Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for May 27, 2013


When perks don't work

A study by University of British Columbia researchers found that consumers experience social awkwardness when given free upgrades in front of others, leading to a decline in satisfaction and shorter browsing times. The study suggests that retailers should offer perks privately to avoid embarrassment.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMay 27, 2013

Decision-making preferences among patients with heart attacks

A study of 6,636 patients with heart attacks found that two-thirds prefer an active role in decision-making. Physicians who provide patient-centered care should directly ask patients about their decision-making preferences. The study aims to develop systems that respect these preferences and give patients the opportunity they desire.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 27, 2013

How do plants grow toward the light?

Researchers at TUM discovered that auxin hormone plays a crucial role in plant growth towards light. By understanding the auxin transport mechanism, they were able to prove its involvement in phototropism for the first time. The study highlights the importance of auxin in regulating plant cell elongation and responding to light signals.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMay 27, 2013

When doctors and patients share in decisions, hospital costs go up

A hospital-based study found that patients who want to participate in their medical decisions end up spending more time in the hospital and raising costs of their hospital stay by an average of $865. The study suggests that encouraging patients to be more involved may not reduce costs, but rather increase length of stay and costs. Prov...

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 27, 2013

All in one shot

Researchers have discovered a common sugar molecule on the cell surface of multiple pathogens, which could be key to developing a broad-spectrum vaccine. The sugar polymer, known as PNAG, is found on the surfaces of bacteria that cause strep throat, pneumonias, malaria, and other deadly infections.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2013

The formula for turning cement into metal

Researchers from Argonne National Laboratory have created a semi-conductor material by turning liquid cement into liquid metal through electron trapping. This process creates metallic-glass material with positive attributes including conductivity, fluidity, and low energy loss.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2013

How patient centered are medical decisions?

A national survey found that adults often did not make informed medical decisions due to insufficient shared decision-making. Healthcare providers need to improve patient engagement by balancing discussions on pros and cons and regularly seeking patient input.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 27, 2013

Rats have a double view of the world

Researchers at Max Planck Institute found that rats move their eyes in opposite directions, allowing them to maintain a constant binocular field and detect potential threats. This adaptation is thought to increase their chances of survival against birds and other predators.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 2013