Abstract This paper explains that, for several decades, the medical community has alerted the public to the incidence of birthdefects that are directly related to radiation, underscoring the long-term impact that exposure to radiation has on the body and on future offspring. The author points out that exposure before conception carries a risk of specific birthdefects including mental retardation and childhood cancers. The paper stresses that to avoid these risks in the future it is important to re-evaluate the location of nuclear reactor sites as well as the frequency of x-rays.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Background
The Basics
Conclusion
From the Paper "A defect occurs when there are changes in the DNA. Changes can occur spontaneously or can be caused by an external factor. One of the external factors that have been strongly linked with changes in the elements of DNA is exposure to radiation. Changes that are caused or directly linked to the exposure to radiation are referred to as mutations.
When these changes result from radiation exposure they are called radiation-induced mutations."
Abstract Scientific discussion of external factors that might affect pregnancy and foster congenital birthdefects in newborns. Prenatal development. Effect of pharmaceuticals, legal chemical substances, alcohol, narcotics & tobacco use by women on pregnancy. Effect of absence of essential nutrients such as Zinc. Cites several other causes of congenital birthdefects. Variables. Problem of serious diseases of pregnant women & necessary drugs.
From the Paper "This research examines the phenomenon of teratogens, or factors external to the physical experience of pregnancy, during the period of gestation, which may affect pregnancy outcomes by fostering congenital birth defects in newborns. The research will set forth the clinical context in which teratogenic agents achieve relevance for the course of pregnancy in the modern period, and then discuss the impact that concern about teratogens may have on efficient and prudent pregnancy management.
On the face of things, the generally accepted definition of a teratogen would appear to be straightforwardly informative. Mosby's initially defines a teratogen as "any substance, agent, or process that interferes with normal prenatal development, causing the formation of one or more developmental abnormalities in the fetus" (Teratogen, 1998, p. 89). However, amplification of the..."
Abstract This paper explains that Kass is very much opposed to the notion of interfering with nature, as well as producing a separate standard of existence for children who are born with defects. The author points out that Kass believes that, by terminating a pregnancy just because the child has a birthdefect, is like saying that all society is only good if everyone is perfect and "normal" and suggests that individuals who are disabled are somehow less than acceptable and worthy. The paper stresses the importance of examining each case on a unique and personal basis before offering generalizations about what is good and what is right.
From the Paper "The government does not have the right to determine whether it is ok or not for someone to give birth to a child with defects, who might face a life of nothing but suffering. If your choice is to raise that child from cradle to grave, that is a decision that you can make for yourself. Regardless of whether the child is biologically or physically deficient, one takes risks when they endeavor to reproduce and have children."
This paper explores the various options for surgical and medical management of cleft lips and palates and the ways in which these interventions can help children with these particular birthdefects.
Abstract The paper begins with an overview of the condition and causes of cleft lip and palate. It then examines treatment options available and presents other alternatives. The writer then discusses the specific language acquisition problems related to clefts and concludes by accessing the effectiveness of various treatments and surgery.
From the Paper "Cleft lips and cleft palates are among the most common of birth defects and if left untreated can lead to serious speech problems as well as psychological damage that can result both from those speech and communication problems as well as from the ostracism that a child with a facial deformity may face. However, while the consequences of cleft lips and palates can be severe and long-lasting, these can be averted by medical intervention, especially if it is done as early as possible. This paper explores the various options for surgical and medical management of cleft lips and palates and the ways in which these interventions can help children with these particular birth defects."
Abstract This paper explores the use of the drug Thalidomide. The paper begins with an introduction into the drug's notorious history, from its first use in Germany in 1957 as a safe, non-addictive sedative. The paper then looks at the pros and cons of using this drug, which was originally banned for its adverse side-effects, causing birthdefects in many user's children?s. The paper concludes with some of the reasons scientists are again looking to make use of this drug.
From the Paper "Those who are against the drug are quick to point out the numerous birth defects that occurred in the late 1950's and early 1960?s. Many of these children are still alive today and are constant reminders to their mothers of the dangers of the drug. They will continue to need specialized medical care their entire lives (Warren 1). Opponents also stress the fact that there are thousands of thalidomiders worldwide who continue to live with numbness of their extremities, as well difficulty with motor functions and atrophy of thumbs."
Abstract This discussion ascertains whether or not women who become pregnant as a result of rape should have abortions. It also discusses whether pregnant women should have abortions if there is a strong chance of serious birthdefect in the baby.
From the Paper "According to the Elliot Institute women should and do choose not to have abortions when they have been raped. However, there are a percentage of women who choose to terminate pregnancies that have occurred as a result of rape. In these cases most women and advocates argue that they opted to terminate their pregnancies because carrying the child to term is too painful. Some rape victims also fear that they may reject the children after they are born which will cause the child to have deep emotional scars. In any case it seems that rape victims should have the choice of how to handle the unexpected pregnancy."
Abstract This paper discusses one of the most contentious issues in contemporary American life, birth control.
This paper examines birth control in America and argues that birth control is something which should be readily available to all citizens just as long as certain protocols are followed. In so doing, however, this paper also points out the arguments of those who are unconvinced that wide spread birth control is desirable. In the end, this paper's central contention is that having a child is an enormously challenging development in the lives of young people (or old people, for that matter) and it should only be undertaken if the parents (or parent) possess the maturity, the desire and the resources necessary to do the job well.
Abstract This paper examines and compares two articles on how birth order affects a person's behavior. The two articles, "Born for Each Other" by Pamela Withers and "How Your Birth Order Influences Your Life Adjustment" by Lucille K. Forer, both express a general agreement that birth order does shape our attitudes and behavior.
From the Paper "The two articles to be compared in this report each focus on questions related to birth order. Pamela Withers, in "Born for Each Other", provides a list of common birth order characteristics and also discusses some aspects of what it means to be an only child. Lucille K. Forer in, "How Your Birth Order Influences Your Life Adjustment", considers the effect of birth order on relationships with parents siblings and self development. This essay will compare and contrast these two related articles each..."
Abstract This paper looks at studies which discuss whether the order of child's birth (first born, second born, etc) influences their personality and future. It compares how different children function according to their birth order and whether there are similarities in these. Psychological examinations are also performed and examined.
From the Paper "In previous years there have been quite a bit of research conducted on the subject of birth order and personality. However research on this matter has declined in at least the last 10 to 20 years. In all regards, it is the common perception that people who are first-born have the strongest disposition and have leadership tendencies. Research also tends to point out that children who are first-born usually have greater achievements in their professional careers. By the same token, these students are also more likely to have more mental disturbances than their younger siblings ( Nyman). There are conflicting results as to the popularity factor concerning the first born. Some researchers content that the first-born are generally more popular, thus more out-going. While others contend that the first-born are less popular?and perhaps more stand-offish (Nyman)."
Tags: sibling, rival, pressure, leader, follower, birth, order
Abstract This work delves into the process of locating the adolescent's birth mother; the effect on the adoptee, adoptive family and birth family; the adjustments required during the search and discovery phases; and the support system from the adopted family required to realize a successful search. This paper makes the assumption that the adopted parents are living and able to make reasonable contributions to the process.
From the Paper "The 2004 State Statute Reports issued by the National Adoption Information Clearinghouse that nearly all states continue to require sealed record adoptions with only 'non-identifying' birthparent information publicly available. Some states are relaxing these rigid rules (e.g., Illinois and Wisconsin) but the pervasive and often overriding legal concern for the individual's privacy continues to protect birthparents who have opted for adoption."
Abstract This paper examines some of the advantages and disadvantages associated with giving birth vaginally after having previously delivered by a Cesarean (VBAC). The paper looks at why doctors try to avoid them, but also gives support from the literature for their safety and success. The paper further discusses contraindications and the major problem which is uterine rupture following prior C-section. It points out that uterine rupture is usually due to Pitocin use, and that VBACs have a 98 percent success rate.
From the Paper "Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) is becoming increasingly popular and the medical profession has tried somewhat to discourage it because of the risk of uterine rupture. While postpartum fever seemed to correlate with uterine rupture at VBAC in a recent study there was no relationship between single or double..."
Tags: Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC), VBA2C, VBA2+C, VBA3+C
Abstract This paper discusses the prophecy about the birth of Jesus found in Isaiah. The paper explains that this prophecy, which tells the story of Jesus' birth to the virgin Mary, is probably the most famous of all the prophecies about Jesus and chronicles the interactions between the prophet Isaiah and King Ahaz.
From the Paper "There are a number of messianic prophecies about Jesus' birth -- prophecies about the location, manner and time of his birth, about his genealogy and about events that were to occur at the time of his birth. Probably the most famous of these prophecies is the prophecy that Jesus would be born to a virgin found in Isaiah. Isaiah chronicles the interactions between the prophet Isaiah and King Ahaz. In Isaiah we read: "Then said the LORD unto Isaiah Go forth now to meet Ahaz..."
Tags: Bible, old and new testament, Isaiah, prophet, god, jesus, immanual, prince of peace, virgin birth
Abstract This paper discusses the idea that many people believe that birth order has some kind of an impact on personality formation. This paper analyses the evidence, as documented in academic and scientific literature, in an attempt to answer the question if these ideas are valid, or are they like the claims of astrology - too vague, and too subject to myriad other influences, to be substantiated in any way? This paper shows there is in fact clear empirical evidence that birth order can have a significant impact on at least some important aspects of human personality.
Abstract This paper examines the medical ethics of whether a low weight birth infant should receive life sustaining efforts from the ethical and legal perspective of the medical staff and the family members involved. The author points out the percentages of survival and legal statutes. The paper relates why these issues are crucial and how physicians are expected to assess the infants.
From the Paper "When we discuss the birth of a child, what comes to mind immediately is the beginning of life. No one thinks of imminent death or ailments that may indeed cause death. However, it is a cruel fact of life, for whatever reason that infants will die and that death does not discriminate. Sometimes, this fate involves those born prematurely or suffering from an extremely low body weight. These conditions will push a medical team into overdrive as they attempt to assess the viability of the child. This is not to determine if the child will die but to determine if the child will live. In addition to this, doctors must assess what type of quality of survival will occur, or will there be severe defects and will the child always be dependent on machines to exist."
Abstract This paper discusses the common problem of pregnancy diabetes. It looks at the complications it can cause, such as high birth weight, birthdefects, and even neo-natal death. It discusses preventative measures, including testing and counseling.
Introduction
Issues
Birth Weight
BirthDefects Death In-Utero and Death Following Birth Health of the Diabetic Mother
Preventive Measures
Testing
Pre-Conception Counseling
Medical and Advisory Team
Conclusion
From the Paper "Pregnancy requires more insulin in the body than normal because of the increased production of hormones that can lead to insulin resistance. For a woman suffering from type 1 diabetes this is especially problematic because she already has difficulty producing or responding to insulin. Not only is the mother's health at risk, but the baby's health may suffer as well. As insufficient insulin causes blood sugar to rise in the mother, the sugar travels across the placenta to the baby. When the baby's blood sugar is high, the baby makes extra insulin to keep its own blood sugar normal. Problems of the developing baby may include larger or smaller size, increased risk for malformations or birth defects, or death in-utero. Fortunately, there are several precautions that a woman can take to dramatically decrease the risk of complications."
