"A federal appeals court upheld a new Environmental Protection Agency rule to limit nitrogen dioxide emissions near major roadways, in a defeat for the oil industry, which said the rule went beyond what was necessary to protect public health."

"Tuesday's decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C., is a victory for the Obama administration and environmental groups that supported the 2010 rule, which limits exhaust that could remain in the air for a one-hour period.

The 100 parts-per-billion limit was intended to reduce smog from such sources as car exhaust pipes and factories; it was more stringent than a standard dating from 1971.

Nitrogen oxides have been linked to respiratory problems, especially in children and people with asthma, according to the EPA."

Jonathan Stempel reports for Reutersw July 18, 2012. [2]