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Science News for February 6, 2009


Long-sought protein structure may help reveal how 'gene switch' works

Researchers at NIST and Brookhaven National Laboratory have defined the structure of a metabolic switch found inside most types of bacteria, revealing how a key protein regulates genes involved in bacterial survival. The discovery could lead to new methods for preventing tuberculosis and other pathogenic diseases.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 6, 2009

Cracking a controversial solid state mystery

Scientists at the University of Nottingham and the University of California, Berkeley have provided evidence for a new kind of sudden transition between liquid and solid glass. This transformation occurs when molecules are viewed in both space and time, guiding towards methods for producing stronger and longer-lasting glass.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalScience·DateFeb 6, 2009

Losing weight can cure obstructive sleep apnea in overweight patients

A new study shows that losing weight is the most effective way to reduce obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) symptoms and associated disorders. The study found that weight loss of more than 20 pounds resulted in markedly lower OSA symptoms and improvements in co-morbidities such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2009

Wireless drug control

Researchers highlight potential security concerns for remote intelligent drug delivery systems, which could compromise patient safety. The team proposes implementing robust security mechanisms to mitigate hacking risks.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Biomedical Engineering and Technology·DateFeb 6, 2009