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Bull Shark, 2006.
A discussion about the habitat and characteristics of a bull shark.
2,154 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 84.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the bull shark is the most dangerous form of shark known to humans. It examines the physical characteristics of this shark and then looks at its food habits and living habitat. The way it reproduces is also discussed and a look at whether the species is endangered or not.
From the Paper
"Growing anywhere from 7 to 11 feet long and weighing up to 500 pounds, the Bull Shark has no distinguishing markings. However, a short snout that is wider than it is long, small eyes, an off-white underside, and gray topside can identify it. The first dorsal fin of the Bull Shark is much longer and pointed than the second. As an adult, it possesses no fin markings, but may in some cases have a pale stripe along its flank. Also, the Bull Shark lacks a skin ridge between the two dorsal fins, which most other shark species possess."
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Plant Growth and Reproduction, 2006.
An overview of how plants grow and how they reproduce.
1,448 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 60.95
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Abstract
This paper briefly explains the basic principles behind plant growth and reproduction. It looks at the cell division process, describes the inner and outer cell layers and what is inside a cell and finally explains the process of cell division and photosynthesis.
From the Paper
"In order to understand exactly how plants grow and how they reproduce, one must first have a basic understanding of the principles behind these two biological functions. In essence, the so-called "building blocks" are known as cells which exist in a great variety of shapes and forms with each cell having a specialization for bring about certain functions and biological operations. All of these specialized cells develop from identical cells through a process called cell differentiation, "a highly regulated process in which specialized chemical reactions control the cell's length and width, the mass and architecture of its walls and the nature of its internal structure." 1 Due to the fact that the growth of a plant involves the development of roots, stems, leaves, flowers and related structures, a continuous supply of new materials is required which is made possible through a process known as cell division."
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Military Food Research, 2006.
The impact of military food research on the food industry.
1,325 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 55.95
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Abstract
The impact of military food research on the food industry has emerged in recent years as a topic of growing significance and importance to citizens, scientists and government officials alike. This paper explains that military research on food has had a significant impact on the food industry, mainly because military research in this area often consists of food preservation, nutrition and performance enhancements. The paper points out that all of these categories directly impact the economic and nutritional aspects of the food industry. Research indicates that food intake in the military is influenced by the same factors that influence food intake in non-military settings. This paper analyzes and discusses the impact of such research on the food industry as a whole.
From the Paper
"Military research on the food industry often consists of studies conducted on the diets of those serving in the military, and how those diets may be modified to improve performance. The National Academy of Sciences published a report in 2004 from the Institute of Medicine's Food and Nutrition Board concluding that combat soldiers engaged in extended field operations might improve their mental sharpness and physical stamina by eating a diet supplemented with specific food components. Similar research indicates that other food components also have been shown to have beneficial effects, but some do not live up to performance expectations. In the 2004 report, the Institute of Medicine's Food and Nutrition Board examined six food components; tyrosine, choline, carbohydrates, caffeine, carnitine, and structured lipids."
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Global Warming, 2006.
A paper on the causes and effects of global warming.
1,066 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper begins with a formal definition of global warming and then launches into a discussion of its primary causes and its effects. The paper concludes by briefly examining what measures can be taken to prevent global warming.
From the Paper
"There are many theories about the causes of global warming. The most well -known is the greenhouse effect. This theory states that global warming is caused mainly by the anthropogenic or human generated output of carbon dioxide. The theory also takes into account increases in temperature due to solar activity. ( ibid) In essence global warming "results primarily from human activities that release heat-trapping gases and particles into the air." (ibid) The most common causes of the increase in temperature are gas emissions due to the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, gas, and oil."
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Euthanasia, 2005.
Presents arguments in opposition of mercy killing.
2,200 words (approx. 8.8 pages), 8 sources, APA, AU$ 85.95
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Abstract
Euthanasia or "mercy killing" is a life and death issue. Recent advances in medical sciences that have conquered many previously incurable diseases and greatly extended human life spans, make the issue more relevant today than ever before. As a result, euthanasia continues to evoke heated debate among doctors, philosophers, academicians, lawyers and the general public, with well meaning people taking committed positions both for and against the issue. The paper shows that proponents of "mercy killing" look at the issue as a compassionate act and advance a number of seemingly valid arguments in support of euthanasia and physician assisted suicide. Opponents of euthanasia, on the other hand, advance equally compelling arguments against taking of lives, irrespective of the justification. The author of this paper, despite sympathizing with some pro-arguments, is firmly against the practice of euthanasia for a number of medical, religious, ethical and moral reasons. Besides presenting these arguments in the essay, the paper examines some of the major arguments in favor of euthanasia and shows why they are misplaced.
Paper Outline:
Abstract
Some Relevant Definitions
Types of Euthanasia
Arguments for Euthanasia and their Rebuttal
Further Arguments Against Euthanasia
Possible Abuses of Legalized Euthanasia
References
From the Paper
"Even when it is not possible to eliminate pain entirely, lessening it to a manageable level is almost always possible. In the present day and age, if a person's pain cannot be relieved sufficiently, it is almost certainly due to inappropriate treatment due to inadequate access to the required medical facilities and/or inadequately trained doctors in palliative care. The problem, therefore, that needs to be tackled is the lack of proper pain management training for doctors and access to adequate medical coverage for everyone, rather than access to legalized euthanasia and assisted suicide. (Foley, 1997)."
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Diminishing Wilderness, 2005.
This paper discusses that the main reason for most endangered species is habitat destruction and suggests ways of overcoming the problem of the diminishing wilderness.
1,155 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 49.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, while some animals are resilient enough to cope with major habitat destruction, others, particularly those animals who have evolved to live in very specific types of habitat, cannot. The author points out that the ecological problem for the pygmy-possum was that the mountain on which the females live became a popular ski resort area with a road cutting across the path the males used to get to the females; ecologists solved the problem by constructing a corridor --a man-made tunnel under the road--for the males to use to get to the females. The paper stresses that biologists need detailed information about the ways endangered animals live, feed and reproduce in order to find a solution to diminishing wildernesses.
From the Paper
"There are numerous examples of habitat destruction and its effects on wildlife. For instance, the Richmond birdwing butterfly is a beautiful butterfly found in subtropical rainforests in Australia. This butterfly feeds almost exclusively on one plant -- the Richmond birdwing vine. As habitat shrank, a second problem developed: a vine called Dutchman's pipe pushed out the Rhichmond birdwing vine. The butterflies laid their eggs on the Dutchman pipe, which made a good environment for the eggs but was poisonous to the caterpillars. The result was that the butterfly lost nearly 70% of its habitat, and a further decline because of the intruding vine, which was not native to the area."
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The Role of Genetics in Ataxia, 2006.
A look at the neurological disorder Ataxia, its characteristics, genetic make-up and diagnosis.
2,600 words (approx. 10.4 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 97.95
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Abstract
This paper provides a general overview of Ataxia, a neurological condition, wherein spinal and cerebellum nerve cells slowly but progressively deteriorate. It describes the characteristics of the disorder, treatments used to help alleviate its symptoms, the prognosis for those who suffer from Ataxia and the genetics of the disorder. It also discusses the diagnosis of the disease, its progress, the different types of Ataxia, and the parts of the body most affected by it.
From the Paper
"Ataxia is a neurological disorder that is characterized by unsteady walking, loss of muscle coordination and slurred speech. It is no longer a rare condition in that more is known about it. It is dominant hereditary, recessive or sporadic. It is dominant hereditary if both parents pass the gene on to their offspring and DNA tests detect this condition. It is recessive when only one parent transmits the gene. And it is sporadic if there is no evidence to show this. Friedrich ataxia is the most common recessive type of ataxia, with first symptoms developing in childhood. The ataxia gene may also be mutated and develop into ATM. No cures are known for ataxia and the prospects are dim."
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Designer Babies, 2005.
This paper discusses the possibility and limitations of controlling the genetic composition of unborn babies.
1,170 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 2 sources, APA, AU$ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that today, science is close to having the ability to selectively choose which babies will be born based on their genetic characteristics; therefore, now is the time to decide the ethicacy of this action. The author points out that the first applications of genetic manipulation will likely be medical; embryos will be manipulated to treat some genetic illness, such as Huntington's Chorea, or will be chosen selectively based on the absence of the Huntington's gene. The paper relates that, already in 2002, a hospital in Scotland was issued a license by the British government not to create "designer babies" but only to allow parents, by the use of abortion of defective fetuses, to avoid babies who are doomed to have some serious genetic disorder.
From the Paper
"The problem is that genetics is rarely that simple. Most of the time, genes only show a tendency, and experts cannot say whether the developing child will develop a specific illness or not. Even in identical twins, sometimes one develops a disease influenced by genetics, such as schizophrenia, while the other does not. Nevertheless, genetic researchers believe that eventually we will be able to screen embryos for combinations of genes that predispose people not only to life-threatening illnesses but for personality traits as well. However, people's personalities aren't as simple as a cluster of traits."
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The Evolution of the Giraffe, 2005.
Traces the evolution of the mammal known as the giraffe, examining different views on the topic.
874 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 39.95
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Abstract
Since the giraffe was first used by Lamarck to rationalize his theory of evolution, the organism has been a textbook example of the most simple and obvious applications of evolutionary theory. This paper examines theories relating to the evolution of the giraffe. It examines the processes of natural and sexual selection to see how they apply to the theory of the giraffe's evolution.
From the Paper
"The elemental difference between natural selection and sexual selection is that the latter form takes place within a population. Sexual selection can often result in characteristics that hinder an organism's chances of survival, but simultaneously increase their chances of finding a mate. Since evolution is driven by the amount of offspring produced, both forms of selection are extremely important to the process of evolution."
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Louis Pasteur, 2005.
This paper discusses the work of French scientist Louis Pasteur, who revolutionized the studies of chemistry and biology.
805 words (approx. 3.2 pages), 5 sources, APA, AU$ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the implications and applications of Pasteur's work extend into differing areas including human health and medicine and the food industries. The author points out that Pasteur alone was responsible for boosting and saving many of France's most important and lucrative industrial sectors such as wine, silk and farm animals. The paper relates that Pasteur's findings on germs and vaccinations are still applied to human medical practices today; he was the first to demonstrate that injecting small amounts of a weakened strain of bacteria would render an organism immune from this bacteria's detrimental effects.
From the Paper
"Pasteur's first major discoveries related directly to France's wine industry. Though yeast was already known to be the precursor for fermentation processes, Pasteur developed a deeper understanding of the process of fermentation. For example, he noted that while yeast causes the primary fermentation of a substance into alcohol, unwanted germs and bacteria can cause the product to sour. Applying his research to both the wine and beer industries in France, Pasteur discovered that heating the products kills the germs and therefore prevents the formation of souring agents like lactic acid. His process, called pasteurization after the esteemed scientist, was quickly applied to milk. Pasteurization works especially on substances like wine, beer, and milk, which contain large quantities of sugars: When microorganisms invade those substances, they interact with the sugars to cause souring."
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Punctuated Equilibrium, 2004.
An analysis of the theorized form of evolution called punctuated equilibrium.
1,020 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the form of evolution known as punctuated equilibrium. The paper contends that punctuated equilibrium appears to be increasingly proving itself as the most appropriate model for explaining evolution. The paper defines punctuated equilibrium as a theory that still holds to the idea of generational change, but suggests that it happens relatively quickly (geologically speaking). The paper explains that even if one is a creationist and does not believe in macro-level evolution, one must admit that micro-evolution has been proved to exist in a way that can only be explained as punctuated equilibrium.
From the Paper
"Evolutionists for generations after Darwin imagined a slow and steady process of adaptation, in which daily culling and breeding success very gradually adapted a population from one form into another. Such a process would not be dissimilar to unnatural selection, such as that done with domesticated animals, that gradually worked to change a wolf into a little Cairn Terrier or Shih Tzu. However, some have suggested that there might be a more sudden sort of change involved, in which evolution moves suddenly and with great speed. This theorized form of evolution, called punctuated equilibrium, has been widely debated, but seems to be increasingly accepted by scientists. There appears to be evidence for punctuated equilibrium from laboratory experiments, from field and fossil evidence, from theory and even from Darwin's original work."
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Anthrax, 2004.
A brief overview of the highly lethal bacterium, anthrax.
774 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 34.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses anthrax, an acute infectious disease that came into the limelight recently due to the anthrax attacks in the United States in the weeks following the September 2001 terror attacks, causing widespread panic. The paper includes information on how the disease is caused, types of anthrax, symptoms of the disease and its treatment. The paper also presents information on the 2001 anthrax attacks in the United States and examines what makes anthrax a good bioterrorism agent.
Outline
Introduction
How is Anthrax Caused?
Bacillus Anthracis
Types of Anthrax and Ways in Which it can Infect Humans
Treatment
Anthrax as a Biological Weapon
The 2001 Anthrax Attacks
From the Paper
"Anthrax is caused by the bacterium 'Bacillus anthracis' that is highly lethal in its virulent form. Anthrax most commonly occurs in wild and domestic animals, but it can also occur in humans when they are exposed to infected animals, tissue from infected animals, or high concentrations of anthrax spores. Bacillus anthracis, the bacterium which causes anthrax, is rod-shaped and about 1 by 6 micrometres in size. It was the first bacterium ever to be shown to cause disease by Robert Koch in 1877. The bacteria normally rest in spore form in the soil, and can survive for decades in this state. When ingested by a plant eating animal, the bacteria starts to multiply and eventually kills the animal. They even continue to reproduce in the carcass but eventually revert back to the dormant spore state when they run out of nutrients. ("Bacillus anthracis.")"
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The Right to Die, 2005.
A thorough examination of euthanasia, including the author's own opinion on the topic.
4,283 words (approx. 17.1 pages), 27 sources, MLA, AU$ 141.95
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Abstract
Euthanasia can be attained either though an intentional process, or by refraining to take an action intentionally. In any one of the cases, the decision of a doctor makes the death of a patient a reality. This is substantiated on the grounds that the individual's life was 'not worthy of living' maybe in their independent, or in somebody else's consideration. This paper first presents an historical overview of the topic of euthanasia. It then discusses the arguments in favor and opposition to euthanasia. Finally, the paper presents the author's pro-euthanasia views.
Paper Outline:
Introduction
Historical Overview
Case For
Case Against
My Viewpoint
Conclusion
Works Cited
From the Paper
"It has also been advocated that if taking life is established as medical procedure there is no guarantee for its proper regulation. The controlling methods to secure against exploitation will necessitate an open system, but privacy requirements make such a system unbelievable. The legalized physician-patient association necessitates sealing of all records of treatment and patient condition. Moreover, a climate in which managed care system are motivated by economic considerations enhances the real risk that legal killing will spread out and the profit motive will be infused into the euthanasia consideration."
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The Human Genome Project, 2005.
This paper discusses the Human Genome Project (HGP), designed to provide detailed and complete information about the genes in human DNA.
1,175 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 4 sources, APA, AU$ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, when completed, the Human Genome Project (HGP) will map the 50,000-100,000 genes contained in the human DNA resulting in the single most dramatic sphere of biological research, which holds the power to change theories and assumptions in the areas of biology, psychology and medicine. The author points out that the early stages of this project already have provided important new information about human genes, resulting in ethical questions requiring carefully judgment about such issues as congenital diseases and privacy. The paper stresses that in cases of clear-cut genetic causation, such as Huntington's chorea and some types of breast cancer, medical professionals and their patients have to make some difficult decisions.
From the Paper
"Other questions involve the right of individuals to privacy. Once we have human DNA completely mapped, will we then begin to generate detailed genetic profiles of all medical patients? If we do, is this information that can be shared with other organizations, by, for instance, hospitals? If it can be shared, insurance companies might then drop people with genes that make them prone to certain kinds of cancer, or destined to develop some genetically-driven disease such as Huntington's. In those cases, the individuals would get glimpses into their medical future whether they wanted to know what their genes reveal or not."
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"The Cod?s Tale", 2005.
A review of Mike Kurlansky's book about cod fish and how they have impacted human history for a millennia.
1,149 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 49.95
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Abstract
This paper introduces, summarizes and reviews Mike Kurlansky's book "The Cod's Tale". The paper explains that Kurlansky's book is not only a history lesson from a new perspective, but a cautionary tale for the future as well.
From the Paper
"Determining appropriate environmental policies is very often a hazardous endeavor. Largely, this is because potential costs and benefits associated with environmental problems can only be speculated upon, rather than empirically determined. It is not clear, for instance, how much reducing a factory's greenhouse emissions will quantitatively help society; nevertheless, making good decisions regarding these issues demands that we weigh calculable figures with estimates, and sometimes, estimates with estimates. This makes the already fierce setting of environmental debates an even more perilous battleground. Imperfect information influences individuals, environmentalists, government officials, and businesses in ways that generally require them to reach their own conclusions, and apply their unique perspectives. This unique attribute of environmental science makes it a wide-ranging field that often requires the groups involved to make informed decisions, derived from such varying disciplines as physics and physiology. Mike Kurlansky's The Cod's Tale helps to demonstrate the enormous tasks environmental scientists are faced with, as well as the substantial social implications associated with their conclusions. "
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Animal Senses, 2005.
An overview of three experiments to determine the depth of perception in animals.
2,131 words (approx. 8.5 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 83.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how Herman, Pack and Hoffman-Kuhnt performed relatively rigorous experiments to determine the source of dolphin recognition of objects and how they wanted to discover, among other things, whether dolphins attained the shape discrimination (of objects) through associative learning or direct perception. It also looks at how Fukuzawa, Mills and Cooper sought to determine the mechanism by which domestic dogs responded to commands. Finally it examines how Greenberg wanted to discover the facts about depth perception in two species of Asian rodents, the Mongolian gerbil and two varieties of spiny mice.
Outline
Dolphins
Dogs
Gerbils and Mice
Commentary
From the Paper
"This experiment sought, above all else, to avoid a Pavlovian response in the dogs. In short, when setting up the experiment, Fukuzawa et al. went to enormous trouble to ensure that their subjects were not influenced in any way by reward, not even so small a reward as the warmth of a human voice. They first trained the dogs in the experiment to two commands-come and sit-and thereafter used a sort of disembodied voice to issue those commands in their experiments. The handler wore dark glasses so the dogs could not make eye contact and perform on that basis, and the commands themselves were issued by a voice recorder situated near the handler."
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