This text describes the glass analysis relevant in forensic science. The classical approach of glass analysis (measurement of refractive index) proved.
2,025 words (approx. 8.1 pages), 5 sources, 2005, $ 80.95
Abstract This text describes the glass analysis relevant to forensic science. The paper examines how the classical approach of glass analysis (measurement of refractive index) proved to be unreliable method for a glass sample manufactured after 1980. The most recent approach uses chemical analysis to determine trace and ultra trace elements in glass. The paper analyzes two modern methods of chemical analysis.
From the Paper "Glass fragments belong to the group of trace evidence, i.e. very small amounts of material that can link an item on which it was found with an otherwise unconnected source of it elsewhere. The traces of glass are frequently encountered on the crime scene. If the glass breakage occurred, the glass fragments are likely to be found on the objects or persons present at the scene. They can often be easily spotted because they are shiny particles (of course in the case of coloured glass the recognition is easier). Additionally they have irregular shapes hence they tend to remain attached to the material longer than the trace evidence with smooth surfaces."
Abstract In this essay, the writer points out that soil bacteria control the course of nitrogen, carbon, and phosphorus through ecosystems. Soil samples were taken from established sites, which have undergone existing long-term manipulations of temperature, nutrient and light availability. The writer discusses that the soil samples were found to contain bacteria through testing and are being studied to determine whether treatments known to affect plant communities also affect soil microbial biomass, activity, gene expression, and community composition as measured by terminal restriction fragment length polymorphisms.
From the Paper "Soil is an intricate and active biological system, and at times it is difficult to determine the composition of microbial communities in soil. Yet, the study requires a wide variety of methods, which includes methods of extracting DNA from soil suitable for PCR amplification to monitor GM rhizobia and extracting mRNA directly from soil to use in gene expression studies. Hydrocarbons seem to be a contaminated factor when isolating the soil samples in determining bacteria characterization. "Bacteria were isolated from contaminated soil with the media indicating several homolog similarities (researched the possibility of several bacteria names through DP database as determined by the program SIMILARITY_RANK (10)"."
Abstract The paper relates that Marie Curie was a Polish-born French scientist. She was a pioneer in many ways. Her work in radiology and chemistry opened the door for a whole new scientific revolution and what we know today as the atomic age. The paper discusses how with her husband Pierre, she discovered two new elements and coined the term radioactive. The paper reveals that she was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only one to win it twice.
Abstract This paper discusses white as a color and more specifically, white light. The paper describes the qualities of the color white and the multifaceted nature of existence and the way that it relates to significant chemical alterations in nature. The paper goes on to discuss the importance of white light to the scientific understanding of reflective light and the dimensions of other colors.
From the Paper "Dimensions of the Color White Outline I Introduction. White as a color is not often considered to have many dimensions or properties that are significant to either science or society. While white may carry with it the concept of "purity", the color itself is multifaceted and related to significant chemical alterations in nature. White light has been especially important to scientific understanding of reflective light and the dimensions of other colors. Scientifically white must possess certain chemical compounds in order to exist, and in the field of psychology, white speaks to individuals through subconscious messages about the world they live in."
Abstract This paper discusses how, historically, punishments for convicted users and sellers of the drugs cocaine and crack have differed. Penalties are more severe for those individuals who use crack, although it is merely the solid form of essentially the same drug. These disparate penalties may result from several things. The paper further discusses how the most prevalent of these causes seems to be that of race. The powdered form, cocaine, is more popular among Caucasians. In addition, cocaine appears to be the drug of choice for the middle-class and above. The dangers associated with either cocaine or crack seem to differ greatly.
Abstract This paper is an incomplete presentation of a series of monographs for carcinogens. All carcinogens chosen were chosen based on being carcinogenic components of cigarette smoking. Two Group One carcinogens - Benzene and Radon were chosen, two group two carcinogens - formaldehyde and acrylonitrile were also chosen. Each were discussed in this paper based on chemical use, derivation (natural or synthetic), safety levels, results of acute exposure and results of cumulative exposure.
From the Paper "The following monograms are all cancerous agents from Group 1, Group 2 and Group 2B carcinogens that result from tobacco smoke ("Tobacco smoke, 1999). Group 1 - Benzene, CAS# 71-43-2 Chemical uses. Benzene is used in many industries as a solvent and chemical additive, ranging from the rubber and oil industries to shoe manufacturers and chemical plants ("Benzene," 2006). Benzene is also a component of many consumer goods, primarily as a solvent, such as glues, art supplies of varying kinds, glues, paint strippers as well as various detergents and other cleaning supplies ("Benzene," 2006). How developed. Benzene is a colorless, highly flammable liquid formed from natural processes such as forest fires and volcanoes ("Benzene," 2006). For over 150 years, however, benzene has been produced commercially from coal and more recently petroleum."
Abstract The paper explains that finding adequate definitions for basic chemical reactions can prove difficult for someone who is not well-versed in chemistry. Be that as it may, the following paper pieces together some basic definitions of first and second-order chemical reactions as well as the differential rate law. Along the way, the paper provides a few common examples for the first two of the definitions and also tries to capture the most salient features of each of the concepts outlined above. Ultimately, while this is not an exhaustive review of these items, it does provide a useful starting-point for further research.
From the Paper "A non-technical definition of a first order reaction is difficult to avoid but, to put it in the simplest terms possible, it is a reaction in which the rate of reaction "is proportional to the concentration of the single substance undergoing change.""
Abstract The paper holds the view that animal testing cannot provide firm evidence that a new product is safe and effective. The paper goes on to suggest that the testing methods used are immoral, and violate an animal's rights and that scientists should attempt to use alternative methods, and stop their cruel animal testing.
From the Paper "Laboratory animals and humans are different. Laboratories use primates such as monkeys and chimpanzees for modeling human diseases related to the brain and the nervous system because these animals are the most closely related to humans. However, human's and primate's brains are not same. "The primate brain is not a scaled-down version of human's brain. Chimpanzee's brains and human's are similar in structure, but that does not mean they perform the same functions."(Coghlan) Therefore, scientists cannot acquire human medical insights accurately from the studies of primates. "Scientists have learned a lot about human's physiology through comparisons in animals. But they argue that the quest for drugs that modify human behavior and brain function requires a subtlety not available through the study of primate brain."(Coghlan) In addition, other animals used for testing drugs, chemicals, and cosmetics are also not identical to humans and cannot form some of the same health problems even though these animals are biologically similar to humans. In spite of this fact, many laboratories still continue animal experiments on new products, producing unreliable results. Although the scientists prove the safety of the products on animals, the products may be harmful to humans."
Abstract The writer begins this essay with a discussion of the metabolism of toxic substances. The writer explains that the rate of metabolism in effect defines the concentration of the toxic substance. The slower the metabolic rate the more easily the toxic substance enters systemic circulation. Further, in this paper the writer discusses possible poisoning from chemicals such as aspartame or aspirin. The writer concludes this study with a look at the Bhopal carbide plant disaster in 1984.
From the Paper "The human liver plays an important role in metabolizing and breaking down food material, (including toxic substances) before it can reach the circulatory system and affect the entire body. Nature has defined the liver as a first line defense mechanism against food materials and toxic substances that we may consume unknowingly. The metabolizing enzymes in the hepatocytes are very efficient and this defense mechanism is known as 'first pass effect'. Typically, Phase one reactions are mainly oxidative, reductive or hydrolytic processes and form substrates for phase two conjugations. The cytochrome p450 enzymes are mainly responsible for the Oxidative phase one reactions. These are a group of enzymes that are actually a family of proteins that can act upon a wide range of substrates. Lipophilic chemicals are oxidated to yield water-soluble chemicals. These enzymes also perform heterocyclic hydroxylations and analkylation reactions. The end products of the phase one reactions are ready for conjugation with glycine, glucuronic acid, etc and are easily excreted from the body via urine."
Abstract This paper discusses the substance, hexane, otherwise known as n-hexane or Hexyl hydride. According to the paper, Hexane is manufactured by the refining process of crude oil and the correct composition of the fraction depends more or less on the source of the oil that is crude or refined and the limitations of refining. The paper goes on to discuss the toxicity of Hexane to the environment and the effect it has on a human when consumed or absorbed into the bloodstream.
From the Paper "Now let us understand about the toxicity of Hexane to the environment. The severe toxicity of hexane in human beings remains comparatively low, even though it is a soft anesthetic. (Industrial products: Energizing Business) Hexane can get inside the human body through the lungs in case it is present inside the air one breathes. It has also the possibilities of entering the human body through the stomach as also the intestines in case it is present in the water we drink or food we eat or can pass through the skin in case one comes into contact with it. The quantity that the hexane goes into the human body is dependent on the degree one is exposed and also its amount. While we inhale hexane, it gets into our bloodstream and is transmitted to every other organ of the body. Hexane is broken down by the liver. In case of one gets exposure to high concentrations of hexane ranging over an extended period of time, one of these breakdown products might entail damage to the nervous system of humans. "
Tags: virtigo, dizziness, paraffin, neurotoxic, cancer, hydrocarbons, oxidizing, elements
Abstract In this article the writer looks at several different types of weapons of mass destruction, which, when in the wrong hands, can do a great amount of damage. The type of weapons of mass destruction mentioned include biological weapons, chemical weapons, nuclear weapons, and radiological weapons. Throughout this paper the writer discusses the various types of weapons of mass destruction and looks at what the individual weapons are called. The writer then examines what these weapons can do and mentions the symptoms of these weapons. Further, the writer explores how they are used and the precautions that can be taken to protect society from them.
From the Paper "Although anthrax may be the most well known biological weapon, there are several other biological agents which can be used as weapons that are worth noting. These include the Ebola virus, Bubonic plague, Yellow Fever, Smallpox, Ricin, Botulism toxin, Saxitoxin, Rocky Mountain spotted Fever, Typhus, Q fever, and others."
"Biological weapons are not used strictly to attack humans; instead they may be used to attack crops and animals as well to disrupt an area's agricultural supply. Additionally, by attacking the agricultural supply, this may be a way of transmitting the biological weapons to human beings."
"One way to prevent succumbing to some forms of biological weapons is through good hygiene, in much the same way one can prevent the spread of everyday bacteria and viruses."
Abstract The paper discusses how Cheney proves that Tesla's work and pioneering research on rotating magnetic fields paved the way for the existence of the current, illuminated world. The paper asserts that Cheney's work is pioneering, because it rewrites invention history in many respects, stressing that the commonly embraced brand names of Edison and Marconi may need to be questioned by historians to give a full picture of history. The paper shows how this biography is an important reminder that history does not always give full credit to genius and innovation.
From the Paper "To list Tesla's innovations in scientific research would almost take more space than could be accorded by the length and span reserved for this review. Tesla's work and pioneering research on rotating magnetic fields paved the way for the existence of the current, illuminated world, more so than Edison's, according to Cheney, and gave the world everything from radios to X-rays. However, Tesla proved out of step, or out of time, with the need to establish close friendships in the technical community. He also lacked the necessary flexibility within his personality to make use of the structures of funding of American business and federal funding in an effective fashion."
Abstract This paper discusses nuclear weapons and how they have been obtained by terrorist organizations. This paper specifically focuses on small, suitcase-sized nuclear weapons and the threat they impose by falling into the wrong hands of terrorist organizations. The paper focuses on Osama Bin Laden and al Qaeda's purchase and use of nuclear weapons. It includes some personal comments by the writer, on the topic.
From the Paper "America today, puts terrorism as a main concern, and nuclear weapons could wreak the greatest havoc on our country. Author Paul Williams claims Osama bin Laden's al-Qaida terrorist group purchased 20 nuclear weapons in 1998 for $30 million dollars, and 2 tons of heroin (which has a street value of $700 million). These nukes were purchased from former KGB agents (KGB agents are agents who worked under the Russian Committee for State Security). Williams says that this deal is one of three in which al-Qaida has purchased small nuclear weapons, or weapon-grade nuclear uranium."
Abstract This paper takes an in-depth look at the history of the use and abuse of drugs to affect conscious states. According to the paper, drugs, whether alcohol or hallucinogenic drugs such as peyote and opiates, have a long history among human beings. The paper further discusses that although environmental factors certainly play an important role in an individual's vulnerability to drug usage and addiction, recent studies strongly suggest that genetic factors may play a more significant role.
From the Paper "In 2003, a study involving approximately 20,000 participants found that particular genes can influence personality traits that are linked to unhealthy behavior. In an effort to link human behavior and inheritance, researchers at Oxford University researched data from 46 separate studies, focusing on genes that control chemicals used to transmit signals between brain cells (Von Radowitz 2003). Findings revealed that one version of the human serotonin transporter gene, 5HTT-LPR, was associated with anxious personalities, indicating that "individuals with this gene variant were the sort who find social interaction stressful and may take refuge in substance abuse" (Von Radowitz 2003). Researchers discovered a weaker link between the dopamine D4 receptor and extrovert personality traits, suggesting that such individuals are more likely to smoke tobacco or use drugs due to risk behavior, in other words, they are more inclined to gamble with their health (Von Radowitz 2003)."
Abstract This paper discusses the life and work of William Sealey Gosset, who was one of the leading statisticians of his time, particularly with his work on the concept of standard deviation in small samples. It gives examples of some of his achievements in the realm of statistics. The paper describes Gosset as both brilliant in his professional work as a chemist and statistician and as a loved and respected man.
From the Paper "After Gosset had worked for many years developing the practical application of his theory, he was involved in a terrible car accident in 1934 which left him incapacitated for many months. During this time, he had the opportunity to continue to work on his statistical work. He recovered enough after a year to move to London where he became the head brewer and scientist of production at a new Guinness brewery. Gosset continued to publish the results of his statistical findings while working in London. He did not hold his position there long as he died in Beaconsfield, England, on October 16, 1937 (O'Connor and Robertson)."
