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Science News Archive August 2011 - Page 19


Page 19 of 27

Rehab robots lend stroke patients a hand

A new study published in Clinical Rehabilitation found that robot-assisted therapy, combined with functional task training, significantly improved functional arm use and bimanual arm activity in daily life among stroke patients. The study used accelerometers to measure real-world arm activity and showed that this type of therapy can pr...

SourceSAGE·JournalClinical Rehabilitation·DateAug 10, 2011

How consumers discriminate

Consumers tend to focus on quality when faced with many choices, leading them to be willing to pay more for high-quality products. The study found that in controlled experiments and natural experiments, participants were prepared to pay up to 40% more for high-quality chocolates and wine when presented with a large assortment of options.

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateAug 10, 2011

Protein preserves muscle and physical function in dieting postmenopausal women

A six-month double-blind study found that higher protein intake during weight loss can offset negative effects on muscle mass by maintaining more muscle relative to the amount of weight lost. Women who ate more protein lost 3.9 percent more weight and had a relative gain of 5.8 percent more thigh muscle volume than woman who did not.

Children's National collaborates with NIH researchers to identify gene variant in Proteus syndrome

A team of researchers at Children's National Medical Center has identified the genetic mutation causing Proteus syndrome, a rare disorder characterized by excessive tissue and bone growth. The study found that a point mutation in the AKT1 gene activates sporadic tissue growth associated with Proteus syndrome.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 10, 2011

New study says it's time to stop assuming buyers and salespeople are in 'relationships'

A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that professional buyers do not engage in 'relationships' with salespeople. Buyers prioritize transactions and expect low expectations for future interactions. This challenges traditional marketing strategies focused on building personal bonds with customers.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 10, 2011

Deep-ocean sentinels on northern climate watch

A new network of deep-ocean moorings is being deployed in the Indonesia Archipelago to measure changes in ocean currents between the Pacific and Indian Oceans. The moorings will help scientists understand the impact of these currents on Australia's climate, including tropical weather patterns and seasonal rainfall.

New approach to sustain 'forage' fishing

A new study finds that reducing catches of small 'forage' fish like sardines and anchovies can protect larger predatory species. Halving fishing rates for high-impact species could greatly reduce ecosystem impact while achieving 80% of maximum sustainable yield.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalScience·DateAug 9, 2011

Who takes risks?

Researchers found that men are willing to take more financial risks, while women take more social risks, such as starting a new career or addressing an unpopular issue. Adolescents can be just as cautious and careful as adults when thinking calmly about a situation.

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateAug 9, 2011

Wayne State researcher discovers antibiotic useful for localized treatment of bone wear

A Wayne State researcher has discovered an antibiotic that can prevent and treat aseptic loosening, a condition where surrounding bones disintegrate after prosthetic joint surgery. The antibiotic, erythromycin, can be administered directly at the site of bone breakdown, reducing side effects associated with long-term oral use.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateAug 9, 2011

Major breakthrough on how viruses infect plants

Researchers have identified a genetic mechanism that enables viruses to infect plants, causing diseases. By targeting the CHL1 gene, CMV and its satellite virus cause yellowing symptoms in plants by preventing chlorophyll production. This breakthrough allows for the development of altered plant varieties with resistant genes.