Friday, February 22, 2019

Dangerous non-food products : Products with serious risks Click to enlarge 1 of 1 photo Share on Alert number: A12/0321/19 Category: Gadgets Product: Waterproof phone case Brand: Unknown Name: Waterproof Case Type / number of model: B74031 Batch number / Barcode: Unknown Risk type: Environment The plastic contains short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) (measured value up to 0.32%). SCCPs persist in the environment, are toxic to aquatic organisms at low concentrations and bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans, posing a risk to human health and the environment. The product does not comply with the Regulation on persistent organic pollutants (POP Regulation). Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Importer) Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): The company is reported to the prosecutor Click to enlarge 1 of 1 photo Share on Alert number: A12/0318/19 Category: Hand tools Produc


Products with serious risks 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0321/19       
Category:  Gadgets
 
Product:  Waterproof phone case
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Waterproof Case
 
Type / number of model:  B74031
 
Batch number / Barcode: Unknown
 
Risk type:  Environment
 
The plastic contains short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) (measured value up to 0.32%).
SCCPs persist in the environment, are toxic to aquatic organisms at low concentrations and bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans, posing a risk to human health and the environment.

The product does not comply with the Regulation on persistent organic pollutants (POP Regulation).
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Importer)
Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): The company is reported to the prosecutor

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0318/19       
Category:  Hand tools
 
Product:  Garden hose
 
Brand: Green>it
 
Name: Green hose set
 
Type / number of model:  9025811
 
Batch number / Barcode:  5708614912768
 
Risk type:  Environment
 
The hose contains short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) (measured value up to 4.66%).
SCCPs persist in the environment, are toxic to aquatic organisms at low concentrations and bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans, posing a risk to human health and the environment. 

The product does not comply with the Regulation on persistent organic pollutants (POP Regulation).
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Importer)
Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): The company is reported to the prosecutor

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0300/19       
Category:  Hobby/sports equipment
 
Product:  Fitness mat
 
Brand: Deuser
 
Name: Fitness-Matte
 
Type / number of model:  121041R
 
Batch number / Barcode:  4007480015704
 
Risk type:  Chemical, Environment
 
The plastic in the mat contains short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) (measured value: 2.2%).
SCCPs persist in the environment, are toxic to aquatic organisms at low concentrations and bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans, posing a risk to human health and the environment.

SCCPs are suspected human carcinogens. Prolonged exposure to them through the skin may cause cancer. 

The product does not comply with the Regulation on persistent organic pollutants (POP Regulation).
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0330/19       
Category:  Hobby/sports equipment
 
Product:  Bicycle saddle cover
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  248
 
Batch number / Barcode: Unknown
 
Risk type:  Environment
 
The plastic contains short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) (measured value up to 1.12%).
SCCPs persist in the environment, are toxic to aquatic organisms at low concentrations and bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans, posing a risk to human health and the environment.

The product does not comply with the Regulation on persistent organic pollutants (POP Regulation).
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Importer)
Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): The company is reported to the persecutor

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0334/19       
Category:  Hobby/sports equipment
 
Product:  Football
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  9048306
 
Batch number / Barcode:  5706245581810
 
Risk type:  Chemical
 
The plastic ball contains di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) (measured value up to 0.13% by weight).
This phthalate may harm the health of children, causing possible damage to their reproductive system. 

The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation.
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Importer)
Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): The company is reported to the prosecutor

 

1 of 2 photos

Alert number: A12/0332/19       
Category:  Jewellery
 
Product:  Necklace
 
Brand: Jewelry Fashion
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  54314
 
Batch number / Barcode:  6 438278 543143
 
Risk type:  Chemical
 
The smaller round medallion contains cadmium (measured value: 94 % by weight).
Cadmium is harmful to human health because it accumulates in the body, can damage organs and may cause cancer.

The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Importer): Import rejected at border

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0319/19       
Category:  Lighting equipment
 
Product:  LED helmet light
 
Brand: STEEDS
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  940150
 
Batch number / Barcode:  4052083104386
 
Risk type:  Environment
 
The solder in the product contains lead above limit values (measured value up to 46% by weight).
Lead poses a risk to the environment. 

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Commission Directive on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS 2 Directive).
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Importer)
Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): The company is reported to the prosecutor

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0325/19       
Category:  Lighting equipment
 
Product:  Foldable desk lamp
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  93302
 
Batch number / Barcode:  PO702084
 
Risk type:  Environment
 
The solder contains lead (measured value up to 71% by weight) in concentrations above limit values.
Lead poses a risk to the environment. 

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Commission Directive on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS 2 Directive).
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Importer)
Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): The company is reported to the prosecutor

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0329/19       
Category:  Lighting equipment
 
Product:  Torch
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  P513.822
 
Batch number / Barcode: Unknown
 
Risk type:  Environment
 
The solders contain cadmium (measured value up to 0.39% by weight) and lead (measured value up to 48% by weight) in concentrations above limit values.
Cadmium and lead pose a risk to the environment. 

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Commission Directive on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS 2 Directive).
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Importer)
Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): The company is reported to the prosecutor

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0331/19       
Category:  Lighting equipment
 
Product:  Torch
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  341377VN
 
Batch number / Barcode: Unknown
 
Risk type:  Environment
 
The solder contains lead (measured value up to 50% by weight) in concentrations above limit values.
Lead poses a risk to the environment. 

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Commission Directive on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS 2 Directive).
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Importer)
Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): The company is reported to the prosecutor

 

1 of 3 photos

Alert number: A12/0337/19       
Category:  Lighting equipment
 
Product:  Table lamp
 
Brand: ArtHome
 
Name: Lume
 
Type / number of model:  SM1451
 
Batch number / Barcode:  8034048202029 (on the product); 8034048202128 (on the packaging)
 
Risk type:  Burns, Electric shock
 
The insulation is inadequate. Moreover, the power cord can easily detach or become damaged, giving access to live parts.
The user can touch live or hot parts and receive an electric shock or suffer burns.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive and the relevant European standard EN 60598-1.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Recall of the product from end users, Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

Alert number: A12/0309/19       
Category:  Motor vehicles
 
Product:  Passenger car
 
Brand: Porsche
 
Name: Cayenne - conventional and hybrid(PHEV), Macan
 
Type / number of model:  Cayenne: Type-approval numbers: e13*2007/46*1085* (92A M1G) e13*2007/46*1106* (92A N1G) e13*2007/46*1107* (92AH N1G) e13*2007/46*1108* (92AH M1G) Types: 92A, 92AN, 92AH, 92AHN, Macan: Type-approval numbers: e13*2007/46*1165 (M1) e13*2007/46*1164 (N1) Types: 95B, 95BN
 
Batch number / Barcode:  The vehicles in question were manufactured between January 2017 and February 2018.
 
Risk type:  Injuries
 
The retaining straps on the vehicle's ski bag may be defective.
The ski bag may not stay in position when subjected to a high load.
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Recall of the product from end users (By: Manufacturer)

 

1 of 2 photos

Alert number: A12/0315/19       
Category:  Protective equipment
 
Product:  Inflatable armbands
 
Brand: Numerous Star
 
Name: Arm circle
 
Type / number of model:  8" X 6"
 
Batch number / Barcode:  50112393
 
Risk type:  Chemical
 
The valve of the inflatable armband contains di(2-etylhexyl) phthalate-DEHP (measured value 21 % by weight) and di-'isononyl' phthalate (DINP) (measured value: 0.3 % by weight).
These phthalates may harm the health of children, causing possible damage to the reproductive system and the liver.

The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation and the Personal Protective Equipment regulation.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Retailer): Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0322/19       
Category:  Protective equipment
 
Product:  Safety reflector
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  731211-z
 
Batch number / Barcode: Unknown
 
Risk type:  Environment
 
The plastic contains short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) (measured value up to 0.38%).
SCCPs persist in the environment, are toxic to aquatic organisms at low concentrations and bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans, posing a risk to human health and the environment.

The product does not comply with the Regulation on persistent organic pollutants (POP Regulation).
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Importer)
Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): The company is reported to the prosecutor

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0328/19       
Category:  Protective equipment
 
Product:  Safety reflector
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  288
 
Batch number / Barcode: Unknown
 
Risk type:  Environment
 
The solders contain lead (measured value up to 81%) above limit values and the plastic contains short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) (measured value up to 0.931%).
SCCPs persist in the environment, are toxic to aquatic organisms at low concentrations and bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans, posing a risk to human health and the environment.
Lead poses a risk to the environment. 

The product does not comply with the Regulation on persistent organic pollutants (POP Regulation) and with the requirements of the Commission Directive on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS 2 Directive).
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Importer)
Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): The company is reported to the prosecutor

 

1 of 7 photos

Alert number: A12/0312/19       
Category:  Childcare articles and children's equipment
 
Product:  Baby carrier
 
Brand: Kekk
 
Name: Backpack Plus Black
 
Type / number of model:  Backpack Plus / Baby Pack Plus 015-014-004
 
Batch number / Barcode:  8 718531 445109
 
Risk type:  Injuries
 
The frame of the product is not strong enough and has no locking mechanism.
It could break or spontaneously fold while still carrying a baby, causing the baby to fall.

The product does not comply with the relevant European Standard EN 13209-1.
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Recall of the product from end users (By: Manufacturer)

 

1 of 3 photos

Alert number: A12/0298/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Inflatable swim-ring
 
Brand: Sainteve
 
Name: Swim Ring
 
Type / number of model:  ITEM N0: SY-A1098
 
Batch number / Barcode: Unknown
 
Risk type:  Chemical
 
The plastic of the swim-ring and the valve contain bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) (measured value: 5% and 0.9% by weight, respectively).
This phthalate may harm the health of children, causing possible damage to their reproductive system.

The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Retailer): Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 3 photos

Alert number: A12/0299/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Toy Microphone
 
Brand: Johntoy
 
Name: Microphone - Mit light - Avec lumiére - Con luz
 
Type / number of model:  Item Number: 29389
 
Batch number / Barcode:  8 711866 293896
 
Risk type:  Chemical, Environment, Injuries
 
The microphone can easily break, causing the button batteries to become accessible.

A child may put them in the mouth, causing damage to the gastrointestinal tract.
Additionally, the solder in three different places inside the toy contains too much lead (measured value up to: 70% by weight). Lead poses a risk to the environment. 

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Directive, the relevant European standard EN 62115 and the Commission Directive on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS 2 Directive).
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Importer): Recall of the product from end users

 

1 of 3 photos

Alert number: A12/0303/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Glow stick
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  2151-7/1.75
 
Batch number / Barcode:  8591044542172
 
Risk type:  Chemical, Choking
 
The battery compartment can easily be opened without the use of any tools, leaving button cell batteries accessible.
A child may put these in the mouth, which could cause damage to the child's gastrointestinal tract. They may also cause choking if swallowed by a small child.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive and with the relevant European standard EN 71-1 and EN 62115.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Retailer): Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 4 photos

Alert number: A12/0304/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Toy pushchair with doll
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Baby Small Cart
 
Type / number of model:  No. S876
 
Batch number / Barcode:  6998880080035
 
Risk type:  Chemical, Injuries
 
The pushchair is not sufficiently resistant to load and can easily collapse, causing injuries. In addition, the doll contains di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) (measured value up to 4.8% by weight).
This phthalate may harm the health of children, causing possible damage to their reproductive system.

 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Recall of the product from end users, Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 3 photos

Alert number: A12/0305/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Toy slime
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Crystal Mud
 
Type / number of model:  CX-1731
 
Batch number / Barcode:  6 951325 166800
 
Risk type:  Chemical
 
The migration of boron from the toy slime is too high (measured value: 879 mg/kg).
Ingestion or contact with an excessive quantity of boron may harm the health of children by damaging their reproductive system.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive and the relevant European standard EN 71-3.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 4 photos

Alert number: A12/0307/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Toy slime
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Pu Noise Putty
 
Type / number of model:  LCP-001
 
Batch number / Barcode:  Lot No. 0019/12 8 435124 170858
 
Risk type:  Chemical
 
The migration of boron from the toy slime is too high (measured value: 981 mg/kg).
Ingestion or contact with an excessive quantity of boron may harm the health of children by damaging their reproductive system.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive and the relevant European standard EN 71-3.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0308/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Children's fancy-dress costume
 
Brand: Star Wars
 
Name: Executioner Trooper
 
Type / number of model:  Item No 640110
 
Batch number / Barcode:  Code: 8 83028 23993, Lot No 7045
 
Risk type:  Burns
 
The fancy-dress costume is easily flammable and the flame propagation is too high.
If it catches fire, the child could suffer burns.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive and the relevant European standard EN 71-2.
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Retailer)

 

1 of 7 photos

Alert number: A12/0310/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Toy slime
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Slyme clay
 
Type / number of model:  55-2
 
Batch number / Barcode:  6 958455 624569, 6 987542 687507
 
Risk type:  Chemical
 
The migration of boron from the toy slime is too high (measured value: up to 546 mg/kg).
Ingestion or contact with an excessive quantity of boron may harm the health of children by damaging their reproductive system.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive and the relevant European standard EN 71-3.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 3 photos

Alert number: A12/0313/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Plastic doll
 
Brand: ABABABY, SMILE
 
Name: Annie Baby
 
Type / number of model:  Item Nr.: KJ883, HKJ368D, YKJ368B
 
Batch number / Barcode:  6920778206622
 
Risk type:  Chemical
 
The plastic material of the doll's head contains 2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) (measured value: 31 % by weight).
This phthalate may harm the health of children, causing possible damage to the reproductive system.

The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Recall of the product from end users, Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 2 photos

Alert number: A12/0314/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Soft toy
 
Brand: Baby Gong Wei Gang
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  V51-3
 
Batch number / Barcode: Unknown
 
Risk type:  Choking
 
The eyes and nose of the toy can easily detach. In addition, the fibrous stuffing material of the toy is easily accessible due to the weakness of the plastic zipper.
A small child may put the small parts in the mouth and choke.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive and the relevant European standard EN 71-1.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Recall of the product from end users, Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0333/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Wooden toy rattle
 
Brand: Classic World
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  3053
 
Batch number / Barcode:  6927049001185
 
Risk type:  Choking
 
The product contains a small wooden ball that can easily fall out between the bars of the rattle.
A small child could put it in the mouth and choke on it.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive and the relevant European standard EN 71-1.
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Recall of the product from end users (By: Distributor)

 

1 of 3 photos

Alert number: A12/0338/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Toy slime
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  Unknown
 
Batch number / Barcode:  6 958455 624569
 
Risk type:  Chemical
 
The migration of boron from the toy slime is too high (measured value: 533 mg/kg).
Ingestion or contact with an excessive quantity of boron may harm the health of children by damaging their reproductive system

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive and the relevant European standard EN 71-3.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 4 photos

Alert number: A12/0339/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Toy Slime
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Unicorn Crystal Mud
 
Type / number of model:  Unknown
 
Batch number / Barcode:  6 958455 624569
 
Risk type:  Chemical
 
The migration of boron from the toy slime is too high (measured value: 506 mg/kg).
Ingestion or contact with an excessive quantity of boron may harm the health of children by damaging their reproductive system. 

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive and the relevant European standard EN 71-3.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 6 photos

Alert number: A12/0341/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Toy slime
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: CRYSTAL SOIL - HELLO SUMMER
 
Type / number of model:  PL00605
 
Batch number / Barcode:  2 900000 225268
 
Risk type:  Chemical
 
The migration of boron from the toy slimes is too high (measured value: up to 874 mg/kg for red).
Ingestion or contact with an excessive quantity of boron may harm the health of children by damaging their reproductive system. 

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive and the relevant European standard EN 71-3.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 6 photos

Alert number: A12/0342/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Toy slime
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: CRYSTAL MUD
 
Type / number of model:  PL00604
 
Batch number / Barcode:  2 900000 225251
 
Risk type:  Chemical
 
Due to the container's characteristic form, appearance and size, this product may be mistaken for a foodstuff. This may lead consumers, and specially children, to put them in the mouth and ingest its content.

The migration of boron from the toy slime is too high (measured value: up to 1461 mg/kg).
Ingestion or contact with an excessive quantity of boron may harm the health of children by damaging their reproductive system. 

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Food Imitating Products Directive, the Toy Safety Directive and the relevant European standard EN 71-3.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 3 photos

Alert number: A12/0345/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Play tent
 
Brand: Eureka Kids
 
Name: My Little Explorer
 
Type / number of model:  Ref. 94570874
 
Batch number / Barcode:  8435404813369
 
Risk type:  Choking
 
Some pieces of velcro on the tent can become detached, generating a small part.
A small child may put them in the mouth and choke.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive and the relevant European standard EN 71-1.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Importer): Import rejected at border

 

1 of 6 photos

Alert number: A12/0346/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Toy slime
 
Brand: HTI
 
Name: Teamsterz Slime
 
Type / number of model:  1374304
 
Batch number / Barcode:  Batch: 05BB1 5 050837 430414
 
Risk type:  Chemical
 
The migration of boron from the toy slime is too high (measured value up to 2165 mg/kg).
Ingestion or contact with an excessive quantity of boron may harm the health of children by damaging their reproductive system. 

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive and the relevant European standard EN 71-3.
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Voluntary withdrawal (By: Manufacturer)

 

1 of 2 photos

Alert number: A12/0301/19       
Category:  Clothing, textiles and fashion items
 
Product:  Children's dress
 
Brand: Cutey Pie
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  50JTC1005
 
Batch number / Barcode:  3 664795 008992
 
Risk type:  Chemical
 
The dress contains azo-dyes releasing the aromatic amine 4-methyl-m-phenylenediamine (2,4-toluenediamine) (measured concentration: 342 mg/kg).
When in direct and prolonged contact with the skin, the aromatic amines may be absorbed by the skin. Aromatic amines can cause cancer, cell mutations and affect reproduction.

The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 3 photos

Alert number: A12/0335/19       
Category:  Clothing, textiles and fashion items
 
Product:  Children's sweatshirt
 
Brand: Hello baby
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  XH-9119
 
Batch number / Barcode:  2100005300094, 5272017091196
 
Risk type:  Strangulation
 
The drawstrings may become trapped during various activities of the child, leading to strangulation.
The product does not comply with European standard EN 14682.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0320/19       
Category:  Communication and media equipment
 
Product:  iPad holder
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  R.320.601
 
Batch number / Barcode: Unknown
 
Risk type:  Environment
 
The holder contains short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) (measured value up to 2.75%).
The placing on the market and use of articles containing SCCPs is banned. SCCPs persist in the environment, are toxic to aquatic organisms at low concentrations and bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans, posing a risk to human health and the environment. 

The product does not comply with the Regulation on persistent organic pollutants (POP Regulation).
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market, Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Distributor, Importer)
Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Recall of the product from end users

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0323/19       
Category:  Communication and media equipment
 
Product:  Earbuds
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  P326.231
 
Batch number / Barcode:  8714612097212
 
Risk type:  Environment
 
The plastic contains short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) (measured value up to 1.89%).
SCCPs persist in the environment, are toxic to aquatic organisms at low concentrations and bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans, posing a risk to human health and the environment.

The product does not comply with the Regulation on persistent organic pollutants (POP Regulation).
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Importer)
Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): The company is reported to the prosecutor

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0324/19       
Category:  Communication and media equipment
 
Product:  Earbuds
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  1899
 
Batch number / Barcode: Unknown
 
Risk type:  Environment
 
The solder contains lead (measured value up to 83% by weight) in concentrations above limit values.
Lead poses a risk to the environment. 

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Commission Directive on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS 2 Directive).
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Importer)
Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): The company is reported to the prosecutor

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0326/19       
Category:  Communication and media equipment
 
Product:  Headphones
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  86004-14
 
Batch number / Barcode:  7393107720340
 
Risk type:  Environment
 
The plastic contains short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) (measured value up to 0.32%).
SCCPs persist in the environment, are toxic to aquatic organisms at low concentrations and bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans, posing a risk to human health and the environment.

The product does not comply with the Regulation on persistent organic pollutants (POP Regulation).
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Importer)
Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): The company is reported to the prosecutor

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0327/19       
Category:  Communication and media equipment
 
Product:  Headphones
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  91268
 
Batch number / Barcode:  PO6022829
 
Risk type:  Environment
 
The solder contains lead (measured value up to 54% by weight) in concentrations above limit values.
Lead poses a risk to the environment. 

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Commission Directive on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS 2 Directive).
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Importer)
Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): The company is reported to the prosecutor

 

1 of 2 photos

Alert number: A12/0302/19       
Category:  Cosmetics
 
Product:  Body lotion
 
Brand: Judith Leiber
 
Name: Night
 
Type / number of model:  150 ml reference 17X610203
 
Batch number / Barcode:  barcode 899219002819
 
Risk type:  Chemical
 
The body lotion contains isobutylparaben which has a potential endocrine disrupting activity.

At the same time, the product contains limonene, linalool, coumarin, citronellol, alpha-isomethyl ionone (measured values: more than 0.001% by weight).
These substances can induce allergic reactions and sensitisation. Consumers are not aware of their presence because they are not indicated in the list of ingredients.

The product does not comply with the Cosmetic Products Regulation.
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Recall of the product from end users (By: Retailer)

 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A12/0317/19       
Category:  Electrical appliances and equipment
 
Product:  Power supply
 
Brand: Unknown
 
Name: Powerbank
 
Type / number of model:  PB0041
 
Batch number / Barcode: Unknown
 
Risk type:  Environment
 
The plastic contains short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) (measured value up to 1.65 % by weight).
The placing on the market and use of articles containing SCCPs is banned. SCCPs persist in the environment, are toxic to aquatic organisms at low concentrations and bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans, posing a risk to human health and the environment. 

The product does not comply with the Regulation on persistent organic pollutants (POP Regulation).
 

Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Manufacturer)
Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): The company is reported to the prosecutor

 

1 of 3 photos

Alert number: A12/0336/19       
Category:  Electrical appliances and equipment
 
Product:  Power Inverter
 
Brand: Clear view
 
Name: Unknown
 
Type / number of model:  H130609520 and H130609476
 
Batch number / Barcode:  5 999885 948178
 
Risk type:  Electric shock
 
Single-pole or partial insertion of a plug into the product's socket is possible.
When using the inverter, live pins of the inserted plug could remain accessible, which could result in the user receiving an electric shock.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive and the relevant standards EN 60950 and IEC 60884.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Recall of the product from end users, Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 3 photos

Alert number: A12/0340/19       
Category:  Electrical appliances and equipment
 
Product:  Electric shaver
 
Brand: Surker
 
Name: RECHARGEABLE SHAVER
 
Type / number of model:  RSCW-2015 REF: 10105
 
Batch number / Barcode:  6 955519 320153 (on the packaging); 5 995858 101052 (on a label)
 
Risk type:  Electric shock
 
The dimensions of the socket outlet on the mains lead of the shaver are not suitable.
The user could consequently touch live parts while connecting the mains lead to the shaver, leading to electric shock.

The insulation between live parts and the accessible metal housing is insufficient.

Consequently accessible parts could become live, this could cause the user to receive an electric shock when holding the shaver.

The product does not comply with the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive and the relevant European standard EN 60335.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Recall of the product from end users, Withdrawal of the product from the market

 

1 of 2 photos

Alert number: A12/0344/19       
Category:  Electrical appliances and equipment
 
Product:  Electrical plug cover
 
Brand: Eastern
 
Name: 13A Socket Cover Safety Plug
 
Type / number of model:  SW201
 
Batch number / Barcode:  3 579901 283883
 
Risk type:  Electric shock
 
The product does not have shutters on live parts, nor a fuse.
A user could touch live parts of the socket and receive an electric shock.

The product does not comply with the relevant National standards BS 1363-3 and BS 8546.
 

Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Importer): Withdrawal of the product from the market

 
Products with other risk levels 

1 of 1 photo

Alert number: A11/0009/19       
Category:  Toys
 
Product:  Soft toy animal
 
Brand: Greenlife
 
Name: Hibou brun (brown owl)
 
Type / number of model:  ref 11053413
 
Batch number / Barcode: Unknown
 
Risk type:  Choking
 
The stuffing material is easily accessible.
Young children may put it in the mouth, ingest it and choke on it. 

The toy does not comply with the requirements of the Toy Safety Directive and the relevant European standard EN 71-1. 

 

Measures taken by economic operators: This product listing was removed by Amazon., Withdrawal of the product from the market (By: Other)

 

The Onco Fertility Journal (Onco Fertil J)

Ethical concerns in fertility preservation in the young
Nalini Mahajan

The Onco Fertility Journal 2018 1(2):59-60



Breast cancer and Fertility Part 2- Pregnancy Associated Breast Cancer
Nalini Mahajan

The Onco Fertility Journal 2018 1(2):61-70

Pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC) refers to breast cancer (BC) diagnosed during pregnancy or within the first postpartum year. The increasing incidence follows the increase in age at first childbirth. Diagnostic delay due to physiological breast changes of pregnancy leads to the tumor being diagnosed at a more advanced stage. Since the termination of pregnancy does not alter the course of disease, patients can be offered BC management during pregnancy with a good outcome. Chemotherapy (CT) can be given safely during the second and third trimester of pregnancy. In the first trimester, the option of surgery is available while during puerperium, radiotherapy can be safely administered in addition to CT. Prognosis is related to the stage and grade of the tumor. Neonatal outcomes are reassuring. This article gives an overview of the diagnosis, management, and prognosis of PABC. 


Fertility preservation network in Asia: Current status and issues of fertility preservation network in Japan
Yasushi Takai

The Onco Fertility Journal 2018 1(2):71-73

Fertility preservation (FP)/oncofertility is a crucial facet of cancer supportive care. The publication of FP guidelines is becoming increasingly prevalent in Japan. However, the viability of the guidelines is predicted on a well-developed FP network comprising of cancer hospitals, assisted reproductive technology (ART) hospitals/clinics, and oncofertility center, and the quality of the FP network in Japan varies greatly based on the region. Oncofertility care availability is influenced by the sustainability of each network and public financial support which may be facilitated by oncofertility registry system which recently launched in Japan. 


Comparison of ovarian reserve and response to gonadotropin stimulation in fertile and infertile Indian women based on ovarian reserve markers, anti-Mullerian hormone and antral follicle count
Jasneet Kaur, Nalini Mahajan

The Onco Fertility Journal 2018 1(2):74-80

Background: Poor ovarian response to gonadotropin (GT) stimulation during assisted reproductive technology cycles is often encountered in infertile women and is considered to be a cause of their infertility. Poor ovarian response is mostly a result of a low ovarian reserve (OR), implying that there may be an earlier depletion of the oocyte pool in infertile women. Aim of the Study: To evaluate whether infertile Indian women below the age of 35 years have an earlier depletion of their OR and a lower ovarian response to GT in comparison to age-matched fertile controls. Materials and Methodology: A total of 146 women undergoing in vitro fertilization-intracytoplasmic sperm injection at our fertility center between March 2017 and August 2017 were prospectively enrolled in this study. Anti-Mullerian hormone and antral follicle count (AMH and AFC) assessment was done for women enrolled in the study in the early follicular phase. Flexible GnRH antagonist protocol was followed. Age, AMH, AFC, body mass index, and response to ovarian stimulation (OS) were compared between the fertile and infertile groups. We also sought to determine which among these had the best prediction for ovarian response to controlled OS. Statistical Analysis: Chi-square test was used for comparisons between study groups with respect to percentages. P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: When adjusted for the differences in the demographic variables, we found no difference in the AMH (P = 0.298) and AFC (P = 0.302) between the fertile and infertile women. In addition, there was no difference in the ovarian response; the mean number of oocytes retrieved was 15.8 ± 7.5 in the fertile group and 14.3 ± 7.5 in the infertile group (P = 0.510). AMH had the strongest correlation with the number of oocytes retrieved (r = 2.11) in comparison to AFC (r = 0.08) and age (r = −0.45) Conclusion: There is no difference in OR and response in fertile and infertile Indian having similar demographics and basal characteristics. 


Intrauterine autologous platelet-rich plasma therapy to improve implantation rates in patients undergoing frozen embryo transfer: A pilot study
Anju Madhavan, Padmaja Naidu, Kum Kum Rani, Jasneet Kaur, Nalini Mahajan

The Onco Fertility Journal 2018 1(2):81-85

Background: Successful implantation is a well-orchestrated event requiring the presence of a healthy embryo, a receptive endometrium, appropriate embryo endometrial cross-talk, and adequate maternal immune protection. Despite advances in assisted reproductive technology, there are insignificant improvements in the implantation and pregnancy rates. Intrauterine infusion of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) might improve implantation rates through its paracrine effects by recruiting growth factors and cytokines that favor decidualization and implantation. Objectives: The objective of the study is to study whether intrauterine PRP improves implantation rates in patients undergoing frozen embryo transfer (FET). Subjects and Methods: In this retrospective study, we collected data of patients who underwent FET in Mother and Child Hospital for 11 months from January 2018 to November 2018. We screened data of 98 patients who had at least one previous failed FET and underwent subsequent FET. The patients were divided into a study and control group. The study group received Intrauterine PRP before FET, while the control group did not. All patients underwent the same hormone replacement therapy regimen for endometrial preparation. Main Outcome Measure: The main outcomes studied were the implantation rates and clinical pregnancy rates (CPR) after embryo transfer. Results: Patient demographics such as mean age, body mass index, and anti-mullerian hormone of both groups were comparable. Overall, the CPR was 42.8% in the control group and 47.6% in the intervention group, and the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Intrauterine PRP does not increase the implantation rates/CPR significantly in patients who have had one previous FET failure. 


Strategies for fertility preservation in young patients with cancer
Devika Gunasheela, Jyothi Menon, N Ashwin

The Onco Fertility Journal 2018 1(2):86-88

Advances in cancer therapy have given a chance for patients suffering from cancers to have a productive life. Future effects of chemotherapy or radiotherapy or fertility should be discussed with all cancer patients who have reproductive potential. Fertility preservation stratergies for females include oocyte or embryo preservation, cortical tissue cryopreservation, ovarian transportation. Fertility preservation stratergies for male involve cryopreservation of semen. Fertility preservation in cancer patients should be approached with a multidisciplinary setting. 


Fertility preservation in testicular seminoma
Madhuri Patil, Priyanka Reddy

The Onco Fertility Journal 2018 1(2):89-95

Testicular cancer is the most common solid malignancy affecting males between the ages of 15 and 35, although it accounts for only 1% of all cancers in men. Germ cell tumors (GCTs) account for 95% of testicular cancers. Two broad categories of testicular tumors have been described, one pure seminoma (no nonseminomatous elements present) and the other is nonseminomatous GCTs. It is one the most curable neoplasm with 5 years survival rate of 98%–99% when diagnosed at an early stage. We present here one such case of metastatic seminoma, where the semen was cryopreserved for fertility preservation. Although the sample was oligoasthenospermic, a successful pregnancy and live birth was obtained with intrauterine insemination of the frozen sample in an controlled ovarian stimulation cycle. Testicular tumors can impair fertility after treatment in majority of patients. Fertility preservation methods such as semen freezing, sperm freezing using epididymal or testicular sperm extraction (TESE) or testicular tissue freezing provides hope for those who wish to father a child latter. 


Fertility preservation in a premenarcheal female with sickle cell anemia
Sonu Balhara Ahlawat, Sarabpreet Singh

The Onco Fertility Journal 2018 1(2):96-98

The objective of the study was fertility preservation in a premenarcheal female with sickle cell anemia (SCA) using controlled ovarian hyperstimulation and oocyte preservation. The study design was a case report. The study was conducted at the reproductive medicine unit of a tertiary care private hospital. A 15-year-old premenarcheal female with Tanner stage 3 breast development and Tanner stage 1 pubic hair diagnosed with SCA, referred by a medical oncologist for fertility preservation before undergoing chemotherapy and bone marrow transplant. The interventions were evaluation of ovarian reserve, ovarian stimulation (OS), transvaginal oocyte aspiration, and oocyte cryopreservation (OC). The main outcome measure was cryopreservation of mature oocytes before the antineoplastic therapy. Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation allowed for cryopreservation of ten mature oocytes before the start of the patient's gonadotoxic treatment. OS and OC can be successfully performed in premenarcheal/peripubertal SCA patients before undergoing chemotherapy, thus providing a viable option for fertility preservation. 


A case report on severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in a pregnancy with torsion of bilateral enlarged ovaries with acute abdomen
Sankar Kumar Das, Priyanka Roy

The Onco Fertility Journal 2018 1(2):99-102

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is a complication of fertility treatment, which uses pharmacological ovarian stimulation to increase the number of oocytes and therefore embryos available during assisted reproductive technology. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is invariably associated with increased volume of ovaries which is itself a threat to undergo torsion, and it may cause an additional threat requiring prompt surgical intervention in many situations. Simple release of torsion, sacrificing the devitalized ovarian tissue in part and complete can have effect in continuation of pregnancy; and something like this happened in our case. The patient, 29-year-old, a known case of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), conceived through ovulation induction; came with an episode of acute pain abdomen with abdominal distension toward the later part of her first trimester. Ultrasonography was done. Bilateral enlarged ovaries of around 23 cm × 11.8 cm each were seen meeting at the pouch of Douglas with ascites. It was a case of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, more specifically, a case of late ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Serum E2 level was 3263 pg/ml. Laparotomy was then done. Intraperitoneally bilateral ovarian torsion was seen with areas of necrosis. The right oophorectomy was done, while on the left side some portion of normal ovarian tissue was preserved. Following the operation, her symptoms were improved. The pregnancy continued uneventfully. Exposure of ovaries to human chorionic gonadotropin or luteinizing hormone following controlled ovarian stimulation by follicle-stimulating hormone underlies most cases of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. The risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is smaller when using gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist (GnRH) antagonist protocol instead of GnRH agonist protocol for suppression of ovulation during ovarian hyperstimulation. To avoid ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, the best trigger is GnRH agonists. In PCOS patients, metformin is an important aid in reducing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. 


Beware of bleomycin toxicity: Fertility preservation for dysgerminoma
Ashraf M Ali, Paapa Dasari

The Onco Fertility Journal 2018 1(2):103-106

An 18-year-old female who underwent fertility preservation surgery for dysgerminoma Stage IIa received adjuvant chemotherapy and bleomycin, etoposide and cisplatin of four cycles. She presented with cough and breathlessness after 45 days of the last cycle of chemotherapy. She was tachypneic and had decreased SpO2 and was managed by supportive therapy. Her X-ray chest revealed bilateral ground-glass nodular opacity and computed tomography thorax showed evidence of pulmonary fibrosis in the form of intra- and inter-lobular septal fibrosis with surrounding ground-glass opacity. She ultimately died after 5 days of admission due to respiratory failure. Her body weight was 37 kg and she received standard dose of bleomycin and the cumulative dose was 360 U. Bleomycin dose recommendation is not per kg bodyweight, and the complication of pulmonary fibrosis could have been prevented if the dosage schedule as per bodyweight (0.25–0.5 U/kg) is advocated. 


Austria’s ZAMG Meteorology And Geodynamics Institute Concedes Climate Models Not Reliable

Austrian ZAMG Meteorology Institute Says Drivers In Climate Models Still Not Correctly Understood

By Die kalte Sonne

In climate science, as is generally known, there is a 97% consensus on all topics. The remaining 3% are just crazy. This is so because anyone who openly contradicts the "consensus" can forget about his career, and gets marginalized and excluded from project funding opportunities. So it's best to keep quiet.

Thus, it's all the more surprising that the Austrian Zentralanstalt für Meteorologie und Geodynamik (ZAMG) has taken a critical look at the topic of climate change.

On the ZAMG's website, the Vienna-Austria-based scientists discuss important criticisms:

Future natural climate drivers not accounted for

If the share of individual climatic drivers in the development of global temperature are misjudged by climate models, and even if they delivered a realistic result thus far, future simulations will be wrong. In addition, beside the anthropogenic one, other climate drivers in future scenarios are not even accounted for. They just cannot be predicted.

One problem with the global climate models is the model quality's focus on the reproduction of the measured global mean temperature. Although this is relatively well simulated, there are concerns as to whether the models' sensitivity to the different climate drivers (solar activity, volcanic aerosols, greenhouse gases, etc.) corresponds to reality.

In addition, the drivers are not understood properly even with their warming or cooling effect. So it is possible that a climate model correctly simulates the mean global temperature – even with an incorrect sensitivities with respect to its drivers.

Anthropogenic climate driver overrated?

The 4th Assessment Report of the IPCC (Solomon et al. 2007) notes that warming in the second half of the 20th century was "very likely" caused by the increase in anthropogenic greenhouse gas concentrations. This statement is based on the simulations from a variety of global climate models. Critics, however, say that the models have too high a sensitivity for CO2 as a driver and, for example, underestimate the influence of the sun.

Strengths-weaknesses analysis helpful

It is going to take some development time to properly reflect the balance among the drivers in the climate models. However, fundamental criticism of the performance of the climate models gets equated as denial of reality. It is crucial to clearly distinguish which results climate models can provide with certainty (see articles on strengths) and which ones that cannot (see article on weaknesses).

The article in German can be found at the website of the ZAMG.

 



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Constructing and finely tuning CO2 traps of stable and various-pores-containing MOFs towards highly selective CO2 capture

Chem. Commun., 2019, Accepted Manuscript
DOI: 10.1039/C8CC10116G, Communication
Xiaohui Song, Mingxing Zhang, Jingui Duan, Junfeng Bai
For real-life CO2 capture, through constructing and finely tuning traps in MOFs, we made NJU-Bai51 with the combined features of high capacity, high selectivity and high water-stability which was confirmed...
The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry


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Mann’s media buddies leave him high and dry – oppose his lawsuit

24 Media Organizations Oppose Defamation Suit Waged by Climate Scientist BY WILLIAM PATRICK Twenty-four media organizations, including The Washington Post, NBC Universal, and Fox News, have sided with the conservative National Review and free market-leaning Competitive Enterprise Institute (CEI) over a defamation lawsuit brought by a leading climate scientist. The organizations, which also included the Society…

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[ASAP] Hollow Co3O4 Nanosphere Surrounded by N-Doped Graphitic Carbon Filled within Multilayer-Sandwiched Graphene Network: A High-Performance Anode for Lithium Storage

TOC Graphic

Inorganic Chemistry
DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.8b03533
inocaj?d=yIl2AUoC8zA


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Woke Science: Implicit Bias Test

I was disappointed, but not surprised, to learn that the Santa Fe Institute became Woke.

You are more likely to help someone with a surname you recognize…just one way that "implicit #bias" shapes the landscape of #privilege & #access without us even knowing it.

A rude awakening from SFI External Prof Mahzarin Banaji of @Harvard, via @UCLA:https://t.co/N5fe5FWdwC

— Santa Fe Institute (@sfiscience) February 1, 2019

The tweet reads:

You are more likely to help someone with a surname you recognize…just one way that "implicit #bias" shapes the landscape of #privilege & #access without us even knowing it.

A rude awakening from SFI External Prof Mahzarin Banaji of @Harvard, via @UCLA

"Thanks for helping me, Mr Same-Surname. But I just realized you might not have helped except you were my brother."

"By gum, you're right! I see the beginnings of a new scientific theory!"

"All bias must be eliminated. We will never have full Entropy — I mean Equality — else."

Perhaps this tweet is the result of a rogue fat blue-haired intern and does not represent whatever passes for a human "resources" department at SFI, but let's not count on that.

Anyway, the tweet did lead to an article in the Daily Bruin: "Harvard professor lectures at UCLA on implications of subconscious biases." The picture accompanying the article says "Mahzarin Banaji, a professor and administrative chair at Harvard University, spoke at the California Nanosystems Institute at UCLA regarding how implicit biases affect the way society thinks and their implications." Banaji, except for the hair color, resembles the Santa Fe tweeter I had in mind.

Her great discovery is that "People often want to help others when they have things in common with them." Don't giggle. This is science. A hushed awe is therefore appropriate.

She showed the audience an image of the brain with two areas highlighted. Banaji said that when people talk to those with similar political positions, the part of the brain that lights up when the person thinks of themselves becomes activated. However, when they interact with people with different political positions, a different part of the brain is activated. Banaji said this difference in brain activity is subconscious.

My sister got a Lite-Brite for Christmas one year, and she did about as much useful science with it as Banaji did with her (I'm presuming) fMRI.

John Lassetter, a fourth-year physics student, took an IAT and said he had not thought of implicit bias prior to taking the test.

"One thing I thought was helpful was the advice she gave on how to reduce one's bias," he said. "One way is to consume media that shows people in counter stereotypical roles."

Well, Johnny, that's pretty much any media these days, so you're in luck.

What's behind all this is the so-called Implicit Bias test. Which is not a test, but a crammed full Diversity-office load of them.

Now there are lots of criticisms of these questionnaires masking as hidden-thought-revealers, which we needn't duplicate: here (and that's Vox!), here, here, and even here (many more are available).

What concerns us are two things: why bother with "implicit" or "sub-conscious" bias, and the ever-expanding number of areas of "bias" Woke Science is discovering.

There can be masked bias, as when a Traditionalist is called in the HR office and asked "Do you want to be an ally to people who express enthusiasm for this new kind of sexual perversion?"
The Traditionalist, wanting to feed is family, feigns an appointment. But this is not the kind of bias that is supposedly being measure. This is occult bias, a bias that infects the host without the host knowing about it.

The idea there is occult bias is gnostic. I'll have more to say about this later, when we come to the belief that there are "racists", "anti-Semites", "homophobes", etc. It's not that people make a "racist" remark, but somehow they are a "racist". It is part of their ineradicable essence. I defer to next week, when I'll offer many examples.

Meanwhile, take a look at how bad you are! If you're a white man, you positively reek with bias.

Your biased against the disabled, religion (Islamophobia), gender-science, weight, age, Asians, "Native Americans", gender-career, weapons, Muslims, race, sexuality, Presidents (yes, really), and skin tone.

"Did you say weapons, Briggs?"

I did, too. "This IAT requires the ability to recognize White and Black faces, and images of weapons or harmless objects."

"Aha, so if I see a picture of a black guy wielding a ripe citrullus lanatus, since I'm white, I'm more likely to imagine he's holding a deadly weapon than a summertime treat?"

You're white, so you're racist. You really have no choice.

"So true. I'll bite on the Presidents. What gives?"

This gives: "This IAT requires the ability to recognize photos of Donald Trump and one or more previous presidents."

I'm sure all Harvard graduates would be able to recognize Franklin Pierce on site.

"I don't think they'd recognize anybody but Trump or Obama."



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PCB residues in the tissues of sea ducks wintering on the south coast of the Baltic Sea, Poland

Abstract

The Baltic Sea is known to be severely polluted by a range of chemicals, one group of which being PCBs. Although the use and production of PCBs were limited or banned in many countries in the 1970s, their presence is still observed in the environment. The aim of this study was to evaluate PCBs concentration in four species of diving sea ducks, interspecies and tissues differences, and in the case of game species, comparison of the obtained results with maximal residue levels (MRLs) and tolerable weekly intake (TWI). The level of Σi-PCBs was noted in most examined samples (liver, muscle, fat tissue) at levels ranging between < LoD and 2315.45 ng/g lw. The dominant congener was PCB 153, followed by PCB 180 and 138. The mean dl-PCB-TEQ value in the muscles of the tested tufted ducks and common pochards was 0.31 and 0.71 pg-TEQ/g lw, respectively, which is 8–25 and 18–57% of the TEQ maximum limit (ML) value for farm animal muscles. The average decrease in i-ΣPCB concentration in the fat tissue of ducks wintering in the Baltic Sea southern coast was found to be 2.9–3.3%/year. The analysis of PCB residues indicates that the common pochard and tufted duck are not suitable for consumption due to high Σi-PCB concentrations. However, the regular consumption of muscle and liver of game birds does not result in an unacceptable intake of dl-PCBs, i.e., above the TWI value.



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Phthalate pollution driven by the industrial plastics market: a case study of the plastic market in Yuyao City, China

Abstract

In attempts to evaluate the environmental risk produced by plastic markets, the levels and congener profiles of phthalate esters (PAEs) in soil, vegetable, and sediment samples collected from the plastic market in China, where numerous plastic products are exchanged every year, were investigated. The concentrations of ∑22PAEs ranged from 2131 to 27,805 ng g−1 in agricultural soils, from 8023 to 37,556 ng g−1 in vegetables and from 9031 to 87,329 ng g−1 in sediments. The predominant PAE pollutants were di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP), di-isobutyl phthalate (DiBP), and dibenzyl phthalate (DBzP). The mean percentages of the predominant PAEs in the soil, vegetable, and sediment samples accounted for 98.4%, 97.3%, and 99.5% of the total PAEs, respectively. The concentrations of PAEs at the sites around the plastic market were significantly higher than those at other pollution sites, such as sites contaminated by agricultural plastic film, electronic waste (e-waste) recycling sites, and industrial parks, indicating that the plastic market was an important pollution source. The DEHP concentrations in the soils, vegetables, and sediments and the DnBP concentrations in the vegetables all exceeded the environmental risk levels (ERL) or the environmental allowable levels (EAL), indicating that the plastic market posed potential environmental risks.



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Sulfur-doped graphene for efficient electrocatalytic N2-to-NH3 fixation

Chem. Commun., 2019, Accepted Manuscript
DOI: 10.1039/C9CC00602H, Communication
Li Xia, Jia-Jia Yang, Huanbo Wang, Runbo Zhao, hongyu chen, Wei-hai Fang, Abdullah M. Asiri, Fengyu Xie, Ganglong Cui, Xuping Sun
Industrial NH3 synthesis mainly relies on the carbon-emitting Haber–Bosch process operating under severe conditions. Electrocatalytic N2-to-NH3 fixation at ambient conditions is an attractive approach to reduce energy consumption and avoid...
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100 Years Later: The Flu

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Guest Essay by Kip Hansen One hundred years have passed since the Great Influenza Pandemic of 1918 swept around the world, circumnavigating at least twice between 1918 and 1920, killing outright between 50 and 100 million human beings. The pandemic was so shattering, so pervasive that more accurate numbers of the dead cannot be calculated.…

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Why Lord Oxburgh Ruled Out Electrification Of Heat

By Paul Homewood

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http://www.ccsassociation.org/news-and-events/reports-and-publications/parliamentary-advisory-group-on-ccs-report/

While we are on the question of decarbonising heat, we should take account of Lord Oxburgh's report to the Secretary of State in 2016.

This was what he found:

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To summarise:

1) Even with much better insulation, maximum heating demand would amount to 200 GW, four times  the maximum demand for electricity

2) On top of this would come additional load from EVs.

3) There would be issues with grid stability if we went the heat pump route. Heat pumps in any event are not a practical solution for existing housing stock.

4) Even with extra wind power, there would need to be a significant amount of despatchable generation from either CCGTs and/or small nuclear reactors.

5) There is currently no known cost-effective form of inter-month storage available at the scale required to meet these demands

6) Electrification of heating would involve an enormous increase in generating capacity to meet winter demand, but this would be of little use for the rest of the year.

7) The only alternative would be hydrogen, which is ridiculously expensive, wasteful, and crucially still needs CCS to mitigate emissions.

Gummer's report today addresses none of these issues, but blithely assumes that we can simply wave a magic wand and move away from using natural gas with little cost or difficulty.



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Estimation of the economic loss due to irrigation water use inefficiency in Tunisia

Abstract

The main objective of this study is to estimate the total economic loss due to inefficient use of irrigation water in Tunisia. Several approaches have been used for this purpose. The optimal level of water application for different crops is calculated using the actual crop evapotranspiration which is based on FAO-56 method. The residual imputation and yield comparison methods have been used to estimate the economic value of irrigation water for different irrigated crops in different bioclimatic areas. For the empirical analysis, primary data were obtained from a series of surveys that covered 78% of the total irrigated areas and were collected within the framework of the "Virtual Water and Food Security in Tunisia project" (2013–2015). Secondary data about land distribution of crops in Tunisia were taken from the Ministry of Agriculture (2016). Around 724 farms were randomly sampled considering their bioclimatic area, farm type, and production system. The survey included the main 20 crops produced in Tunisia. Results show that most of farmers are either under or over utilizing irrigation water. The value of total direct economic losses, at the country level, of both types of water inefficiencies, was estimated to around 470 million Tunisian Dinars. Therefore, an improvement of water use efficiency at field level through dissemination of information/knowledge on irrigation scheduling and crop water requirements by extension services to farmers is needed to reduce this huge economic loss, reach higher sustainability in water use and improve food security.



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Can silicon anodes be a great leap forward in battery technology?

Lithium ion battery


As ever there's a big gap to be bridged between lab tests and industrial-scale application, but tests seem promising.

The latest lithium-ion batteries on the market are likely to extend the charge-to-charge life of phones and electric cars by as much as 40 percent, says TechXplore.

This leap forward, which comes after more than a decade of incremental improvements, is happening because developers replaced the battery's graphite anode with one made from silicon.

Research from Drexel University and Trinity College in Ireland now suggests that an even greater improvement could be in line if the silicon is fortified with a special type of material called MXene.

This adjustment could extend the life of Li-ion batteries as much as five times, the group recently reported in Nature Communications. It's possible because of the two-dimensional MXene material's ability to prevent the silicon anode from expanding to its breaking point during charging—a problem that's prevented its use for some time.

"Silicon anodes are projected to replace graphite anodes in Li-ion batteries with a huge impact on the amount of energy stored," said Yury Gogotsi, Ph.D., Distinguished University and Bach Professor in Drexel's College of Engineering and director of the A.J. Drexel Nanomaterials Institute in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, who was a co-author of the research. "We've discovered adding MXene materials to the silicon anodes can stabilize them enough to actually be used in batteries."

In batteries, charge is held in electrodes—the cathode and anode—and delivered to our devices as ions travel from anode to cathode. The ions return to the anode when the battery is recharged. Battery life has steadily been increased by finding ways to improve the electrodes' ability to send and receive more ions.

Substituting silicon for graphite as the primary material in the Li-ion anode would improve its capacity for taking in ions because each silicon atom can accept up to four lithium ions, while in graphite anodes, six carbon atoms take in just one lithium. But as it charges, silicon also expands—as much as 300 percent—which can cause it to break and the battery to malfunction.

Most solutions to this problem have involved adding carbon materials and polymer binders to create a framework to contain the silicon. The process for doing it, according to Gogotsi, is complex and carbon contributes little to charge storage by the battery.

By contrast, the Drexel and Trinity group's method mixes silicon powder into a MXene solution to create a hybrid silicon-MXene anode. MXene nanosheets distribute randomly and form a continuous network while wrapping around the silicon particles, thus acting as conductive additive and binder at the same time. It's the MXene framework that also imposes order on ions as they arrive and prevents the anode from expanding.

"MXenes are the key to helping silicon reach its potential in batteries," Gogotsi said. "Because MXenes are two-dimensional materials, there is more room for the ions in the anode and they can move more quickly into it—thus improving both capacity and conductivity of the electrode. They also have excellent mechanical strength, so silicon-MXene anodes are also quite durable up to 450 microns thickness."

Full report here.



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Probabilistic mapping of single molecule junction configurations as a tool to achieve desired geometry of asymmetric tripodal molecules

Chem. Commun., 2019, Accepted Manuscript
DOI: 10.1039/C8CC09681C, Communication
Viliam Kolivoska, Jakub Sebera, Táňa Sebechlebská, Marcin Lindner, Jindrich Gasior, Gabor Meszaros, Marcel Mayor, Michal Valášek, Magdaléna Hromadová
Four molecules containing identical tripodal anchor and p-oligophenylene molecular wire of increasing length were used to demonstrate tuning of the asymmetric molecular junction to desired geometry by probabilistic mapping of...
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Nitrogen and phosphorus removal from wastewater by sand with wheat straw

Abstract

Wheat straw amendment to sandy soil has the potential to remove nutrients from wastewater. This study investigated the ability of wheat straw to remove inorganic nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) from wastewater when mixed into sand at different rates. Wastewater from a sewage treatment plant was added to sand alone and amended with different wheat straw rates 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, and 12.5 g wheat straw kg−1 so that the sand was covered with about 15 cm of wastewater. Leaching was carried out after 4, 8, and 16 days and inorganic N and P were analysed after leaching in both the leachate and sand, as well as N2O and CO2 release. In the amended sand, nitrate was about fourfold lower throughout the experiment compared to sand alone. Ammonium was twofold higher than sand alone at 12.5 g straw kg−1 throughout the experiment and on day 16 also at ≥ 5 g straw kg−1. Leachate inorganic N concentration was up to 70-fold higher in sand alone than in amended soils irrespective of straw rate. On day 16, P leaching was about threefold lower and P retention was 40% higher in all amended treatments than sand alone. The redox potential in sand alone was higher than with straw amendments. With straw amendment, the release of CO2 per day was six times higher than with sand alone and increased with straw rates, but very little N2O and CH4 was released throughout the experiment. It can be concluded that amendment of sand with wheat straw can remove large proportions of inorganic N and P from wastewater, even at low straw rates. Likely mechanisms for retention are dissimilatory nitrate reduction and subsequent binding of ammonium to straw for N, and binding to the straw and microbial uptake for P.



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Neighbor urban wastewater treatment plants display distinct profiles of bacterial community and antibiotic resistance genes

Abstract

Urban wastewater treatment plants (UWTPs) are among the major recipients of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB), antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), and antibiotic residues in urban environments. Although during treatment, bacteria of human and animal origin are removed, some are able to survive, persisting in the final effluent. The occurrence of these bacteria, especially those harboring ARGs, may have a direct impact on the quality of the treated wastewater that is returned to the environment. In this study, we aimed to assess if the final effluent bacterial communities of three UWTPs (PT1, PT2, and PT3) located next to each other were distinct and if such differences were related with the antibiotic resistance profiles.

It was observed that the bacterial community (16S rRNA gene Illumina sequencing) and load of selected ARGs of final effluent differed among the three UWTPs, irrespective of sampling time. Members of the families Aeromonadaceae, Campylobacteraceae, Veillonellaceae, [Weeksellaceae], and Porphyromonadaceae were observed to be positively correlated with some ARGs (blaCTX–M, blaOXA-A, blaSHV) and intI1 (p < 0.05), while Intrasporangiaceae were observed to be negatively correlated. While Aeromonadaceae are recognized relevant ARG harbors, the other bacterial families may represent bacteria that co-exist with the ARG hosts, which may belong to minor bacterial groups omitted in the analyses. These findings suggest the importance of bacterial dynamics during treatment to the ARB&ARGs removal, a rationale that may contribute to design new strategies to apply in the UWTPs to prevent the spread of antibiotic resistance.



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