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Stem Cells Research, 2002.
A look at the make-up of stem cells and their use in the medical sphere.
1,883 words (approx. 7.5 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 60.95
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Abstract
This paper begins by looking at the properties of stem cells and examines the phenomenon of stem cells, which provide limitless division and the rise of differentiated progeny. It then asks what embryonic stem cells are and looks at how they are cultured in the laboratory. It then discusses adult stem cells and the use of cell therapy today. The paper concludes with expectations for the future.
From the Paper
"Stem cells can be defined as progenitor cells or primitive cells that give rise to other cells. They are totipotent cells also dubbed as the ?master cells? of the body as they contain all the genetic information needed to create all the cells in the body plus the placenta, which nourishes the human embryo. Human cells have this capacity only during the first few divisions of the fertilized egg. Totipotent cells follow a series of stages and become highly specialized after 3-4 divisions. The next stage of division give rise to pluriopotent cells that are highly versatile and can give rise to any cell except the cells in the placenta. At the next stage, cells become multipotent, meaning they can give rise to several other cell types, but those types are limited in number. An example of multipotent cells is hematopoietic cells?blood stem cells that can develop into several types of blood cells, but cannot develop into brain cells. At the end of the long chain of cell divisions that make up the embryo are "terminally differentiated" cells?cells permanently committed to a specific function [Author not known, 2003]."
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Color Blindness, 2002.
An overview of the concept of color blindness and the biology behind it.
1,378 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper briefly explains the biology of the eye and the problems that cause color blindness. It looks at what happens in the visionary process between perception and understanding of colors.
From the Paper
"Many people do not know what color blindness is, why it happens, and the different types of color blindness. Color blindness is not total blindness. People with color-blindness can see things, but see everything in one color, or in misrepresented colors. Some of them may be able to see some colors, but not see other colors, while some may see no colors at all. John Dalton, a British Chemist, discovered color-blindness. He himself was colorblind. Color blindness occurs in our retina. The human retina converts the light energy that falls on the retina in the eye and converts it into electrical energy. These electrical impulses are then sent on to the brain. The photoreceptor cells do the conversion of the electrical energy. These cells are of two types- rods and cones. People who have normal eyesight are able to combine the inputs from these cells into different combinations and see color. A set of special receptor cells in the eyes called cones located in our eyes gives us our color vision. The cones are the cells to distinguish between colors."
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Animals in Michigan, 2002.
A brief study of the mammal life which can be found in the Michigan area.
1,278 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the many mammal species which can be found in Michigan. The paper studies how they have evolved to live in the Michigan area and live off the land. The paper also includes a general discussion of the geological history of the Michigan area. The paper begins by exploring those animals which are now extinct.
From the Paper
"It has been suggested that the mammoths and mastodons, in particular, were drawn to Michigan because of the many salt seeps and the many sources of shallow water, from which they could drink. These mammoths and mastodons may therefore have been migratory in their behavior, and stayed in the Michigan area due to the well-suited surroundings. Around 10,000 years ago, these large mammals became extinct in the Michigan area (in common with their extinction in most of the rest of the world)."
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Brain vs. Mind, 2002.
Examines the relationship of the split hemispheres of the human brain.
1,050 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 36.95
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Abstract
The philosopher Thomas Nagel became famous for his advocacy of the idea that human consciousness and subjective experience cannot be reduced to a discussion of ?mere? brain activity and that the human brain is bifurcated into two hemispheres. The paper shows that in his essay on ?Brain Bisection & the Unity of Consciousness,? Nagel stresses that merely because this is the case, the sum or interaction of human being?s two brain hemispheres of left and right is essentially greater than the catalogued capabilities of the two parts. Nagel stresses this as proof of his thesis that the human consciousness is more extensive than simply a list of the respective components of the brain?s left and right hemispheres. The paper critically analyzes Nagel's view. It also touches on the growing research on gender differences between the interaction of brain hemispheres
From the Paper
"Even if human beings are indeed all ?brain,? this does not mean that human beings will not vary in the ways that the different components of their brain interact in an interesting, varied, and compassionate manner. Nagel fears the potential predictability of the human consciousness as reducing the mysteries of human subjectivity to a catalogue of components. But to suggest, for instance, that the right brain might deal more with abstraction, as to the hemispherical components of left brain which are said to deal more with verbal capacity, can hardly predict the relative ability of any individual to use those abstractive or verbal capacities."
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Primate Intelligence, 2002.
A discussion of the parameters involved in defining intelligence and determining cause for cognitive growth in primates.
2,239 words (approx. 9.0 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 69.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how it has long been recognized that primates are more cognitively advanced than other mammals and how that the degree of cognitive awareness and ability grows significantly from prosimians to humans. It looks at the debate of which parameters should be used to define and compare intelligence as well as the causal factors leading to this cognitive growth. It analyzes how studying today's population of primates can shed some light on cognitive evolution and how it can also provide additional information on what makes humans unique and what can be done to eliminate primate extinction and enhance human evolution.
From the Paper
"New world monkeys spend most of their time in the treetops. Living at such heights, they feed almost entirely on leaves and fruit. There is ample food and few large predators, aside from larger snakes and some birds of prey. New world monkeys have not developed the complex communities and family groups found among old world monkeys and apes. Most species give birth to twins and live in groups of 4-20 individuals. Social structure varies from one male-one female to multi-male-multi-female groups, with usually only one breeding adult female at a time. Groups are territorial and defend their home range through calls, fur displays, scent marking and facial expressions (ibid)."
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Do Animals Have Language?, 2002.
An examination into the question of whether animals have a language of communication, focusing on dolphins.
1,220 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper argues that higher mammals like primates, dolphins and whales are capable of and have evolved a complex language of their own. Towards this, the paper looks at the recent research done regarding the ?whistling? and other auditory communication among dolphins. In arguing that this ?whistling? constitutes and fulfills the functions of language, the paper uses the framework on the syntactic structures and the various aspects of language. Through an application of Chomsky?s criteria, this paper argues that dolphins have evolved a communication system made of whistling sounds that serve many of the purposes of human language.
From the Paper
"For Chomsky, human language is characterized first and foremost by structural principles like grammar, an underlying system of rules that govern the communication exchange. By understanding the rules that govern this communication, humans are able to develop a "creative ability" that allows them to speak or understand sentences that they have not heard previously (Chomsky 19-21)."
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DNA Application, 2002.
A research project examining the application of DNA in solving cold cases in California with forensic science.
6,156 words (approx. 24.6 pages), 51 sources, APA, $ 144.95
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Abstract
This research paper explains what DNA is and how it is used to solve criminal cases. Additionally, it discusses the implications of DNA fingerprinting in solving cold cases, with a focus on collection methods and applications in the state of California. The research analyzes and discusses the feasibility of DNA testing in solving cold cases and studies the impact that DNA fingerprinting has had on the forensic science community as a whole. The research is driven by studies and collection methods already implemented by the scientific community as well as future methods of collecting and testing DNA evidence as it relates to the investigation of unsolved murders.
From the Paper
"Adding to an already heavy burden, most states including California are attempting to take DNA samples from a prison population approaching 2 million. This DNA information is being used in order to create state and national DNA databases. ?All 50 states have passed laws requiring collection of DNA from convicted sex offenders, and 34 states have enacted statutes requiring that DNA be taken from those convicted of other crimes.? (Price) Although most are in support of creating such a database, others feel that it is a violation of the American Constitution. Additionally, many proponents of DNA in criminal murder cases feel that DNA is still an unproven science with many inherent flaws that could convict innocent people and allow some to literally get away with murder."
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Joints and Muscles, 2002.
The paper discusses the important role the joints and muscles play in the makeup of the human body.
858 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 30.95
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Abstract
The paper explores the nature and purpose of muscles and joints and how they are responsible for the different movements made by the body. The paper looks at the three distinct categories of muscles and the way that the pace of a movement requires different combinations of actions by the muscles. The paper also analyzes various muscle and joint disorders such as cramps and arthritis.
From the Paper
"Joints, which work closely with muscles, are just as important to movement. Every bodily action is based on the principal of the lever--the bone acting as the lever, the joints as the fulcrum where the lever pivots and muscle contractions as the force. Joints are located where two bones intersect. They define direction and extent of skeletal movement. One type of joints, synovial, are covered by a viscous, slick fluid so they can easily slide back and forth. For example, hinge joints are found in the elbows. The wrist and ankle have gliding joints. The hip and shoulders move because of ball-and-socket joints and the thumb due to saddle joints. The layer of dense tissue, or periosteum, covering most of the skeletal bones is replaced at these joints by a thin layer of cartilage. The cartilage can absorb the shock of activities such as running and jumping."
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Borna Disease Virus, 2002.
Examines methods used for the detection of the Borna disease virus, relating them to the epidemiology of the disease.
5,741 words (approx. 23.0 pages), 32 sources, APA, $ 138.95
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Abstract
The first cases of Borna disease in the 17-19th century in Southern Germany exposed a fatal disease affecting the neurological systems of horses and sheep, causing behavioral and neurological symptoms. It has since been discovered, however, that the disease affects other animals and even human beings. The paper shows that research into the epidemiology and pathogenesis of the BDV is impeded, however, by a lack of universally accepted standard for its detection, especially in humans. This paper covers in detail the various methods used to detect the BDV virus and analyzes their efficiency in doing so. This is done with reference to the epidemiology of the virus that is changing significantly and speedily with the use of analytical techniques. The paper also compares these processes and gives suggestions for future research in the light of modern day studies.
From the Paper
"A reason for renewed interest and research into the pathogenesis and characteristics of the BDV is the possibility recently discovered of the BDV being an etiological factor in human behavioral disorders as well. [J?rgen 1997] Numerous scientific studies are being done to accumulate evidence to clarify this issue. One study showed that 10-15% of psychiatric patients had anti-BDV antibodies as compared to only 2% in the general population. [Schizophrenia and Borna Disease Virus as a Zoonosis? 2000] Another on patients with severe depression detected anti-BDV antibodies in 30% of the hospitalized cases. [Schizophrenia and Borna Disease Virus as a Zoonosis? 2000] BDV was also detected and isolated in patients with mood disorders while BDV nucleic acids and antigens have been detected in both sera and brain tissue of psychiatric patients."
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Psychopharmacology, 2002.
An examination of this practice which uses drugs to improve brain function and its side-effects.
2,587 words (approx. 10.3 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 78.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses this medical innovation which has become a complicated medical issue. It discusses how these drugs are used to improve brain function and how both the appropriate and inappropriate use of these drugs can have a profound effect on both mind and body. It explains why the drugs can have physical as well as behavioral or emotional effects and how sometimes the side effects can be managed well, but sometimes can cause or aggravate another problem.
From the Paper
"The human nervous system has very specific cells that allow the nervous system to communicate within themselves. ?Interneurons" exist only in the brain and spinal cord and receive signals from the rest of the body from sensory neurons as well as from other interneurons. There may be as many as 100 billion interneurons, with up to 1,000 synapses where other neurons can communicate with them (Kimball, 2003). There are many different kinds of interneurons.
Most neurons communicate by releasing neurotransmitters to another cell. The part of the cell that sends the message is called an axon. It does not directly touch another cell?s synapses, but sends out a neurotransmitter. Different synapses are configured to receive different neurotransmitters (Hamilton & Timmons, 1994). The space between the axon of one cell and the synapse of the next is sometimes called the synaptic cleft, and the goal of many psychotropic drugs is to affect this process in one of several ways."
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Malarial Organisms, 2002.
A look at the biology of malarial organisms.
1,305 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how the malarial parasite is a complex organism which infects millions of people every year. It looks at how in recent years, the number of cases of West Nile Fever has increased, prompting many people to examine the cause and transmission of it and similar diseases. It demonstrates how understanding the biology of these organisms is important for scientists in order to prevent and cure future infections.
Outline
Introduction
The Human Malaria Parasite
The Life Cycle
Sequencing of the Plasmodium Genome
Polymorphism
Plasmodium Species
Merozoites
Invasion Process
Plasmodium Sporozoites and Ookinetes
Malaria in Animals
Exploring Malaria Biology
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The mosquito ingests Plasmodium cells in human blood called gametocytes, which are precursors of gametes, and within seconds, gametocytes are induced into gametogenesis, which produces gametes. The gametes then produce sporozoites, which are accumulated in the salivary gland of the mosquito and then injected into the vertebrate blood stream during feeding. These cells will accumulate in the liver of the vertebrate, and then multiply and produce merozoites, which invade, replicated and destroy red blood cells, eventually leading to a decline in asexual replication. After the red blood cells are invaded, some merozoites produce gametocystes, which can potentially restart the total life cycle. These gametocytes are not able to self-replicate and will be die if they are not ingested by a mosquito, which will begin the life cycle again."
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Earthworms, 2002.
A look at the ecology of the earthworm.
1,294 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how the earthworm is considered the environment?s natural recycler since it turns dead animals and plants into useful fertilizer within the soil. It examines how many people and companies throughout the world now use worms as a natural way to make composite out of leaves and other organic materials and how scientists are studying these creatures in an effort to replenish nutrients in soil that has been ruined with chemical agents.
Outline
Introduction
History of the Earthworm
Intelligence
The Digestive System
Make-up of the Soil
In the Soil
Survival of Earthworms
Species of Earthworms
An Important Job
Revitalizing Life
Conclusion
From the Paper
"There are over 3,600 species of earthworms worldwide and many scientists believe twice that number may exist (McCarthy, 2002). One variety that lives near the Equator can grow to be 8 feet long and weigh over a pound. Nightcrawlers are different from most earthworms since they live deep in the soil and dig vertical tunnels over six feet deep. They also can grow to be a foot long and live over 5 years. Most earthworms live near the top of the soil, dig horizontal tunnels, and are short. Nightcrawlers do not need to completely leave their holes to feed. They keep their tails in their tunnels and bob back and forth looking for food and if grabbed by a predator, will hold on to the walls of their tunnels with amazing strength. At night, these worms can be heard as they rustle leaves while searching for food."
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Neural Networks, 2002.
An examination and explanation of the technology known as neural networks - also known as an artificial neural network (ANN).
1,952 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 11 sources, MLA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper begins by explaining this unique technology, which has already started altering the way people think about artificial intelligence. It says that this computer provides a unique computing architecture whose potential has only begun to be tapped. Artificial neural networks take their name from the networks of nerve cells in the brain, which they are trying to imitate.
From the Paper
"The more time scientists spend designing computers, the more they marvel at the human brain. Tasks that stump the most advanced supercomputer such as recognizing a face or reading a handwritten note are child's play for the 3-lb. organ. This is because the brain operates through a serried of interconnected neural networks made up of dendrites, rather than the typical computer program that performs operations through elaborate series of individual steps. Unlike any conventional computer, the brain can learn from its mistakes, and forge new network connections. Researchers have tried for years to program computers to mimic the brain's abilities, but without success. Now a growing number of designers believe they have the answer: if a computer is to function more like a person and less like an overgrown calculator; it must be built more like a brain, which distributes information across a vast interconnected web of nerve cells, or neurons."
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Animal Testing, 2002.
A paper on the need for animal testing to advance medicine.
1,790 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 57.95
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Abstract
This paper advocates the benefits gained from using animals in medical and scientific testing. The paper points out that while, ideally, it would be better to not use animals, the benefits outweigh the costs. The paper outlines the contribution animal testing has made so far to the medical profession and why there is a need for animal testing at all. The paper then offers some alternatives to animal testing which should be used wherever possible.
From the Paper
"Animal research has been vital for medical advances in the past (?Today's Research for Tomorrow's Medical Advances?). For example, it has helped provide antibiotics and vaccines, insulin for diabetes, treatments for leukemia, local and general anesthetics, anticoagulants, heart valve replacements, and has made possible advances in medical technology such as blood transfusion, kidney dialysis, and the heart lung machine. See Figure 1 on the following page for a complete list of the contributions animal testing has made to developing vaccines, medicines, surgery enhancements and medical technology."
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Artificial Donor Insemination, 2002.
An examination of the issues concerning donor insemination and the rights of donor insemination-born people.
1,856 words (approx. 7.4 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
This paper aims to provide background information about a particular assisted reproductive technology, which is donor insemination. It discusses the uses, techniques, screening tools and confidentiality practices. It also analyzes the long-term effects of donor insemination, particularly the psychological, physiological, emotional and social effects on people born out of donor insemination procedures. Its stance is that couples/parents who subsisted to donor insemination procedures should tell their children about their biological origins (i.e., real parent) in order to avoid the negative effects that may result in the child?s psychological, physiological, emotional and/or social being.
From the Paper
"In the period of human civilization wherein most of the medical ills and problems that people usually encounter can be cured, the advent of assisted reproductive technology (ART) as a result of genetics and technological advancement led to the formulation of procedures that aim to solve problems of genetic disorders and infertility. Examples of these assisted reproductive technologies are In Vitro Fertilization, Gamete/Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer, Blastocyst transfer, Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, Assisted Hatching of Embryos, and Donor gametes. The last enumerated reproductive technology, donor gametes, is one of the most prevalent techniques used in assisted reproductive technologies."
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