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Science News Archive March 2004 - Page 2


Page 2 of 14

Single cocaine exposure boosts both drug craving and avoidance

A recent study published in PNAS found that single cocaine exposure can increase both morphine preference and kappa-opioid receptor agonist aversion in rats. This suggests the existence of opposing brain circuits involved in drug craving and avoidance, with potential implications for treating addiction by modulating these pathways.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 2004

Making the most of stem cells

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a new storage method that increases stem cell survival rates by over 20 times, allowing for more efficient and reliable research. The technique uses a gel matrix with trehalose to protect cells from freezing and thawing damage.

Having emergency contraception at home does not boost rate of unprotected sex among teens

A University of Pittsburgh study found that providing young women with emergency contraceptive pills at home did not lead to an increase in unprotected sex or inconsistent contraceptive use. Instead, the study showed a corresponding increase in condom use among those who received the pills.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalJournal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology·DateMar 30, 2004

A new spin on spirochetes

Researchers have discovered profound differences in the gene content of T. denticola, an oral pathogen associated with gum disease, compared to other spirochetes that cause syphilis and Lyme disease. The study's findings highlight the power of comparative genomics in understanding how related pathogens can cause different diseases.

SourceThe Institute for Genomic Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 29, 2004

An alternative to bone-marrow donation

Researchers found that ES cell lines can restore blood cells, including immune systems, in mice without being rejected. This breakthrough has potential advantages over traditional bone marrow or blood donations, offering a renewable source with low risk of graft-versus-host disease.

SourceJournal of Experimental Medicine·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMar 29, 2004

Why AL batters get beaned more often

A recent study by mathematicians and economists found that National League pitchers are more likely to throw inside pitches, increasing the risk of hitting batters. This 'moral hazard' theory suggests that the rule's impact is not due to lower costs for NL pitchers, but rather their fear of retaliation when stepping up to bat.

Bizarre attractive force found in mayonnaise

Scientists at Rice University have discovered an attractive force in mayonnaise using the phenomenon of negative normal stress. This finding has significant implications for the development of new emulsions and dispersions with practical applications.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 29, 2004

Coal source of jet fuel for next generation aircraft

Researchers at Penn State have created a thermally stable coal-based jet fuel, provisionally designated as JP900, which can absorb significant amounts of heat and remain stable up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit. This fuel has potential benefits in reducing engine deposits and improving cold weather performance.

Study points to a promising new test for myelodysplasia, a blood disorder often leading to leukemia

A new DNA test using Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy has been developed to identify patients with myelodysplasia (MDS) or those at high risk of developing the disease. The test is highly predictive and can distinguish MDS patients from those with non-malignant bone marrow disorders.

SourcePacific Northwest Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 29, 2004

Learning how to erase electronic paper

Jeanne E. Pemberton's research reveals that changing the electrical charge on electronic paper affects how well ink sticks, enabling the development of reusable tablets. The study uses the 'emersion' method to analyze molecular interactions at the interface between liquids and solids.