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Science News for October 11, 2013


Healthier diets possible in low-income, rural communities in America

A two-year study found that low-income, rural children in America consumed significantly more fruits and vegetables after being exposed to a healthier school food environment and educational curriculum. The intervention resulted in improved diet quality, including lower glycemic index and increased consumption of legumes.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateOct 11, 2013

Behavioral therapy provided during dialysis sessions may combat depression among kidney failure patients

A study found that behavioral therapy provided chair-side to kidney failure patients during dialysis significantly reduces depression scores and improves quality of life. The treatment group experienced greater improvements in fluid intake between sessions, making subsequent treatments more efficient.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateOct 11, 2013

Packaging stem cells in capsules for heart therapy

Cardiology researchers at Emory have developed a solution to improve the impact of stem cell therapy on heart function. By packaging mesenchymal stem cells in alginate capsules, they can increase cell retention and survival, promoting healing factors that encourage regeneration of blood vessels.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateOct 11, 2013

New analysis of US elementary school mathematics finds half-century of problematic 'strands' structure

A new analysis by Liping Ma reveals that the 'strands' structure in US elementary school mathematics has significantly weakened its effectiveness, with instability and discontinuity in curricular content and instruction. The structure was introduced in the 1960s as a replacement for traditional school arithmetic, but has persisted desp...

SourceAmerican Mathematical Society·JournalNotices of the American Mathematical Society·DateOct 11, 2013

Can thermodynamics help us better understand human cancers?

A new study identifies cancer-specific gene signatures for breast, lung, prostate, and ovarian cancers using surprisal analysis, a thermodynamics-based approach. This method allows researchers to understand how cellular energy is expended in cancer cells and identify potential biomarkers for early detection and therapy.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 11, 2013

Uniformity: The secret of better fusion ignition

Theoretical physicists use numerical simulations to analyze the uniformity of irradiation at thermonuclear fusion reaction, with potential applications to the Orion facility's high-power laser beams. The approach demonstrates a reduction in non-uniformity by 50% and 35% for elliptical and circular intensity profiles respectively.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateOct 11, 2013

The perils of texting while driving

A recent US study reveals that male drivers are more likely to engage in texting while driving, yet consider themselves more proficient. The study suggests that 'texting impulsiveness' is positively associated with frequent texters and those who multitask, highlighting the risks of this behavior on the road.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Sustainable Strategic Management·DateOct 11, 2013