Student Thirst for Answers

For the third year in a row, student scientists in Beth Buyea’s Human Physiology class were able to poke and prod volunteer guinea pigs for a little hands-on research. Students designed experiments and gathered data on two recent days, having invited fellow students, faculty, and staff to act as test subjects. They will present results at the Spring Science Fair on May 13 in Cutler Science Center at 7 pm. Here’s a look at some answers they thirsted for:

• What’s the difference between the lung capacities of athletes and nonathletes—and does asthma play a role?
• Which kills germs better, generic soap, brand name soap, or hand sanitizer?
• What happens to the rate of the patella reflex with exercise?
• Crunches vs. sit-ups—which works abs better?
• How do heart rate and blood pressure respond to different types of music?
• How quickly can the brain adapt to change?