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April 2019

A look at Candida auris

Candida_auris

This week's HND piece gives a good introduction into the growing problem with the superbug yeast Candida auris. As with most superbugs, this one is especially damaging to those already sick and in a healthcare facility.

Sadly, as also is the case with most superbugs, there is a serious cover-up going on as to exactly where, and how prevalent these infections really are.

Read the complete article.


What's driving the rise of mental health issues and suicide in teens?

Suicide_in_teens

This HND piece, written by guest author Mark Goulston, MD, takes a hard look at some of the major causes of the increase in teen suicides and mental health issues, occurring over the last 12 years. Some of these causes include distracted parents; our society's addiction to thrills and instant gratification, which can supplant true familial closeness; and the inevitable adrenaline crashes that occur.

Goulston notes that "Staying distracted from our feelings is not a long-term solution. Feelings must be felt all the way through, in the same way you need to drain an abscess to heal. Ultimately, we must get off the adrenaline high and return to bonding. Excitement can't take the place of intimacy. We have to stop believing that everything is okay when it's clearly not."

Read the complete article.


Measuring air contaminants accurately

Accuracy2

This HND piece examines the matter of interferences in the chemical analysis of air contaminants. Some historical background is provided, including how our EPA formalized measurement techniques, and the approved methods promulgated by NIOSH and OSHA.

Then, examples are given. We discuss the effect of other reduced sulfur compounds on hydrogen sulfide analysis, along with how formaldehyde in cigarette smoke threw off the CDC testing on the FEMA trailers. As always, there are useful links throughout the write-up.

Read the complete article.


A look at aid in dying

Aid_in_dying

This HND piece examines the practice of aid in dying, aka physician assisted suicide. First legalized in the Netherlands, it has spread quickly, and is currently legal in several states. Despite many safeguards built into the associated laws, the practice is being exposed as rife with abuse.

According to official government stats, there are more than 400 cases of "termination of life without request," not to mention some very dicey reasons for the suicides, that strayed far from the "terminally ill" original qualification. Likewise, similar abuses are being uncovered in the American version of this practice, as well.

Read the complete article.