a dentist to

provide a fact sheet on possible health risks related to mercury to a

patient prior to performing a dental restoration that could involve the use

of dental amalgam. The bill also requires new patients to receive and

acknowledge receipt of the mercury risk fact sheet.

* * *

Rett Syndrome Gene Research

Expression pattern of the rett syndrome gene mecp2 in primate prefrontal

cortex.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_ui

ds=11592848&dopt=Abstract <-- Address ends here.

1: Neurobiol Dis 2001 Oct;8(5):784-91t

Akbarian S, Chen RZ, Gribnau J, Rasmussen TP, Fong Hf, Jaenisch R, Jones EG.

Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02142

      Dysfunction of the prefrontal cortex may contribute to the autistic

features and mental retardation of Rett syndrome, a neuropsychiatric

condition caused by mutations of the gene encoding methyl-CpG-binding

protein 2 (MeCP2).

      Because nothing is known about the expression of MeCP2 and other

chromatin-associated factors in primate brain, we studied in monkey

prefrontal cortex and murine cerebral cortex expression patterns of MeCP2

and of macrohistone H2A (MacroH2A), which like MeCP2 is associated with

transcriptionally silent chromatin.

      In both species, MeCP2 and MacroH2A appeared to be ubiquitously

expressed by cortical neurons, including projection neurons and GABAergic

interneurons. In the adult monkey, MeCP2 expression was robust throughout

all layers of the prefrontal cortex but it was limited in fetal monkeys at

embryonic day 110 to the deeper cortical layers and the subplate.

      These results suggest that MeCP2 may be important for neuronal

maintenance in the developing and in the mature primate prefrontal cortex,

consistent with the previously reported phenotype of MeCP2-null mutant mice.

Copyright 2001 Academic Press.

* * *

Antibotic Vaccines to Treat Autism?

Milkhaus Laboratory Granted Patent for Treating Diseases Using Low Levels of

Antibodies

    [From a company press release.]

http://library.northernlight.com/FB20011011540000015.html?cb=0&dx=1006&sc=0#

doc

      BW HealthWire - Milkhaus Laboratory, Inc, a clinical stage

biopharmaceutical company, announced today that it had been granted a patent

for the therapeutic use of antibodies at concentrations significantly below

those currently employed in the treatment of disease.

      The conventional therapeutic application of antibodies involves their

use in concentrations which cause a specific antibody to combine with a

target antigen to render it inoperable, non-infectious or to neutralize it.

More recently, antibodies have been used as vaccines to induce specific

immune responses. Antibody therapy is in increasing use today for a variety

of indications including immune system deficiency disorders, infections such

as hepatitis, and as anti-cancer agents which target specific tumor

antigens.

      "The implications of this patent are very far reaching. Our work

suggests that this invention, one which employs antibodies in low

concentrations, involves a molecular signal that ultimately induces a

therapeutic response similar to that observed in traditional antibody

therapy," said Dr. John McMichael, the Company's founder and CEO. "Our

immediate work will be focused on diabetes. However, experience suggests

that the technology will be useful in treating a variety of diseases

including multiple sclerosis, autism, attention deficit disorder ("ADD"),

pulmonary -disorders, Alzheimer's Disease and Crohn's Disease," he added.

* * *

A Look at Seizure Disorders

      [Seizure disorders are often comorbid with autism.  From the website

of Integrative Medicine Communications.  The publisher combines traditional

and alternative medical approaches and claims to be independent.  See

description at end of article.  The website is worth checking out.  This is

presented here for the reader's information and is not to be taken as

medical advice.  Thanks to Beth Clay.]

www.onemedicine.com

      Overview - Definition Seizures are a temporary neurologic event that

results from abnormal, hypersynchronous discharges from neurons in the

central nervous system (CNS). Seizures can be variously characterized

according to behavioral and electroencephalographic (EEG) changes. Recurrent

seizures from one of many chronic processes are considered epilepsy;

however, a single seizure or recurrent seizures from a correctable cause

(e.g., febrile seizures) are not considered epilepsy.

      The International League Against Epilepsy published a Classification

of Epileptic Seizures in 1981 in which all seizures were classified

according to clinical features and EEG changes. The three major categories

of seizures are: partial, generalized, and unclassified.

      Partial (or focal) seizures can be isolated to certain areas of the

cerebral cortex and are further classified as simple-partial seizures

(consciousness is preserved), complex-partial seizures (consciousness is

lost), or partial seizures with secondary generalization.

      Generalized seizures usually involve both cerebral hemispheres and are

further classified as absence seizures (petit mal-brief loss of

consciousness), generalized tonic-clonic seizures (grand mal-tonic

contractions followed by unresponsiveness), atonic seizures (transient loss

of muscle tone), and myoclonic seizures (transient muscle contractions).

      Unclassified epileptic seizures include neonatal seizures, West

syndrome (infantile spasms), Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, juvenile myoclonic

epilepsy, and reflex epilepsy (e.g., seizures resulting from certain stimuli

such as a flickering light).

      Etiology

      CNS infection (e.g., bacterial meningitis, encephalitis) • Drug

toxicity or withdrawal (e.g., alcohol or illicit drug use) • Genetic

mutations (e.g., myoclonic epilepsy with ragged red fibers [MERRF]) • Head

trauma • Electrolyte or metabolic derangements • Drugs that lower the

seizure threshold • High fevers • Brain abnormalities (e.g., tumors,

stroke) • Hypoglycemia and hypocalcemia

      Risk Factors

      History of febrile seizures • Family history of seizures • History of

stroke • Alzheimer's disease

      Signs and Symptoms

      The physical presentations of seizures are varied in duration,

severity, and characteristics. Signs may include the following.

      Prodrome of generalized seizures (aura), including lethargy,

depression, irritability, myoclonic jerks of • limbs, abdominal pains, pale

complexion, headache, constipation, or diarrhea • Loss of consciousness •

Total or partial body muscle spasm (tonic contractions) • Apnea (cessation

of breathing) • Cyanosis (bluish coloring) of skin and mucous membranes •

Dilated pupils that are unreactive to light • Bowel or bladder

incontinence • Increased pulse and blood pressure • Increased salivation and

sweating • Deep coma, postictal confusion, and deep sleep

      Repeated seizures over a long period of time may result in:

      Absentmindedness • Automatisms (e.g., lip smacking, chewing,

fumbling) • Declining school or work performance • Loss of postural muscle

tone

      Differential Diagnosis

      Stokes-Adams attack • Transient ischemic attack • Syncope • Hysterical

(psychogenic) seizures • Metabolic disturbances (e.g., delirium tremens) •

Migraine syndromes • Sleep disorders (e.g., narcolepsy) • Movement disorders

(e.g., tics)

      Diagnosis - Physical Examination

      Initially, providers must attend to the seizure patient's respiratory

and cardiovascular status and vital signs. After the patient is stable, a

detailed history must be taken from family members, witnesses, and the

patient (if possible) to determine definitively whether the patient actually

experienced a seizure. Precipitating events (e.g., head trauma) and risk

factors (e.g., family history of seizures) must be considered. The presence

or absence of  "auras," which are experienced by up to 60% of seizure

patients, automatisms, myoclonus, postures (i.e., whether or not the patient

fell), continence (loss of bowel function), and postictal confusion must be

noted.

      These signs can help to differentiate the type of seizure experienced.

      Laboratory Tests

      Laboratory values are often normal in seizure patients.

      Complete blood count to diagnose metabolic disorders and as a baseline

before treatment • Urine and blood toxicologic screens to determine any

underlying drug use • Serum electrolytes and liver function tests for

baseline values before beginning treatment

      Pathology/Pathophysiology

      In many cases, the brains of patients with generalized seizures appear

normal; however, some seizure disorders

have definable lesions: hamartomas, vascular abnormalities, areas of

neuronal loss, fibrosis, scars, and tumors.

In addition, traumatic (e.g., cortical contusions) or hypoxic (e.g.,

degeneration of Purkinje cells) effects can

result from the seizures themselves.

      Imaging

      Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to diagnose cerebral lesions (e.g.,

tumors, vascular malformations) • Computed tomography (CT) to diagnose CNS

infection and cerebral lesions when MRI is not available • Positron emission

tomography (PET) to localize epileptogenic areas in cases refractory to

medical • treatment • Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) to

localize epileptogenic areas in cases • refractory to medical treatment

Other Diagnostic Procedures • An EEG is the primary diagnostic tool used to

categorize seizures. The epileptiform abnormalities • (spikes and waves) on

the EEG are recorded in 60% to 90% of patients. • Lumbar puncture-to

diagnose meningitis, encephalitis, and human immunodeficiency virus •

Closed-circuit television EEG (CCTV/EEG) for long-term monitoring in a

hospital setting to localize • epileptogenic foci for resective surgery •

Ambulatory EEG for long-term monitoring at home, school, or work to localize

epileptogenic foci for • resective surgery

      Herbs

      Herbs are generally a safe way to strengthen and tone the body's

systems. As with any therapy, it is important to ascertain a diagnosis

before pursuing treatment. Herbs may be used as dried extracts (capsules,

powders, teas), glycerites (glycerine extracts), or tinctures (alcohol

extracts). Unless otherwise indicated, teas should be made with 1 tsp. of

herb per cup of hot water. Steep covered 5 to 10 minutes for leaf or

flowers, and 10 to 20 minutes for roots. Drink 2 to 4 cups/day. Tinctures

may be used singly or in combination as noted.

      Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata): to both prevent and treat

seizures, may be effective without side effects, especially where stress is

a precipitating factor. Dose is 30 drops tid to qid.

      Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora): antispasmodic and calmative herb,

with historic use for epilepsy

      Valerian (Valeriana officinalis): spasmolytic, sedative, historically

used for epilepsy, large doses may cause lethargy or gastrointestinal upset

that resolve with discontinuation

      The above herbs may be used singly or in combination at 1 cup tea tid

or 30 to 60 drops tincture tid. In addition, use milk thistle (Silybum

marianum) to protect the liver from ill effects of some medications (70 to

210 mg tid).

      Homeopathy

      An experienced homeopath should assess individual constitutional types

and severity of disease to select the correct remedy and potency. For acute

prescribing use 3 to 5 pellets of a 12X to 30C remedy every one to four

hours until acute symptoms resolve. If symptoms persist consult with an

experienced homeopath.

      Artemesia vulgaris for convulsions after exertion and/or visual

stimulation

      Oenanthe for violent seizures, especially exacerbated menstrually or

after a head injury

      Bufo for convulsions accompanied by delayed development

      Cicuta for violent seizures with arching of the back, especially with

a long postictal drowsiness and/or after head injury

      Cuprum metallicum for seizures with mental dullness and/or difficulty

breathing

      Causticum for seizures during menses or after a fright or receiving

bad news

      Belladonna as general remedy, especially for convulsions followed by

nausea

      Physical Medicine

      Chiropractic, osteopathic, or naturopathic manipulation may be quite

helpful, especially in children with seizures or seizures appearing after a

head trauma.

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      Acupuncture

      Acupuncture may be helpful with specific acupressure points that have

been used to stop seizures.

      Patient Monitoring

      Because of the toxicity of the antiepileptic therapy, patients must be

monitored closely for myriad side effects, the most serious of which include

hepatotoxicity, bone marrow suppression, aplastic anemia, thrombocytopenia,

lymphadenopathy, hirsutism, osteomalacia, and ataxia. In addition,

determining the correct dosage or drug combinations is an inexact science at

present; thus, patients must be monitored closely for many months until

seizures are under control and side effects are tolerable. Starting and

stopping antiepileptic medications must be done slowly, often by overlapping

drugs for several weeks. Monitoring should continue regularly to ensure

patient compliance with the drug schedule.

      Other Considerations

      Prevention

      Some patients can identify events that seem to trigger seizures such

as alcohol, lack of sleep, stress, and, in certain individuals, visual or

auditory stimuli (e.g., video games, music). Thus, these situations must be

avoided. Also, strict compliance with the drug schedule is mandatory to

ensure therapeutic blood levels. Dangerous activities such as swimming,

operating equipment, working at heights, and driving are contraindicated

initially, and perhaps forever, depending on the seriousness of the seizure

disorder and the success of treatment.

      Complications/Sequelae

      The diagnosis of a seizure disorder can drastically alter a person's

outlook and restrict their productivity; in addition, patients may face

occupational discrimination and loss of independence if they are unable to

drive. Depression or other psychological disturbances may result. Serious

injuries are often sustained with the first seizure and in seizure disorders

that are refractory to treatment. Head injuries and broken bones are common

sequelae. The long-term effects of antiepileptic drugs on the growth and

development of children is unknown. Generalized status epilepticus is

characterized by a series of grand mal seizures without regaining

consciousness. This must be treated as a medical emergency as irreversible

neurologic sequelae are common.

      Absence status is characterized by absence seizures that may last for

hours. This may be labeled inattention or daydreaming by young

schoolchildren who may fall behind developmentally if the seizure disorder

is not diagnosed.

      Prognosis

      Approximately 60% of adults who have successful therapeutic treatments

and are seizure-free for two to five years can stop taking their medication.

The exact point at which a drug-free trial should occur is unknown, but

often providers make a first attempt after two years. Seizures that are

refractory to drug therapy (20%) may respond successfully to surgery if they

fit the criterion for a good surgical candidate. The diagnosis of a seizure

disorder can drastically alter a person's outlook and restrict their

productivity.

      Pregnancy

      While it is not uncommon for women with a seizure disorder to have a

normal pregnancy and delivery, there may be changes in the frequency of the

seizures, which can have a teratogenic effect. Also, women who experience

grand mal seizures while pregnant are more likely to experience premature

labor, spontaneous abortion, toxemia, and abruptio placentae and hypoxia. In

addition, infants of women who are taking antiepileptic drugs have

malformations two to three times as often as healthy women. These

malformations include cleft lip and palate, cardiacabnormalities,

anencephaly, and neural tube defects.

      References

      Adams RD, Victor M, Ropper AH. Principles of Neurology. 6th ed. New

York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 1997:313-341.

      Bartram T. Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Dorset, England: Grace

Publishers; 1995:170-171.

      Fauci AS, Braunwald E, Isselbacher KJ, et al., eds. Harrison's

Principles of Internal Medicine. 14th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Book Co;

1998:2311-2325.

      Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C, et al., eds. PDR for Herbal

Medicines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Co; 1998:1128, 1135, 1204, 1219.

      Morrison R. Desktop Guide to Keynotes and Confirmatory Symptoms.

Albany, Calif: Hahnemann Clinic Publishing; 1993:46, 76, 111-114, 124,

146-147, 276.

      Murray MT. Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Rocklin, Calif:

Prima Publishing; 1996:84.

      Murray MT. The Healing Power of Herbs: The Enlightened Person's Guide

to the Wonders of Medicinal Plants. 2nd ed. Rocklin, Calif:

      Prima Publishing; 1998:40, 91.

      Rowland LP. Merritt's Textbook of Neurology. 9th ed. Media, Pa:

Williams & Wilkins; 1995:845-868.

      Werbach MR. Nutritional Influences on Illness. New Canaan, Conn: Keats

Publishing, Inc; 1987:189-193.

      Copyright © 2001 Integrative Medicine Communications

      Description of the website publisher:

      Integrative Medicine is an information services company, leading the

emerging field of integrative medicine combining the best of alternative

medical practices with conventional medicine for optimal healthcare. The

company founded in 1998, is a private, venture capital-backed organization

and is based in Newton, Massachusetts.

      We focus on the delivery of scientific, online information and

advisory services in four main areas: professional clinical information,

consumer clinical information, professional training, and the

business/implementation of integrative medicine. Our proprietary news,

databases, business intelligence, advisory services, and a suite of

electronic products are delivered on and off the web. All of our products

are peer reviewed by a 87-member board of expert healthcare professionals.

      Most importantly, we are not advocates. Integrative Medicine is

objective. We do not accept funding or sponsorship of any kind from CAM or

conventional medicine manufacturers, developers, or providers.

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