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Science News for August 8, 2014


Scientists unravel mystery of brain cell growth

Researchers have solved a longstanding puzzle in neuroscience by revealing the three-dimensional atomic structure of netrin-1, a guidance protein that can attract or repel brain cells. By understanding how this protein works, scientists may be able to develop new ways to steer cell behavior and potentially treat diseases such as cancer.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalNeuron·DateAug 8, 2014

New culprit identified in metabolic syndrome

Researchers found that excess uric acid can disrupt normal metabolism, leading to the development of metabolic syndrome. A new study suggests that diet and fructose consumption may contribute to high uric acid levels, which can cause inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 2014

What does 'diversity' mean to you? The answer may depend on your race

A study published in PSPB found that racial minority groups approach diversity differently, with African Americans prioritizing in-group representation and Asian Americans considering national statistics on discrimination. Understanding these differences is crucial for creating diverse teams and organizations.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateAug 8, 2014

Individual genotype influences effectiveness of HIV vaccine

A recent study in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that an individual's genotype correlates with their ability to develop immunity to HIV in response to vaccination. Researchers identified single nucleotide variations in genes involved in antibody production, which were associated with protection against HIV infection.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 8, 2014

Expecting to teach enhances learning, recall

A new study by Washington University in St. Louis found that students who were told they would later teach a passage performed better on recall and organization tasks than those expecting a test. The study suggests that instilling an expectation to teach may be a simple, inexpensive intervention with the potential to increase learning ...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalMemory & Cognition·DateAug 8, 2014

Editing HPV's genes to kill cervical cancer cells

Researchers at Duke University have successfully used CRISPR gene-editing to target and destroy two HPV genes responsible for cervical cancer cell growth. By hijacking the bacterial defense system, they were able to selectively kill cancer cells while leaving normal cells intact.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateAug 8, 2014

Natural light in office boosts health

A new study by Northwestern University finds that office workers with natural light exposure have longer sleep duration, better sleep quality, more physical activity, and improved quality of life. The study suggests that architects should prioritize natural daylight exposure in office environments to boost employee health.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateAug 8, 2014