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Science News for March 15, 2013


JCI early table of contents for Mar. 15, 2013

Researchers found that mycolactone, a lipid toxin from Mycobacterium ulcerans, causes cytoskeletal dysregulation by activating the protein N-WASP. This led to defects in cell adhesion and migration, impairing skin integrity. The study suggests using N-WASP inhibitors as potential treatments for Buruli ulcers.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 15, 2013

Unhealthy eating can make a bad mood worse

Researchers discover that unhealthy eating behaviors can worsen moods in women without prior mood changes, leading to a better understanding of the relationship between emotions and eating. The study's findings suggest that this connection may play a role in the development and maintenance of unhealthy eating habits.

Cytoskeletal dysregulation underlies Buruli ulcer formation

Researchers discovered that mycolactone, a lipid toxin produced by Mycobacterium ulcerans, disrupts the cellular skeleton through N-WASP activation. This dysregulation impairs skin integrity and cell adhesion, leading to Buruli ulcers. Blocking N-WASP activity with wiskostatin may provide a new treatment approach.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 15, 2013

Swarm intelligence

Researchers found that globally ordered motion breaks down in overcrowded swarms, and a power law describes the average alignment in the direction of motion. Computer simulations revealed new features of individual animal behavior when confronted with high densities and close neighbors.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateMar 15, 2013

Hot careers in corrosion

The University of Akron's corrosion engineering program aims to tackle the nation's 70,000 structurally deficient bridges and a $400 billion corrosion problem. The institution is now partnering with the Department of Defense to inspire the next generation of corrosion engineers through an interactive exhibit.

Sorting out fertility after childhood cancer

Researchers have developed a multi-parameter sorting approach to separate healthy spermatogonial stem cells from cancerous cells, enabling the removal of malignant material during transplantation. This method shows promise for preserving fertility in male childhood cancer survivors.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 15, 2013