Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for May 4, 2005


Keeping cancer in check

A recent study by Penn researchers found that a metabolic enzyme works with the tumor-suppressor protein p53 to control cellular replication. The enzyme, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), acts as a sensor to detect energy levels in cells and prevents them from replicating under certain conditions.

Study agrees, just do it!

A study by the University of Alberta found that successful exercisers use plans and action, not pep talks, to maintain regular exercise. Boomer-age women tend to have higher activity levels, while older men are less active due to fear of injury or illness.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalPsychology of Sport and Exercise·DateMay 4, 2005

Slow balls take the swing out of young ball players

A study by McMaster University found that children's brains are less adept at judging speed in slow motion due to immaturity. As a result, adding speed to a pitch helps them perceive it more accurately. The research, set to be published in July, was triggered by a correlation between eye problems and perception.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalVision Research·DateMay 4, 2005

Researchers develop new method for facile identification of proteins in bacterial cells

Researchers have created a new method to identify specific proteins in bacterial cells, simplifying the process and increasing signal-to-background ratio. The technique uses peptide mass fingerprinting with mass spectrometry, allowing for rapid identification of target proteins amidst hundreds of other cell components.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateMay 4, 2005

Soliciting organs over the Internet

The article discusses the rise of online organ donation platforms like MatchingDonors.com, which have successfully paired donors with recipients. However, the medical community is divided over the ethics of soliciting organs online, with concerns about subverting the UNOS system and policing financial remuneration for living donors.

New insight into Huntington's disease pathology

Studies in mice with genetically engineered mutant huntingtin protein found that widespread production led to locomotor problems, neurodegeneration, and abnormal brain connections. Conversely, restricted production showed little difference from normal mice, suggesting cellular interactions play a significant role in HD pathogenesis.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateMay 4, 2005

Exercise in cold water may increase appetite, UF study finds

Researchers found that exercising in cold water led to a 44% higher caloric intake compared to warm water or resting periods. The study suggests that environmental conditions during exercise may influence post-exercise appetite, and individuals should consider the kinds of foods they eat after exercise.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalInternational Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism·DateMay 4, 2005