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Hormones and Heredity, 2007.
This paper examines the effects of hormones on human behavior.
781 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 27.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses how, although environment and heredity are important sources of determining human behavior, hormones also have a marked influence on our physical and mental state and thus can alter our behavior, at least for some time. The paper explains that while someone may be genetically predisposed to certain behavior, he is not likely to act until there are other influences fueling that action. The paper shows how heredity is a weak source in isolation, but together with environmental factors, hormones may influence a person's behavior.
From the Paper
"Human behavior has been an interesting subject of discussion and research. It is commonly believed that genes and environment determine human behavior. We need to not forget that genes are precisely what we call hereditary in ordinary language. When we are that someone is hereditarily prone to doing a certain thing, what we mean is that his genetic makeup makes his susceptible to such an action. There are certain characteristics or personality traits that human beings inherit and thus we blame these on genes."
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"A Fin is a Limb is a Wing", 2007.
An analysis of the style and arguments presented in Carl Zimmer's article "A Fin is a Limb is a Wing."
1,187 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes Carl Zimmer's article "A Fin is a Limb is a Wing," which he wrote for National Geographic. The paper discusses Zimmer's style in the article and his basic arguments. It also discusses why Zimmer may have argued so directly against creationism and intelligent design. The paper describes the article as a good and knowledgeable read, which is recommended to both adults and schools.
From the Paper
"No one will ever know for sure if either of these scenarios or another one is the truth. However, it does seem odd that the three paragraphs noted above after the introduction can easily be removed without any changes needed to the flow of the article. The first paragraph introduction moves very smoothly into "Some have emerged..." There is nothing lost by removing these middle three paragraphs than some heat."
"How much more credible the article is without these added paragraphs. Now, the article is not on who is right or wrong, but rather how much is being learned through the study of these complex marvels. The story is not whether one animal evolved into another and into another or instead that God or some other intelligent being created these creatures. The story is instead on how marvelous and wonderful such creatures are. Who would think that a fly larva could be this complex? Or a wormlike body could have such a gene structure? Just look at the complexity of a feather! However it was evolved or created, it is something to behold!"
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DNA Profiling, 2007.
This paper discusses the advantages of DNA profiling and DNA databases.
918 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
The paper explains that a DNA profile refers to unique identifying characteristics of an individual. The paper relates that DNA profiling and the collation of databases that can be shared allow for a successful and effective way of combating crime. The paper offers a variety of other reasons why DNA profiling and the maintenance of DNA databases can be useful. The paper discusses how this technology is being constantly improved and there are indications that fast and more effective methods of profiling are being developed.
From the Paper
"The science of DNA profiling has many applications. The most common usage of this technology is to rapidly identify the criminal perpetrator in a crime. An article from the University of Utah states: "DNA profiling has helped to acquit or convict suspects in many of the most violent crimes, including rape and murder." (Can DNA Demand a Verdict?) DNA profiling can be equally effective in preventing an innocent person for being wrongly convicted of crimes."
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Acclimatization, 2007.
A discussion of the body's ability to acclimatize or adapt to higher altitudes.
1,555 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper examines acclimatization, the process by which the body adapts to changes in altitude. The body's various physiological responses to acclimatization are discussed, such as increased pulmonary ventilation and the presence of abnormally high numbers of red blood cells in the circulatory system known as polycythemia, among others. The paper concludes with a literature review which cites and analyzes various research studies in acclimatization.
Outline:
Increased Pulmonary Ventilation
Polycythemia
Rightward Shift in the Oxygen Dissociation Curve
Changes in Capillarization
Changes in Oxidative Enzymes Within Cells
References
From the Paper
" Increased resting and submaximal ventilation is observed in immediate response to altitude related hypoxia (Wyatt, 2002). This increased ventilation is achieved through increased volume and rate of breaths, and individual variation in hypoxic ventilatory response has been demonstrated (Wyatt, 2002). Research has shown that individuals with strong hypoxic ventilatory drives exhibit better performance at high altitudes than individuals with less efficient drives (Wyatt, 2002). The stimulated ventilation that results from exposure to high altitudes is due to aortic and carotid sensitivity to reduced PO2 in arterial blood. This increase in ventilation increases PO2 in the alveoli and reduces end-tidal partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PETCO2), which lends to reduced carbon dioxide and H+ in the blood. In response to these reductions during the initial few days of exposure to altitude, the kidneys gradually excrete bicarbonate (HCO3), which is associated with decreased plasma volume. Increased pulmonary ventilation also results in a reduction in total water in the body due to loss of water vapor that occurs during respiration, which results in rapid dehydration during acute altitude exposure (Wyatt, 2002)."
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"The Structure of Scientific Revolutions"--A Review, 2007.
A review of Thomas Kuhn's influential book, "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions."
2,744 words (approx. 11.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 82.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews Thomas Kuhn's book about scientific advances entitled "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions." The paper focuses on several key elements and definitions in the work, with an emphasis on the concept of the scientific paradigm. The reviewer then discusses the role of paradigms in scientific revolutions, citing Kuhn's theory that revolutions appear when an old paradigm is substituted by a new one. Finally, the paper presents Kuhn's view of the past, present, evolution and future of science. The reviewer further describes Kuhn's view of the importance of crises in facilitating the evolution of science. The review concludes that Kuhn 's theory of paradigm and paradigm shifts gives a revolutionary description of scientific progress.
Outline:
Thomas Kuhn's Concept of Paradigm
The Structure of Scientific Revolutions
The Past, Present, Evolution and Future of Science
Reference List
From the Paper
" First of all, Kuhn (1996) introduces the notion of "normal science", that is, according to him, the science that bases its research on previous research which is recognized as valid by a scientific community. (p.10) It is the structure of normal science that the book proposes to investigate. Furthermore, Kuhn (1996) argues that the most salient aspect of scientific evolution in time is the fact that science does not progress through leaps or through unrelated sets of investigations. On the contrary, scientific research is always conducted under a paradigm, or, to put it differently, all research is based on previous scientific data. The scientific paradigm can be defined as a certain common pattern in scientific research, or a certain set of accepted world views that are held as true for a period of time. The paradigm is thus a set of common beliefs about the world, based on past research. "
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Science and Religion, 2005.
A discussion regarding the relationship between science and religion.
883 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 31.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the issues between science and religion. According to the paper, for centuries people have believed that the division between the two, is impossible to remedy. The paper goes on to say, that recently, steps have been taken to bridge the gap between science and religion.
From the Paper
"The most obvious factor of this research is that there are dramatically differing views of the topic. Some researchers state that to incorporate spirituality into hard science, especially medicine, and psychology, is to dilute both disciplines and to blur boundaries that should remain clear in order for the disciplines to operate properly (Sloan & VenderCreek; Conway & Gold). Others state that the integration of science and religion is a positive process that is helping individuals understand themselves better and to achieve a more whole sense of self (Field, Harvey, & Sharp; Bassett; Ontario Consultants; Pollack). Of course, some of the individuals used in this research indicated that they didn't feel that there has ever really been a clear division between the two (Long)."
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Aids, 2007.
This paper examines the fatal disease of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
813 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 28.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that although the AIDS disease is still not completely understood, what is known is that HIV infects the T-cells of the immune system, and as the body fights back, it is eventually overwhelmed. The writer notes that this leaves the body vulnerable to infections and cancers. The writer looks at symptoms and diagnosis of the disease. The writer concludes that in the 1980s AIDS was seen mainly in homosexual and bisexual men, however now the majority of new HIV infections are seen in drug users who share needles, and among women sexual partners of drug users.
From the Paper
"It is theorized that the virus passed from the blood of the chimps into humans through superficial wounds, since chimpanzees are hunted for food in this region, and that it may have begun as early as the 1930s."
"Although the disease is still not completely understood, what is known is that HIV infects the T-cells of the immune system, and as the body fights back, it is eventually overwhelmed, thus leaving the body vulnerable to infections and cancers. While some people develop flu-like symptoms shortly after infection, others have not symptoms, and it may be months or years before serious symptoms develop in adults, however infants who are infected in the womb or at birth will generally develop symptoms with the first two years of life."
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Animal Rights, 2007.
An analysis of Immanuel Kant's views on animals' feelings and rights.
1,272 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper introduces, discusses and analyzes the topic of animal rights. Specifically, it investigates what Immanuel Kant believed about the treatment of animals and animal rights. It discusses how Kant might have felt about the use of animals for biomedical research. It also provides criticisms of Kant's views on animals' feelings and rights.
From the Paper
"Kant would probably agree with animal testing, as it can aid the treatment of many human diseases, and the harm of a few animals for the good of rational human beings makes perfect sense. However, if animals can indeed feel pain and can suffer, then animal testing is often cruel and abusive. Kant might agree morally with using animals to save human lives, but a visit to a testing laboratory might change his view. Many of the cruelties these labs use in the name of science are difficult to view. Cohen believes that using animals in all testing does not make sense, but it does make sense in areas where there is the most risk to humans in testing. However, another animal rights expert disagrees. He writes, "Rights thought dictates that we cannot kill one rights-holder to save another - or even more than one other - whether or not the life of the former is 'different' from that of the latter" (Zak 281). This certainly is far from Kant's views on animals and their value to society. Kant feels they have little value other than intrinsic and humanistic value, and so, there is nothing ethically wrong with using them to benefit and enhance human life."
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Smilodons, 2007.
An analysis of the habits and hunting practices of the smilodon.
2,914 words (approx. 11.7 pages), 13 sources, MLA, $ 86.95
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Abstract
This paper studies the habits of the smilodon, which was one of the most interesting predators of the Pleistocene era. It analyzes findings of of smilodon fossils and discusses how the findings have changed many of the ideas about the smilodon. It also discusses the social versus solitary natures of the animals and their hunting practices.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
What We Know About Smilodon
Social or Solitary
Genetics and DNA
How the Smilodon Attacked
Conclusion
From the Paper
"When stalking its prey, the smilodon often injured itself and pulled soft tissues. The scars of these tissues bear the scars of these injuries. According to Rosie and Winters, the most common position for the body of a smilodon to be in when it attacked was feet forward in a lunge. This would suggest that smilodon would spring onto its prey. This theory was derived from data obtained by counting the number and location of injuries in the fossil record. It might be noted that when one compared the injuries of smilodon to canine species, there were fewer injuries from being kicked in the head. This would indicate that canine species attacked by lunging at the throat or hind quarters, whereas the smilodon landed on top of the animal's back and tried to bowl it over."
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Umbilical Stem Cells, 2007.
This paper looks at the use of umbilical cords as a source for stem cell research.
1,100 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
In this article the writer notes that stem cells have received much attention because of their unique capacity to renew themselves and morph into several different types of specialized cells. The writer also points out that the practice of harvesting stem cells from aborted fetuses has received much criticism from conservative groups, prompting President Bush to halt federal funding for stem cell research. This paper argues that there is a way to accommodate ethical concerns, while reaping the benefits of stem cell research. The writer maintains that umbilical cords are a viable source of stem cells, and do not raise the same ethical issues as harvesting from fetuses. The writer argues, therefore, that parents should be strongly encouraged to donate their newborns' umbilical cords to public and private banks, to provide scientists with a source of stem cells for their life-saving research.
From the Paper
"Already, umbilical cord stem cells are proving remarkably promising in the treatment of diseases. Researchers have already identified some 67 afflictions that have been successfully treated with cord blood stem cells, and more illnesses are being added to that list. Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, for example, have released a study regarding the use of cord blood stem cells in the treatment of Krabbe's Disease, a fatal disorder of the central nervous system. Babies born with this hereditary disease suffer seizures, blindness, deafness and feeding problems before death at around age two. However, the researchers found that infusing newborns at birth with the cord blood stem cells from an unrelated donor are still alive well past their second birthday. Though some of the children show problems walking, the majority score normally on cognitive development tests and all the children exhibit normal vision."
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Marine Pollution, 2006.
An in-depth look at the serious issue of marine pollution.
2,336 words (approx. 9.3 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 71.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and discusses marine pollution. According to the paper, the ocean plays a critical role in sustaining life on this planet. The paper discusses how economic and social prosperity will be useless if the coastal and marine environments are sacrificed, abused or neglected in the process of development. The paper goes on to discuss the serious environmental issues pertaining to marine pollution facing us today.
From the Paper
"The accidental wreck of a 20-tanker, 987-foot ship of Exxon Valdez in Bligh Reef led to the rupturing of eight of its 11 cargo tanks and the spilling of 10.8 million gallons of crude oil into Prince William Sound in March 1989 (US Congress 1960). Although no lives were lost, the accident was an immense disaster to fisheries, subsistence livelihoods, tourism and wildlife. Most important was the awareness that the sanctity of the Alaskan waters was most outrageously ravaged. In response, US Congress passed the Oil Pollution Act of 1990, which established measures in preparing for and preventing spills for the implementation and enforcement of the US Coast Guard. It requires transporters of oil and production facilities to develop and implement response plans, participate in preparedness drills and maintain safe shipping and handling practices (Earle 1995). MARPOL began to control the operations and passage of new oil tankers, the carrying of noxious liquids in bulk, the control of sewage and other "grey water" and garbage, including plastics, metal, glass, galley wastes and other materials (Earle, US Congress)."
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Sensory Systems, 2006.
A review of our body's visual sensory system.
1,608 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 6 sources, $ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the functioning of our visual sensory system. According to the paper, the systems involved in visual processing are constantly being bombarded with various stimuli. The paper goes on to discuss how several factors influence the process of visual information, including visual masking, spatial location and color of stimuli, the manner in which stimuli are grouped, as well as expectation of the presentation of visual stimuli.
From the Paper
"The actual pathways on which spatial information and feature information, such as color, travel from the eye to the brain may be separate but parallel (Grabbe & Pratt, 2004). This would mean that there is a fundamental anatomical and functional difference in the way these types of information are processes. Furthermore, "selection happens by differential activation (excitation, inhibition, or both), of certain representations (not necessarily location representations) (Grabbe & Pratt, 2004)". What are the specific anatomical areas responsible for spatial and nonspatial information? Spatial information is routed into posterior parietal areas, while nonspatial information is directed into inferior temporal cortical areas."
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