That Fat Research Is Fly
The Kruth Talks: May 12
The University of Arkansas Newswire reported researchers have discovered a connection between fat metabolism in humans and fruit flies.
Through a study of fruit fly larvae, researchers noticed a mutation in the lipin gene that caused the larvae to be malnourished. The larvae with this mutation consistently had fewer fat deposits. The results may provide insight into understanding the complex process of fat storage and the factors regulating metabolism.
From the report: “The versatility of fly genetics will allow (researchers) to identify other proteins that interact with lipin to control fat metabolism.”
Rolling Out
Downtown Bentonville prohibits the use of roller skates, roller blades and skateboards along city sidewalks or public property in designated areas.
On May 10, the Bentonville City Council unanimously voted to extend the prohibited area to include Lawrence Plaza and the Downtown Activity Center. It’s a good thing they didn’t include ice skates, since that’s where the Ice Rink opened this past winter.
Splash And See
Speaking of Lawrence Plaza, on Saturday, May 7 the 700-square-foot multiuse area opened its Splash Pad for the season.
The flat concrete area has more than 80 fountain jets and is open to the public for free community activities. The park will be open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day through Sunday, Sept. 25. Every first Friday of the month, however, the park will cease regular operations at 4 p.m. for the parks and recreation department’s “First Friday Flicks.” The park will show “The Blind Side” on June 3, “Shrek” on July 1, “Finding Nemo” on Aug. 5, “Toy Story” on Sept. 2 and “Miracle” on Oct. 7.
Lottery Line
The Arkansas Lottery has created a way to get prizes even if your lotto ticket isn’t a winner.
At myarkansaslottery.com, players can create an account and input their losing tickets to earn points, much like a credit card offers. There is also an option called “Play It Again” for certain games such as the new $1,000,000 Diamond Dazzler.
Members can opt-in to receive daily email with winning numbers, new game information or research projects related to the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery. In its first 18 months, the lottery generated more than $150 million in college scholarships.
