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Science News for June 1, 2008


Fatal mine collapse covered 50 acres

A fatal mine collapse in Utah's Crandall Canyon coal mine was actually a massive cave-in that covered an area of approximately 50 acres. New calculations reveal the disaster began near where miners were excavating and quickly grew to four times its initially estimated size.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateJun 1, 2008

Advances in C. difficile research

A recent study highlights the importance of understanding C. difficile's toxins and virulence factors, which can cause severe hospital-acquired infections. The research also explores the bacteria's transmission, symptoms, and treatment options, including the development of a potential 'designer' probiotic.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalJournal of Medical Microbiology·DateJun 1, 2008

Potential treatments from cryptic genes

Scientists have discovered two novel compounds produced by soil bacteria that show promise in combating MRSA infections and cancer. The breakthroughs come after years of genome mining, which identifies pathways to produce new compounds from microbial DNA sequences.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalMicrobiology·DateJun 1, 2008

Mom's behavior key to dad's involvement in child care

A study of 97 couples found that fathers are more involved in infant care when their wives provide active encouragement, regardless of their own beliefs or the quality of parenting. Encouragement from mothers can either foster or limit fatherly participation, with mothers acting as 'gatekeepers' to their involvement.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateJun 1, 2008

It's okay to keep those feelings inside, new study suggests

A new study found that people who choose not to express their thoughts and feelings after experiencing a collective trauma, such as a school shooting or terrorist attack, may be better off than those who do talk about their feelings. The research suggests that it's okay to keep emotions inside in the immediate aftermath of a tragedy.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateJun 1, 2008