Contaminant threat revised in UCI study Even...

Contaminant threat revised in UCI study

Even at significantly higher rates than the state recommends, the

contaminant perchlorate in drinking water poses no added risks to

healthy people, according to a recent report issued by the UC Irvine

Urban Water Research Center.

The contaminant, which is a byproduct of rocket fuel

manufacturing, was found to be less dangerous than was thought by an

independent group of scholars, who will publish their findings to

state agencies to aid in their decisions on the legal limits of

perchlorate.

The new study found no noticeable difference between exposure at

the 6 parts per billion public health goal and exposure at 10 times

that amount, UCI professor Ronald Shank said.

Mutant gene found

by UCI researchers

A mutant gene has been discovered by researchers at the University

of Michigan and UC Irvine in some colon-cancer patients. It may prove

to be a warning sign to help early identification of the disease.

Studies show that the presence of the gene in a person indicates a

40% chance of contracting the disease, as opposed to a 6% chance

among people who do not carry the gene.

Colon cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the

U.S., with projected 2004 estimates of 150,000 new cases diagnosed

and 55,000 deaths due to the disease.

Fledgling Fourth tradition to continue

Fireworks and musical themes from the military branches, as well

as a concert version of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” will all be seen

and heard at Newport Beach Fletcher Jones Motorcars to celebrate

Fourth of July.

The fireworks presentation began last year as part of a

community-wide effort to replace Fourth of July events that had been

lost or canceled due to lack of funding.

The show begins at 9 p.m. July 4 at 3300 Jamboree Road, Newport

Beach.