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Science News Archive 2009 - Page 156


Page 156 of 277

Predicted ground motions for great earthquake in Pacific Northwest: Seattle, Victoria and Vancouver

A new study evaluates expected ground motion in Seattle, Victoria, and Vancouver from earthquakes of magnitude 7.5 - 9.0, providing a tool to build or retrofit structures to withstand seismic waves. Ground motions are estimated for firm ground at the three sites, with a model that engineers can adjust for local soil conditions.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateJun 10, 2009

Zero tolerance alcohol policy good choice for parents

A zero-tolerance policy towards underage alcohol use in the home may significantly reduce the likelihood of college students binge drinking, according to a study by Caitlin Abar. The study found that students whose parents did not permit them to drink underage were less likely to engage in heavy drinking, regardless of gender.

SourcePenn State·JournalAddictive Behaviors·DateJun 10, 2009

Found: 1 in 3 billion

Researchers found a singular mutation in the FOXL2 gene that causes granulosa cell tumours, a rare and often untreatable form of ovarian cancer. The discovery provides a specific diagnostic tool and potential treatment pathway for women with this cancer type.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 10, 2009

New Jefferson study may redefine how a chronic autoimmune disease is diagnosed

A new study led by Thomas Jefferson University researchers suggests that a minimum of three demyelinating features can be used to positively identify Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP). This finding may help doctors diagnose CIDP more effectively and treat patients earlier, potentially preventing further disability.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalJournal of Clinical Neuromuscular Disease·DateJun 10, 2009

Cocaine and heroin harm placenta

Researchers found cocaine and heroin increase antipyrine transfer across human placental tissue, compromising barrier function. This may lead to harm from more toxic substances crossing the placenta and affecting fetal health.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalReproductive Biology and Endocrinology·DateJun 10, 2009

British private school pupils earn 30 percent more in later life

A study published in Significance found that private school pupils in Britain earn an average of 30% higher earnings than state school students, primarily due to higher qualifications. The study controlled for family background and other factors, suggesting that a private education offers additional benefits.

SourceWiley·JournalSignificance·DateJun 10, 2009

Fracture risk following bariatric surgery

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have found that bariatric surgery may be associated with an increased risk of fractures, particularly in the hands and feet. The study, which analyzed nearly 100 surgical cases over a 21-year period, showed that 21 individuals experienced 31 fractures within seven years after surgery.

Rutgers research tackles childhood epilepsy

Researchers at Rutgers University have discovered a potential new treatment for childhood epilepsy, using the therapeutic drug rapamycin to suppress epileptic seizures in mice. The study, published in Disease Models and Mechanisms, shows promise for treating cortical dysplasia, a common cause of childhood epilepsy.

SourceRutgers University·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·DateJun 10, 2009

Scientists advance safety of nanotechnology

Researchers have discovered a mechanism by which nanoparticles cause lung damage, triggering programmed cell death through autophagy. They also found that blocking this process with an autophagy inhibitor can counteract the damage, providing a promising lead for developing safety strategies for nanotechnology.

SourceOxford University Press UK·JournalJournal of Molecular Cell Biology·DateJun 10, 2009