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"My Computer Thinks, Therefore I Am", 2004.
A discussion of worrying technological advances, based on the contemporary version of Rene Descartes's statement, "I think, therefore I am"; "my computer thinks, therefore I am".
1,639 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 8 sources, MLA, AU$ 86.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes today's popular culture in a mega-technologically advanced world and investigates three areas that are not only highly scientific, but troublesome and alarming as well, namely transgenic therapy, cyborgs, and designer kids. The paper examines genetic engineering, cloning, and other aspects of biotechnology.
From the Paper
"The single most important factor underlying the issues of human cloning, augmentation, and alteration is the dehumanization of man through the advancement of biotechnology. Today the computer offers mankind the opportunity to advance well beyond previous limitations set my intellect, mortality, and strength through the evolution process of DNA. With significant breakthroughs in the bioelectronic field new advanced technologies now permit the interfacing of computer chips with the human's central nervous system that, in tern, pose the very real possibility to effect biological changes and the intercellular level (Lappe, 1990). The very possibility is not only scientifically phenomenal but unprecedented as well. However, the question at the forefront is whether or not the process is ethical and should strict limitations be set on the integration of biotechnology and human life. Determining the social consequences is a very important issue that needs to be addressed as well."
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Zoos and Animal Activists, 2005.
A discussion about how the concepts of zoos have changed over the decades, possibly due to pressure from animal activists.
2,101 words (approx. 8.4 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 106.95
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Abstract
While some may view the beliefs of animal activists as extreme, it does seem possible that as a result of pressure from such groups, zoos have become more sensitive to the true needs of the animals they hold and protect. This paper explains that, while critics maintain that zoos cannot teach anything useful or accurate about wild animals, others argue that, for the great majority of people, they will come across wild animals only in zoos or in books. It discusses how those who support zoos believe that by seeing these animals upfront people become more aware of the need to preserve the animals' natural habitats, to end poaching, and to take the other measures that will ensure the animals' long-term survival in the wild.
From the Paper
"Zoos have come a long way in the last 150 years, moving from small, cramped cages to natural habitats. Zoos make sure that social animals live in groups, and they try to make the habitats as natural and comfortable for the animals as possible. However, animal activists argue persuasively that these settings are artificial and that visitors don't actually learn a lot about the animals in their natural environment from seeing them in a zoo (Staff writers, 1997)."
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Cloning, 2004.
This paper discusses that cloning is a reality and has become a serious subject of vigorous debate around the globe.
1,190 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 65.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that reproductive and therapeutic cloning involve essentially the same initial technology to produce early human embryos; only the aims would be different. The author points out that, in reproductive cloning, the embryo would be implanted into the womb to bring about the birth of a child; whereas, in therapeutic cloning, the early embryo would never develop beyond a microscopic ball of cells and would be used to explore stem cell treatments for diseases, such as diabetes and Parkinson's. The paper relates that an overwhelming international consensus exists in the scientific and medical communities that any attempt at human reproductive cloning would be scientifically unsound and medically unsafe; therefore, the wisest path seems to be to curb reproductive cloning, while encouraging responsible and ethical therapeutic cloning.
From the Paper
"A group of scientists and parents of sick children in California are promoting a proposed ballot initiative that would steer some $3 billion into the field over the next ten years. The campaign argues that the research could cure millions and save billion of dollars in health care costs, and moreover, "create projects and jobs that will generate millions of dollars in new tax revenues for our state." This focus on research and economic benefits is due to the difficulty of developing successful therapies that use cloned and transplanted stem cells, which has resulted in discouraged investors and forced many U.S. cloning companies to cut their research staffs or even close their doors."
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Candida Albicans, 2004.
This paper discusses that Candida Albicans, like other yeasts, is in and of itself harmless to humans; however, given the correct environment and stimulus, it can become lethal.
2,325 words (approx. 9.3 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 114.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, for an infection or disease to occur from Candida Albicans, the most virulent and commonly discussed of the human pathogenic fungi, there must be some alteration of the host's cellular defenses, physiology, or normal flora before a colonization, infection, or disease production can take place. The author points out that, to date, research has not proven conclusively there is a common molecular component that links dimorphism and phenotypic switching; however, it is theorized that phenotypic switching may respond to both a change in the environment and a spontaneous event. This paper relates that persons with weakened immune systems are in particular danger from Candida Albicans, including patients with AIDS, cancer, burns, heart surgery, and genetic diseases and persons with stress or poor diet. Even chlorinated tap water can spark the overgrowth of Candida Albicans and lead to infection or disease.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Overview and Overgrowth of Candida Albicans
Figure 1. Localized Candidiasis Infection of the Toes
Phenotypic Switching in Candida Albicans
Genes Involved in Phenotypic Switching in Candida Albicans
Figure 2. Morphological Conversions of Candida Albicans
The Candida Albicans Genome
Conclusion
From the Paper
"As mentioned, Candida Albicans lives in the mouth and digestive tract of approximately 80 percent of the human population, without harmful effects. The purpose of Candida albicans is to recognize and destroy harmful bacteria. Without it, the intestines would be at the mercy of a variety of pathogen bacteria. Candida Albicans cells number in the millions for healthy human beings. Normally, Candida Albicans is controlled by a properly functioning immune system as well as other "friendly" bacteria. Yet, for some, an overgrowth of the fungus occurs and results in a condition known as candidiasis."
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"When Elephants Weep", 2004.
This paper discusses the book, "When Elephants Weep: The Emotional Lives of Animals," by Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson and Susan McCarthy, which supports the rights of animals.
1,645 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 86.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, although scientists have been trained carefully to believe that animals do not experience emotions and to avoid anthropomorphism, attributing human feelings, attitudes, or thoughts, to animals, the authors of this book suggest that this position is not true. The author points out that, in one of the most convincing chapters of the books, Masson and McCarthy write about the behavior of elephants around the bones of elephants that have died, describe animals appearing to grieve after a mate or partner leaves, and depicting an elephant who cried tears when beaten for performing badly. The paper relates that the book makes a compelling case for requiring evidence, not assumptions based on beliefs of biological superiority when dealing with animals, especially when using animals for experimentation. The paper questions, however, whether humans should die because it is wrong to practice life-saving surgery on other animals first when animal experiments have saved many, many lives.
From the Paper
"The author notes that we have put a lot of effort into demonstrating things humans can do that other animals cannot: Laugh, worship, and anticipate (p. 24). The reader notes that "use tools" used to be on that list. It can't be any longer because both chimpanzees and sea otters use tools. Chimpanzees will push a straw or small diameter stick down a to lure termites out so they can be eaten. Sea otters gather flat rocks that they lie on their stomachs. Then when they gather seafood, they beat the clams, snails or whatever against the flat stone to break them open. Reasoning, imagination and anticipation may be functions of intelligence rather than related to emotions."
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Gender and Jealousy, 2005.
Examines traits of jealousy in both sexes and discusses the theory that men are more jealous than women.
2,400 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 11 sources, APA, AU$ 118.95
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Abstract
It has been argued by some theorists that men have evolved to be more jealous then women because jealousy promotes the male's genetic fitness. This paper first examines jealousy as a whole and its causes. Then, it examines research on the concept that men are more jealous than women and shows that, while there is evidence for this theory, there is also substantial evidence that women and men are equally jealous.
From the Paper
"Since women rely on the male to impregnate them, and since they can choose their partners, they are able to control who supplies the genetic material for their offspring. Males, however, rely on the female to reproduce. Thus, while they can have sexual relations with the female, they cannot assure that the female is not having sexual relations with another. This means that men are less able to control the passing on of genetic materials (Buss, 1996)."
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Stem Cell Research, 2004.
This paper discusses an article about stem cell research entitled, "The Stem Cell Challenge," by Nadia Rosenthal and Robert Lanza, June 2004.
1,700 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 6 sources, APA, AU$ 89.95
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Abstract
This paper not only evaluates and critiques the article, "The Stem Cell Challenge" by Nadia Rosenthal and Robert Lanza about stem cell research, but also evaluates whether the article's format was research-correct, data-supportive, and topically appropriate and sustainable. The author points out that, once the research goal is identified, the investigator must abandon all forms of bias and look at the research situation as a controlled, rational process of reflective inquiry. The paper relates that this article presents the reader with an excellent opportunity to understand clearly the benefits of stem cell research with respect to diseases that currently lack a cure, namely, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, diabetes, spinal cord injuries, and cancer.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Investigative Research Requirements
Article Overview Evaluation and Problem Statement
Research Data Reporting
Study Limitations
From the Paper
"In the article, Rosenthal and Lanza go on to explain to the reader that in the stem cell process, stem cells are generally extracted from surplus frozen embryos that are left over from in-vitro fertilization procedures. Once extracted the cells can be grown in a laboratory and subjected to medical application. In addition to the frozen embryo procedure, stem cells also can be extracted from adult tissue without any harm being inflicted upon the patient."
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Stem Cells, 2004.
This paper discusses stem cell research, one of the most truly revolutionary medical science developments.
1,755 words (approx. 7.0 pages), 10 sources, APA, AU$ 90.95
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Abstract
This paper explains the potential benefits of stem cells result from the fact that they can transform themselves into literally any cell in the body, thus replacing the injured or damaged organs, which will render today's medicines obsolete. The author points out that there are formidable challenges to be overcome; the most serious is the 'ethical' opposition to stem cell research led by pro-life advocates who consider the use of embryos for creating stem cell lines as the killing of potential human beings. This has resulted in restriction of federal funding for stem cell research. The paper states that there are several formidable scientific barriers, such as the tendency of the immune systems to attack transplanted cells, which have to be crossed; therefore, the author believes that stem cell research deserves full support.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Types of Stem Cells
How Are Stem Cell Lines Created?
Sources of Stem Cells for Research Purposes
Fertility Clinics
Aborted Fetuses
Cloning
Made to Order
The Ethics of Stem Cell Research
Arguments Against Stem Cell Research Arguments for Stem Cell Research
Other Ethical Concerns
Issue of Federal Funding
Conclusion
From the Paper
"One of the most dramatic breakthroughs in the history of biological research occurred in November 1998, when two independent teams of American researchers managed to isolate and grow a special kind of human cell called the stem cell. Until then, scientists had struggled long and hard to isolate the elusive cells but capturing them had proved difficult. One reason for this difficulty was that most stem cells only exist in their original form for a short time before turning into the various specialized cells of the body; the other was that the cells need a highly specialized environment to keep them alive outside the body. Other scientists had previously succeeded in culturing stem cells for only short periods; the 'breakthrough' accomplishment was that the pioneering scientists successfully created conditions under which the stem cells could replicate over time without specializing."
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Human Memory, 2004.
A brief overview of different studies on how memory works.
792 words (approx. 3.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how human memory organization has been a topic of psychological and psychiatric study for many years, particularly in the area of the relation between brain injury and memory organization. It looks at how researchers have begun to study the data of patients who do not have brain disease or neurological issues and how these studies have assisted scientists in determining how memory is organized in undamaged subjects.
From the Paper
"Studies have also shown that there are different pathways for different types of memory. Ungerleider and Mishkin found, in 1982, that a pathway in the brain from the occipital lobe to the parietal lobe was responsible for spatial perception. Another pathway, that of semantic information, is formed through a route from the occipital to temporal lobes. The result of these two pathways is that there is a different brain pattern between knowing where an object is, and knowing what an object is (Wilson, et al, 1997)."
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Embryonic Stem Cell Research, 2004.
An analysis of the controversial topic of embryonic stem cell research.
1,421 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 76.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the reports of the isolation of human stem cells from embryonic tissues. The paper explains the controversy involved in embryonic stem cell research, the main issue being the source of the embryos. The paper contends that these reports sparked much excitement because researchers could now design experiments to determine how human embryonic cells differentiate into various types of tissues, leading to the development of the human body, and moreover, because of the capability of these cells, a wide range of clinical applications were predicted.
From the Paper
"In November 1998, two research groups independently announced that they had isolated human stem cells from embryonic tissues, had cultivated the cells, and shown these cells could develop into all three basic layers of cells in the human embryo (Lysaught 1999). Because these cells could potentially develop into nearly every type of human cell and tissue, they held great promise for applications in medicine and human development (Lysaught 1999). Upon announcement of the news, Harold Varmus, director of the National Institutes of Health, was quoted as saying that human embryonic stem cell research "had the potential to revolutionize the practice of medicine and improve the quality and length of life" (Lysaught 1999). Concerns arose regarding the fact that the techniques by which stem cells were derived involved the destruction of human embryos, thus depriving them of their potential to develop into human beings (Lysaught 1999)"
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Oil Spills, 2004.
An analysis of the environmental problem of oil spills.
2,238 words (approx. 9.0 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 111.95
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Abstract
This paper claims that environmental oil spills are one of the most hazardous and preventable accidents that occur. The paper explains that, although there are a number of agencies that support the ongoing transport of oil via major waterways, by and large, such transport often leads to devastating consequences. The paper describes the importance of the establishment of stringent protocols for the safe transport of oil across waterways. The paper contends that environmental protection agencies need to work in collaboration with tanking and shipping organizations to ensure that every measure is taken to protect the environment from the hazardous effects of oil spills.
From the Paper
"Many oil tanker companies and major corporations such as Exxon have adopted protective measures to help guard against spills in the future. Despite these efforts however spills, small or large in nature continue to occur. Exxon even had another oil spill that was much smaller, but a spill nonetheless a few years after the Valdez disaster. Most of the companies involved in spills argue that the environment and ecosystems affected can recovery quickly and efficiently, and that most environments can return to a normal state of existence as they were before a spill. It is according to Dicks (1998) unrealistic to define recovery as a return to pre-spill conditions but rather recovery is defined as the re-establishment of a healthy biological community in which the plants and animals characteristic of that community are present and functioning normally (Dicks, 1998:2). Generally the area will not have the same composition or structure that was present prior to a spill and continues to change over time."
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Stem Cell Research, 2005.
A discussion of the ethical and moral issues regarding stem cell research.
1,139 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 63.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the complex moral and ethical issues surrounding the topic of stem cell research and examines arguments that both favor and oppose the research. The paper also points out that there is little likelihood that the debate over stem cell research will be resolved soon; perhaps the debate will eventually move toward the question of how the research will be conducted, as opposed to if it should be conducted, since stem cell research seems to be continuing, in spite of all of the controversy it generates.
From the Paper
"Today one of the most hotly debated issues is unquestionably stem cell research. Specifically, it involves harvesting and using a specific type of cell known as a "stem cell" and using it to attempt to develop or reproduce virtually any cell in the body. Of course this has tremendous potential for therapeutic benefit-some speculate from curing cancer, paralysis, Parkinson's disease, and a host of other maladies yet to be imagined. In lay terms, stem cells can serve as kind of "repair system for the body," which can divide infinitely-replenishing other cells. What is so powerful about the stem cell, however, is its ability to become another kind of specialized cell, say a brain, blood, bone marrow or muscle cell (NIH, 2004)."
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Musical Spiders, 2004.
A synopsis of an experiment to study the effect that music has on spiders.
1,289 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes an experiment conducted to study the effect that music has on spiders. The paper describes the background reasoning for this experiment and identifies the equipment necessary to conduct it. The paper discusses the methods employed to record, gather, and analyze data. The conclusions drawn from this experiment are outlined in the paper.
From the Paper
"The goal of this experiment, conducted in 2001 by Jack Feichtner et al of Miami University in Ohio, was to study the effect that music has on spiders. The species of spider chosen for the experiment was Theridiiae, and the effect chosen was the orientation of the spider within a given, created environment. Research had previously revealed that spiders are sensitive to vibration for a number of survival reasons. Spiders do not have very good eyesight, so vibrations are used to sense prey caught in the web and the presence of a possible mate on the web. Previous experiments had been performed on the effects that drugs have on the building of spider webs, and based on this research the students hypothesized that there will be a measurable pattern in how the spiders react to the music, and that the spiders will be attracted to softer vibrations and repelled by harsher vibrations."
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Nature vs. Nurture, 2004.
An analysis of the role played by nature and nurture in intelligence.
1,651 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 86.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the issue of nature versus nurture regarding intelligence. It examines whether persons' potential for learning and success is due to their environment or their genetic makeup. It contends that whether nature or nurture influences intelligence remains a matter of debate between scientists. However, it appears that nurture outweighs nature when it comes to intelligence.
From the Paper
"Many scientists believe that people behave as they do according to genetic predispositions or "animal instincts (Powell, 2003)." This is known as the "nature" theory of human behavior. Other scientists believe that people behave in certain ways because they have learned to do so. This is known as the "nurture" theory of human behavior. Increasing understanding of the human genome suggests that both sides are partly right. Nature provides human beings with inborn abilities and traits; nurture takes these genetic tendencies and develops them as we learn and mature. However, despite these common beliefs, scientists still argue over how much of who we are is shaped by genes and how much by the environment."
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Infectious Bacteria, Viruses, and Eukaryotes, 2004.
An analysis of infectious organisms and how they cause various diseases.
3,225 words (approx. 12.9 pages), 10 sources, MLA, AU$ 148.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the threats of infectious organisms, with a focus on their ports of entry. The paper explains that typical portals of entry include the mouth, ears, eyes, urethra, nose, and skin, while non-typical portals might include wounds, broken skin, insect bites, or even animal bites or stings. The paper explores the E. coli bacteria, Hepatitis A ,and Guardia Lamblia, providing explanations of how these diseases may be contracted and various methods for treatment and prevention.
Outline
Introduction
The Mouth and Gastrointestinal Tract
Defense Mechanisms
The E. coli Bacteria
E. Coli Taxonomy and Virulence
Treatment and Prevention
Hepatitis A
Taxonomy
Treatment and Prevention
Guardia Lamblia
Taxonomy
Treatment and Prevention
Conclusions
From the Paper
"Indeed, the specialized preferences of many organisms with regard to ports of entry are so consistent that it is often taken as a hallmark of a particular organism in the diagnosis phase. This is especially important when one notes that the symptoms of characteristic of a specific infection usually give clear clues as to the point of entry. Although it is important to consider the point of entry when diagnosing the cause of illness in a patient, it can also be important for many aspects of disease prevention, especially when a high risk for a particular organism is present in one?s environment. For example, if one knows that he or she is working in an environment where there is a high incidence of an airborne pathogen, steps can be taken (the wearing of masks the use of patient isolation procedures for example) to minimize possible exposures to that pathogen."
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Genetically Modified Foods, 2005.
A look at the pros and cons of using genetically modified foods.
1,026 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 58.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how one of the ways scientists have discovered how to increase food supply for a growing planet is by using genetic modification techniques to produce heartier, healthier, and more abundant crops. It analyzes whether they are safe for human consumption and the environment. The writer shows how there are differing opinions on both of these questions.
From the Paper
"Crops can also be modified to deliver medicines and vaccines. Pharmaceuticals are often costly to produce and require special storage conditions. Third world countries could benefit greatly from edible vaccines in plants such as tomatoes or potatoes. These medicinal vegetables would be ?easier to ship, store and administer than traditional injectable vaccines? (Whitman, 2000). ?In trials, crops have been genetically engineered to manufacture proteins for healing wounds and treating conditions such as cystic fibrosis, cirrhosis of the liver and anemia; antibodies to fight cancer and vaccines against rabies, cholera and foot-and-mouth disease? (Pearce, 2004). Scientists have even made it possible for livestock, such as cattle, to contain omega-3 oils, known to prevent heart attacks, without the use of expensive fishmeal feed (Coghlan, 2004)."
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